Support Us Button Widget

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” 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.

Grab coffee and breakfast at Luke’s Diner

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

Mitchell’s has been serving Lakeland since 1998.

Start your morning at Luke’s, or in our case Mitchell’s Coffee House. This downtown coffee shop boasts a breakfast menu that would make Luke and Caesar proud.

When you “need coffee in an I.V.,” get your fix with the “Gilmore Girls"-themed drink menu at Pressed Books & Coffee, where you can also find new reads even Rory would devour.

Shop at Doose’s Market

After breakfast, head to bodega Market to stock up on all locally made movie night snacking essentials, from bread to desserts.

Book a staycation at The Dragonfly Inn

Get out of town by booking a room at Strawberry House Bed and Breakfast. It’s located in Plant City’s historic district, providing a quaint level of charm that mirrors the iconic Dragonfly Inn.

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

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

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

Indulge in a slice from Weston Bakery

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

Enjoy a festival

Stars Hollow was known for its epic festivals in the town square. From Art Crawl and the Fall Night Market to the ever-local Swan Roundup, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the 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, add it to our interactive mapwhere you lead, we will follow.

More from LALtoday
Do you prefer to live in the past, or are you looking ahead to the future? Compare a 1925 home with a newly built house that just hit Lakeland’s real estate market.
In the mood to bust a move? Shimmy down to these local spots and events for open dance floors, performances, and dancing lessons.
Find a parking spot and walk to each of your favorite restaurants in the Shoppes at Lake Miriam Crossing plaza on South Florida Avenue.
Does your neighborhood go all out with decorations? Is it known as the street for full-size candy bars? Add it to our map of trick-or-treat destinations.
As Lakeland continues to grow, we’re keeping an eye on upcoming developments and recently opened businesses.
Wellness
Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay connects volunteers and clients with chronic health conditions for Health Buddies, a 12-week telephone call program. Learn how it works and how you can sign up.
Deciding where to eat is hard — these local food halls are making it easier with plenty of options all in the same place.
Skip the pumpkin patch and hire these Central Florida businesses to spruce up your landscaping with a seasonal touch.
Lakeland’s municipal election is coming up on Tuesday, Nov. 4. These are the dates, positions, and resources you need to know before you vote.
Before you go to the polls in November, submit your ideas to help choose the names for three new creatures — both real and artistic.