Historic Downtown Lakeland

Historic Downtown Lakeland typifies the city’s leisure sensibility and love of arts & culture. Many have said that few cities of comparable size match Lakeland’s appreciation of cultural events ranging from year-round art exhibitions, concerts, plays, dance, and other culturally significant activities. Lakeland's love affair with the arts may be on display at the Polk Museum, but it resonates thru the entire city. Just a brief hike from downtown is Florida Southern College, which features the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the entire world.

Residents treasure their restored homes in their tree-filled neighborhoods that date from the early 20th century. Main Street, in Downtown Lakeland, meanders up from Kryger Overlook Park and the revitalized Lake Mirror Promenade, all the way to historic Munn Park. Considered the "town square" since 1884 and the hub of well over 40 historically significant buildings.

Old-world charm is even prevalent in the area’s transportation. A trackless trolley connects all of Downtown Lakeland. Those arriving in Downtown Lakeland via railway will be greeted by what is widely considered the most stunning train station in all of Florida. A two-story stone structure overlooking Lake Mirror, the Downtown train station serves as an appropriate complement to the grandeur of Lake Mirror, Barnett Family Park, Hollis Gardens, & the Lake Mirror Center.

The retail district boasts a dizzying abundance antiques stores, historic Polk Theatre, and the Arts on the Park Gallery. Landmarks such as the Hotel Lakeland Terrace, and The Regency Tower have been restored and define the skyline & landscape of this burgeoning residential community. A new addition to the residential downtown community is the Downtown Lofts, which overlook both Munn Park & Lake Mirror. Large terracotta pots overflow with gardens & beautiful flora everywhere along the tree-lined streets.

If mass-chain eateries bore you, the selection available to you here will certainly not disappoint! Featuring: New York-style pizza pie at Palace Pizza, Irish pubs like Molly Mchugh’s, fine dining at the Terrace Grill and The Antiquarian Restaurant , or even New Orleans-style seafood at Harry’s . . . this place simply has it all.