Top 5 Spooky Experiences in Central Florida

1. Spook Hill: Where Gravity Defies Explanation

Start your eerie adventure at Spook Hill, a gravity-defying phenomenon that has baffled visitors for generations. Legend has it that this hill is haunted by the spirit of a Native American chief who used his supernatural powers to push cars uphill. In reality, it’s an optical illusion, but the eerie feeling you get when your car seems to move on its own is unforgettable. Park your car at the designated spot, put it in neutral, and prepare to be spooked as it seemingly defies gravity and rolls uphill.

2. Halloween Tours at Wonder House

If you’re fascinated by historic homes and the mysteries that lie within them, don’t miss the Halloween Tours at Wonder House in Bartow. This architectural wonder was built in the 1920s by Conrad Schuck, a man with a mysterious past. The house itself is a marvel of design, but it’s the stories of unexplained phenomena and eerie occurrences that make it a must-visit during the Halloween season. Enjoy this spooky experience with a guided tour and step back in time while uncovering the house’s secrets.

3. Family-Friendly Frights at Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party

For a family-friendly and brick-tastic Halloween experience, LEGOLAND Florida Resort hosts their annual Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party event. This spook-tacular event is filled with LEGO-themed Halloween activities, including trick-or-treating, character meet and greets, and a spectacularly spooky fireworks show. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween with the kids while enjoying the whimsical world of LEGOLAND.

4. The Haunting of River Ranch

For a more immersive and spine-tingling experience, visit Westgate River Ranch Resort and Rodeo, where you can embark on a haunted adventure that will send shivers down your spine. “The Haunting of River Ranch” is an experience that delves into the resort’s eerie history and reports of paranormal activity. You’ll have the opportunity to explore a haunted house, go on a haunted hayride, and visit the Cowboy Adventure Park. It’s an unforgettable experience for those brave enough.

5. Halloween Movie Marathon at Silver Moon Drive-In

For a classic spooky Halloween experience with a cinematic twist, head to Silver Moon Drive-In in Lakeland for their Halloween Movie Marathon. Enjoy your favorite Halloween films under the starry Central Florida sky. Snuggle up in your car, grab some popcorn or bring some snacks, and get ready for a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable movie moments. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the spooky season with friends and family.

For more spooky events, check out our blog Halloween Events and Fall Festivals in Polk County or follow us on Instagram!

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Fall Events in Polk County

Here’s a list of our favorite Halloween events and fall festivities for you to check out. Enjoy! Be sure to click each link for more information.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party

September 16-17, 23-24, 30 & October 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 & 28-29.

Florida’s greatest Halloween event for the little ones! During select weekends in September and October, your family can experience the spooky, kooky fun of one of the most popular Halloween Events in Central Florida. Visit LEGOLAND Florida Resort and enjoy neighborhood-style trick-or-treating, plus plenty of spook-tacular sweets and seasonal shows. Additionally, Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party weekends include exclusive creepy-cool LEGO characters in the ultimate kids Halloween celebration. Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party is included with regular day admission. Read our Halloween Time at LEGOLAND blog for more details!

Fall Festival at the Welcome Center

October 21, 2023 | 8:00-12:00 p.m.

Start your trick or treating at Central Florida’s Welcome Center‘s annual Fall Festival. This free family-friendly fall festival includes a trick-or-treating, BOGO Bok Tower Gardens tickets, face painting, and local seasonal vendors. Food and gifts will be available for purchase from local vendors. Most importantly, vendors will be passing out candy for the kids. Costumes are welcome.

The Haunting of River Ranch

Fridays & Saturdays starting September 29 – November 4 | 6-10 p.m.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is hosting a thrilling event this Halloween season! Experience a haunted hayride that uncovers a bone-chilling tale never-before-heard at the ranch. Grab a friend and make your way, twisting and turning, through a haunted house. Then, visit a family-friendly county fair in your fall best to pose for pictures and pick out your favorite gourds. Book an accommodations package to receive discounted tickets and a $25 daily food & beverage credit.

Polk State College Annual FallFest

October 14, 2023 | 9:00-3:00 p.m.

