The best things to do in Polk County

38 things to do we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Entertainment · 38 places · showing the latest additions first

Sanlan Golf Course

Entertainment

Sanlan Golf Course delivers 27 holes across three distinct nines surrounded by ridges, moss-draped oaks, and lakes. Hit the driving range’s…

2505 Sanlan Golf Dr (Lakeland) · ✓ checked Jul 29

“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

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Schalamar Creek Golf & Country Club Community has an 18-hole championship layout with 6,301 yards and a unique aqua driving range that…

4500 US-92 (Lakeland)

“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 2, 2026

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Got a reunion, banquet, or work shindig brewing? This week, check out Lake Eva Event Center, the roomy hometown spot that keeps things…

799 Johns Ave (Haines City) · ✓ checked Sep 23

“Got a reunion, banquet, or work shindig brewing? This week, check out Lake Eva Event Center, the roomy hometown spot that keeps things simple and sharp, with space that scales for intimate meetings or all-out celebrations so you can focus on the people, not the logistics.”

From the Haines City newsletter, September 29, 2026

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Historic Downtown Haines City is an easy win when you need a change of scenery without leaving the neighborhood, a walkable pocket of…

344 E Main St (Haines City)

“Historic Downtown Haines City is an easy win when you need a change of scenery without leaving the neighborhood, a walkable pocket of old-Florida character where you can meander, people-watch, and bump into folks you know, then head home feeling like you actually did something this week.”

From the Haines City newsletter, September 25, 2026

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

920 Spring Lake Plaza (Winter Haven)

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

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Beat the heat and keep the kids happily occupied while you sneak in a few laps, all at Lake Eva Aquatic Center. They’ve got lessons,…

321 6th St (Haines City) · ✓ checked Sep 16

“Beat the heat and keep the kids happily occupied while you sneak in a few laps, all at Lake Eva Aquatic Center. They’ve got lessons, training programs, and space for group outings or private parties, so you can turn an ordinary afternoon into a low-stress neighborhood hang.”

From the Haines City newsletter, September 24, 2026

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Big Cypress Golf Club in nearby Lakeland welcomes the public to two legit 18s, the par-60 Executive North and the award-winning par-72…

10000 US Hwy 98 N (Lakeland)

“Big Cypress Golf Club in nearby Lakeland welcomes the public to two legit 18s, the par-60 Executive North and the award-winning par-72 Championship South designed by Chip Powell and Ron Garl. Perfect for a midweek round when the to-do list gets loud, whether you’re chasing birdies or just avoiding yard work.”

From the Plant City newsletter, August 11, 2026

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

1650 Town Center Dr (Lakeland)

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

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Whether you’re wrangling kids, planning a league night, or just feel like mashing buttons, Incredibowl Entertainment Winter Haven delivers…

2010 Dundee Rd (Winter Haven)

“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, October 11, 2026

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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…

4200 Country Club Rd (Winter Haven)

“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, September 29, 2026

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Lone Palm Golf Club

Entertainment

Lone Palm Golf Club mixes championship golf on a challenging course, world-class pickleball, and curated dining with real southern…

800 Lone Palm Dr (Lakeland)

“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, September 20, 2026

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Skip the endless scrolling and pop into Visit Central Florida Welcome Center for real human intel on Polk County’s best trails, events and…

101 Adventure Ct (Davenport)

“Skip the endless scrolling and pop into Visit Central Florida Welcome Center for real human intel on Polk County’s best trails, events and attractions, plus free maps and a citrusy gift shop. Bonus, they pour fresh orange juice so you can sip while plotting your next mini adventure.”

From the Haines City newsletter, October 6, 2026

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SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo lights up April 6 to 11, 2027 with roaring airshows, aerobatics, and static displays, plus hands-on workshops,…

3875 W Pipkin Rd (Lakeland)

“SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo lights up April 6 to 11, 2027 with roaring airshows, aerobatics, and static displays, plus hands-on workshops, forums, and a legit kids zone. Warbirds, homebuilts, seaplanes, STOL action, drone soccer and heaps of exhibitors keep locals buzzing all week.”

From the Lakeland newsletter, October 9, 2026

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Need a quick round or a bucket fix this week? Open to the public, the 27-hole Cleveland Heights Golf Course keeps it local with three…

2900 Buckingham Ave (Lakeland)

“Need a quick round or a bucket fix this week?”

From the Lakeland newsletter, October 5, 2026

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

1 Legoland Way (Winter Haven)

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

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The Club At Eaglebrooke pairs classic links-style golf with surprising elevation changes and lakes that keep things interesting, then reels…

1300 Eaglebrooke Blvd (Lakeland)

“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

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Waterski show

Entertainment

Generations of show skiers with the community nonprofit Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team keep the legacy alive on Lake Silver with human…

231-279 S Lake Silver Dr (Winter Haven)

“Generations of show skiers with the community nonprofit Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team keep the legacy alive on Lake Silver with human pyramids, barefoot runs, and big ramp action, the kind that turns your week into pure Winter Haven pride. Bring a coffee, cheer loud, and soak up the hometown spectacle. Check it out.”

From the Winter Haven newsletter, October 14, 2026

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Those rolling hills, extra large TifEagle greens and freshly renovated bunkers at Huntington Hills Golf Club make a weekday round this week…

6925 Hermitage Dr (Lakeland)

“Those rolling hills, extra large TifEagle greens and freshly renovated bunkers at Huntington Hills Golf Club make a weekday round this week feel like a mini getaway. Hit the lighted range after work, then unwind with an ice cold beverage and specialty pizza while you watch the course.”

