The best things to do in Lakeland

For UCF folks in Deltona who want more than a treadmill, UCF Recreation and Wellness Center delivers intramural sports, group exercise, personal training, and aquatics, plus Outdoor Adventure trips with a climbing tower and challenge course, even certifications from CPR to lifeguard to SCUBA.

From the Alafaya newsletter, November 2, 2026

FloridaRAMA is an interactive, immersive art playground spun from original Florida stories, built by 85+ local and international artists. Wander evolving installations, then dive into scavenger hunts and games to uncover hidden secrets and storylines... the perfect St.

From the Pinellas Park newsletter, September 14, 2026

Because your yard's not a putting green, Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf brings the island energy with two music-filled 18-hole courses, tropical vibes, and just-enough challenge to settle family bragging rights. Finish with a cold drink and raid the giant candy stash from the clubhouse.

From the Four Corners newsletter, September 21, 2026

CMX Cinemas Tyrone lines up the big stuff and the nostalgic picks with reserved seating that saves your favorite spot, plus 3D showings when you want the extra pop. New releases, flashback nights, and one-off events mean you can make plans this week without overthinking it.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, August 8, 2026

Bounce Zone Tampa is packed with bounce houses, arcade games, and a multi-level playscape with a legit ball pit, so kids 12 and under can jump, climb, and burn off that endless energy in a clean, safe space. Planning a birthday or group hangout? They do private party packages and full facility rentals.

From the Wesley Chapel newsletter, November 3, 2026

Whether you’re chasing that perfect plushie, a rare figurine, or just the sweet thrill of the grab, Mirai Arcade brings the Japanese claw game vibe with rows of gachapon and prizes from plushies to figurines. Make it your midweek unwind, then flex your haul to the group chat.

From the Orange County newsletter, October 18, 2026

Sanlan Golf Course delivers 27 holes across three distinct nines surrounded by ridges, moss-draped oaks, and lakes. Hit the driving range’s grass tees with 30 teeing stations, sharpen up on the pitching and chipping green, sand bunker, and putting green, then pick your loop and go chase pars.

From the Lakeland newsletter, September 9, 2026

Tom Fazio’s 18-hole layout at Hunter's Green Country Club winds through pine flatwoods and wetlands for a round that’s equal parts scenic and sneaky-challenging. When you’re off the fairways, there are Har-Tru courts, a fresh Sports Club, a resort-style pool, and a busy social calendar with legit dining to match.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, November 7, 2026

If you want to bowl, throw axes, and dabble in VR or golf sim without leaving Carrollwood, 1UP Entertainment + Social packs it under one roof alongside a scratch kitchen, craft cocktails, an arcade, an XD immersive theater, and the Encore Karaoke Lounge. Easy weeknight meetup spot, sneaky-good for groups.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 24, 2026

Schalamar Creek Golf & Country Club Community has an 18-hole championship layout with 6,301 yards and a unique aqua driving range that makes practice weirdly fun. Year-round tournaments and a friendly vibe, plus The Caddy Shack restaurant and pub for the post-round debrief, make it an easy local go-to this week.

From the Lakeland newsletter, October 26, 2026

Well-appointed multiplex chain featuring digital projection & stadium seating; some offer IMAX & 3D.

Adventure-themed mini-golf course with waterfalls, gator feedings, scavenger hunts & arcade games.

Beautifully carved from Florida’s landscape with preserved wetlands and wildlife, Heritage Isles Golf & Country Club serves up a challenging yet enjoyable round, plus a solid warm-up on the range and post-game bites at Bay Scape Bistro. Grab a tee time and let the trees keep you honest.

From the Homosassa Springs newsletter, August 30, 2026

Countryway Golf Club is the local go-to for real golf without burning the whole day, with a Steve Smyers designed par 61 layout of 11 par 3s, 7 par 4s, and water on 14 holes. Friendly staff, mini golf, and a driving range keep it fun for the family and sneaky short-game practice.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 8, 2026

Well-appointed multiplex chain featuring digital projection & stadium seating; some offer IMAX & 3D.