Upwards of 100 locals, businesses, and College clubs will set up booths all throughout the Winter Haven Campus with exciting, seasonal, and innovative homemade arts, crafts, and products. The event will also feature family-friendly activities such as games, haunted houses, bounce houses, shows, and presentations from local law enforcement and EMS. Polk State College clubs and athletics programs will also participate in the event to raise money for their organizations by hosting different activities and food sales.

Harvest Holler Corn Maze

Weekends only starting September 15 – November 19, 2023.

Harvest Holler Corn Maze is fun for the whole family! This event features a corn maze, hayrides, farm animals, a pumpkin patch, and so much more! Located in Polk City, near Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Auburndale.

Wonder House Halloween Tours

Fridays – Sundays in October starting October 1 – 29.

The historic Wonder House is offering day and nighttime Halloween Tours in October. During tours of this 5,700-sqr. ft. historic home in Bartow, guests will be entertained with ghost stories, sweet treats and personal oddity collections on display.

Silver Moon Drive-In Howl at the Moon 2023

Enjoy a series of Halloween events at Silver Moon Drive-In in Lakeland.

October 6 at 7:30 p.m. Halloween Movie Marathon

Featuring Hotel Transylvania, Labyrinth, Ghostbusters, Christine, I Know What you did Last Summer OR Corpse Bride, Gremlins, Little Shop of Horror, Lost Boys, Nightmare on Elm Street

October 14 at 11:00 p.m. Rocky Horror Live

Featuring Hell on Hells Shadow Cast

October 20 at 7:30 p.m. Halloween Movie Marathon

Featuring Megan, Black Phone, Belko Experiment, Split, The Hunt OR Dracula, Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein, Wolf-Man, Wolf-Man Meet Frankenstein

Tickets will be $25 per car per event or $60 for all 3 events.

The SUN ‘n FUN Spooktacular

Saturday, October 28th

Normally home to spectacular air shows and flying aces, every Halloween SUN ‘n FUN opens up for the spirts and the ghoulies at the SUN ‘n FUN Spooktacular. Take a camper for the weekend or just head over in the car on Saturday afternoon from 4-9 p.m. The woods will be decorated and there will be plenty of great spooky fun on offer including Ms. Pat’s Traveling Emporium of Horror, Camper-Treating festivities, and s’mores at the fire pit. And if you’re bringing a camper to the Haunted Campground, enter it in the People’s Choice Award for best decorated camper!

Fall into the Gardens

Visit Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales and let your imagination take flight this fall. The Central Florida attraction is offering a new season of educational programs, workshops, and special events. Explore how our connection to bees, butterflies, and birds powers the world around us. View all the upcoming fall events here!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram to keep up with all the spooky goings on this Halloween!

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An Even Greater Brick-or-Treat this Halloween at LEGOLAND Florida

The kid-friendly fun at LEGOLAND Florida gets a spooky twist during the park’s Brick-or-Treat event, and this year the event will be even bigger than ever. The all new Brick-or-treat Monster Party will be held weekends from September 16 through October 29th. It features more entertainment, more meet-and-greets with exclusive LEGO® Halloween monsters, more fireworks, more activities and of course more candy than ever before.

But let’s not forget the important stuff – like trick-or-treating!

Brick-or-Treating at the Park

Brick-or-Treat is the ultimate fun trick-or-treat family experience. Pick up candy and treats at various and uniquely themed places around the park. Start your trick or treating from 2:30 PM at any of the following spots:

• Shipwreck Alley
• Graveyard of Ghouls
• Wicked Street Way
• Happy Harvest Trail

And various other candy stations throughout the park. Get the event guide to see all the spots!

LEGO Monster Character Meet and Greets

Classic Halloween monsters with a LEGO twist! Meet and greet and get some spooktacular selfies with Mummy Monster, Lord Vampyre, LEGO Zombie Cheerleader, and jam out with LEGO Monster Rocker at the Dead Beats Studio.

Ghoulishly Good Shows

The ghouls come alive for thrilling ALL-NEW shows including V.I.M Dance Party Hosted by Lord Vampyre, The Jammin’ Jacks, Zombie Pep Rally led by Zombie Cheerleader.

