Location: Lake Wales
Top Things to do in Lake Wales
The 7 Best Hidden Gems Things to do in Lake Wales, Florida (FL)
Lake Wales is a city in Polk County, Florida, United States. The population was 14,225 at the 2010 census. As of 2014, the population estimated by the U.S. Census Bureau is 15,140. It is part of the Lakeland–Winter Haven Metropolitan Statistical Area. Lake Wales is located in central Florida, west of Lake Kissimmee and east of Tampa.
Restaurants in Lake Wales
1. Alligator Cove Airboat Nature Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,017 reviews
Visit the Headwaters to the Everglades, with 6 passenger airboat into marshlands and waters of the Famous Kissimmee Basin. View alligators big and small, birds in abundance and all the wildlife that lives here. Stories told, history, time for photos and laughter too. Be taken back in time to Florida's natural state, with NO HOMES TO VIEW on this trip, just nature as it should be, up close and personal.
2. Alligator's Unlimited Airboat Nature Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,049 reviews
Located on the beautiful Kissimmee River in Lake Wales Fl. We take you on a airboat adventure thru the vast swamps and marshes of the Kissimmee River and Dead River. We go where only a 6 passanger airboat would dare go. Come visit and see for yourself the true Florida. Our USCG Licensed Master Captains are NATIVE FLORIDIANS, who were born and raised in the swamp! We know all the good spots to visit, to see all wildlife. The headwaters of the Everglades have to offer! Call for your reservation today.
3. Bok Tower Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,353 reviews
Explore the landscaped gardens of Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and one of Florida’s natural habitats on the Pine Ridge Trail. You can also discover the history of Edward W. Bok and the building of his 205 foot Singing Tower and tour the historic Pinewood Estate mansion to catch a glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle of the 1930s. Enjoy the all new Children's Garden, Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen and Wild Garden. Visitor Center includes exhibits on the life of Edward Bok and the Carillon. Enjoy a healthy meal at the Blue Palmetto Cafe and take home a memento from the Tower shop.
Reviewed By OldFloridaGuy - Lakeland, United States
As we live in the area, we are frequent visitors to Bok Tower Gardens. The simple fact that we return often confirms our appreciation for the beauty and restorative power of this place. Many reviewers have highlighted the history of Bok’s masterwork and its connection, through the legendary Olmsted family, to Central Park. So, let me simply mention that the gardens are exquisite, the view from atop Iron Mountain inspiring, the carillon tower an architectural marvel and the park brilliantly managed. On-site are an informative historical exhibit, an above-average cafe—often featuring live music—a delightful gift shop, a plant shop featuring native plants and specimens of those in the gardens and a free shuttle for those with mobility challenges. Much of the expansive trail system within the gardens is shaded and the altitude affords a reliable breeze.
4. Lake Kissimmee State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 206 reviews
Reviewed By Q3629GUheidim
Highly recommend coming here for a Segway Tour!! Such a fun, new way to see and learn about the park. It's a beautiful area with lots of wildlife and scenery. I was surprised how easy it was to use the Segway!! Wonderful experience for all.
5. Pinewood Estate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 238 reviews
Reviewed By subay66
Beautiful grounds and lovely house. Well worth taking the house tour. The history of it is very interesting.
6. Tiger Creek Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 14 reviews
Reviewed By HTWelker - Kent City, United States
In 2017 I solo hiked in Tiger Creek Preserve that left an impression i have been wanting to share with my wife ever since. A trip to Babson Park was planned. We parked at the Pfundsteintein road parking lot, and picked up a trail map. The hike started by heading out to the Highlands loop, then to the bluff creeks loop, back to the Highlands loop, and walked the Heron pond loop on the way back. In total it ended up being 11.5 miles and a little over 4 hours. The area has grown up since I was here last, with less signs of the previous prescribed burn event. The trails are in better shape and more defined, with more blazes and trail posts along the routes. This is a sandy sunny hike up and down hills with lots of twists and turns on the Lake Wales Ridge, an ancient island. I didn't find the sand real deep or troublesome, but was happy I brought water. There are many different landscapes like open pine woods, scrubby flat woods, hardwood swamps, and forested wetlands. There are no restrooms but admission is free.
7. Spook Hill
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 423 reviews
Cars will coast uphill at this mysterious site.
Reviewed By johnalf1968
Spook Hill: Is a gravity hill, an optical illusion where cars appear to rool up hill.STOP CAR ON WHITE,PLACE IN NEUTRAL,AND LET IT ROLL BACK.
