Search - LALtoday

Culture

Polk County’s historic theatres: Smelling bananas, Wayne Brady, and 35 cents

Look back on the first places to catch a movie on the big screen or see a live performance at these historic theatres around Polk County.

May 29, 2025

·

Kaylee Holland

Two hands toast with a glass of margarita and a glass of sangria on an outdoor patio.

Food

Celebration-worthy Lakeland restaurants

From graduations to rehearsal dinners to corporate parties, we’re sharing the top reader recommended spots for celebration-worthy eateries.

May 29, 2025

·

Amelia Grooms

A hand holds a cruffin topped with cream and chocolate chips in front of a lake

Food

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these local desserts

When cravings hit, level up your dessert game at one of these local sweet shops and makers in Lakeland.

June 5, 2025

·

Rilee Delgado

Sponsored by Visit Central Florida

Palm trees blowing in hard wind in the foreground, with a dark cloudy sky and the Summit Building in downtown Lakeland in the background.

City

Stay connected during Hurricane Milton

Don’t miss a local update when a major storm hits. Bookmark these resources to stay informed during Hurricane Milton.

October 8, 2024

·

Connor Jacobson

A wrestling photo where AEW star Big Bill (right) delivers a high kick to Juice Robinson (left) as a referee watches.

Sports

6 boot-stomping questions with AEW star Big Bill

All Elite Wrestling will bring AEW Collision to Lakeland’s RP Funding Center for the first time on Thursday, Oct. 2. We sat down with AEW star Big Bill to learn what you can expect if you’re new to the sport or a lifelong fan.

September 30, 2025

·

Connor Jacobson

Three people judge archery results at the Polk Senior Games. They stand around a large target pointing at the arrows around the bullseye.

Experience

20+ activities for retired locals to stay active in Lakeland

If you recently retired and are looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of your newfound time in Lakeland.

October 1, 2025

·

Staff

Lindsey and her puppy, Winston on the Fresco's patio

Food

A bark and a bite: Check out these dog-friendly patios in Lakeland

No need to leave your pup out of the fun — just bring them to enjoy the sunshine with you at these dog-friendly restaurants.

March 20, 2025

·

Staff

An aerial view of the South Lake Morton neighborhood, featuring a large lake surrounded by a street, homes, and a church

Real Estate

Neighborhood Guide: South Lake Morton

From a swan-filled lake to mid-century modern architecture, see why South Lake Morton was named one of Lakeland’s top neighborhoods.

September 2, 2022

·

Connor Jacobson

Real Estate

Neighborhood guide: Dixieland in Lakeland, FL

From historic homes to a flourishing small business scene, there’s something for residents and visitors alike to explore in Dixieland.

November 15, 2023

·

Connor Jacobson