Westchase Golf Club’s Lloyd Clifton-designed, 6,699-yard course winds through wetlands, wooden bridges and bulkheads, bringing a little nature to your golf game. It’s a public-access course recognized for customer satisfaction, with golf lessons and a grille for rounding out the outing.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, November 3, 2026

Locals know St. Pete Pier is basically our backyard playground, a 26-acre mix of bay views, shaded greens, and grab-a-bite options perfect for an after-work stroll. Cruise the paths, pop into Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, then linger for live music or the Marketplace finds you didn’t know you needed.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, October 12, 2026

Whether you’re wrangling kids, planning a league night, or just feel like mashing buttons, Incredibowl Entertainment Winter Haven delivers bowling, a massive arcade, an epic laser tag arena, and solid American grub in one spot. Privately owned since 1988, it’s a dependable go-to when you want easy, all-in-one fun.

From the Winter Haven newsletter, November 3, 2026

With century-deep roots, a Bill Bergin and Rees Jones design weaving 18 holes across 200 scenic acres and a mile of lakefront, The Country Club of Winter Haven keeps the hometown golf itch happily scratched. If you’ve been meaning to finally join, consider this your friendly nudge.

From the Winter Haven newsletter, October 23, 2026

Lone Palm Golf Club mixes championship golf on a challenging course, world-class pickleball, and curated dining with real southern hospitality. Visioned by Publix founder George Jenkins, it’s a members-first scene where you’re known by name, complete with a good pro shop and a lively calendar of social events.

From the Lakeland newsletter, November 7, 2026

When the afternoon storms roll in and cabin fever spikes, Run+Play Kids Cafe offers two-hour drop-in open play, screen-free pretend zones, and birthday party pros, plus coffee from Bean Wandering. Kids go all-out, you regroup, and everyone leaves weirdly happier.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, October 6, 2026

If your group chat wants a night that is more goosebumps than gimmicks, American Ghost Adventures sends seasoned investigators to guide you through actual haunted buildings, gear in hand, with routes tailored to your crew. Locally owned, Central Florida’s longest-running ghost tour, and seriously fun.

From the Winter Garden newsletter, September 30, 2026

When you want a change from your usual loop, the Mike Dasher design at North Shore Golf Club winds through Orlando wetlands with two distinct nines, playable for newbies and sneaky tough for sticks. Solid practice options and lessons make it an easy day trip when the swing needs a reset.

From the Port Orange newsletter, August 31, 2026

When your group chat needs an easy win, AMF Sky Lanes delivers classic bowling energy, an arcade stacked with nostalgic favorites and new hits, plus a sports bar vibe for decompression between frames. A low-stress, high-fun hang that’s perfect for this week’s plans, no overthinking required.

From the Winter Garden newsletter, October 20, 2026

K1 Speed Tampa brings two indoor tracks, high-performance all-electric karts, and a modern arcade under one giant roof, so you can trade I-275 stress for real laps and leaderboard bragging rights. Cool down at the Paddock Lounge with trackside bites, beer and wine, then take that podium photo.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 20, 2026

Pirate-themed mini-golf chain with 18-hole, landscaped courses set among waterfalls & caves.

Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.

From huge trampolines and a zipline that launches you into a giant airbag to sports courts, the multi-level Maze Craze Xtreme, the Flying Leopard ropes course, and Tube Topia indoor tubing, Catapult Adventure Park St. Pete is the spot to let kids go full throttle while you just… exhale.

From the Pinellas Park newsletter, September 7, 2026

Romp n' Roll keeps the littles busy with play-based classes, camps, and birthday parties that mix movement and creativity in the best possible way. It’s a friendly indoor outlet to burn energy, make new pals, and come home ready for an early bedtime.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, September 23, 2026

Ventura Country Club Golf Course is a semi-private, guest-welcoming 18-hole Mark Mahanna design with Champion Bermuda greens and tour-quality roll, winding through natural wetlands where ospreys and the occasional bald eagle supervise. Sneak in a round this week, then toast it at the 19th Hole Restaurant.

From the Orange County newsletter, October 25, 2026

Whether your swing is dialed or definitely not, PGA TOUR Superstore Orlando has PGA-certified instructors for lessons, precision club fittings, and indoor practice bays so you can groove it in perfect conditions. Drop into a clinic or a virtual 9-hole this week and keep the golf vibes rolling.

From the Kissimmee newsletter, August 22, 2026

Created by mosaic artists Jennifer Kuhns and Cherie Bosela, Diversity Mural Orlando is a vibrant memorial to the Pulse victims made from over 1,000 mosaic hearts sent from around the world. It’s a heartfelt community landmark that rewards a quick art detour when you need a reminder that love is louder.

From the Port Orange newsletter, August 27, 2026

Touchstar Cinemas - Southchase 7 brings the luxury vibe without the fuss, with reserved recliners or cozy daybeds, food delivered to your seat, and a full bar so your blockbuster comes with a proper drink. Pick something new, sink in, and forget the group chat for two hours.

