You may be asking “why Lakeland?” From neighborhoods to schools to our favorite coffee spots, we’ve made it easy to answer this question by creating an ultimate guide to living, working + experiencing the city.
From how to register your car to where to put your recycle bin, this overview will give you everything you need to know to get established as a Lakeland resident.
Need that big backyard for the kiddos to roam? Or does a vibrant street scene draw you in? Our fun quiz will help you pick the Lakeland neighborhood that’s right for you.
From comedy shows and Broadway tours to local organizations supporting Lakeland’s arts community, we’ve rounded up 19 places to get your arts and culture fix around Swan City.
Explore the leading economic drivers in Lakeland, from exciting, new technology to top leaders in growing and distributing delicious eats.

A newcomer’s guide to Lakeland in partnership with the Lakeland Economic Development Council

Live
From how to register your car to where to put your recycle bin, this overview will give you everything you need to know to get established as a Lakeland resident.
In this guide to schools in Lakeland, we’ll explain all the options, including charter schools, school choice, demographics, enrollment information, and more.
Need that big backyard for the kiddos to roam? Or does a vibrant street scene draw you in? Our fun quiz will help you pick the Lakeland neighborhood that’s right for you.
From churches to mosques to synagogues to temples, Lakeland is home to a wide array of religious organizations.
Experience
From comedy shows and Broadway tours to local organizations supporting Lakeland’s arts community, we’ve rounded up 19 places to get your arts and culture fix around Swan City.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Lakeland includes everything from packing food for children in need to fostering pets.
We’re highlighting the top parks that Lakeland has to offer — complete with splash pads, playgrounds, WiFi, walking trails and even a few dog-friendly spots.
There’s a reason they call it Lakeland. With 38 lakes, this guide takes a deep dive into the must-visit spots and how best to enjoy our city’s most iconic features.
Work
Lakeland has experienced abundant growth and development over the past several years. Check out the city’s 15 largest employers, and learn a thing or two about each of them.
Explore the leading economic drivers in Lakeland, from exciting, new technology to top leaders in growing and distributing delicious eats.
With many companies transitioning to hybrid or remote work models in recent years, Lakeland’s options for remote workers have continued to expand.
Need a new job or new connections for professional development? Try one of these networking opportunities in Lakeland to take the next step in your career.
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From lifting weights and personal training to dance fitness and spin classes — we’ve rounded up 25+ gyms and fitness offerings around Swan City.
We’re breaking down all you need to know about parking — from parallel spots, garages, lots, and accessible options.
Check out these brunch restaurants, cafes, and diners in Lakeland, serving a variety of egg dishes, mimosas, bloody marys, and more.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Lakeland, FL has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
Prepare for spring weather in Lakeland, FL with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
To help make your entire process at Orlando International Airport as smooth as possible, we’ve created a guide that covers everything from gates and parking to details on the airport’s 140+ nonstop flights.
Whether you’re looking for your next leisure read, a book for the whole family, or a thrilling fictional novel, we’ve got a list of books written by local authors in Lakeland.
While you really can’t go wrong in Swan City, this quiz will guide you to the perfect Lakeland neighborhood just for you.
Check out our guide to the many meaningful murals you can find around our city.
Be a tourist in your own town. Get out and try these 11 fantastic tours of Lakeland and beyond to learn something new.
As Lakeland continues to grow, we’re keeping an eye on upcoming developments and recently opened businesses.
Check out winter and holiday events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
We connected with BringFido — the ultimate pet-friendly resource and compiled a few recommendations of patios and restaurants where you and your pup can enjoy an outing together.
From historic homes to a flourishing small business scene, there’s something for residents and visitors alike to explore in Dixieland.
Here’s the deal — the thrift and vintage shopping scene is stellar in Swan City.
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some.
Lakeland history is the gift that keeps on giving. Read on for key moments in Swan City history.
We’ve made a concerted effort to orchestrate this roadmap, so you can focus on finding the artists you adore.
Our town has become a regular star on the silver screen — how many of these movies have you seen that were filmed on location in Lakeland?
We’re on a mission to map out Lakeland’s top destinations for foodies, art lovers, and pet parents. Learn how you can help.
Check out summer and beach-themed events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
From cottage cheese to lottery tickets, there are some amazing things manufactured in Lakeland.
We’re giving you the 411 on the 863’s landmarks — from the Southgate Sign to “Sputnik.” Learn about their history, fun facts, and just why Lakelanders and visitors alike find them so iconic.
Here’s a few of our recommendations for some of the best spots in Lakeland to bring your work laptop. Pretty sure they’ll beat that corner office view.
Tell us you’re from Lakeland without telling us you’re from Lakeland.
Pull up a seat and sip a discounted drink during happy hour at one of these Lakeland spots.
Our guide may even make you want to grab your passport and head for our sister cities in Japan or Jamaica.
Did you know that our city has around 100 vibrant and diverse neighborhoods? Try these ways to do some good in your ‘hood.
Explore the leading economic drivers in Lakeland, from exciting, new technology to top leaders in growing and distributing delicious eats.
Check out these 13 hiking trails catered to all skill levels in and around Lakeland, Florida for outdoor adventures.
From where to park to finding the agenda online
Good news for Lakeland.
Get the best local news & events sent to your inbox each morning, for free.