Lakeland, Florida, is a beautiful oasis of more than 100,000 residents that sits along the I-4 corridor between Tampa and Orlando. While its central location provides easy access to all of these big cities’ attractions, Lakeland itself has dozens of activities from which you can choose.
Many of these activities are ideal for the city’s almost 24,000 older adults, which makes retiring here an attractive, and adventurous, choice. When you move to any of Bedrock’s three Lakeland 55+ communities, check out these 7 big attractions for seniors in Lakeland, Florida.
Visit any of Lakeland’s 38 lakes.
Lakeland gets its name from the nearly 4 dozen lakes scattered throughout the city. The sheer number of natural locations has given rise to numerous lakeside parks, preserves, and spaces for recreation and rest. Perhaps the most famous are the Se7en Wetlands, where you can walk the established trails and capture stunning photos of the abundant wildlife.
What else can you do lakeside? It depends upon the lake you choose, but you can find a place to do all of the following during your Lakeland, FL, retirement:
- Boating
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Picnicking
- Biking
- And more
Thanks to the huge diversity of lakes and trails, these natural areas are ideal for individuals of any ability level. From paved walking trails to challenging hikes, you can find the adventure and outdoor activity you desire right by Lakeland’s lakes.
Stop by the Polk Theatre.
The Polk Theatre offers numerous films, a popular Performing Arts Series, and a rich history that makes the building itself a vintage attraction. Fully restored in 1999, the theatre shows classic films, hosts performances of the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, hosts ballet performances, and more.
Stop by to take in all the arts and culture you desire, and tour the beautiful building, impeccably restored to preserve this building’s stunning history and architecture. If you want to enjoy good films from the comfort of home, you can even take advantage of the theatre’s virtual cinema program.
Check out the Frank Lloyd Wright collection.
If architecture is a passion of yours, then you may want to stop by Lakeland’s Frank Lloyd Wright collection. Located at Florida Southern College, this is the world’s largest collection of buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The college’s historic district, as a result, has been named a National Historic Landmark.
In addition, the college houses a large collection of the famous architect’s photographs, furniture, drawings, and more. Stop by whenever you like: You will often find traveling exhibits on display here as well.
Catch a Minor League baseball game.
If sports are more your thing, you can purchase tickets to the Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. The home of the Detroit Tigers’ Minor League team, the Lakeland Flying Tigers, it promises hours of baseball-themed fun.
Because this is a Minor League team, you can catch all the excitement of baseball with less cost and less traffic than attending an MLB game in, say, Tampa. And, because the stadium is so close, chances are you can catch a game whenever the mood strikes.
Go birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve.
Do not be deceived: Despite its name, Circle B Bar Reserve is NOT an active ranch. The former ranch has been converted into an extensive protected wetland. If you love birds and wildlife, this is the place for you to enjoy your retirement.
If you want to learn more about the area and the wildlife in it, you can stop by the Polk County Nature Discovery Center. This center is open to the public and has some fascinating displays about the Ranch and surrounding area. Who said you couldn’t learn something new after you retire?
Visit the Polk Museum of Art.
As one of the top 10 art museums in Florida, the Polk Museum of Art has endless displays to amaze and inspire you. If you want your retirement in Lakeland, Florida, to be full of arts and culture, then this is the place to go.
Located at South Florida College, this museum boasts permanent collections across many artistic periods, including Asian, European, and Decorative American Arts. Entry is completely free, so you can afford to soak in all of the beautiful art and art education you can handle for as long as you live in Lakeland.
Eat at Lakeland’s many restaurants.
One of the best attractions for seniors in Lakeland, Florida, is the sheer number of mouth-watering restaurants you can enjoy. The city boasts endless dining options, including the following famous eateries:
- Nineteen61
- Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille
- Black and Brew Coffeehouse
- Cafe Zuppina
- And so much more
No matter what your preferred culinary taste, you can find it in Lakeland. Delve into spicy Mexican. Enjoy rich seafood. Feast on Chinese, barbecue, pizza, and more. There is a restaurant for any taste, and any budget. When you live in Lakeland, you are sure to eat well.
If these Lakeland-area attractions appeal to you, then you may want to consider moving to one of Bedrock’s Lakeland communities. Rich in amenities, connections, and beautiful homes, we make Florida living attainable for seniors. Contact us today to learn more about how Bedrock can help you enjoy your golden years in Lakeland.