From the Orlando newsletter, August 18, 2026

Rogers Park Golf Course is an 18-hole, 160-acre beauty surrounded on three sides by the Hillsborough River, a 1952 gem on the Florida Historic Golf Trail that feels like a reset button, perfect for this week. Warm up at Toptracer Range, sneak in The Short Course, then finish at Grille 52.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, October 22, 2026

Whether you're sneaking out for a fast loop or a proper round, Mangrove Bay and Cypress Links Golf Courses offer a par 72 championship course on 180 acres plus a friendly 9-hole par-3 next door. Public, city-run, with a driving range, pro shops and snack bars under the St. Pete sunshine.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, November 5, 2026

When you want a goofy-night-out detour from Deltona, Hollywood Drive-In Golf turns putt-putt into a 1950s double feature with two 18-hole courses, The Haunting of Ghostly Greens and Invaders From Planet Putt, plus giant spiders, alien robots, space worms, and glow-y effects for true late-night play at Universal…

From the Kissimmee newsletter, September 5, 2026

Family-friendly event at the airport featuring aircraft on display, aerobatic performances, fireworks, and vendors.

Cleveland Heights Golf Course is a public 27-hole municipal course with a full driving range, practice areas, golf instruction, and a Pro Shop. Stick around for a meal or drinks, too, because a golf outing is better when nobody has to rush off hungry.

From the Polk County newsletter, November 3, 2026

Between shaded boardwalks, birding and a calm paddling trail with canoe/kayak rentals, Weedon Island Preserve packs a lot into our backyard. Go for a quick hike, join a guided tour, then nerd out in the Cultural & Natural History Center... plus spot that excavated prehistoric canoe.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, September 29, 2026

This week, when you want a course that actually moves, MetroWest Golf Club delivers a Robert Trent Jones Sr. par-72 with elevation changes you don’t see much in Florida. It’s public, playable, and legit challenging, and you can celebrate the round at the onsite restaurant.

From the Wesley Chapel newsletter, August 23, 2026

, packing 7,000,000 sq. ft. for everything from industry expos to youth tournaments.

From the Deltona newsletter, September 9, 2026

Designed by the Arnold Palmer Design Company, Shingle Creek Golf Club brings 18 championship holes with rolling fairways by the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Tee it up, practice your swing, then unwind at Rosen Shingle Creek’s spa if the putts misbehave.

From the Apopka newsletter, November 3, 2026

Indoor venue for trampoline jumping, laser tag, bowling and an arcade.

Museum for rail fans showcasing railroad artifacts, historical items and speeder models.

Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.

CMX CinéBistro at Hyde Park Village mixes new releases and cult throwbacks with bistro dishes, fresh popcorn, and legit cocktails delivered during the show. Reserved seating keeps the good spots locked, and select 21+ screenings make it an easy win for kid-free nights.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 16, 2026

Chain offering LEGO-themed rides and exhibits of famous landmarks, plus a water park featuring a lazy river, wave pool, and slides.

The Club At Eaglebrooke pairs classic links-style golf with surprising elevation changes and lakes that keep things interesting, then reels you in with a legit casual menu for the 19th hole. Good conditioning, a smart layout, and on-site practice with lessons make it an easy local go-to.

From the Lakeland newsletter, October 12, 2026

Waterski Show is the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team’s monthly, free show on Lake Silver, with a family-friendly mix of show skiing and a history rooted in the old Cypress Gardens tradition. Catch it on the third Saturday of the month, and you might find yourself cheering for a human pyramid.

From the Haines City newsletter, November 8, 2026

Mr. Putters Miniature Golf packs three 18-hole indoor courses loaded with interactive weirdness... think The Floor is Lava, pinball, foosball, labyrinths, even a giant half-pipe.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 4, 2026

Rocky Point Golf Course pairs Tampa Bay history with a legit test that’s still fun to play. Warm up on the driving range, grab a lesson if the slice is acting up, then celebrate at The Point Grille, all while supporting the home base for First Tee Tampa Bay.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 25, 2026

If the summer slump has you craving a jolt, iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Orlando lets first-timers and seasoned flyers float in a wind tunnel with friendly pros guiding every move. It’s great for kids and ridiculously fun for group get-togethers, birthday parties, or team bonding.

From the Orange County newsletter, October 27, 2026

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.

