Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Lake Wales, FL

  • Published 2022/01/09

Lake Wales is a vibrant city in Central Florida with diverse offerings in the art scene, outdoor exploration opportunities, historic places, and more!

The small-town charm of Lake Wales will welcome you as you explore more of the city’s attractions.

Go on a relaxing nature trip, see beautiful sceneries on a road trip, support the local arts scene, and make new memories at Lake Wales.

Are you planning a trip to this charming city in Central Florida soon?

Read on for the 15 best things to do on your trip to Lake Wales!

Unwind and Relax at the Serene Bok Tower Gardens

Serene Bok Tower Gardens

Sean Pavone / shutterstock.com

If you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy a quiet time away from your daily cares, visit the serene Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales!

This 250-acre contemplative garden and bird sanctuary is set atop the Iron Mountain, located north of Lake Wales.

Serene Bok Tower Gardens1

Nick Fox / shutterstock.com

Take a breather, walk slowly through the tranquil trails, and enjoy the pause in time on your visit to Bok Tower Gardens.

This little piece of heaven on earth offers a peaceful, serene time surrounded by nature’s relaxing sights and sounds.

Scenic View of Serene Bok Tower Gardens

Sandhill Gopher, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Aside from the serene sight of nature, you’ll surely enjoy the enchanting sound of the famous singing tower, with its carillon bells playing several times a day.

Give yourself a well-deserved self-care break on a trip to the mystical Bok Tower Gardens on your trip to Lake Wales.

Serene Bok Tower Gardens2

JennLShoots / Shutterstock.com

Have a Picnic at the Lake Wailes Park

This community park in Lake Wales is nestled in the heart of the city, a perfect stop for a laid-back picnic trip with the family.

There’s never a dull time at Lake Wailes Park because the park is great for walking, running, biking, picnicking, fishing, and more!

Stroll through the paved trail and boardwalk, enjoy the relaxing sight of the lake as it glistens under the sun, and take in the calm ambiance of nature surrounding the area.

The park features a pavilion and picnic tables, so make sure to pack some hearty snacks and enjoy your lunch with a view.

If your definition of a fine day is spent fishing, you can also cast your lines at the fishing pier and prepare to reel in the fresh catch from the lake.

The Lake Wailes State Park is a must-visit on your trip to Lake Wales, especially if you enjoy picnic and fishing trips.

Tick Off Skydiving on Your Bucket List at Jump Florida Skydiving

Has skydiving been on your bucket list for so long, and you haven’t ticked it off until now?

Then brush off your fears and experience the thrilling rush of feeling the earth crashing below you on a skydiving experience with Jump Florida Skydiving.

Whether you’re a professional jumper or a first-time jumper, Jump Florida Skydiving got you covered for the best memories that’ll last for a lifetime!

They offer tandem skydiving if you’re a first-time jumper, in which you’re partnered with professional skydivers who will replace your tension with lighthearted fun.

Gear up and get your dose for some rush with Jump Florida Skydiving on your trip to Lake Wales.

Be Fascinated with the Mystery of Spook Hill

Spook Hill sign

JennLShoots / Shutterstock.com

A weekend getaway to Lake Wales wouldn’t be complete without checking out the quirky and interesting stops of the city.

Check out the roadside attraction, Spook Hill, for a mind-boggling experience that will give you the chills!

The Spook Hill in Lake Wales raised lots of interesting stories and legends for its creepy and mysterious phenomena.

Spook Hill sign post explaining the legend

Inspired By Maps / Shutterstock.com

To see the mystical optical illusion, you’ll have to stop your car from the white line from what looks like the bottom of the hill, put it into neutral, and get the chills as you watch your car appear to be creeping its way back up the hill.

The Spook Hill of Lake Wales makes for the perfect entertainment for the family that will truly amaze the young and the young at heart!

Tee Off at Lake Wales Country Club

If your definition of a well-spent day is to be surrounded by the well-manicured fairways while teeing off, book a tee time at Lake Wales Country Club!

This public country club in Lake Wales makes for an idyllic golfing day spent on your weekend getaway in the city.

Test your golfing skills in their championship 18-hole Donald Ross golf course that will challenge all players of all skill levels.

After a tiring tee time, you can get some hearty grubs matched with a cold beverage from the restaurant for an energy boost.

The Lake Wales Country Club is a must-stop for avid and beginner golfers who want to enjoy a tee time on a weekend getaway.

See the Rich Flora and Fauna of the City at Lake Wales Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area

Lake Wales may be a rapidly developing city in Florida, but it doesn’t lack lush greeneries, thriving wildlife, and natural areas.

The Lake Wales Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area is one of the city’s nature preserves.

This protected area in Lake Wales is home to many protected wildlife species, like the popular Florida scrub jay.

The nature preserve is a treasure trove of rare flora and fauna thriving in Lake Wales.

Don’t forget to visit the Lake Wales Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area if you enjoy going on nature trips to see various wildlife and plant species.

Hike the Trails of Lake Kissimmee State Park

Lake Kissimmee State Park

Jeff Holcombe / shutterstock.com

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city on a nature escapade at the Lake Kissimmee State Park.

Located just a couple of miles away from the main road is this quiet nature respite among the suburbia.

view of lake at Lake Kissimmee State Park

Jeff Holcombe / shutterstock.com

Take a hike to enjoy nature’s relaxing sights and sounds along the way or explore the state park on a horseback ride if hiking seems to be a daunting task.

The state park also offers fishing and paddling opportunities to enjoy the lake’s calm waters.

 Lake Kissimmee State Park

Jeff Holcombe / shutterstock.com

Amp up your outdoor adventure by staying the night in their campgrounds, where you can rest under the stars, huddle around the bonfire, and enjoy the cold breeze of nature.

