Labor Day was only a few days ago, but we’re already looking for a chance to getaway for another day-trip. So cancel your plans for tomorrow + hop in the car to spend some time in one of Lakeland’s closest neighboring cities, Winter Haven.
Pro Tip: Go ahead + sleep in. The drive should only take 30 minutes.
9 a.m. The Bike Shop
Photo by N+1 Coffee
Get to the city around 9 a.m., and N+1 coffee shop will just be opening. The Bike Shop, is the local hub for Winter Haven’s cyclists community. Connect + sip on your cup of joe. Try a house favorite: their cold brew with almond milk + honey.
10:00 a.m. Brunch
Answer your rumbling stomach by heading about 100 ft. down the street to Egg Haven, a local’s favorite diner.
For a healthier option try Bambu Cafe featuring new smoothies, juices + kombuchas each week.
If you happen to be here on Saturday, take advantage of the local fare + sustainable resources utilized at Nutwood.
11 a.m. See the sights
Post coffee + bites, continue exploring by going to one of Winter Haven’s #1 attractions, Bok Tower Gardens. General admission is $14, but you can pay an extra $6 to view Pinewood Estates. To see all that Bok Tower Gardens has to offer, check out their website.
Photo by Imran
Once you get hungry walking through the gardens, take a detour to Bok Tower’s Blue Palmetto Cafe, located next to the visiting center. They have an assortment of well-picked salads, sandwiches + wraps for you to enjoy. And while you’re there, don’t forget to grab a beer from their selection.
Photo by Bok Tower Gardens
Already been to Bok Tower? Then head over to Winter Haven’s Saturday Market located in Downtown’s park blocks until 3 p.m. Vendors include local artists, makers + crafters of anything from antique eclectics to locally grown fruits.
3 p.m. Your version of recreation
Enjoy water sports? Or is shopping your sport? Try your hand at a list of water sports Winter Haven has to offer. Paddle-boarding, water-skiing, flyboarding, you name it! See a full list of watersports + how to rent them here.
Or check out M. Marie boutique (featured in both Haven & WH magazines).
5 p.m. Happy hour
It’s happy hour, so here’s our tips on where to drink.
Head to Grove Roots Brewery to taste + enjoy locally crafted beer. Our recommendation? Try one of their 4 flagship beers. 🍻
Photo by Jay
Jessie’s Lounge will be your go-to for a classic cocktail. Pro tip: enjoy live music most Friday + Saturday nights.
7 p.m. Indulge + dine
Here’s a sample of restaurants for dinner, both fancy + not-too-fancy, for you to grab a bite.
Sakura Japanese Steakhouse + Sushi Bar - This night-club-esq restaurant, complemented with lowlights, makes for a fun + tasty evening. Check out their menu here.
Arabellas - In the heart of downtown, this up-scale restaurant serves up authentic Italian + Mediterranean cuisine.
Nutwood - This farm-to-table eatery is a #MustDo. Scroll through their dinner menu here.
If you’re here on the right day, then catch a show at Theatre Winter Haven.
You could easily spend an entire weekend in Winter Haven and still find more to do. Did we miss one of your favorite spots? Let us know by hitting reply or find us over on social media.
- Emily (LALtoday Intern)