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How to spend a fall day like the “Gilmore Girls” in Lakeland

Who says you have to go to New England to have an autumn worthy of the “Gilmore Girls”?

Cars line a street in downtown Lakeland, leaves are on the ground.

It might not be Stars Hollow, but downtown Lakeland is still picturesque in the fall.

Photo by @walfaro30

So, what’s the verdict? We are an autumn. Fans of “Gilmore Girls” (like City Editor Amelia) easily caught that reference. ‘Tis the season to hit replay on one of our favorite comfort shows, known for its cozy vibes.

While Lakeland may not be Stars Hollow, we’ve put together an itinerary inspired by the show so you can live like a Gilmore Girl this fall.

An exterior view of Mitchell's Coffee Shop in Lakeland, FL

Mitchell’s has been serving Lakeland since 1998.

Grab coffee and breakfast at Luke’s Diner

Start your morning at Luke’s, or in our case Mitchell’s Coffee House. This downtown coffee shop is a great spot for when you “need coffee in an I.V.” + boasts a food menu that would make Luke and Caesar proud with pancakes, pastries, breakfast burritos, and sandwiches.

Shop at Doose’s Market

After breakfast, head to bodega Market to stock up on all your movie night snacking essentials, from chips to charcuterie.

Indulge in a slice from Weston’s Bakery

When we need a sweet treat, we’re heading straight for Bandidas Bake Shop. Grab one of the pastries or mini layer cakes to-go, or plan ahead and order a whole cake to share in advance (or not, we don’t judge).

An interior shot of an antique store shows wooden furniture housed in a historic building.

See what treasures await you at one of Lakeland’s antique stores, like Thom Downs Antiques on North Kentucky Avenue.

Photo provided by Augie Schmidt

Look (but don’t touch) at Kim’s Antiques

Swan City has no shortage of spots to shop second-hand. Check out our full list of stores to hunt for your own treasures.

Book a staycation at The Dragonfly Inn

Take a quick trip just west of Lakeland to Plant City + book a room at Strawberry House Bed and Breakfast. It’s located in the city’s historic district, providing a quaint level of charm that mirrors the iconic Dragonfly Inn in the show.

Enjoy a festival

Stars Hollow was known for its epic festivals in the town square. From Art Crawl to Flightoberfest, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the fall season across our city — our full events calendar proves it.

If you’re out on the road (feelin’ lonely and so cold) and you think we missed a peak “Gilmore Girls” autumn opportunity, let us knowwhere you lead, we will follow.

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