BOOO-gie Down on the Disco Party Coaster

The Dragon Coaster gets the spooky disco treatment with a ghoulishly groovy monster party soundtrack.

Delightfully Delicious Snacks

Get new specialty treats such as the Ghoulishly Hot Chicken Sandwich topped with a hot honey barbeque sauce and pimento cheese spread on a potato bun. Taste the Witch’s Brew with lime soft serve in a witch’s cauldron and topped with all the ingredients for a perfect spell – bats, spiders, worms, and Halloween sprinkles. Sneak over to grab a Do-Nut Wake the Dead Doughnut, a ghoulish Bavarian crème doughnut topped with green glaze, cookie crumbs, green and bone sprinkles, a gummy worm, and chocolate tombstone. And even enjoy a LEGOLAND Florida classic with a fall twist on it: Happy Harvest Apple Fries. 

Dastardly Fireworks at Pirate’s Cove

Lord Vampyre is hosting an ALL-NEW fireworks show! He is casting a spell to make this Monster Party last forever with 3D LEGO brick-bursting fireworks, music, and lights that will leave everyone “Spellbound”!

Happily Haunted Hotels, Tickets and Vacation Packages

When the Theme Park closes, the fun is just beginning at the LEGOLAND Hotel! Each night of Brick-or-Treat a special costume party takes over the main lobby of the hotel beginning at 8:30 p.m. Join this monster-themed party by wearing your favorite Brick-or-Treat costume and dancing along to the best monster mash tunes!

For information on all-inclusive packages visit LEGOLAND.com/florida, and you can always find discounted park tickets online or in-person through our Welcome Center. Access to the Brick-or-Treat event is included in admission!

If you would like more information about Halloween Time and Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida contact the Central Florida Welcome Center team through the online chat or phone (863) 420-2586.

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Central Florida’s Most Instagram-able Cocktails

If you’re looking to raise your Instagram game and capture the essence of Central Florida’s cocktail culture, the Terrace Hotel, Revival Lakeland, Lucille’s American Café, Mojo Federal Swine and Spirits, and Nineteen61 should be at the top of your MUST-TRY list.

Terrace Hotel: Where Elegance Meets Mixology

Located in the heart of downtown Lakeland, The Terrace Hotel & Terrace Grille exudes timeless elegance and offers a sophisticated setting for indulging in delicious cocktails. The hotel’s bar offers breathtaking views of Lake Mirror and an atmosphere that provides the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos.

Instagram-able Cocktail – Smokey Ol’ Fashioned

Make your next night out an experience at the Terrace Grille. The Smokey Ol’ Fashioned is a showstopper in both taste and presentation. This twist on the classic cocktail features a smoky bourbon whiskey base, Woodford Reserve branded cherries, and spiced cherry bitters. The drink is then infused with a hint of hickory smoke and garnished with a charred orange peel. The mesmerizing blend of flavors and the captivating visual element of the smoke make this cocktail a true Instagram sensation. It will be sure to have all your followers jealous!

Lucille’s American Café: Retro Vibes and Quirky Cocktails

Nestled in the heart of Winter Haven, Lucille’s American Café takes diners on a delightful trip down memory lane with its retro-themed décor and classic American comfort food. The charming ambiance and creative cocktails make it a must-visit spot for Instagram enthusiasts seeking a touch of nostalgia.

Instagram-able Cocktail – You Give Me Butterflies

At Lucille’s American Café you can find a wide variety of cocktails and beer and wine. You can even find local businesses featured on their menu. Try Haven Coffee Roasters used in their espresso martini or Grove Roots beer on tap! One of their most photo-worthy cocktails is the You Give Me Butterflies. It features butterfly pea flower infused gin and St. Germain Liqueur that is poured over Elderflower balsamic, lemon and orange juices to create a colorful reaction.

Revival: Craft Cocktails with a Southern Flair

Revival in Lakeland is a trendy cocktail bar that celebrates the essence of inventive drinks and culinary traditions. The cozy yet modern ambiance makes it an ideal spot for capturing stunning Instagram photos while savoring handcrafted cocktails. Most known for their extensive old-fashioned menu, try out one of their many delicious variations or see what their “weekly Revival” is for a tasty featured drink. No matter what you try, it is sure to be unique and highly Instagram-worthy.

