Florida Map Polk County
Polk County, Florida is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by travelers visiting the state. Located on the central ridge of Florida, it is home to a diverse range of attractions, natural wonders, and historical landmarks that will leave you awe-inspired. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, cultural immersion, or relaxation, Polk County has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions and hidden gems of Polk County, Florida.
Top Attractions
Polk County is home to some of the most popular attractions in Florida. Legoland Florida Resort is one of the top family-friendly destinations in the state, with over 50 rides, shows, and attractions. The Bok Tower Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, with its stunning gardens and carillon tower. The Safari Wilderness Ranch offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with exotic animals on a safari tour. The Florida Air Museum is a great place to learn about the history of aviation in Florida, and the Fantasy of Flight Museum is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts.
Hidden Gems
Polk County is also home to many hidden gems that are off the beaten path. The Circle B Bar Reserve is a nature lover’s paradise, with its hiking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and stunning views of Lake Hancock. The Polk Museum of Art is a hidden gem that showcases a diverse range of art from around the world. The Ridge Island Groves is a citrus farm that offers visitors a chance to pick their own oranges and grapefruits. The Lake Wales History Museum is a small museum that tells the story of the history of Lake Wales and Polk County.
Food Scene
Polk County has a diverse and vibrant food scene that is influenced by its rich cultural heritage and proximity to the coast. The Lakeland Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for foodies, with its wide range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. The Columbia Restaurant in Celebration is a popular destination for Spanish cuisine, while the Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille in Lakeland is famous for its Cajun and Creole dishes. For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Red Door Lakeland, which offers a menu that is inspired by the flavors of Central Florida.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Polk County has plenty of budget-friendly options that will help you stretch your dollars further. Many of the attractions in Polk County offer discounted rates for students, seniors, and military personnel. The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a great place to find affordable and fresh produce, while the Lake Mirror Historic Tour is a free walking tour that showcases the history and architecture of Lakeland. For a budget-friendly day out, head to the Lake Kissimmee State Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.
Outdoor Adventures
Polk County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its wide range of outdoor activities and natural wonders. The Everglades National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, with its stunning wetlands, wildlife, and bird-watching opportunities. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is a great place to go camping, fishing, and hiking. The Circle B Bar Reserve is a popular destination for bird-watching, while the Polk County Nature Discovery Center offers visitors a chance to learn about the natural history of the area.
Historical Landmarks
Polk County is steeped in history, with many historical landmarks that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the area. The Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Tour is a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts, with its stunning examples of Wright’s work. The Polk County Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the area, while the Historic Bok Sanctuary is a beautiful landmark that showcases the history of the area’s citrus industry. The Lake Wales Depot Museum is a small museum that tells the story of the railroad industry in the area.
Family-Friendly Activities
Polk County has plenty of family-friendly activities that will keep kids of all ages entertained. The Legoland Florida Resort is a popular destination for families, with its wide range of rides, shows, and attractions. The Safari Wilderness Ranch offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with exotic animals, while the Explorations V Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to learn and play. The Bok Tower Gardens is a beautiful destination that offers plenty of opportunities for family-friendly activities, including picnicking, hiking, and exploring the gardens.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Want to explore the hidden corners of Polk County? There are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences that will take you off the tourist trail. The Hollis Garden is a stunning botanical garden that is often overlooked by tourists, while the Polk Theatre is a historic theater that showcases independent films and live performances. The Mulberry Phosphate Museum is a small museum that tells the story of the area’s phosphate mining industry, while the Ridge Scenic Highway is a beautiful drive that offers stunning views of the area’s rolling hills.
Natural Wonders
Polk County is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Florida. The Circle B Bar Reserve is a popular destination for bird-watching, with its stunning wetlands and wildlife. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is a great place to explore the outdoors, with its hiking trails, fishing, and camping opportunities. The Bok Tower Gardens is a beautiful destination that showcases the area’s stunning flora and fauna, while the Everglades National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Vibrant Nightlife
Polk County may not be known for its nightlife, but there are plenty of options for those who want to explore the area after dark. The Lakeland Brewing Company is a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts, while the Polk Theatre is a historic theater that showcases independent films and live performances. For a night out on the town, head to the Downtown Lakeland area, which offers a range of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
Local Markets
Polk County is home to many local markets that offer visitors a chance to sample the area’s fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. The Lakeland Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for foodies, with its wide range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. The Bartow Farmers Market is a great place to find local produce and handmade crafts, while the Winter Haven Farmers Market is a popular destination for those who want to sample the area’s fresh seafood.
Beaches and Mountains
Polk County may not have any beaches or mountains, but there are plenty of destinations nearby that offer visitors a chance to explore the outdoors. The Gulf Coast beaches are a short drive away and offer stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for water sports. The Appalachian Mountains are also within driving distance, and offer stunning views, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures.
Cultural Immersion
Polk County is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history that is influenced by its diverse population. The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market is a great place to sample local cuisine and learn about the area’s cultural heritage. The Polk Museum of Art is a great place to explore the world of art from around the world, while the Explorations V Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to learn and play. The Historic Bok Sanctuary is a beautiful landmark that showcases the area’s citrus heritage.
Art and Music Scene
Polk County has a vibrant art and music scene that is influenced by its diverse population and cultural heritage. The Polk Museum of Art is a great place to explore the art world, with its diverse range of art from around the world. The Lakeland Center is a popular destination for live music performances, while the Polk Theatre showcases independent films and live performances. The Florida Southern College is home to the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture.
Walking Tours
Polk County has many walking tours that offer visitors a chance to explore the area’s history and architecture on foot. The Lake Mirror Historic Tour is a free walking tour that showcases the history and architecture of Lakeland, while the Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Tour is a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts. The Lake Wales History Museum offers a walking tour that tells the story of the history of Lake Wales and Polk County.
Architectural Marvels
Polk County is home to many architectural marvels that showcase the area’s rich history and diversity. The Historic Bok Sanctuary is a beautiful landmark that showcases the area’s citrus heritage, while the Florida Southern College is home to the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. The Polk County Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the area, while the Lake Wales Depot Museum tells the story of the railroad industry in the area.
Historical Sites
Polk County is steeped in history, with many historical sites that showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage. The Polk County Historical Museum is