Travel Features in Central Florida

Local Flavors

fla•vor (n) a distinctive taste, atmosphere or quality.

Polk County’s locally owned restaurants truly epitomize the definition of flavor. From alligator tail and Oysters Rockefeller to flame-broiled steak and fresh seafood Polk County sizzles as a smorgasbord for dining pleasure. Each restaurant provides a unique dining atmosphere that can range from funky to elegant and diners are sure to discover a dining experience that suits your mood. Read more…

Vacation Rental Homes

Polk County vacation rental homes are located in residential just minutes from all of the top Central Florida attractions, restaurants, shopping, golf courses and outdoor recreation areas. With over 8,000 rental homes available in Central Florida’s Polk County you are sure to find one that will be a perfect fit from your vacation getaway. Homes range from modest two-bedroom one-bath villas to opulent seven bedroom homes with floor plans that include multiple full bathrooms. Upon your return from a long day at the theme parks you will appreciate that most Central Florida vacation rental home have a private pool Read more…

Creating Memories On A Budget

Five Central Florida Attractions That Are Absolutely Free

It’s no secret that planning a vacation can put quite a dent in the family budget, but what you may not know is that there are plenty of exciting things to do in Central Florida that are absolutely free. Whatever your interests may be, you can find an endless array of free Central Florida attractions to suit every member of your family. From the natural beauty of Hollis Garden to the scientific playground of the Mulberry Phosphate Museum, you are sure to enjoy an experience that is both memorable and within your budget. Read more…

Enjoy World-Class, High-Flying Adventure in Polk County

Polk County’s largest event of the year, the SUN ’n FUN International Fly-In & Expo, returns to Lakeland April 9-14, 2013. SUN ‘n FUN, the second largest airshow in the United States, will turn the Lakeland Linder Regional Airport into the busiest airport in North America that week. In 2012, the fly-in attracted approximately 200,000 visitors from Central Florida, North America and more than 80 countries from around the globe. The 39th annual SUN ‘n FUN will feature daily afternoon airshows with adrenaline-pumping performances by some of the world’s best aerobatic pilots and jet demonstration teams. Topping the list is the world’s most recognized military jet team, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, who will amaze spectators April 12-14. Read more…

Spring Training Hits a Home Run in Polk County

Spring is a wonderful time to vacation in Central Florida. The weather is mild, fragrant orange blossoms are in bloom and most importantly, baseball fever is in full swing.

For the avid baseball fan, it doesn’t get much better than spring training in Florida. This is your chance to experience a different kind of Major League Baseball, the way it was decades ago — before the giant stadiums and outrageous ticket prices. The facilities are smaller, so every seat in the house provides a fantastic view of the action. The atmosphere is more relaxed and the players are much more accessible than at a major league stadium. In fact, fans are welcome to interact with the players and have been known to come home with an occasional autograph or two. You can’t beat the up close and personal environment of spring training. Fans are even allowed to watch teams practice. This year, players report to start practice sessions in mid-February. Read more…

Polk County Bar-B-Que Festivals

Ringing in a new year in Polk County heralds the return of barbeque festival season. Residents and visitors alike will find ample opportunity to savor mouthwatering barbeque at well-known annual competitions such as the Lakeland PigFest, Smoke on the Water and Ribs on the Ridge; which jump-start the season in January and February. These events include live entertainment and nominal, if not FREE, admission. Come hungry, as many of the competing teams will be selling their savory fare for the public to enjoy. Read more…

Fishing in Polk County

If Florida is the “Fishing Capital of the World” then Central Florida’s Polk County should claim the title as the “Freshwater Fishing Capital of the Fishing Capital.” Abundant sunshine and pleasant temperatures allow for year-round fishing in Polk County’s more than 550 lakes, rivers and manmade reservoirs. One of the key reasons that fishing in Central Florida is such a popular pastime is the variety of freshwater species that inhabit area waterways. With access to more than 135 square miles of fishable waters, the variety of fish inhabiting those waters and the diversity of Polk County’s freshwater fisheries, it is no wonder that Central Florida consistently ranks as one of the top freshwater fishing destinations in the World. Read more…

Back to Nature

With an abundance of sunshine, fresh air, more than 550 lakes and wide open spaces, it’s no wonder that Polk County is a top destination for those looking to enjoy Central Florida’s bountiful outdoor opportunities. For one to truly experience nature first hand, at your own pace, just lace up a pair of your most comfortable hiking boots and take to the trails. There are a multitude of parks and nature preserves located throughout Polk County, and the scenery and difficulty of available trails is as varied as the wildlife you will observe along the way. Read more…

NatureFest Returns for 2013

Central Florida NatureFest 2013 returns in October offering something for everyone; including birding, hiking, kayaking, butterfly and wildflower viewing, nature photography, star gazing, swamp buggy rides, air boat tours and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to some of Polk County’s most pristine parks and natural lands. Participants will create an exclusive nature experience for themselves by hand selecting the field trip excursions they desire; all led by wildlife experts. Read more…

“Playing Through” Central Florida

As the golfers who live here in Polk County already know, and visitors are beginning to learn, we are very lucky when it comes to golf opportunities in Central Florida. Not only are we blessed with beautiful weather year round, but we also live amongst one of the top collections of golf courses in the nation. With more than 40 golf courses in Polk County no matter how often you play, or what your handicap is, you can easily find a number of courses that suit your playing ability. All you need to do is grab your golf bag, jump in your car and within minutes you will be teeing off on one of Polk County’s great golf course offerings. Read more…