Signature Cocktail – Old Fashioned

While ALL cocktails at Revival are highly instagrammable, this bar is most known for their extensive old-fashioned menu. Choose from bourbon, rye, tequila, rum, or more in this classic cocktail and mix it with flavors like orange, spiced apple, plum, or lemon. The possibilities are endless! The drink is garnished with a fruit peel, creating a beautiful beverage that will make your Instagram feed pop.

Mojo Federal Swine and Spirits: Smoky Flavors and Bold Creations

Located right in downtown Lakeland, Mojo Federal Swine and Spirits is a barbecue joint that offers a unique blend of smoky flavors, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. With its rustic-chic décor and mouthwatering dishes, this establishment promises an unforgettable dining and Instagramming experience.

Instagram-able Cocktail – The Black Pearl

This cocktail combines the smooth richness of spiced rum, the flavors of elderflower liqueur, blackberry, and a hint of lemon juice. Garnished with blackberries and mint, “The Black Pearl” is a symphony of dark and radiant elements. Enjoy this drink against the backdrop of Mojo Federal’s impressive bar and don’t forget to post about this Instagram-worthy experience that’s as unforgettable as it is shareable.

Nineteen61: A Fusion of Latin Flavors and Artistry in Lakeland

Nineteen61 is a culinary gem that takes its name from the rich history of 1961—the year that Chef Marcos Fernandez’s parents immigrated to the United States. The restaurant blends Spanish, Cuban, and Italian influences, creating a dining experience that is both culturally significant and exceptionally delicious. Be sure to check out Bar61 as all cocktails featured on their menu are highly photo-worthy!

Looking for more photo worthy spots around Polk County? Check out our blog Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots or follow us on Instagram!

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Fall into the Gardens at Bok Tower Gardens

Fall Wreath Making with Bloombox Floral

Saturday | September 23 | 9 A.M.-12 P.M.

Join floral designers Laurel and Michael Lopes of Bloom Box Floral in this fun hands-on class. Participants will learn floral arranging and styling techniques, tips and tricks to make and take home a stunning autumn wreath.

El Retiro’s Landscape: A Tour Through Time

Friday | October 6 | 10:30-11:30 A.M.

Join Brendan Huggins, the Director of Horticulture, on a walking tour of the gardens at El Retiro. During this tour, participants can expect to learn about William Lyman Phillips’ original design intentions and how the property has grown and matured. Learn more about the landscape elements that make this home a unique part of our Gardens.

Concert Under the Stars

Friday | October 6 | 7-10 P.M.

During this concert, you’ll enjoy music from the band RUNA. They have celebrated 14 years together and are redefining the take on traditional music by interweaving Ireland and Scotland’s haunting melodies and exuberant tunes.

Travelers Flower Press Book

Saturday | October 7 | 9-12:00 P.M.

Make your own Travelers Flower Press Book that goes with you wherever botanicals may lead you. Make a compact-size flower press that will fit in your backpack or purse, and is perfect for pressing small flowers.

Fall Gardening: Edible Garden Tour

Thursday | October 12 | 10:30-11:30 A.M.

Join Horticulture Manager Taylor Walker for a tour of the edible gardens to learn about the techniques, materials, and varieties that grow in our Fall gardens.

Fall Wine Walk

Saturday | October 14 | 2-5 P.M.

Sip, sample, and stroll through the Gardens while sampling 12 wines from the best wine regions in the world at the Fall Wine Walk. Your ticket includes wine samples, nibbles at each stop, and a souvenir-tasting cup.

Concert Under the Stars

Friday | October 20 | 7-10 P.M.

During this concert, you’ll enjoy music from The Lubben Brothers. They are triplets from the farmlands of Iowa that specialize in tight vocal harmonies and an eclectic blend of folk instruments involving banjo, mandolin, tin whistle, accordion, hammered dulcimer, and fiddle.

Eating Your Greens

Saturday | October 21 | 10:30 A.M.- 12 P.M.

This class will take you through the steps of growing, maintaining, harvesting, then preparing and serving greens from your own backyard.

