If you read LALtoday every morning, you may know what’s new in Lakeland — but how’s your memory of its past? We’re testing you with a before-and-after quiz after digging into the archives of the Lakeland Public Library and Google Maps. We’ll show you nine photos from years before, and your job is to tell us what’s in those spots today.
Ready to show off your Swan City smarts? Take the quiz, then come back for a few of our favorite transformations. Spoilers ahead.
Bonnet Springs Park opened in 2023 and has quickly become a Lakeland hotspot, but before it was an outdoor oasis, it was a railyard. Learn more about how the team behind the park transformed it from rails to recreation.
You don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here anymore.
Photo via Lakeland Public Library and Google Maps
In its prime, the Hotel Thelma was a luxurious spot for Lakeland visitors. Now, the site of the city’s first modern hotel has become Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar. We’re hungry for brunch just thinking about it.
Of all the places in our quiz, this one may look the most similar to its roots.
Photos via Lakeland Public Library and Google Maps
When you wanted to see a double feature from 1925 to 1950, you went to the Palace Theatre, right down the street from the Hotel Thelma. Today, you hit the same spot when you want a slice of pepperoni from Palace Pizza.
