Experience

Outdoors and Recreation
From lifting weights and personal training to dance fitness and spin classes — we’ve rounded up 25+ gyms and fitness offerings around Swan City.
Check out these 13 hiking trails catered to all skill levels in and around Lakeland, Florida for outdoor adventures.
We’re paws-itive you’ll find a new park, pet supply store, or groomer to take care of your four-legged friends.
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.
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Lakeland, FL has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
Whether you’re seeking a whirlwind romance or a fresh friendship, our readers share where they would go to meet someone new in Swan City.
Wellness
Lace up your most comfortable sneakers to go running or walking — plus, meet new friends.
Prepare for winter weather in Lakeland, FL with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
If you’re recently retired and looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of retirement in Lakeland.
Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or just enjoy Swan City without a car, we’re talking about our local public transportation + walkability.
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.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or the next Tiger Woods, these 13 golf courses in Lakeland are sure to make for a good round.
Meet two organizations working to keep Lakeland and Polk County’s streets and waterways clean.
Never run out of things to do with this guide to the community center facilities and complexes available to the public of Lakeland.
We’ve rounded up 13 great hikes all within an hour of Lakeland and well worth exploring.
Weak or strong? Learn what type of mayor Lakeland has and why it matters.



Arts and Culture
We’re giving you the 411 on the 863’s landmarks — from the Southgate Sign to “Sputnik.”
Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, or aviation fan, these nine museums around Lakeland have it all.
AC/DC tribute? Check. Marshall Tucker Band? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple-check this list and get your concert tickets before they sell out.
Check out our guide to the many meaningful murals you can find around our city.
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.
Learn the history behind the iconic swan statues found around Lakeland.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Lakeland includes everything from packing food for children in need to fostering pets.
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.
It’s written in the stars... and the skyline.
From churches to mosques to synagogues to temples, Lakeland is home to a wide array of religious organizations.
Lakeland history is the gift that keeps on giving. Read on for key moments in Swan City history.
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?
Our guide may even make you want to grab your passport and head for our sister cities in Japan or Jamaica.
Check out some of our favorite camera-ready locales for every Instagrammer in Lakeland. Plus, see which local landmarks made the list.
From media to government resources, check out this list of who you should be following if you live in Lakeland and want to keep up on the city’s goings on.
We’ve compiled a list of 9 local creatives whose work add vibrancy and light to the city.
Actors from Broadway and Hollywood have called Lakeland home, along with singers, MLB pitchers, football stars and even a fashion magazine cover girl.



Dine and Shop
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some.
Ready for your lunch break? Check out these 30+ lunches from hearty salads to diner-style bites.
Here’s the deal — the thrift and vintage shopping scene is stellar in Swan City.
When cravings hit, level up your dessert game at one of these local sweet shops and makers in Lakeland.
Whether you’re making dinner plans and craving lobster rolls or looking for your local fish market, check out this list of seafood eateries and distributors in and around Lakeland.
No matter why you’re avoiding it, you can find new eats without gluten here.
Don’t just pick a spot with pancakes and eggs — pick the spot that’s perfect for your gathering with this guide that includes menu recommendations, brunch categories, and beyond.
We’re breaking down all you need to know about parking — from parallel spots, garages, lots, and accessible options.
Find handmade goods, tasty food and drink, or a unique piece of art at these community markets.
Dig into delicious and nutritious vegan and vegetarian fare in every corner of Swan City.
Here are our superlatives for the six cups of joe we tried at a few of our favorite coffee shops and cafes.
It’s your party and you’ll enjoy these deals if you want to.
It’s easy to go beyond dinner and movie in Lakeland. Check out these date ideas and impress that special someone with your creativity.
We narrowed down the list to 17 restaurants that encompass history, serve those classic dishes (like ‘za + okra), and have that strong, local pull.



Attractions and Events
Check out this list of local spots to host your next party, reunion, or reception.
Fireworks, food trucks, live music, and more — here’s everything you need to know about this annual fireworks display on Lake Mirror.
Hit the road and head to St. Augustine — we’re sharing all the details about what to do and eat, plus where to stay.
Check out winter and holiday events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
Check out fall and Halloween-themed events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
Whether you’re looking for a spot that’s surrounded by nature or bathed in the shade, consider one of these spots next time you’re looking to dine al fresco.
Check out summer-themed events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
Be a tourist in your own town. Get out and try these 11 fantastic tours of Lakeland and beyond to learn something new.
We’re on a mission to map out Lakeland’s top destinations for foodies, art lovers, and pet parents. Learn how you can help.
A guide to must see attractions, restaurants, and shows for out of town guests in Lakeland, FL.


More From LALtoday
After two years of waiting, Lakeland’s newest charcuterie spot has opened its storefront for business — here’s our review.
Founded in 1948, Silver Moon Drive-In has provided first-run films to Polk County residents for 75+ years — here’s a look at its storyboard.
We recently took to Instagram to ask our followers their best “hacks” for life in Lakeland — here’s what they came up with.