17 Things To Do In Lake Wales, Florida

1. Explore the plant diversity of Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is the place to visit if you want to relish the fresh air and verdant trails. Since 1929, it has welcomed millions of guests to admire its towering trees and famous The Singing Tower. Furthermore, the attraction is home to Olmsted Gardens, a masterpiece created by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. This sprawling garden is home to plenty of flowers, including azaleas, camellias, and magnolias.

The thriving land of Bok Tower Gardens is sure to make a relaxing and educational day out in nature for your whole family. You may even spot one of over 100 types of birds who call this place home.

Bok Tower Gardens

Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Bok Tower Gardens

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 5 USD for children aged 5–12; 17 USD for adults

2. Freak yourself out at the gravity-defying Spook Hill

Want a unique experience in Florida? A visit to Spook Hill will give you the fascinating adventure you’re looking for. Among the oldest magnetic hills in the nation, this attraction was added to the National Register of Historic Places. When you stop by the gravity-defying hill, you’ll find that your car will roll to the top of the hill when you set it in neutral.

The spookiness also goes back to a Native American legend involving a battle between a brave chief and a menacing alligator. If you’d like to learn more, definitely add Spook Hill to your itinerary!

Spook Hill

Address: 600 N Wales Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Spook Hill

Opening hours: Open 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

3. Go horseback riding at Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park is a must-visit destination. The extensive property encompasses 6 miles (9.66 kilometers) of hiking trails, sandhills, and even a covered pavilion. While here, you can admire the thriving wildlife, including bald eagles and Florida scrub lizards, or just appreciate the peaceful nature views.

You can also try horseback riding along the equestrian trails if you don’t want to go on foot. Whichever way you choose to get around, be sure to pack plenty of water and wear the appropriate footwear.

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park

Address: 4335 Firetower Rd, Haines City, FL 33844, United States

Website: Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park

Opening hours: 8am – sundown (daily)

Price: Free for day use; 5 USD per night for camping

4. Tour Pinewood Estate, a dazzling Mediterranean-style mansion

Also known as El Retiro, Pinewood Estate is set on the lush grounds of Bok Tower Gardens. It includes 7.5 acres (3.04 hectares) of manicured land and a massive mansion. The Mediterranean-style abode also possesses 20 rooms. Built in the 1930s, it has been admitted to the National Register of Historic Places.

Before you take a guided tour of this home, do note that food and drinks aren’t allowed inside. In addition, visitors with wheelchairs or strollers might find difficulty navigating to the second floor.

Pinewood Estate

Address: 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Pinewood Estate

Opening hours: Nov 1 – Apr 30: Tue – Sun: 10am – 4pm (closed on Mon); May 1 – Oct 30: Tue – Sun: 11am – 3pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD for children aged 5–12; 7 USD for adults (in addition to general admission to Bok Tower Gardens)

5. Fish on the scenic shores of Lake Kissimmee State Park

Florida has plenty of picturesque outdoor areas to explore, and Lake Kissimmee State Park will definitely not disappoint you. It boasts diverse wildlife, such as bobcats, sandhill cranes, and white-tailed deer.

Furthermore, there are three lakes for you to visit: Lake Kissimmee, Tiger Lake, and Lake Rosalie. These idyllic bodies of water will provide plenty of fun activities, including canoeing. Of course, your trip won’t be complete without a fishing excursion. In Lake Kissimmee, you can find only the best type of bass.

Lake Kissimmee State Park

Address: 14248 Camp Mack Rd, Lake Wales, FL 33898, United States

Website: Lake Kissimmee State Park

Opening hours: 8am – sundown (daily)

Price: from 2 USD

6. Delve into Florida's rich heritage at Lake Wales History Museum

Discover the captivating history of Florida with a visit to Lake Wales History Museum, which features historic buildings with various architectural styles. Admire the colonial details from the 1800s or the Tudor-revival elements inspired by Medieval English structures. You can do this by taking a self-guided walking tour with the assistance of the Florida Stories: Walk Lake Wales application.

