Welcome to Lakeland, Florida! Located on the I-4 corridor in Central Florida, Lakeland is a vibrant, diverse city known for its cultural attractions and attractions. From its active downtown core packed with shops and eateries to the charming Lowry Park Zoo and the Frazier Air Museum, Lakeland really does offer something for everyone.
From art galleries and festivals to outdoor activities and natural attractions, Lakeland has a lot to offer visitors who want to explore the area and soak up all the culture. Read on to learn more about what Lakeland, Florida is known for and why it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state.
Lakeland, Florida is known for several distinctive characteristics and attractions. Here are some of the things that Lakeland is known for:
1. Lakeland is home to one of the world’s largest and oldest flea markets, located at the old Lakeland Drive-In Theater.
2. Located in the heart of Florida’s citrus industry, Lakeland is said to have the world’s largest collection of citrus tree varieties with over 50 different types.
3. In 1915, Lakeland was the first city in Florida to have a public library.
4. Lakeland was the birthplace of President Rutherford B. Hayes’ daughter Fanny in 1875.
5. In 1916, Lakeland was the birthplace of Publix Super Markets, the Florida-based grocery chain.
6. The city of Lakeland was the first in the state of Florida to install electric streetlights in 1922.
7. In 1940, Lakeland Regional Airport was built and is said to be the busiest single-runway airport in the US.
8. The first freestanding Hardee’s restaurant was opened in Lakeland in 1960.
9. Ceramics retailer Hobby Lobby opened its first store in Lakeland in 1972.
10. In 2012, Lakeland was ranked 8th in the nation for its best downtown area by Livability.
Lakeland is a city located in central Florida, approximately halfway between Tampa and Orlando. The city, referred to as the “City of Lakes”, is located on numerous small lakes, most notably Lake Parker, which is the most recognizable lake in the city and is a major source of recreation and economic prosperity. The city’s lakefront parks and wildlife areas are among the best in the state.
Lakeland was established in 1885 as a trading post on the edge of the wilderness and was known as “Junction City” until it was renamed in 1889. It rapidly grew into a major agricultural center and in 1896, an electric street car line was added to connect downtown and the outskirts of the city. The population rapidly grew and Lakeland was officially incorporated in 1922.
In the 20th century, Lakeland’s main industries revolved around citrus production and processing, which was a major part of its economy until the 1990s. The citrus industry declined and the city diversified into other industries such as tourism, healthcare, corporate headquarters, higher education and more. Today, Lakeland is home to Florida’s first outdoor mall, the popular Florida Southern College, Florida Polytechnic University and Southeastern University.
Lakeland is an ideal place to live with a low cost of living and plenty of activities for the whole family, such as its many parks, trails, lakes, and nature preserves. The quality of life in Lakeland is top-notch, which is why it is a popular destination for retirees, families, and businesses.