Saucin Wings is a Tampa Bay food truck and catering crew serving chicken wings with a variety of sauces, ideal for neighborhood get-togethers, office lunches, or game day. Easy booking, big flavor, minimal fuss... just round up the crew and let the wings do the talking.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, October 1, 2026

Huntington Hills Golf Club pairs rolling fairways and extra-large TifEagle greens with a lighted driving range and a large putting green, so there’s plenty to enjoy beyond your scorecard. After a round, settle in for specialty pizza and a drink at the restaurant, or keep the course in view from the banquet hall.

From the Lakeland newsletter, November 8, 2026

Whether you’re chasing a low round or just want to groove the swing after work, Rio Pinar Golf delivers a legit 18-hole parkland track plus a floodlit TrackMan range, indoor studios, and a lively racquet scene. Bonus bragging rights, the course’s tour pedigree goes back to the Florida Citrus Open.

From the Alafaya newsletter, September 19, 2026

Twin Brooks Golf Course keeps it simple with a 9-hole par 3, a legit driving range, and three extra practice holes, plus PGA instruction when the swing gets weird. It’s also home to First Tee of St. Petersburg, so the community vibe is strong.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, October 24, 2026

Lake Ashton Golf Club brings the home-course feel with two 18-hole championship tracks, well-groomed greens, and leagues, lessons, and a practice setup that actually helps. Play your favorite 18 or tackle all 36, then debrief at The Eagles Nest with something cold and a smug grin.

From the Winter Haven newsletter, October 18, 2026

Founded in 1916 as Tampa’s oldest private golf club, Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club pairs a storied course that’s hosted the Gasparilla Invitational with clay courts, an Olympic-sized pool, a legit fitness center, plus dining options and a year-round social calendar worth building your week around.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, October 15, 2026

Whether your happy place is a pristine 18-hole layout, Har-Tru tennis and pickleball, or lounging by a pool overlooking Boca Ciega Bay, Isla Del Sol Yacht & Country Club hits the sweet spot with dining, fitness, a 76-slip yacht harbor, and event-ready spaces. Private club vibes done right.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, October 28, 2026

Beat the heat this week and step into Madame Tussauds Orlando, an interactive indoor playground where you can selfie it up with Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Lionel Messi, Dwayne Johnson, and 90+ eerily lifelike figures. Try Wax Hands and a Justice League scene, then humblebrag in the group chat.

From the Orlando newsletter, August 25, 2026

Lake Bess Golf Club is Winter Haven’s only 9-hole public course, a tidy par-35 with well-groomed fairways, a driving range, and a legit pro shop. Perfect for squeezing in a round after work or tuning up the swing this week... and yes, locals say watch out for hole 7.

From the Winter Haven newsletter, October 20, 2026

If you want that classic central Florida layout without the fuss and minutes from downtown Orlando, Dubsdread Golf Course delivers with a design dating to 1924, a 2008 renovation, and a brand-new driving range powered by Trackman. Plus friendly leagues and lessons make it easy to find a game or tune up your swing.

From the Orange County newsletter, October 12, 2026

Dinosaur World turns a stroll through native vegetation into a prehistoric outing, with more than 150 life-sized dinosaur models and attractions like a fossil dig and SplashPad. Dinosaur World is a fun change of pace for local families, especially when the kids’ dinosaur phase is going strong.

From the Hillsborough County newsletter, October 28, 2026

Need an easy weeknight plan that isn’t just scrolling? Boardwalk Bowl Entertainment Center packs classic lanes, an all-ages arcade, billiards, and that lights-down, music-up Cosmic Bowling that basically turns into a mini nightclub. Gather the crew, claim bragging rights, then refuel at the bar and grill.

From the Alafaya newsletter, August 19, 2026

Sprawling indoor entertainment center featuring trampolines and arcade games, plus trapeze swings and a foam pit.

Family-friendly chain offering a sports-bar-style setting for American food & arcade games.

The Airosphere packs obstacle courses, slides, a climbing wall, a toddler area, and an arcade into one inflatable playground, with pizza and drinks for refueling between rounds. It’s a lively pick for a family outing, and a place where grown-ups can join the bouncing instead of just guarding the shoes.

From the Riverview newsletter, November 8, 2026

Whether you're craving a real sense of community or a reason to sneak in a swim, tennis match, or workout with a view, Lakeland Country Club has been the local hub for camaraderie since 1924 on Lake Hollingsworth. Add relaxed dining and plenty of activities and you’ve got an easy upgrade to your weekly rhythm.

