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Holidays in Central Florida: Where epic adventures meet relaxation
Nestled between Orlando and Tampa, Central Florida's Polk County is ideally located for those looking to escape the crowds and experience the real Florida, while still having easy access to Florida’s best theme parks.
Home to 15 different towns and cities, each with their own unique flair and true Florida charm, Polk County is an easy choice for some fun in the sun with a selection of great family-friendly attractions and dining experiences. Couples will also be happily surprised at the wealth of options and attractions, including the largest western-style holiday ranch east of the Mississippi.
Here is our guide to Central Florida, plus some great deals to get you started on your holiday planning.
How to get there
Central Florida's convenient location makes it easily accessible from Tampa or Orlando. You can find daily, direct flights from London Gatwick and London Heathrow Airport to Tampa International Airport. From the airport, you can reach Central Florida in around 90 minutes by car.
The other option is to fly into Orlando. Depending on where you are departing from in the UK, there are two airports that you can fly into: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Melbourne Airport (MLB). All three of the airports offer easy access to Central Florida.
Visa requirements
In order to enter the US, normal entry regulations apply. British citizens will need an ESTA, which you can apply for below.
Our top 5 reasons for visiting Central Florida
The location can't be beat. Central Florida is a great choice for those who want to avoid the crowds but still have easy access to the Gulf Coast, theme parks and the East Coast.
You'll be able to experience Florida like a local. Central Florida is a great base from which to explore a more authentic Florida. Polk County is close to everything but far from it all; walkable downtowns, southern specialities and farm-to-table treats are some of the charming things you'll find during your holiday here.
There are some great attractions in the area. Whether you're travelling as a couple or as a family, there's plenty to keep both adults and children entertained. While Disney World and Universal are just an hour's drive away, Polk County also has some of Florida's best attractions. Families will be happy to learn that Polk County is home to the LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park. Specially made for young children, these parks give more time having fun and less time worrying about the queues.
You'll be able to find affordable hotel options and holiday rentals. Hotels in Polk County tend to be less expensive than those in the greater Orlando area. There are also affordable villa options that are close to all of Orlando's famous theme parks in areas such as Davenport and Haines City. Looking for something a bit more unique? Stay in a teepee or wagon at Westgate River Ranch Resort. Other options include, cabins and in-resort American RV rentals at Camp Margaritaville, Auburndale.
Central Florida is perfect for those seeking unique experiences and events. Highlights include: the Detroit Tigers Spring Training, the SUN n FUN Airshow, airboat rides, citrus farm tours among many others.
Must-visit places in Central Florida
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
Located in Winter Haven, the 150-acre interactive theme park is designed for families with children aged 2-12 and features more than 50 rides, shows and attractions and three hotels on site. Highlights include The LEGO® MOVIE Masters of Flight, The Great LEGO® Race, LEGO NINJAGO® The Ride and Unikitty's Disco Drop. Don't miss the park's newest ride: LEGO Ferrari Build & Race. After a day on the rides, there's always LEGOLAND® Florida Water Park to explore and opening in Spring 2025 is SEA LIFE Florida Resort.
Peppa Pig Theme Park
Right next door to Legoland is Peppa Pig Theme Park. It is the world's first park dedicated to Peppa Pig and her friends. The park offers an immersive experience perfect for young children, with six new rides specially designed for pre-schoolers, plus lots of play areas, shows, splash pads and character meet and greets. Peppa Pig Theme Park was America’s first theme park to become a Certified Autism Centre.
Bok Tower Gardens
Located in Lake Wales, Bok Tower Gardens is a national historic landmark that features 50 acres of gardens, including the Hammock Hollow Children's Garden, a 20-room estate, two walking trails and Bok Tower, a 250-foot art deco tower, which plays music. The founder was inspired by the bell towers of his native home in the Netherlands.
Circle B Bar Reserve
Don't be fooled by the name, pirates. While yes, it might sound like a cool pub, it's actually a nature reserve that's perfect for hiking, bird watching and cycling. It's known as one of the best places to see wildlife in the state, and if you're lucky you'll be able to spot alligators in the wild. They even have the aptly named Alligator Alley Trail, which runs along Lake Hancock and is home to alligators of all sizes.
Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
A must-see when you're in Polk County is the Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. The 1,700-acre western style ranch (known as a dude ranch) is the largest east of the Mississippi River. There is a weekly Saturday night rodeo and plenty of outdoor activities on the resort including horseback riding, boating, fishing and archery. If you want to stay overnight, you can choose from glamping accommodations ranging from luxury teepees and Conestoga wagons to private cabins.
