Lake Wales Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive Lake Wales travel guide.


Introduction to Lake Wales

Located in Polk County, Inland Florida, Lake Wales is a small charming city that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. The city’s name comes from the Lake Wales Ridge, which was once a sandy chain of islands that stretched along the Florida peninsula. This unique landscape was created thousands of years ago by ancient oceans, and now it’s home to lush forests, freshwater lakes, and natural wonders that make Lake Wales a prime destination for nature lovers.

Aside from its breathtaking scenery and outdoorsy vibe, Lake Wales also boasts rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and a bustling food and drink scene. In this travel guide, we’ll explore all the best things to do, places to see, and local experiences to try in Lake Wales.

List of Places to Visit in Lake Wales

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bok Tower Gardens: A National Historic Landmark that features a 205-foot singing tower with 60 bells, a beautiful garden, and a wildlife sanctuary.
  • Spook Hill: A mysterious spot where cars seem to roll uphill against the laws of gravity.
  • Depot Museum: A historical museum that showcases the city’s railroad history and the development of citrus industry.
  • Ridge Audubon Society: A nature center that offers bird-watching tours, nature walks, and educational programs for bird enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Lake Wales: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Kissimmee State Park: A large park with three major lakes, hiking trails, camping sites, and a rich wildlife including alligators, deer, and bald eagles.
  • Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park: A wildlife refuge known for its scenic hiking and biking trails, fishing opportunities, and diverse ecosystems.
  • Avon Park Air Force Range: A unique nature preserve that’s home to endangered species, such as gopher tortoises and Florida scrub-jays.
  • Crooked Lake Park: A tranquil park that offers picnic areas, fishing docks, and scenic views of Crooked Lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake Wales

Lake Wales is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of trails and routes that cater to hikers, bikers, and nature walkers. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Lake Wales Ridge State Forest Hiking Trail: A 5-mile trail that takes hikers through the heart of the Lake Wales Ridge, offering scenic views of pine flatwoods, scrub, and sandhills.
  • Crooked Lake Loop Trail: A 6.5-mile trail that loops around the Crooked Lake, offering stunning views of the lake, bird-watching opportunities, and lush vegetation.
  • Lake Wales Trailway: A 2.8-mile trail that connects Lake Wales downtown to the neighboring city of Dundee, offering a scenic route for bikers and walkers through the countryside.
  • Avon Park Air Force Range Trail: A 19-mile trail that allows hikers and bikers to explore the unique flora and fauna of Florida’s inland region.

Best Things to Do in Lake Wales: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Lake Wales is home to some of the best kayaking and canoeing spots in Florida, with scenic routes that take visitors through charming lakes and waterways.
  • Ecotourism Tours: For a more educational experience, take a guided tour with a local expert who can show you the native flora and fauna and explain the importance of the region’s ecosystems.
  • Golfing: Lake Wales has several world-class golf courses, including the historic Donald Ross-designed Mountain Lake Golf Course.
  • Shopping: Explore Lake Wales’s local boutiques, antique shops, and farmers’ markets, where you can find unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and fresh produce.
  • Nightlife: Lake Wales may be a small city, but it still offers plenty of entertainment options, such as live music shows, karaoke nights, and wine tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake Wales

Day 1: Visit Bok Tower Gardens in the morning, then drive to Crooked Lake Park for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, take a nature walk on the Crooked Lake Loop Trail.

Day 2: Explore Lake Kissimmee State Park, with hiking, kayaking, and bird-watching activities. Have a dinner at the onsite restaurant, The Cow Camp Grill.

Day 3: Visit the Depot Museum and Spook Hill in downtown Lake Wales, then take an ecotourism tour with One World Ecotourism.

Day 4: Play golf at Mountain Lake Golf Course, then unwind with a spa treatment at the onsite spa.

Day 5: Spend the day shopping at local boutiques and farmers’ markets, and sample some of the city’s best local food at places like Crazy Fish Bar and Grill and The Iron Boar Saloon.

Day 6: Take an early morning hike on the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest Hiking Trail, followed by a leisurely afternoon exploring Avon Park Air Force Range.

Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby cities like Dundee or Winter Haven, or just relax and enjoy the charming atmosphere and natural beauty of Lake Wales.

Food and Drink Scene of Lake Wales

Must-Try Dishes

  • Key Lime Pie: A Florida classic, made with fresh lime juice and a graham cracker crust. The best place to try it in Lake Wales is The Portico Cafe.
  • Gator Tail: A local delicacy, served fried or grilled. Try it at Crazy Fish Bar and Grill or Cherry Pocket Steak and Seafood Shak.
  • Citrus Salad: Made with fresh oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines, this refreshing salad is a good choice for a light lunch or dinner. Check out Nutwood for a taste.

Local Beverages

  • Orange Juice: Florida is known for its deliciously sweet oranges, and Lake Wales is no exception. Order a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice at any local restaurant.
  • Craft Beer: Lake Wales has a budding craft beer scene, with breweries like Heitzman’s Brewhouse and Grove Roots Brewing Company offering unique pours and tastings.

Where to Stay in Lake Wales: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Historic Bok Tower Gardens Carillon Hotel: A luxurious hotel located inside Bok Tower Gardens, offering beautiful views of the gardens and the singing tower.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Wales: A budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a complimentary hot breakfast.
  • Vintage Inn Lake Wales: A quaint guesthouse that offers a homey atmosphere, a large garden, and comfortable rooms at affordable rates.

What to Buy in Lake Wales: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Orange Blossom Honey: A sweet and aromatic honey made from the nectar of orange blossoms. Buy it at Ridge Island Groves.
  • Citrus Fruits: Bring home some fresh oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines as a tasty souvenir from your trip. You can find them at any local farmers’ market.
  • Local Crafts: Check out local boutiques and arts and crafts stores for handmade pottery, jewelry, and other unique souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Lake Wales

Lake Wales is a friendly and welcoming city that prides itself on its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and strong sense of community. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, such as saying “please” and “thank you”, dressing appropriately for cultural attractions, and being mindful of the environment.

Best Time to Visit Lake Wales

The best time to visit Lake Wales is in the winter months, from November to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and outdoor activities are at their best. However, visitors should beware of potential crowds and higher prices during this peak season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake Wales

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s natural beauty and cultural heritage by taking guided tours and nature walks.
  • Do try local delicacies, such as gator tail, fresh seafood, and citrus fruits.
  • Do take advantage of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
  • Don’t overlook the city’s diverse cultural offerings, such as museums and art galleries.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake Wales

Lake Wales is a generally safe city, but visitors should beware of potential hazards, such as alligators, snakes, and other wildlife. It’s important to follow park rules and regulations, stay on designated hiking trails, and avoid swimming in unmonitored waters.

Health in Lake Wales

Lake Wales has several medical facilities and hospitals, including Lake Wales Medical Center and Advent Health Lake Wales, which offer emergency and non-emergency medical care.

Getting to Lake Wales: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake Wales

  • Orlando International Airport (MCO): 60 miles away
  • Tampa International Airport (TPA): 70 miles away

Bus Stations Near Lake Wales

  • Lake Wales Area Transit: Offers local bus service within the city and surrounding areas.

Other Options

  • Car rental: There are several car rental companies located at Orlando and Tampa airports, including Enterprise, Alamo, and Budget.
  • Taxi and ride-sharing services: Uber and Lyft are available in Lake Wales and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Lake Wales

The best way to get around Lake Wales is by renting a car or using a ride-sharing service. Local buses are also available, but they have limited routes and schedules.

Where to Go Next from Lake Wales: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Orlando: Known for its theme parks, shopping, and entertainment options, Orlando is just an hour’s drive from Lake Wales.
  • Tampa: Another vibrant city with beautiful beaches, museums, and restaurants, Tampa is just an hour and a half from Lake Wales.
  • Lake Wales Ridge National Wildlife Refuge: Located just outside Lake Wales, this wildlife refuge offers guided tours, wildlife watching, and hiking opportunities.

Conclusion

Lake Wales is a hidden gem in the heart of Florida that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. With so many things to see, do, and experience, Lake Wales is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic Florida vacation.

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