Whether you’re looking to move in or just visiting, there’s something to delight you in Dixieland. The historic neighborhood provides a perfect combination of old Lakeland charm and modern hustle + bustle. With so many options for dining, recreation, living, and working, here’s why so many love to call it home.
The Southside Cleaners sign welcomes you with a laugh.
Photo by @sunsetmeridian
Need to know
There’s always something new in Dixieland, whether it’s a business cropping up or a fresh mural. The Dixieland Art Infusion Program kicked off in 2021, so the South Florida Avenue corridor running through the neighborhood is something of an art gallery itself. Speaking of the Dixieland corridor, the city is planning to widen sidewalks and update medians to make the area more pedestrian-friendly.
Dixieland Elementary School is still located in its original building, built in 1924.
Photo via the State Archives of FL
The early days
The neighborhood got its start as a “fashionable suburb” at the start of the 1900s, and many of the bungalow houses in the area were built in the land booms of the 1920s and 1940s. It was once home to Lundy’s Bakery — which first supplied Publix with its baked goods before becoming the current Low Country Vintage store — and the local Dairy Queen was the place to be before its location became Subs ‘n Such. Dixieland was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.
Born & Bread is known for its cruffins, a combination of muffins and croissants.
Photo by @bornandbreadfl
Can’t miss
Running low on time? A visit to Dixieland isn’t complete without breakfast or lunch at one of Lakeland’s favorite eateries, Born & Bread Bakehouse. Pro tip: This bakery is only open on Wednesday, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. If you ask us, it’s perfectly acceptable to plan a trip around baked goods.
Find a new plant at Austin’s Backyard Garden.
Photo by @deswarren
Shop
From antique furniture to a fresh addition to your plant collection, it’s easy to find a hidden gem among Dixieland’s small business scene.
- Pick up a unique read at The Unbound Bookery, a bookshop bungalow that specializes in antique, vintage, and used books.
- Dixieland is a hotspot for vintage and consignment shops. Check out our full list of stores including Southern Gentlemen Antiques & More, The Shop Across the Street, and Low Country Vintage.
- If you’re honing a green thumb, head to Dixieland Relics. This vintage shop is also home to Austin’s Backyard Garden, a plant shop with space in the front and back of the store.
- Find some new threads at 360 Unlimited, a vintage clothing shop with plenty of costume inspiration. Pro tip: Head all the way to the back for a collection of vintage formal dresses.
- If you need a gift for a friend or an addition to your wardrobe, stop by Bungalow Boutique & Gifts. The shop specializes in clothing, jewelry, shoes, and accessories.
Catch the sunset over Lake Hunter every night.
Photo via @julio__garza
Outdoors
Take a walk down Dixieland’s brick-lined streets and get some fresh air at these outdoorsy spots.
- The neighborhood is bordered on the west by Lake Hunter. It’s just a quick walk or bike ride from the residential area.
- Speaking of bike rides, hop on your two-wheeler and take the Lake-to-Lake Bikeway. It cuts through Dixieland on Cresap Street, connecting nine lakes through 26 miles of biking trails.
- Need a place to play? Take little ones to the playground at Dobbins Park, or enjoy the green space at Drane Park.
Head to Cob & Pen for brunch, lunch, dinner, and crafted drinks.
Photo by Catapult
Eat + drink
Foodies, you’re in luck. Dixieland is a paradise for food lovers, no matter what time of day.
- Start your day off with a cup of coffee before exploring. Concord Coffee offers a sleek, modern vibe and monthly specials created by baristas.
- Looking for lunch? Grab a sandwich at Subs ‘n Such, Southern-style food at Reececliff Diner, or fresh eats at Good Thyme.
- Grab a cup to go or fill a growler in the Krazy Kombucha taproom, open Wednesday-Saturday.
- The Feasts of Persia food truck has a new permanent home in Dixieland. Grab a bite and enjoy it on the shaded patio behind Union Hall.
- You can’t miss Cob & Pen, a restaurant within a historic Tudor home. We love it for late-night bites and cocktails.
Cheer on your fellow Lakelanders at The Pink Piano.
Photo by @ranemadepics
Entertainment
This neighborhood comes alive at night. Here’s where you can find live music and events.
- Union Hall keeps a packed calendar. Visit this event venue for line dancing lessons, karaoke, and concerts by local musicians.
- The key to a great night? A stop at The Pink Piano. Catch a performer tickling the ivories while you enjoy wine, cocktails, and tapas.
- Hillcrest Coffee isn’t just a café. It’s also a hotspot for singer-songwriters — visit this cozy shop on a Thursday night to hear who’s playing.
Shop from local vendors under the stars at the Dixieland Night Market.
Photo by @londonwmedia and @dixielandnightmarket
Arts + culture
- Don’t miss the Dixieland Night Market, happening on the second Friday of each month behind Union Hall. This market draws artists and makers to sell their artisan crafts.
- Step inside Union Hall to find a new art exhibit hosted by Emporium Galleries. Local artists’ unique works are often found on display with a new theme.
- The art continues outside, where you can find a different mural around every corner thanks to the Dixieland Art Infusion Project. Map it out with our guide to local murals.
Where to live
If you’re sold + looking to buy a home in the area, here are some housing options currently on the market:
- 509 W. Park St. | 3 BD, 2 BA | $335,000 | Modern Spanish-style home with front porch
- 202 Lenox St. | 3 BD, 2 BA | $349,000 | 1925 home with arched doorways and converted garage
- 701 W. Park St. | 2 BD, 1 BA | $275,000 | Bungalow with original finishes, 900 ft from Lake Hunter