A trip to Lake Kissimmee State Park makes for a memorable outdoor adventure on your weekend getaway to Lake Wales.

A Tower in Lake Kissimmee State Park

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Shop and Dine at Lake Wales Main Street

A trip to Lake Wales wouldn’t be complete without heading down to the vibrant Main Street.

Lake Wales Main Street is the city’s shopping and dining hub, where you can find an eclectic array of unique items and hearty restaurant stops.

The Main Street welcomes you with a rich historic past and a vibrant economic community of small business owners.

Scour through the shops to look for the perfect souvenir on your trip to Lake Wales and support the local business owners of Lake Wales.

Don’t forget to look out for the majestic murals gracing the downtown area of Lake Wales and be fascinated with the huge artworks sprucing up the area.

After your shopping spree, stop by the restaurant to delight your taste buds and hang out at the cafe to appreciate the small-town charm of Lake Wales.

Support Local Artists at Lake Wales Arts Center

Channel your inner creativity and support the cause for promoting arts in the community at the Lake Wales Arts Center.

The Lake Wales Arts Center is run by the arts organization of Lake Wales, providing an abode to artists and art enthusiasts in the city.

The arts center organizes art exhibits that showcase the artistic talents of locals, ranging from photographs to paintings.

Live performances and concerts are also held in the arts center where you can watch the talents of Lake Wales’ locals.

Aside from the exhibits and shows, you can also join art workshops to channel and enrich your artistic skills.

Learn about the Local Heritage of the City at Lake Wales History Museum

Old Trains at Lake Wales History Museum

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

A trip to a new city you’ve never been to wouldn’t be complete without discovering the history of the place.

Check out the Lake Wales History Museum to learn about the city’s heritage from its early settlements up to its urban development.

The museum showcases a collection of historical artifacts, engaging exhibits, archives, and photographs that represent the history of Lake Wales.

You can also check out the preserved train depot that features a restored wooden Seaboard caboose for a glimpse of the railroading heritage of the city.

The Lake Wales History Museum may be small, but it’s worth visiting for an information-packed trip!

Drive through the Ridge Scenic Highway

Do you enjoy going on road trips and seeing the majestic sight of natural areas and communities?

Then head out on an exciting road trip at the Ridge Scenic Highway set 38.7 miles along the Lake Wales Ridge in US 17.

A drive through this scenic highway allows you to see the scenic vistas and lakes, natural areas, and rural agricultural areas of Central Florida.

You’ll get a glimpse of the small historic communities of Florida like it’s in the early 1900s.

Ridge Scenic Highway consists of Frostproof, Lake of the Hills, Hillcrest Heights, Lake Hamilton, Babson Park, Lake Wales, Dundee, the Village of Highland Park, and Haines City.

Roll down your car windows, blast your favorite music on the radio, take in the refreshing breeze of fresh air, and enjoy the fascinating scenery on the Ridge Scenic Highway.

Spend a Fun-filled Day at Kiwanis Park

Are you planning to visit Lake Wales with the entire family, including the youngsters?

If so, make it a point to stop by and hang out at the Kiwanis Park along Lakeshore Boulevard.

This community park features a playground for the kiddos to play, ball fields for the sporty ones, and a skate park.

Don’t forget to pack some lunch and have a picnic with the family at the picnic area to spend a fun-filled afternoon at the park.

A sunny afternoon at Kiwanis Park truly makes for an idyllic family bonding on your trip to Lake Wales.

Get a Glimpse on the Historic Pinewood Estate

View of Historic Pinewood Estate

Usflibstudent21, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Take a trip back in time as you enter the doors of this beautifully-restored winter home from the 1930s at Lake Wales.

The Pinewood Estate is another charming historic landmark in Lake Wales, featuring fully-preserved furnishings and original furniture from the 1930s.

You’ll get to see the home’s nooks and crannies down to the littlest details and the history behind its establishment.

This historic estate in Lake Wales is worth the visit if you enjoy touring beautiful historic homes set in a cozy, quiet area.

Don’t forget to include the Pinewood Estate on your trip itinerary to Lake Wales for a fascinating journey through time.

Catch a Show at the Lake Wales Little Theatre

Do you enjoy watching live theater performances like classical plays and musicals?

Then head out to the quaint community theater of Lake Wales to catch live performances from talented locals.

The Lake Wales Little Theatre has been an abode for theater artists and theater enthusiasts since 1978.

You can watch a range of shows from classical drama to musicals that will delight audiences of all ages.

Don’t forget to check out their show schedules and head out for the classic entertainment at Lake Wales Little Theater.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Create Awesome Memories with the Family at LEGOLAND Florida

LEGOLAND Florida

EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

A 20-minute drive to LEGOLAND Florida from Lake Wales is truly worth it if you’re looking for a side trip on your weekend getaway to Lake Wales.

This 150-acre theme park features more than 50 rides, interactive shows and attractions, a botanical garden, and a 5-acre LEGOLAND Water Park.

LEGOLAND Florida

EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

If one day isn’t enough for you to try all the fun offerings of LEGOLAND Florida, you can stay the night at the LEGOLAND Hotel just a few steps away from the theme park.

A trip to LEGOLAND Florida makes for an unforgettable weekend getaway brimming with thrilling adventures.

Check out their website to get your tickets and prepare for the fun that awaits you at LEGOLAND.

LEGOLAND Florida

EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

The small city of Lake Wales will surprise you with lots of exciting activities for a memorable getaway in Florida.

Don’t forget to reference this list if you’re planning a trip to Lake Wales soon!

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