Hotels in Lakeland

Whispers of Water: Explore the Enchantment of Lakeland's Lakes and Lore

Discover the charm of Lakeland, Florida, a delightful city renowned for its picturesque lakes and vibrant culture. Home to the stunning Hollis Garden and the historic downtown area, Lakeland invites you to stroll along its scenic waterfront and explore its eclectic boutiques and cafés. The city’s rich art scene is epitomised by the Polk Museum of Art, while nature enthusiasts can enjoy tranquil moments at Lake Morton, famous for its swan population. With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, Lakeland is an enchanting destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Top locations to stay in Lakeland

When visiting Lakeland, Florida, consider staying in Haines City, Bartow, or Winter Haven. Haines City offers beautiful lakeside views, while Bartow is known for its charming cafes and shopping. Winter Haven boasts stunning lakefront attractions. For first-time visitors, Winter Haven is best suited due to its abundance of recreational activities and scenic beauty.

1. Winter HavenOpens in a new window: Winter Haven is a delightful place to stay, especially for those who enjoy lakeside activities and beautiful natural surroundings. Known for its chain of lakes, including the stunning Lake Eloise, this area offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxing by the water. The vibrant downtown area is home to charming shops and cafes, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. Don’t miss out on the nearby LEGOLAND Florida Resort, an excellent family attraction featuring rides and interactive experiences. Winter Haven's welcoming atmosphere and scenic views make it a great choice for travellers seeking a mix of relaxation and fun.
2. Haines CityOpens in a new window: Nestled among picturesque lakes, Haines City is a charming destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With its abundance of parks and scenic waterfronts, it’s perfect for activities like fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. The city boasts a friendly community vibe, making it easy to explore local cafes and shops. Haines City is also close to various nature trails, providing excellent opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. If you're after a laid-back retreat surrounded by nature, Haines City is sure to delight.
3. BartowOpens in a new window: Bartow is a quaint town that offers a unique glimpse into Florida's history and culture. Known for its lovely downtown area, it features an array of charming shops and cafes where you can unwind and enjoy local flavours. The city is rich in historical sites, including museums and cultural attractions that tell the story of the region. Bartow’s friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby nature parks and enjoying a slower pace of life. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with local charm, Bartow is a wonderful choice.

Things to do in Lakeland

Lakeland beckons with its stunning lakes, lush forests, and rolling hills, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Enjoy leisurely boating, invigorating hikes, or a day at the beach. After exploring, indulge in local theatre, lively sports, or a bit of retail therapy for a well-rounded getaway.

• Little Manatee River State ParkOpens in a new window – Discover the beauty of nature at this stunning national park, where winding trails lead you through lush landscapes alongside the serene Little Manatee River. Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the calm waters, and keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and various bird species. Whether you fancy a leisurely hike or a picnic by the river, this park offers a peaceful escape into Florida's natural wonders.
• The Circle B Bar ReserveOpens in a new window – Step into a world of diverse ecosystems at this expansive reserve. Wander along scenic trails that take you through wetlands and uplands, where you can glimpse alligators basking in the sun and an array of birds soaring overhead. The reserve is perfect for a tranquil walk, photography, or birdwatching, allowing you to connect with nature in a truly unique setting.
• Wesley Chapel District ParkOpens in a new window – This urban park is a fantastic spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities. With well-maintained walking paths, playgrounds for the kids, and open spaces for picnics, it’s an ideal place to unwind. Engage in sports on the various courts or simply relax under the shade of a tree while soaking up the vibrant community atmosphere.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Lakeland

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable period to visit Lakeland is from September to November, when hotel prices may drop. For those on a budget, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully experience the city's key landmarks and cultural sites. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the beautiful lakes, vibrant shopping areas, baseball games, theatre performances, and various dining options. Additionally, the local university, family-friendly activities, art galleries, and live music venues all contribute to a rich cultural experience, making it great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals on hotels in Lakeland, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay updated on flash sales and special last-minute promotions, enhancing your chances to save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature in the app serves as a comparison tool, allowing you to compare room rates and amenities, so you're more likely to find the best hotel deal tailored to your needs.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, having some flexibility with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Lakeland. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may sometimes offer better value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, increasing the likelihood that you'll secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but with Lakeland's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit farther out that remains well-connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less populated neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Lakeland

Lakeland experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 60.1°F (15.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 81.9°F (27.7°C). August is usually the wettest month. February, March, and July are the peak travel months in Lakeland, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, September to November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.