Lake Wales, FL 6
In the heart of central Florida, where rolling hills replace the state’s characteristic flatlands, Lake Wales stands as a testament to old Florida charm and natural beauty. This picturesque city, situated atop the Lake Wales Ridge, offers visitors and residents alike a unique blend of historical significance, natural wonders, and vibrant community spirit that distinguishes it from other Florida destinations.
Founded in 1911 along the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, Lake Wales grew from humble beginnings into a citrus industry powerhouse. The city’s strategic location on one of Florida’s highest elevations—reaching over 295 feet above sea level—provided ideal conditions for citrus groves that eventually shaped the local economy. Early settlers, captivated by the region’s pristine lakes and fertile soil, established a community that would evolve while maintaining its small-town character. Next post here.
Perhaps the most iconic landmark gracing Lake Wales is Bok Tower Gardens. This national historic landmark sits atop Iron Mountain, the highest point of the Lake Wales Ridge. Edward Bok, a Dutch immigrant and successful publisher, commissioned the gardens in the 1920s as his gift to the American people. The 205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco Singing Tower houses a 60-bell carillon that serenades visitors daily with melodious concerts echoing across the meticulously designed landscape. The gardens themselves, crafted by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., feature winding paths through native plant collections, serving as both a sanctuary for endangered Florida plant species and a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking tranquility.
Downtown Lake Wales exudes historic charm with its carefully preserved architecture dating back to the city’s early days. The Main Street district invites leisurely exploration with its boutique shops, local eateries, and art galleries housed in buildings that tell stories of bygone eras. The ongoing revitalization efforts have injected new energy into the historic core while honoring the architectural heritage that gives Lake Wales its distinctive character.
One cannot mention Lake Wales without acknowledging Spook Hill, a gravity-defying optical illusion that has bewildered visitors for generations. When cars are placed in neutral at the designated spot, they appear to roll uphill, seemingly defying the laws of physics. Local legend attributes this phenomenon to the spirit of either a massive alligator or a Native American chief buried beneath the hill, adding a layer of mystique to this popular attraction that continues to captivate the curious and skeptical alike.
The Lake Wales History Museum, housed in a restored 1928 Atlantic Coast Line Railroad station, serves as the custodian of the city’s rich past. Through its thoughtfully curated exhibits and artifacts, visitors gain insight into the area’s development from prehistoric times through its railroad boom and citrus industry expansion. The museum’s vintage train cars and historical displays offer a tangible connection to the forces that shaped this Central Florida community.
Nature enthusiasts find their paradise in Lake Kissimmee State Park, located just east of Lake Wales. This 5,900-acre preserve showcases Florida’s natural beauty with its pine flatwoods, marshes, and lake shores. The park offers opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation, with visitors frequently spotting white-tailed deer, bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and even the occasional alligator sunning itself along the shoreline.
Community spirit shines brightest during Lake Wales’ annual events, particularly Pioneer Days, celebrated each October. This beloved festival honors the city’s founding families and early settlers with historical reenactments, craft demonstrations, local food vendors, and live entertainment. The event transforms downtown into a living museum where past meets present, strengthening community bonds while educating visitors about the area’s heritage.
St. Anne Shrine offers a place of spiritual reflection and historical significance. This peaceful sanctuary attracts visitors seeking both religious connection and appreciation for its tranquil setting and architectural beauty.
What truly distinguishes Lake Wales is the seamless blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and community warmth. Unlike Florida’s coastal tourist destinations, Lake Wales provides an authentic glimpse into the state’s heartland, where orange groves stretch toward the horizon and the pace of life invites genuine connection.
Whether exploring the heights of Bok Tower, experiencing the curiosity of Spook Hill, strolling historic downtown streets, or paddling across crystal-clear lakes, visitors to Lake Wales discover a multifaceted destination that captures the essence of central Florida’s distinct character and charm. Here, amid the rolling highlands, Lake Wales continues to evolve while honoring the natural beauty and pioneering spirit that have defined it for generations.
Lake Wales, FL Point of Interest – Lake Wales Country Club, 2925 State Rd 60, Lake Wales, FL 33898