History

Dive into how nearly a century and a half of history is kept alive with historical markers around town.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Lakeland?
Hit the road and head to St. Augustine — we’re sharing all the details about what to do and eat, plus where to stay.
We found a postcard from more than 70 years ago — it turns out, not much has changed.
We dug through Florida’s archived photos and postcards to see how much Lakeland has changed since it was first founded in 1885 — you might be surprised.
We want to know — which Lakeland restaurant or meal sparks nostalgia in your heart and belly, and why?
We’ve all wondered about the names behind some of our local parks and places of interest. Pull back the curtain on the history behind their monikers.
While the restaurant only had a location in Lakeland for a little over a year, it made its mark on our readers + followers.
Did a noteworthy Lakelander once walk your halls? Learn more about the original owners of some of Lakeland’s historic homes, and send us your own home’s history if you know it.
If you’ve ever felt a chill in your spine when frequenting these locales around Lakeland, there’s likely a good reason.
If you’ve ever stepped foot inside the Polk Theatre, chances are you were simultaneously taking a ghost tour — and didn’t even know it.
More from LALtoday
In need of a one-day getaway? We’re sharing our readers’ favorite things to do, see, and eat in towns within a quick drive of Swan City.
Including gifts for significant others, retirees, holiday parties, young people, and gifts that ship fast.
Keep an eye out and perhaps you’ll see one of these cryptid creatures in Lakeland — or maybe it will see you.
Could this be the real estate deal of the century? Learn how Publix is buying two downtown buildings for $10 each — and what you could get for that same price.
Find discounted clothing, accessories, shoes, and home goods at this national retailer’s first Lakeland location.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up seven farmers markets around Lakeland, FL.
Due to the Moving Florida Forward Initiative, new I-4 express lanes are coming nine years in advance between I-75 and County Line Road.
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.