Located almost halfway between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland is the perfect jumping off point for exploring Orlando’s theme parks and Florida’s sparkling gulf coast beaches. Active vacationers will stay busy fishing, bird watching, and boating on the many lakes throughout the area. There are many nature parks to seek out wildlife and hiking trails for every skill level. Lakeland vacation rentals give you the chance to appreciate world-class museums, major league sports, exotic wildlife, and tantalizing restaurants of the area.
Whether your interests are sports or architecture, there are Lakeland area activities for your whole family. Catch the Detroit Tigers warming up during spring training at Publix Field, or tour the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world at Florida Southern College. Airplane enthusiasts will love the Florida Air Museum, where you can climb inside of a jet plane. Lakeland vacation rentals are within one hour of Orlando theme parks, making it just a short day trip away. Better yet, stay in Lakeland and enjoy the Family Fun Center, Munn Park, or the Silver Moon Drive-In Theater.
Popular pastimes in Lakeland include fishing, boating, and bird watching. One of the top Lakeland attractions where visitors go for these activities is the Circle B Bar Reserve, which is teeming with wildlife such as alligators, ospreys, eagles, and otters. Another option is Lake Mirror, which features a paved sidewalk for an easy walking tour. Bike riders who didn’t bring their own gear can enjoy downtown Lakeland’s bike share program. If you are searching for a festival, Lakeland has cultural and holiday-themed events all year long. When it comes time to satisfy your hunger, shop for local produce at the Farmer’s Market every Saturday or the Dixieland Twilight Market every Wednesday evening.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to take in the scenery, Lakeland is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. These are a few of the area's most eye-catching features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
The nearest airport is in Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA), located 35.9 mi (57.8 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you might consider flying into Tampa, FL (TPF-Peter O. Knight), which is 31.8 mi (51.1 km) away.
If you'd prefer to travel by train, you can make your way to Lakeland Station.
Whether you want an intimate retreat for you and your honey or a sprawling house to fit all your friends, you'll find some top vacation rentals in and around Lakeland. Here are a couple to get you inspired:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Lakeland vacation rental for you.
Punching way above its weight when it comes to charm and ingenuity, a tiny house vacation rental in Lakeland puts you on the doorstep of big adventure. Unplug all your tech and switch your focus to Mother Nature at one of these pint-sized stays:
If you've been busier than a squirrel in a nut factory, you deserve to get away for a couple of days. Leave work early on Friday and live it up at one of these weekend getaways in or near Lakeland:
If you're hunting down a small but stylish stay, you can't top a studio apartment. These compact properties exude charm and are often conveniently positioned in the heart of town. We recommend the following options in or near Lakeland:
From simple apartments to large vacation homes, Vrbo has your mini break sorted. Here are just two of our favorite picks in and around Lakeland:
Whether spent in a luxury condo or a rustic cabin, a romantic weekend getaway is one of the best ways to say "I love you." Whisk your sweetie off for a couple of days at one of these sought-after escapes in or near Lakeland:
Nothing screams "best vacation ever" like staying in a mansion. Spoil the family with a truly unforgettable getaway at one of these mansions for rent in and around Lakeland:
Share your trip and boost your odds of having fun. Whether you're planning an epic escape with your best friends for a family get-together, there's no shortage of large group vacation rentals in and around Lakeland:
A pool is often a necessity when deciding where to stay on vacation, particularly if you're taking the kids. Check out these houses with a pool in or near Lakeland and fill your days with frolicking and fun:
Not sure what the weather is like in Lakeland? It has a humid subtropical climate, with average temperatures in summer ranging from 75 ºF to 90 ºF. If you're after more inspiration on places to stay in this exciting destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to check out our entire range of Lakeland vacation rentals.
You'll always have more fun sharing wonderful times with the ones you love the most. Whether you're planning a family reunion or spending time with close friends, Vrbo has a large vacation rental that's perfect for you. These are two of our best in and around Lakeland:
If you're hoping to visit some family-friendly attractions around the area, you won't have to go far. LEGOLAND® Florida, Northeast Regional Park and Wing Chun Kung Fu Downtown Lakeland promise lots of fun for both kids and grown-ups.