From the Lakeland newsletter, October 22, 2026

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.

Origins Ranch brings the big-day magic to Plant City with a fully air-conditioned 8,500 sq ft barn, multiple ceremony spots, and on-site lodging just minutes from Tampa. It’s a working ranch too, so your photos get cattle-in-the-backdrop charm without leaving Hillsborough County.

From the Hillsborough County newsletter, October 21, 2026

Swap the same-old weekend for neon putts and playful bragging rights at Orlando Putting Edge. Their glow-in-the-dark mini golf and arcade turn chill hangs into low-stress competition that’s actually fun, perfect for after-work friend nights, kid energy burn, or a quirky date this week.

From the Celebration newsletter, August 25, 2026

Whether the dew point is a personal attack or you just need the kids to burn energy, Adventure Island brings serious slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, plus kid-friendly areas and easy eats like KONA Ice. A quick, low-planning way to turn muggy afternoons into actual fun.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, September 1, 2026

For nights when the couch just won't cut it, Epic Theatres at Lee Vista brings stadium-style sightlines, comfy recliners, reserved seating, and an Epic XL screen that makes blockbusters feel, well, epic. Easy pick for a no-fuss, high-reward movie night close to home.

From the Alafaya newsletter, October 13, 2026

Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.

Whether you're planning a wedding, micro ceremony, or a creative celebration, Enchanted Gardens at Metals & Nature gives you a 40-year-old, storybook garden and a covered greenhouse to play in.

From the Hillsborough County newsletter, October 18, 2026

Family Fun Center keeps the crew busy with Adventure Golf, Urban Attack Laser Tag, an arcade packed with classics and new favorites, plus the Funtasia play area, then you can refuel at CAP's Pizza Cafe. Easy pick for birthdays or just a midweek sanity saver for Lakeland parents.

From the Lakeland newsletter, November 1, 2026

A. artist Jonas Never on the side of Floyd’s 99 Barbershop in Mills/50. Swing by between errands, grab a quick photo, and let a little rock-royalty swagger upgrade your Orlando routine.

From the Orlando newsletter, October 18, 2026

Two story-driven courses wind through lush tropical trails and caves, complete with artifact hunts for the lavender diamond and golden idol. Lost Caverns Adventure Golf keeps locals entertained with legit challenges, playful theming, and yes, gator feedings if you want bragging rights.

From the Alafaya newsletter, September 27, 2026

Willowbrook Golf Course keeps Winter Haven swinging with a challenging yet forgiving layout that’s fun whether you’re chasing birdies or just escaping the to-do list. It’s the kind of municipal track that welcomes everyone and rewards repeat play, so pencil in a round this week.

From the Haines City newsletter, November 1, 2026

The Florida Aquarium mixes big-wow exhibits with up-close moments, from stingray touch tanks and the Penguin Encounter to the Wild Dolphin Cruise and a kid-approved water playground, plus real conservation work on corals and sea turtles. Easy Haines City day trip when you need a break from the usual.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, November 8, 2026

Ventura Country Club is a Mark Mahanna designed 18 hole course with Champion Bermuda greens that roll true, over 50 sand traps, and canals or wetlands guarding 15 holes. Three tee locations keep it playable, and the natural setting means you might share a fairway with an osprey or a bald eagle.

From the Alafaya newsletter, September 2, 2026

Craving a quick midweek reset? Ripley's Crazy Golf delivers playful, Ripley’s-weird energy in an easy, low-stakes round that’s more giggles than grinding. Grab a couple friends, settle a friendly bet, and turn a random Tuesday into bragging rights.

From the Alafaya newsletter, September 22, 2026

Museum with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads & rare animal skeletons.

Adventure-themed mini-golf course with waterfalls, gator feedings, scavenger hunts & arcade games.

Par Bar pairs a challenging 18-hole mini course with a legit bar pouring local craft beer, cocktails, wine and even sake, plus air-conditioned seating with TVs and outdoor games. A clutch St. Pete hang for date night, friend meetups, or lighthearted team bonding, and it’s 21+ after sunset.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, September 20, 2026

Contemporary art gallery showcasing local & international work & offering classes & workshops.

Bay Palms Golf Complex serves up waterfront views across two scenic 18-hole, par-72 tracks plus a putting green, chipping area, sand traps, and a newly upgraded covered range. Book a private Golfcube with Toptracer and automatic tees, then wander the clubhouse or try footgolf, purely for bragging rights.

