Lake Wales, FL 10

Positioned majestically atop Florida’s distinctive central ridge system, Lake Wales offers visitors and residents alike an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and small-town charm. This remarkable city, situated in Polk County approximately 50 miles south of Orlando, stands as a testament to Florida’s diverse landscape beyond its renowned beaches and theme parks.

Lake Wales emerged in the early 20th century, founded in 1911 during Florida’s railroad expansion era. The city’s strategic location on the state’s geological backbone—the Lake Wales Ridge—provides it with rolling hills and elevations uncommon in Florida’s typically flat terrain. This unique topography has shaped the city’s development and character throughout its history. Read next article.

The crown jewel of Lake Wales is undoubtedly Bok Tower Gardens, a national historic landmark perched atop Iron Mountain, the highest point in peninsular Florida. Created in the 1920s by publisher Edward Bok as a gift to the American people, this 250-acre sanctuary features meticulously designed landscapes by the famed Olmsted Brothers. The gardens’ centerpiece is the 205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco “Singing Tower” carillon, which fills the air with melodious bell music during daily concerts. The gardens also serve as a critical botanical preserve, protecting endangered plant species native to the Lake Wales Ridge.

Equally fascinating is Spook Hill, a gravity-defying natural phenomenon where vehicles appear to roll uphill when placed in neutral. This optical illusion has captivated visitors for generations and has become part of local folklore. Legend tells of a massive alligator and a Native American chief whose epic battle created the hill’s strange properties.

The Lake Wales Museum, housed in the historic Atlantic Coast Line Railroad station, preserves the area’s rich cultural heritage. Its exhibits showcase railroad memorabilia, pioneer artifacts, and interactive displays chronicling the development of central Florida. The museum coordinates Pioneer Days each October, a celebration honoring the city’s founding families and agricultural roots.

For adventure seekers, Lake Wales delivers exceptional opportunities. The Florida Skydiving Center offers year-round tandem jumps with breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and citrus groves. Nearby Lake Kissimmee State Park provides a glimpse into Florida’s cowboy heritage through its living history Cow Camp exhibit, along with hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife observation areas where visitors might spot bald eagles, sandhill cranes, or the elusive Florida panther.

Downtown Lake Wales delights with its well-preserved historic district along Main Street, featuring Mediterranean Revival architecture from the 1920s boom era. Locally owned shops, galleries, and restaurants occupy restored buildings, creating a vibrant community hub. The Lake Wales Arts Council nurtures creative expression through exhibitions, performances, and the annual Lake Wales Arts Festival, which draws artists and visitors from across the region each spring.

The city’s agricultural foundation remains evident in the surrounding citrus groves that perfume the air with orange blossoms in season. This agricultural heritage is celebrated during various harvest festivals throughout the year, connecting current residents with the land’s productive history.

Lake Wales’ community spirit shines through its numerous annual events. From outdoor concerts at Lake Wailes Park to food truck rallies and holiday parades, residents embrace opportunities to gather and celebrate their shared identity. The Westgate River Ranch Resort hosts Florida’s longest-running Saturday night championship rodeo, showcasing traditional cowboy skills and Western entertainment.

The natural environment surrounding Lake Wales offers exceptional recreation opportunities. The Ridge Scenic Highway winds through the area, providing stunning vistas of lakes, groves, and forests. Fishing enthusiasts find paradise in the chain of lakes that give the city its name, while hikers and cyclists enjoy trails winding through the region’s unique scrub habitat.

What truly sets Lake Wales apart is its dedication to preserving its distinctive character while embracing controlled growth. Recent revitalization efforts have reinforced the city’s commitment to maintaining its architectural heritage while developing amenities that serve both residents and visitors.

Lake Wales represents a side of Florida often overlooked by travelers focused on coastlines and attractions. Here, amidst the rolling hills and tranquil lakes of central Florida, visitors discover a community proud of its heritage, connected to its natural environment, and welcoming to all who wish to experience the authentic heart of the Sunshine State.