Concert Under the Stars

Friday | October 20 | 7-10 P.M.

During this concert, you’ll enjoy music from Dervish. The band’s line-up includes some of Ireland’s finest traditional musicians, fronted by one of the country’s best-known singers, Cathy Jordan.

All Fall into the Gardens activities require advance registration and are subject to registration costs.

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Explore the Thrilling Pirate River Quest at LEGOLAND Florida

Get ready to embark on a swashbuckling journey filled with excitement, treasure, and LEGO® magic! LEGOLAND Florida, located in the heart of Central Florida, has unveiled its newest attraction, Pirate River Quest in 2023. This thrilling water-based adventure is guaranteed to delight visitors of all ages, offering an immersive experience like no other. Dive into the details of this captivating ride, where you’ll discover the secrets of Pirate Island and encounter a crew of LEGO pirates!

Unleash Your Inner Adventurer

As you step foot onto Pirate River Quest, prepare to be transported into a captivating world of pirates and adventure. The ride takes place aboard a sturdy LEGO captain-driven boat, which navigates through the natural canals of the historic Cypress Gardens on Lake Eloise, bringing the story to life.

Discover the Secrets of Pirate Island

The journey begins as your boat sets sail into the heart of Pirate Island. Marvel at the stunning LEGO landscapes that surround you, featuring vibrant flora, cascading waterfalls, and hidden caves. Keep a keen eye out for playful LEGO animals that call this island home!

A Thrilling Encounter with LEGO Pirates

But be prepared! Your peaceful cruise takes an unexpected turn as you encounter a band of mischievous LEGO pirates. Hold on as you navigate through the waters, narrowly escaping the clutches of these lively characters. The excitement builds as you’re plunged into whirlpools, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout the adventure.

Fun for the Whole Family

One of the standout features of Pirate River Quest is its accessibility for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a young LEGO enthusiast or a seasoned pirate aficionado, this ride offers something for everyone. The storyline is engaging yet lighthearted, ensuring that even the littlest adventurers will remain captivated from start to finish. The gentle thrills and interactive elements make it a perfect experience for families to enjoy together.

Pirate River Quest at LEGOLAND Florida is a must-visit attraction for any adventurer seeking a thrilling and immersive experience. This captivating ride combines the creativity of LEGO with the excitement of a water-based adventure, resulting in an unforgettable journey through Pirate Island. Whether you’re young or young at heart, LEGOLAND Florida’s newest addition is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a desire for more LEGO-filled adventures. So, pack your bags, grab your pirate hat, and prepare to embark on an extraordinary voyage at Pirate River Quest!

Plan Your Visit to LEGOLAND Florida Today

Ready to set sail on Pirate River Quest and create lasting memories with your loved ones? Make sure to plan your visit to LEGOLAND Florida today! Located in Winter Haven, just a short drive from Orlando, this family-friendly theme park offers a wide range of attractions, shows, and dining options to enjoy. You can purchase discount attraction tickets to LEGOLAND Florida HERE!

Looking to extend the fun past the theme park? Have an entire Pirate-themed vacation by staying at LEGOLAND Florida’s Pirate Island Hotel, just 130 kid steps away from the park entrance.

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Dining at Polk County’s Hidden Gems

Andy’s Igloo Drive-In Restaurant

Andy’s Igloo Drive-In Restaurant in Winter Haven offers numerous choices including burgers and fries, chicken, seafood and steaks but you’ll also want to indulge in their ice cream and milkshakes menu. If you’re really daring, take a shake break and order the Chocolate Big Daddy Fruit Salad milkshake. Yum! Note: Andy’s is a cash only business and only the walk-up ice cream “Igloo” window is open on Sundays.

Peebles Bar-B-Que

Locals have been fans of Peebles Bar-B-Que in Auburndale since 1947. Order your pork, chicken or beef barbecue as a sandwich, plate or platter, depending on the size of your appetite. Just save room for some Banana Pudding. Peebles is an Old Florida setting that includes a screened-in eating area and indoor picnic tables and they close during the months of July and August.