From the Land O' Lakes newsletter, November 5, 2026

Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.

Orange Tree Golf Club is a family owned and operated, membership-only club with Joe Lee pedigree, excellent greens, and “The Loop” final three holes many call Florida’s best, so bring your nerve. S. Open Local qualifying site.

From the Orlando newsletter, September 3, 2026

From 28 blacklight bowling lanes and instructor led axe throwing to private karaoke lounges, billiards, an arcade, and four full service bars, Keg Social Orlando packs an entire night out into one spot. A chef crafted menu keeps you fueled, perfect when the group chat can't agree.

From the Alafaya newsletter, October 6, 2026

The Escape Ventures Orlando - Waterford Lakes builds movie-quality, story-driven escape rooms that actually make you forget you’re in East Orlando. Pick your chaos this week...

From the Alafaya newsletter, August 28, 2026

Links of Sandpiper serves up a par 71 links-style challenge with rolling terrain, the occasional blind shot, and doglegs that keep you honest, then rewards you with an affordable menu, patio happy hour, and sunset views through the oaks. Ideal when you want golf and a laid-back bite in one spot.

From the Lakeland newsletter, October 19, 2026

Vinoy Golf Club pairs Tampa Bay history with a legit par-71 challenge, an 18-hole Ron Garl redesign that plays as good as it looks. Members or hotel guests, pencil it in this week, then soak up Mediterranean-style clubhouse vibes, a solid post-round bite, and PGA pros to tame that slice.

From the St. Petersburg newsletter, August 15, 2026

Gator Golf Adventure Park keeps things classic with an 18-hole course that loops around Gator Lagoon, home to over two hundred alligators, plus animal exhibits. You can feed the gators, catch a live show, and settle bragging rights with friends in one unexpectedly wild round.

From the Alafaya newsletter, September 14, 2026

Locals call it The Babe, and Babe Zaharias Golf Course delivers classic Tampa golf vibes with a classic layout, a cafe for post-round refuels, a pro shop, and instruction if your slice has its own zip code. Part of Florida’s Historic Golf Trail, it’s a worthy weekly tee time.

From the Tampa Bay newsletter, August 18, 2026

Grande Vista Golf Club keeps it stress free with a Ron Garl designed 9-hole, par 32 layout of par-3s and par-4s beneath oaks and cypress. Come for the breezy loop, stay to level up at the Marriott Golf Academy, TrackMan Range and True Spec fitting.

From the Poinciana newsletter, September 3, 2026

When your swing needs fresh air and a little forgiveness, the 18-hole course designed by Ron Garl at Cypresswood Golf & Country Club delivers with solid practice spots like a driving range plus putting and chipping greens, then The Pub for a well earned bite and live music.

From the Winter Haven newsletter, October 24, 2026

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Orlando, Grande Lakes brings a nearby Greg Norman designed 18 with an all-grass range, sharp practice greens, and a pro-level Caddie Concierge, plus Fairways Pub for the 19th hole. It hosts the PNC Championship, so your weekend round comes with bragging rights.

From the Winter Garden newsletter, September 13, 2026

Large amusement park with a Lego theme featuring rides & a water park, plus dining, shows & more.

Sun-Ray Cinema is Tampa Bay’s indie-friendly theater mixing new releases with cult favorites, plus occasional 35mm and 70mm screenings that make movie nerds tear up a little. Grab a beer or wine, try the fun popcorn flavors, then settle in for something you won’t stream tomorrow.

From the Homosassa Springs newsletter, September 13, 2026

A Lakeland classic for more than 75 years, Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre keeps it cozy with two screens showing first-run double features you hear through your car radio. Show up hungry, the snack bar is pure nostalgia, and the onsite Swap Shop turns movie night into a little treasure hunt.

From the Lakeland newsletter, October 24, 2026

If you’ve been craving a classic layout without leaving Lakeland, Grasslands Golf & Country Club brings a Jerry Pate and Bob Cupp design restored in 2008, plus a junior Olympic pool, har-tru tennis, lighted pickleball, and Deckside Cafe.

From the Lakeland newsletter, August 12, 2026

When the Florida sun starts pickin' fights, Splash Pad at Fun Spot is the perfect mid-day pit stop, with interactive sprays, soft slip-resistant flooring and no height requirement, so little ones can go wild while big kids cool off then jump back to go-karts, coasters and games.

From the Sanford newsletter, September 8, 2026