Got plans this weekend, Lakelanders? You do now. There’s no doubt Florida is one of the most beautiful, historical + adventure-filled locations in the entire world. It’s also one of the most visited places in the United States, ranking at number two in the U.S. for tourism. (DYK: long before tourism, Central Florida’s main industries were cotton, cattle + citrus?)
Most everyone has completed their touristy Central Florida lists: popular amusement parks, Downtown TPA and ORL + the fancy 5 star restaurants. And trust me, I’m not hating on those things (proud theme park pass holder, here). But Florida’s allure doesn’t stop there.
We’ve compiled a list of some of Central Florida’s best kept secrets to put on your bucket list. These lesser-known places are definite #mustdos. The best part? Most are an hour drive away or less from Lakeland. ⌛
Outdoors
If your binoculars are getting dusty
Lettuce Lake Park | 39 minutes ⌛| Not a lake you can necessarily put in a salad, but one that does sport a variety of aquatic birds + wildlife.
If boat life is calling you
Cracker Creek | 2 hours ⌛| Sail the seven seas (or at least the Spruce Creek Persevere) on a two-hour Pontoon Tour.
If you’re actually a time traveler
Pinellas County Heritage Village | 1 hour ⌛| Explore 33 historic Pinellas attractions on 21 acres, including historic homes, a general store, a railroad depot, two schools, a church + more.
Food
If you’re craving some delish fish
Harry’s Old Place | 33 minutes ⌛| Considered one of Winter Haven’s best seafood and steak bars for over 30 years, this restaurant is a local foodie favorite.
If you need a good cup of joe
Cafe Linger |1 hour ⌛| A sustainable café with a commitment to recycling, that wants you to stay.
If you’re lookin’ for a strong drink (or a mob boss)
the Hub Bar Tampa | 42 minutes ⌛| Celebrating over 60 years, the Hub has entertained everyone from judges to mob bosses.
If you’re actually ready for “Thai Hot”
Thai Island | 43 minutes ⌛| Firecracker asparagus is actually a thing, and it’s calling for you.
Entertainment
If you want to bond with Louis Comfort Tiffany
Morse Museum | 1 hour ⌛| This museum holds the most important collection of Tiffany material in the world today.
If sculptures are your thing
Albin Polasek Museum | 1 hour ⌛| Come hang out at the museum of one of America’s foremost sculptors of the twentieth century.
If you need a good laugh
Sak Comedy Lab | 1 hour ⌛| Two words: Wayne Brady. The famous “Whose line is it anyway?” comic made his debut on the stage. Think you’ve got the chops? Keep an eye on their calendar for running auditions.
If you already know you’re a karaoke star
Rising Star Karaoke | 52 minutes ⌛| Not as super secretive, but this is not your average karaoke bar. Each singer performs with a live band, backup singers, and a lighting show.
Things to do with kids
If the Jurassic Park films are always on at your house
Dinosaur World| 24 minutes ⌛| Educational meets interactive in this dino-myte adventure.
If your family loves sea cows
Manatee Viewing Center | 48 minutes ⌛| Come see some of Florida’s (ugly, but in a cute way) favorite mammals. Be prepared for a half-mile walk.
If you’re trying to raise an iron chef
Kids Cooking Connection | 1 hour ⌛ | Good nutrition + self-reliance are commonplace words your kids can learn in these cooking classes.
If your kids are actually guppies
Wekiva Springs State Park | 1 hour ⌛| Barbecue, rent a kayak + cool down in a natural FL spring.
With so much to do (and new attractions popping up all the time), this list can’t possibly contain all of sunshine state’s hidden treasures. So, I’m dying to know, what are some of your secret F.L. spots, LALers? Don’t worry, I’ll keep them on the DL this time.
TGIF,
- Kaylee
