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Welcome to our flock: A snowbird’s guide to Lakeland, FL

Between October and April, roughly one million adults move from northern states to temporary residences in Florida — are you one of them?

LAL-lakeland-downtown-skyline

You can become a Swan City expert in no time.

Photo by @emnoel_

Table of Contents

Lakeland’s most iconic bird is the swan, but we have a special place in our hearts for another avian: the snowbird, aka a northerner who moves to southern states (like Florida) during the cooler months.

Whether you’ve been a part-time Lakelander long-term or just joined the flock this year, keep reading for our snowbird’s guide to Swan City.

Things to do

A wide shot of the Crenshaw Canopy Walk at Bonnet Springs Park.

Take a walk among the treetops on the Crenshaw Canopy Walk at Bonnet Springs Park.

Photo by LALtoday

Health + wellness

A massage bed and potted plant in a dimly lit room

Nothing makes us feel like a Lakelander like a facial at Moodie Studios.

Photo by LALtoday

Live like a local

Lake

Just imagine — this could be your view on your morning walk.

Photo by Gregory Mills

What readers recommend

Here are tips from our readers that all snowbirds should know:

  • “Enjoy Bok Tower, my favorite place.”
  • “Go to Parkesdale Farm Market for their strawberry malts, they’re the best.”
  • “Don’t depart on March 31 unless you want to be in a massive traffic jam all the way north.”
  • “Get involved! There are wonderful opportunities, church affiliations, and neighborhood groups to meet some fantastic people.”
  • “Definitely get out and see what’s available in the area. Bonnet Springs Park totally rocks.”
  • “Always carry a rain poncho or umbrella, you never know when its going to pour!”
  • “Lizards on the wall? Roommates. Geckos in the house? Rent is due. Cockroach? That’s a palmetto bug, and it was here before you.”
  • “Try some new things. Lakeland has lots of activities and entertainment. One jewel is the lawn bowling club on Lake Parker.”
  • Subscribe to LALtoday. It’s a wealth of information.”
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