Part of the Tampa Bay Area, Lakeland is home to over 110,000 Floridians. Small in size, Lakeland has a lot to offer. There are skateparks, a community theater, Explorations V Children's Museum, and the Lake-to-Lake bikeway system. With modern amenities and continual improvements, Lakeland looks to the future while providing poignant glimpses into the past.

Following the last Ice Age, Paleo-Indian tribes tracked big game toward the south and settled throughout Florida. The Seminoles thrived here until Spanish conquistadors arrived. Florida became a state in 1845, and by this point war and illness had all but eradicated the Native American population. European Americans began to settle the area in the 1870s, and rail lines arrived in 1884. By the end of the century, Florida's pivotal role in the Spanish-American War led to rapid development and growth.

Several buildings built during this era still stand and are proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. One of the best areas in Lakeland to view history up close is the Munn Park Historic District, which contains 48 historic buildings. As you take in the architecture, there are many cafes and shops for you to enjoy as well. You can also catch the regular Food Truck Rally at Munn Park and eat your dinner sitting on one of the shaded benches.

During the winter, Munn Park is beautiful, illuminated with holiday lights throughout the season. With the most extensive collection of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in the world, Florida Southern College's campus is also a must-see. A long-term project that continued even during WWII, Wright completed 12 of the 30 structures he designed.

If you'd rather sit and enjoy a bit of history combined with America's favorite pastime, visit Joker Marchant Stadium. Host to the Detroit Tigers for spring training each year, it is also home to the Flying Tigers. Whether you stop by for preseason practice or a minor league game, most fans agree this is one of the league's best stadiums.

A local favorite is Lake Mirror, with its amphitheater, the Frances Langford Promenade, and Barnett Family Park. If you're looking to be a tourist in your own city, Lake Mirror's guided tours reach all the way back to the late 1800s. Nearby is Hollis Garden, a botanical display set against neo-classical architecture. Take a stroll to enjoy the artwork, fountains, native trees, ornamental shrubs, and flowers. And since you're already downtown, you might want to check out the Farmers Curb Market. You can enjoy live entertainment as you shop for produce, specialty foods, and artisan gifts. First Friday, if you have the kids in tow, is one of the most popular events in Lakeland. This monthly event brings art and car shows downtown, accompanied by family-friendly music. Regardless of what you choose to do, Downtown Lakeland is a great place to shop, eat, and enjoy the neighborhood. From American classics at Ford's Garage to Latin cuisine at Nineteen61, there's something for everyone.

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