Mister Fish

Mister Fish is a family owned carry-out restaurant that has served Lakeland since 1968. This locals favorite is best known for its famous Mister Fish sandwiches and freshly prepared dinners. You may encounter a line during the lunch or dinner rush, but the wait is worth it. To quote Mister Fish, “Every Nibble… A Good Bite!”

Harry’s Old Place

Not to be outdone, Harry’s Old Place in Winter Haven has their own slogan, “Where the fish is always de-lish!”  Harry’s offers a large assortment of fresh fish from both the Gulf and the Atlantic. Choices might include tilapia, grouper, flounder, cod, haddock, salmon, Chilean sea bass and more. Steaks, chicken and pasta are also on the menu. This casual dining gem is located on the shores of Lake Ned.

Born and Bread Bakehouse

Have you heard of the Cruffin? If not, waste no time getting to Born & Bread Bakehouse in Lakeland to see what all the fuss is about. This wholesale bakery opens to the public on Wednesdays and Saturday mornings.

Lang’s Taste of Florida Cafe

Looking for something light and refreshing to tickle your tastebuds on a warm day? Consider a slice of Grapefruit Pie at Lang’s Taste of Florida Café or some fresh squeezed orange juice or citrus soft serve ice cream at Ridge Island Groves. Both are in Haines City, and both are seasonal, so they close during the summer. Ridge Island Groves also offers grove tours and U-pick options.

This list barely scratches the surface of the dining gems to be found in Polk County. Check out our Eat & Drink section for more delectable dining options.

Use #GoodFoodPolk on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

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3 Days of Fireworks Fun

Red, White & Kaboom

Celebrations on July 4

Red, White and BOOM at LEGOLAND

Auburndale 4th of July Fireworks

Lake Ariana – Auburndale; July 4

Celebrate Independence Day with a dazzling display of thunderous booms and flashing lights! Auburndale’s annual fireworks show is scheduled for 9:00-10:00 PM on Tuesday, July 4, at Lake Ariana.

Davenport 4th of July Celebration

Bartow 4th of July Fireworks

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Winter Haven

LEGOLAND Florida Resort

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a popular family-friendly theme park that offers over 50 rides, shows, and attractions. The park features more than 10 themed areas, including LEGO City, DUPLO Valley, and MINILAND USA, where visitors can marvel at LEGO replicas of famous landmarks. LEGOLAND Florida Resort also has a water park and an on-site hotel, making it a great destination for a multi-day trip.

Peppa Pig Theme Park

Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida is a new addition to Winter Haven’s list of family-friendly attractions. The theme park features rides, shows, and interactive experiences that are based on the popular children’s TV show. Visitors can meet Peppa Pig and her family, ride on Grandpa Pig’s Train, and explore Peppa’s Treehouse. This theme park is perfect for children ages 0-6 as their first theme park experience!

Living Water Boat Cruise

Living Water Boat Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful Chain of Lakes in Winter Haven. The boat tour takes visitors through a series of interconnected lakes, including Lake Eloise, Lake Roy, and Lake Summit. Visitors can spot wildlife, including alligators, ospreys, and bald eagles, and learn about the history of the area. Enjoy a lunch or dinner cruise, ending your tour at Harborside restaurant or catch the LEGOLAND Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show during certain tour times. 

Lakeland

Florida Children’s Museum

The Florida Children’s Museum is a fun and educational destination for families with young children. The museum offers interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and imaginative play. Visitors can explore the museum’s various zones, including City Play, Design Park, and the Watermelon Seeds.

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture

Florida Southern College in Lakeland is home to the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world. The college’s campus features 13 buildings that were designed by the famous architect, including the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel and the Usonian House. Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus to learn about Wright’s design principles and his vision for the campus.

Circle B Bar Reserve

The Circle B Bar Reserve is a nature preserve that spans over 1,200 acres and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, otters, and various bird species. The park features over 20 miles of trails, which wind through marshes, wetlands, and oak hammocks. Visitors can also take a guided tour to learn more about the park’s wildlife and ecosystem.

Polk Museum of Art

The Polk Museum of Art is a cultural gem in Lakeland, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from around the world. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by contemporary artists.

