Did you know Lakeland was ranked No. 5 in the south on Ownerly’s list of America’s Best Cities for Remote Workers? With many companies transitioning to hybrid or remote work models in recent years, Lakeland’s options for remote workers have continued to expand.
The good news? Research shows that tackling your tasks al fresco actually helps boost productivity.
Finding places to work outside in Lakeland was at the top of our to-do list, so can we just say? Check.
Coworking spaces
Catapult Lakeland, 502 E. Main St., 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m Monday-Friday | Pick up a day pass for $20 and enjoy views of Lake Mirror, pop-up lunches on the patio from local eateries, and walkability to downtown Lakeland.
COhatch, 211 E. Main St, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday | Be at the center of the downtown hustle and bustle on COhatch’s patio — did we mention it’s located right between Nineteen61 and Black & Brew, AKA two of Lakeland’s most popular lunch spots?
Coffee and tea shops
Grab a spot in Pressed Lakeland’s intimate alleyway for your next remote work day.
Photo via @absmurray
Pressed Lakeland, 213 E. Bay St., 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday | Order a literature-themed coffee or tea, then grab a seat in the shaded courtyard area.
Concord Coffee, 1037 Florida Ave. S., Ste. 135, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday | This covered sub-level spot is perfect for working outside even on a rainy day.
Hillcrest Coffee, 119 Hillcrest St., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday | Stop in for a morning quiche or an afternoon pick-me-up and grab a seat on this Lakeland staple’s quaint wrap-around porch.
Tea Largo, 4634 Cleveland Heights Blvd., 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday | Snag a brightly-colored high-top table in the shade and enjoy a refreshing açaí bowl or iced tea.
Restaurants and bars
Each of Black & Brew’s patios offers a unique vibe.
Photo by @adventurethegreatwidesomewhere
Black & Brew Coffee House and Bistro, locations and hours vary | Enjoy locally sourced coffee + fresh food while working on the outdoor patio at any of this eatery’s three locations.
Good Thyme, 1037 Dixieland Mall Ln., 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday | Grab a snack and a picnic table before getting down to business just steps away from Concord Coffee.
The Joinery, 640 E. Main St., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday | Settle in on the large lake-front patio facing Lake Mirror, or head to the back patio for a more secluded vibe (just remember trains pass back here, so you may need to mute those microphones if you have a call).
The Juice Box, 4295 Florida Ave. S., 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Saturday | This shaded turf patio space is complete with picnic tables and hanging hammock chairs.
Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine St., 3-9 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 3-10 p.m. Thursday, 12-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 12-7 p.m. Sunday | Work from a picnic table with views of Lake Wire, then check their calendar to see what food trucks and events you can expect for your post-work dinner and entertainment.
Sweet Cup Cafe, 1401 Lakeland Hills Blvd., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday | We love to sip a latte, cappuccino, or cafe con leche on the patio.
Parks and public spaces
Lakeside Village, 1479 Town Center Dr., dawn-dusk | In case you missed it, Lakeside Village has a new central attraction, complete with seating and a shady pergola.
Lake Hollingsworth, 850 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., dawn-dusk | Whether you’re setting up shop on the Southern Landing boardwalk, hanging a hammock along the water, or laying a blanket out on the grass, this remote work spot is sure to be serene (just make sure you stay hydrated and BYO snacks).