Get on the water
Polk County is home to 550 lakes, so it's no wonder there are plenty of water-related activities. From boat tours exploring the interconnected lakes to leisurely kayaking, there's something to suit everyone's pace and budget. Treat yourself to a lakeside meal at restaurants such as local-favourite Harborside on Lake Shipp. Take a Living Water Boat Cruise across the Winterhaven Chain of Lakes – there’s even a deck to step off at the LEGOLAND® Hotel!
Other highlights include:
Fun for the whole fam at Friday Fest in Bartow: If you're looking to feel like a local, look no further than Bartow. This small-town has a real Americana charm that feature a weekly Friday Fest. Enjoy live music, a family-friendly atmosphere, and affordable dining options.
See a piece of history with the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team: From a long tradition that dates back to 1943 when Cypress Gardens Theme Park (Florida's first theme park) opened until it closed in 2009, you can still see the water ski team perform in downtown Winter Haven. Catch the show on the 3rd Saturday of the month between March and October.
Pick oranges at Ridge Island Groves, a family farm in Haines City where visitors can tour the groves, shop in the gift and produce market, and enjoy fresh orange juice and ice cream.
Take a stroll through Hollis Garden in Lakeland: The botanical garden is a perfect budget friendly option as it has free entry and is open Tuesdays to Sundays.
Stop at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, a 168 acre park offering nature, recreation, music and some beautiful gardens and trails to explore, as well as lake activities.
Go on Safari at the Safari Wilderness Ranch in Lakeland: Enjoy an educational safari journey through the 260-acre park, learning all about Florida’s natural and human history, including conservation programmes, while encountering endangered animals.
Visit Florida Children’s Museum, located in Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, and discover two floors of interactive exhibits and fun learning opportunities for children up to the age of 12.
Central Florida culinary highlights
From upscale elegance to down-home grub, Central Florida’s food scene is sure to please everyone. Of course, there are certain things that you can't miss while you're there. We've rounded up our top three.
Top three must-eat foods
BBQ - Polk County is the BBQ capital of Florida. Every January and February, during the "unofficial" BBQ season, Polk County hosts BBQ competitions such as the Lakeland PigFest, Smoke on the Water and Ribs on the Ridge. Learn more about how to take part here. Competitions aside, you should make sure to stop at least once for BBQ when you're in Central Florida. Get your fill of it at Peebles Bar-B-Q and Smokin Jim’s House of Bar-B-Q in Auburndale, Jimbo’s Pit Bar-B-Q in Lakeland or Brock’s Smoke Hut in Winter Haven.
Citrus and citrus flavoured treats - You can't go to Florida without trying some citrus. As one of the world's leading citrus producers, Polk County has many family-run U-pick farms where you can try your hand at picking fresh fruit straight from the orchard. We recommend Ridge Island Groves for orange picking. While you're there, don't forget to try their orange-flavoured ice cream. Or grab a slice of Grapefruit Pie at Lang’s Taste of Florida Café for tea time. If you're looking for the perfect souvenir to take home, head to Davidson of Dundee for their citrus candy or a jar of marmalade.
Seafood - Polk County has a few local favourites when it comes to seafood. Old Man Franks, which claims to have “The Best Sunset in Town" is a seafood bar that dates back to 1954. Harry’s Old Place also serves up fresh seafood specials daily. Another hidden gem is the family-owned Mister Fish known for its fish sandwiches.
Notable places to eat include:
Nutwood offers a varied menu from fried chicken with bacon to grilled Spanish octopus and cheddar buttermilk waffles
Honeycomb Bread Bakers in Winter Haven, known for their home baked breads and pastries
Adler’s Burgers in Winter Haven, known for their customisable burgers that are made from fresh and organic ingredients
Andy’s Drive-in Restaurant & Igloo in Winter Haven, a kid-friendly downtown favourite known for their retro interior featuring classic diner style food and famous milkshakes
Bowen Yard in Winter Haven, an open air food court perfect for foodies or families with picky eaters that always want different types of foods
Lucille’s American Café in Winter Haven, known for its retro vibe and serving up classics like BLTs and Chicken and Waffles
Nineteen61 in Lakeland, serving Latin American cuisine with a modern twist
The Joinery in Lakeland, a modern food hall that features different artisanal vendors and a patio with plenty of seating space outside
LoveBird – Almost Famous Chicken in Lakeland, known for authentic southern fried chicken and southern comfort sides
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille in Lakeland, known for their fresh seafood
Palace Pizza in Lakeland, where you can buy pizza by the slice, if you’re looking for something quick and affordable
Swan Brewing is located in Downtown Lakeland and has a pale ale dedicated to the local football team and well over 20 beers on tap, the majority of which are brewed in town
🏴☠️ Pirate tip: Feeling thirsty? Go for a pint at Grove Roots Brewery in Winter Haven. There's plenty of spacious outdoor patio to enjoy a pint in the sun.
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