You’ll also find different permanent and seasonal exhibits that will be sure to pique your interest, so be sure to check the website to help you decide when to plan your trip.

Lake Wales History Museum

Address: 325 S Scenic Hwy, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Lake Wales History Museum

Opening hours: Wed – Sat: 10am – 5pm (closed on Mon & Sun)

Price: Free for children and members; 5 USD for adults

7. Get your kids jumping with excitement at The Dinosaur Playground Bounce House

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Give your kids a thrilling afternoon by taking them to The Dinosaur Playground Bounce House. The indoor establishment features a wide range of themed inflatable bounce houses that your kids can enjoy no matter what their interests are. Among the colorful options are several Minions-themed inflatables and one featuring the beloved characters from Frozen. The latter also has double slides for even more fun.

Inflatables with dinosaurs are also available for children to climb through and tire themselves out.

The Dinosaur Playground Bounce House

Address: Eagle Ridge Mall 451, Eagle Ridge Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33859, United States

Website: The Dinosaur Playground Bounce House

Opening hours: Mon, Wed, & Thu: 11am – 7pm; Fri – Sat: 11am – 9pm (closed on Tue)

Price: from 8 USD

8. Grow your bowling game at Kegel Training Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you’re traveling with family members on a competitive streak, you should definitely visit Kegel Training Center. The modern bowling alley features several lanes where the whole family can unwind with a friendly game. It’s also open to bowlers of all skill levels and ages. If you’re just starting out with the sport, book an individual session. Half- and full-day lessons are available.

You can also avail of group rates for lessons with one or two instructors depending on your needs.

Kegel Training Center

Address: 1951 Longleaf Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33859, United States

Website: Kegel Training Center

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am – 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: from 55 USD

9. Take a peaceful pilgrimage to Saint Anne Shrine

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

In between exhilarating adventures in Florida, take a break by visiting the historic Saint Anne Shrine in Lake Wales. This structure dates all the way back to 1920 when a band of Catholics from Canada built a shrine in honor of St. Anne, the mother of Mary. You’ll find a grotto with tiled floors where you can offer up a prayer.

Additionally, the weathered St. Christopher monument sits on the shore of a body of water, promising a peaceful moment of prayer for devotees.

Saint Anne Shrine

Address: 1240 St Anne Shrine Rd, Lake Wales, FL 33898, United States

10. Take in lakeside views from Lake Wailes Park

If you’re in the mood to take in the fresh air and enjoy sprawling lawns, you should make the time to drop by Lake Wailes Park. Here, you can hike through a 2.5-mile (4.02-kilometer) trail or just lounge around the picnic area with your loved ones. There’s also a fishing pier that extends over the water for even more idyllic views.

Should you be craving more active pursuits, test out the basketball court or the soccer field too.

Lake Wailes Park

Address: 33 N Lakeshore Blvd, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Lake Wailes Park

Opening hours: 7am – 7pm (daily)

11. Get live entertainment at the cozy Lake Wales Little Theater

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Witness the many talented residents of Florida by watching a show at Lake Wales Little Theater. It was established in 1978 to give locals the chance to appreciate live performances. Today, the theater is thriving thanks to donations and the work of volunteers.

Among the plays you can watch here are “Bingo: The Winning Musical,” which is about a fierce group of bingo players, and “Not Your Average Zombie Apocalypse.” The latter will be performed by teenage actors and features romance and comedy.

Lake Wales Little Theater

Address: 411 N 3rd St, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Lake Wales Little Theater

Opening hours: Show times vary

Price: from 10 USD

12. Drop by Orange Grove Shopping Center

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Any vacation is incomplete without a day filled with shopping. Head to Orange Grove Shopping Center to satisfy your retail therapy needs while in Lake Wales. It’s home to several retail stores, such as Family Dollar. You’ll also find a host of dining options in case you need to fuel up between stores. Grab a quick sandwich from Subway or have a more indulgent meal at grannys kitchen & country store.