Lake Wales

Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is a stunning 250-acre garden that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The gardens feature a 205-foot-tall Singing Tower, which houses one of the world’s finest carillons, as well as meandering pathways, water features, and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can also explore the on-site museum, which showcases the history of the gardens and the tower.

Spook Hill

Learn about the Legend of Spook Hill and experience your car defying gravity right in Lake Wales, FL. The historic gravity hill is also the only known magnetic hill in the state of Florida. In April of 2019, Spook Hill was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Westgate River Ranch

Westgate River Ranch is a unique accommodation and attraction that offers visitors the chance to experience the Old West. The ranch features a variety of activities, including horseback riding, airboat rides, archery, and a rodeo. Visitors can also stay overnight in a luxe teepee or glamping site.

Bartow

Polk County History Center

The Polk County History Center is housed in a historic courthouse building and features exhibits that showcase the region’s rich history. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from the area’s Native American tribes, displays on the citrus industry, and exhibits on the county’s role in the Civil War. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the courthouse, which was built in 1909.

Wonder House

The Wonder House is a unique and historic home located in Bartow. It was designed and built in 1926 by Conrad Schuck, a local builder and designer who was inspired by the architecture of the Mayan civilization. The Wonder House was originally built as a private residence but has since been converted into a museum. Visitors can tour the house and see its unique design features, which include ornate carvings, colorful tiles, and a central courtyard. The museum also features exhibits on the history of the house and the city of Bartow.

The Wonder House is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in architecture or history. Its unique design and rich history make it a fascinating destination for visitors to Bartow.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or family-friendly fun, the cities in Central Florida have something for everyone. Looking for more to do while you’re in town? Follow us on Instagram or check out our Things To Do page!

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Florida Children’s Museum

The ALL-NEW Florida Children’s Museum is home to 5 different galleries & 47,800 square feet of endless fun for kids of all ages. This museum offers two-floors of kid-powered interactive exhibits and programs that explore the five-senses.

Exhibits and workshops are developed for toddlers and kids up to twelve years old.

Sample Permanent Exhibits

• Fill a pint-sized grocery buggy just like Mom and Dad, operate a cash register and merchandise scanner, or pretend to be a firefighter in the City Play exhibit
• Broadcast the news or current weather forecast at News Station
• Build, tinker and create with rotating materials at Maker Space
• Create your own movie, stop-motion animation, or beat in TBD

Florida Children’s Museum hosts daily workshops, Monday – Friday and each day has a different topic.

You can find their complete schedule at explorefcm.org/plan-your-visit/calendar/.

Mulberry Phosphate Museum

Do you have a miniature Indiana Jones in your family? If so, be sure to visit Mulberry Phosphate Museum which is located just one block south of State Highway 60 in downtown Mulberry.

The museum feature multiple indoor galleries. Inside the Phosphate Gallery, you’ll learn where phosphate is found, how it’s mined and processed, and how it’s used in our everyday lives. The Historic Railroad Gallery displays historic photos and information on the Mulberry, railroad industry as related to the phosphate industry. The Fossil Gallery houses an extensive prehistoric fossil collection.

If the rain stops, kids can search for shark teeth and other prehistoric animal remains in the museum’s outdoor exhibit. The Drag Line area includes a 44-yard drag-line bucket once used to dig phosphate rock out of the ground.

Additional exhibits allow visitors to learn about the American Alligator, Miocene Rhino, Giant Ground Sloth and the Smilodon.

Florida’s Natural Grove Store

Located just 10-miles from LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Florida’s Natural Grove Store has something for everyone. Spend time walking through indoor exhibits while learning about Polk County’s citrus industry. Enjoy a theater presentation about Florida’s Natural during, “We own the land, the trees, and the company.”

Escape Rooms on a Rainy Day

Escape rooms, or games, are away for small groups to cooperatively discover clues, solve puzzles, and accomplish tasks in one or more rooms. The goal is to accomplish a specific task in a limited amount of time. We have three escape room businesses and all are family-friendly. Escapeology and Lakeland Escape Rooms are in downtown Lakeland, while iPanic Escape Room is in north Lakeland.

Go Bowling or Watch a Movie

We have more businesses that are great for rainy day fun, including bowling alleys and movie theaters, at Things to do Indoors.

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