Ever wondered about a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant communities, rich history, and a variety of attractions and activities? Welcome to Polk County, Florida! Located in the central region of the Sunshine State, the county serves as an epicenter of unforgettable experiences and opportunities.
Polk County is a hidden gem in Central Florida, offering an idyllic mix of urban and rural delights.
The county offers a variety of attractions and activities suitable for all ages, from family-friendly fun to outdoor adventures.
Polk County’s vibrant communities offer unique attractions such as picturesque lakes, historic downtowns & Chain of Lakes. The area also boasts excellent education & employment opportunities with thriving industries like healthcare, tourism & logistics.
Nestled in the heart of Florida, Polk County serves as a gateway to the best that the state has to offer, with easy access to major cities like Tampa and Orlando. The county’s unique geographical location offers a balance of urban and rural experiences, with downtown Lakeland and small towns like Winter Haven providing serene residential lifestyles with the benefits of urban conveniences.
A noteworthy fact is that Polk County houses Florida’s population center, located near Lake Wales.
Polk County is a true gem in Central Florida, renowned for its:
Tranquil ambiance
Delightful towns
Family-oriented attractions
Genuine Florida experiences
The county offers a mix of urban and rural delights, from vibrant downtown areas to Bok Tower Gardens and local wineries, all supported by a well-planned county budget.
The unique terrains, including the vast Green Swamp and numerous lakes, add to the charm and beauty of Polk County.
Polk County is blessed with a wealth of natural beauty. From vast hiking and nature trails, such as the Circle B Bar Reserve Trail and Colt Creek State Orange Trail, to the presence of a wide array of wildlife, including thirteen species of Florida bats, there is something for every nature lover in Polk County.
Visitors of all ages will find a wide array of attractions and activities in Polk County. Whether you are a family looking for a fun-filled day at a theme park, an aviation enthusiast, or a nature lover seeking outdoor adventure, Polk County has something for everyone.
Families visiting Polk County have much to look forward to! The county is home to attractions like:
LEGOLAND Florida Resort, with over 50 rides and interactive shows
Bok Tower Gardens, offering natural beauty and a serene atmosphere
Safari Wilderness, providing a distinctive adventure
Our venue aims to provide access to a variety of activities for the total population, ensuring there is plenty to keep every member of the family entertained.
Polk County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The county’s numerous parks, trails, and waterways provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. From Circle B Bar Reserve to Colt Creek State Park and River Ranch, you can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, boating, kayaking, and observing wildlife in their natural environments.
Polk County houses diverse and vibrant communities, each distinct in character and charm. Lakeland, known for its picturesque lakes, historic downtown area, and the famous Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College, is a must-visit.
Winter Haven, a waterfront city, is another community that stands out. It’s known for its charming downtown, waterfront parks, and the Chain of Lakes, making it an ideal destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
Lakeland, aptly named for its 38 stunning lakes, offers scenic vistas and a host of recreational activities. Its historic downtown features landmarks like the Barnett Family Park and Bicentennial Rose Garden/Veteran’s Park. Just a short drive away on North Chestnut Road, you can also explore the charming town of Lake Alfred.
The city is home to Florida Southern College, which has a series of buildings designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Winter Haven, a waterfront wonderland located near Haines City, is a paradise for water enthusiasts. The Chain of Lakes offers a variety of water-based activities, and the city’s waterfront parks are perfect for a day of relaxation.
Besides the natural attractions, Winter Haven also houses man-made attractions like LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Cypress Gardens.
Cultural events and festivals are another highlight of Polk County. Some of the annual events include:
Art festivals
Plant sales
Vintage airplane shows
Music festivals
These events, supported by the county commissioners, celebrate the rich culture and history of the county.
The Bloomin’ Arts Festival in Bartow is a well-established art exhibition that showcases artists from diverse locations. This festival, which is situated near the Polk Historical Museum, fosters community arts and has been a beloved tradition since its inception in 1971.
Lake Wales Pioneer Days is another noteworthy event that celebrates the county’s pioneer heritage. This annual event, which began on the back porch of the Lake Wales Depot Museum, has evolved into a beloved tradition featuring traditional crafts, cuisine, and entertainment.
Attendees can anticipate historical reenactments, live music, and a classic car show, making it a must-visit event for history buffs and car enthusiasts alike.
The unique identity of Polk County is significantly influenced by its rich history and heritage. The early settlers who arrived in the fall of 1837 were drawn to the area’s fertile land and abundant natural resources, which shaped the county’s agricultural roots. The Polk County Board plays a vital role in preserving and promoting this heritage.
The early settlers of Polk County, including George Hamilton and a rapid influx of American settlers between 1835 and 1860, played a significant role in shaping the county’s development. They established farms for home consumption and local markets, utilizing the abundant natural resources.
Another significant part of Polk County’s heritage is its thriving citrus industry. The county emerged as a prominent citrus-producing region in Florida by the 1949-50 season, and the industry continues to play a significant role in the county’s development, contributing billions of dollars to the economy and creating numerous employment opportunities.
Beyond its rich history and diverse attractions, Polk County boasts excellent education and employment prospects. The county is home to top-rated schools and colleges, providing high-quality education options for residents.
Educational institutions in Lakeland include:
Florida Southern College
Polk State College
Southeastern University
Lakeland Montessori School House
Magnolia Montessori Academy
These schools offer a full range of academic programs and extracurricular activities thus preparing students for future success.
Polk County’s thriving industries, including healthcare, education, tourism, and logistics, provide diverse employment opportunities for residents. The healthcare sector alone contributes almost $800 million to the county’s economy, emphasizing its significance in fostering economic development and generating employment opportunities.
With numerous transportation options available, navigating Polk County is effortless. Whether you prefer to drive, take public transit, or use ride-sharing services, the county’s well-connected transportation network makes it easy to explore the area.
Public transit services like Citrus Connection and Winter Haven Area Transit provide convenient and affordable transportation options for both residents and visitors. These services operate six days a week, making it easy for you to get around the county.
Major highways such as I-4, US 27, and State Road 60 connect Polk County to nearby cities and attractions. Whether you’re heading to Tampa, Orlando, or any other nearby city, these highways make your journey quick and convenient.
In conclusion, Polk County, Florida, with its rich history, vibrant communities, diverse attractions, excellent education and employment opportunities, and easy-to-navigate transportation network, offers a unique blend of experiences for residents and visitors alike. It’s a destination where nature, culture, history, and modernity coalesce to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Polk County is conveniently located near both Orlando and Tampa, being less than 40 minutes away.
Polk County is known for its variety of attractions, ranging from LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Safari Wilderness to Bok Tower Gardens and Westgate River Ranch Resort. It also has 13 structures designed by the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright at Florida Southern.
Polk County is located between Orlando and Tampa in Central Florida.
Polk City is an ideal place to live, boasting quality education, professional jobs, affordable housing and a friendly community with little crime. Enjoy the peacefulness of small-town living along with the convenience of easy beach access all within a tank of gas.
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DBA Wendy Morris Realty
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16797 Broadwater Avenue
Winter Garden, Florida 34787