Orange Grove Shopping Center

Address: 1366, Mountain Lake Cutoff Road, Lake Wales, Polk County, Florida, 33859, United States

Website: Orange Grove Shopping Center

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6:30am - 2:30pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 10pm

13. Hike along Lake Wales Ridge, Florida's highest ridge

Looking for more specific things to do near Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park? Why not hike along Lake Wales Ridge where the state park rests? Known as the state’s highest ridge, it has been around for millions of years. The sand dunes here are home to flora and fauna that have adapted to the desert-like area.

During your visit, you will have a sprawling area to explore. It features grasslands and many rare plants and animals.

Lake Wales Ridge

Address: Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, 851 County Road 630 E. Frostproof, FL 33843-9802, United States

14. Dive into a thriving arts culture at historic Lake Wales Art Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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A post shared by Lake Wales Arts Council (@lakewalesartscouncil)

Run by Lake Wales Arts Council, this center offers a wide range of programs and experiences that foster a love for the arts. The establishment is open to kids as young as six years old, teens, and adults. Avail of a variety of classes, including those about pottery, stained glass, and acrylic painting. For children, summer art camps are also available, with half- and full-day options.

Additionally, arts festivals are held occasionally to celebrate art alongside food and live entertainment.

Lake Wales Art Center

Address: 1099 E State Rd 60 E, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Lake Wales Art Center

Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 10am – 3pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: from 50 USD

15. Discover the huge murals dotting Lake Wales

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

A love of art is shared by the residents of Lake Wales. This is evidenced by the many murals that dot the city. Spend some time during your stay here visiting various sites to see them all.

On East Stuart Avenue, you’ll find Tom Freeman’s detailed mural of the downtown area during the 1920s and 1930s. On the same street lies “End of a Perfect Day in Paradise,” which was created by a husband-and-wife duo to dress up an ordinary parking lot. The city also boasts plenty more artwork showcasing the local vibe.

Murals of Lake Wales

Address: Addresses vary

Website: Murals of Lake Wales

16. Get your orange juice fix at Florida's Natural Grove House Visitor Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

This citrus co-op promises an idyllic day amid orange trees. It prides itself on its high-quality products, which include orange juice, lemonade blends, and grapefruit juice. The company also employs sustainable practices.

If you find yourself at the visitor center, you can learn more about the history of the co-op. Of course, you’ll also get the chance to sample the famous juices. A gift shop is also present in case you want to pick up mementos from your visit.

Florida's Natural Grove House Visitor Center

Address: 20160 US Hwy 27, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Florida’s Natural Grove House Visitor Center

Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 10am – 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

17. Dine on fresh fish at Crazy Fish Bar and Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Searching for some fresh seafood? Crazy Fish Bar and Grill is the perfect place for a tasty mealtime. Try the delicious Cajun salmon pasta or split two lobster tails with your partner. If you happen to be visiting on a Wednesday evening, you can indulge in the crab leg special, which will get you 1.5 lb (0.68 kg) of crab legs for only 26.95 USD.

You can opt to dine outside here in case you want to cherish the fresh air. If you only have time for a quick stop before heading off on your next adventure in Lake Wales, you can choose the in-store pickup option too.

Crazy Fish Bar and Grill

Address: 802 Henry St, Lake Wales, FL 33853, United States

Website: Crazy Fish Bar and Grill

Opening hours: Tue – Thu: 11:30am – 8:30pm; Fri – Sat: 11:30am – 9pm; Sun: 11:30am – 8pm (closed on Mon)

Have all kinds of adventure in Lake Wales

Whether you want to sit outside and enjoy the sun beaming down on you or spend the afternoon hunting down murals, you’re sure to have a fun time in Lake Wales. Don’t forget to consult the list above to make the best of your stay!