From the Lakeland newsletter, September 23, 2026

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Downtown Davenport

Entertainment

Downtown Davenport is the city’s hub for neighborly happenings, where city-hosted special events and easy park time set the pace. Take a…

1 S Allapaha Ave (Davenport)

“Downtown Davenport is the city’s hub for neighborly happenings, where city-hosted special events and easy park time set the pace. Take a quick lap this week, see what’s on the calendar, and let that small-town energy quietly reset your mood before you head back to real life.”

From the Haines City newsletter, October 4, 2026

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Lake Ashton Golf Club brings the home-course feel with two 18-hole championship tracks, well-groomed greens, and leagues, lessons, and a…

4000 Mulligan Ln (Winter Haven)

“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, September 26, 2026

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Lake Bess Golf Club

Entertainment

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…

218 Golf Aire Blvd (Winter Haven)

“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, September 27, 2026

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Two courses, a legit practice range, and post-round eats at The Grille make Stonegate Golf Club at Solivita an easy go-to when you need…

404 Village Dr (Kissimmee)

“Two courses, a legit practice range, and post-round eats at The Grille make Stonegate Golf Club at Solivita an easy go-to when you need fresh air and a reset. Book a tee time on the Oaks or Cypress, then brag about that one perfect shot over lunch.”

From the Poinciana newsletter, September 25, 2026

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Providence

Entertainment

If your swing needs a little redemption, Providence delivers with an 18-hole Mike Dasher design, a legit Golf Academy for lessons, a…

1518 Clubhouse Blvd (Davenport)

“If your swing needs a little redemption, Providence delivers with an 18-hole Mike Dasher design, a legit Golf Academy for lessons, a stocked pro shop, and Blue Heron Tavern for the victory burger, plus those smooth greens locals brag about... and the occasional gator cameo.”

From the Four Corners newsletter, October 13, 2026

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Spook Hill

Entertainment

Spook Hill delivers that "wait, how is this happening" moment, a gravity-defying optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill. Make it…

321 Dr JA Wiltshire Ave (Lake Wales)

“Spook Hill delivers that "wait, how is this happening" moment, a gravity-defying optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill. Make it your quick detour this week, a quirky flex for out-of-town visitors, or an excuse to feel like a kid again.”

From the Sebring newsletter, August 19, 2026

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Dial in your swing at Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club, an award-winning, Steve Smyers design with real elevation changes, Trackman bays,…

2888 Southern Dunes Blvd (Haines City)

“Dial in your swing at Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club, an award-winning, Steve Smyers design with real elevation changes, Trackman bays, and lessons, then stick around for Tavern on the Dunes... plus Tuesday Night Trivia or a Thursday Scramble if you’re feeling competitive.”

From the Haines City newsletter, September 22, 2026

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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…

929 Lake Hollingsworth Dr (Lakeland)

“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, September 29, 2026

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

3800 US Hwy 98 N Ste 910 (Lakeland)

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

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Family Fun Center

Entertainment

Family Fun Center keeps the crew busy with Adventure Golf, Urban Attack Laser Tag, an arcade packed with classics and new favorites, plus…

4825 Florida Ave S (Lakeland)

“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, October 10, 2026

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Jewel House Entertainment is basically Winter Haven’s one-stop celebration lab, with a 2400 square foot canvas, premium sound, custom…

802 Ingraham Ave (Haines City)

“Jewel House Entertainment is basically Winter Haven’s one-stop celebration lab, with a 2400 square foot canvas, premium sound, custom digital displays, throne chairs, and even selfie and 360 booths. Birthdays, baby showers, anniversaries, Friendsgiving...”

From the Haines City newsletter, October 12, 2026

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Planet Obstacle packs trampolines, ropes courses, climbing walls, and zip-lines into a massive indoor playground founded by former Cirque…

1981 Ernie Caldwell Blvd #600 (Davenport)

“Planet Obstacle packs trampolines, ropes courses, climbing walls, and zip-lines into a massive indoor playground founded by former Cirque du Soleil performers. If this week’s Florida heat or rain ruins your plans, let the kids burn energy while you sneak a breather, then refuel together at the Sky Café.”

From the Four Corners newsletter, October 3, 2026

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Willowbrook Golf Course keeps Winter Haven swinging with a challenging yet forgiving layout that’s fun whether you’re chasing birdies or…

4200 FL-544 (Winter Haven)

“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, October 10, 2026

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Feltrim Sports

Entertainment

Set at Balmoral Resort Florida, Feltrim Sports is a football complex with two turf fields, bleachers, locker rooms, and concessions, ideal…

204 Macaulay's Cv (Haines City)

“Set at Balmoral Resort Florida, Feltrim Sports is a football complex with two turf fields, bleachers, locker rooms, and concessions, ideal when you want games without the mud. Great spot for scrimmages or weekend leagues if your crew wants a no-fuss, play-and-go setup.”

From the Haines City newsletter, September 30, 2026

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Movie theater chain, offering state-of-the-art sound & projection technology.

5500 Grandview Pkwy (Davenport)

“Movie theater chain, offering state-of-the-art sound & projection technology.”

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When your swing needs fresh air and a little forgiveness, the 18-hole course designed by Ron Garl at Cypresswood Golf & Country Club…

1099 Clubhouse Rd (Winter Haven)

“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, September 30, 2026

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

1 Legoland Way (Winter Haven)

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

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A Lakeland classic for more than 75 years, Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre keeps it cozy with two screens showing first-run double features…

4100 New Tampa Hwy (Lakeland)

“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 3, 2026

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If you’ve been craving a classic layout without leaving Lakeland, Grasslands Golf & Country Club brings a Jerry Pate and Bob Cupp design…

1600 Grasslands Blvd (Lakeland) · ✓ checked Aug 6

“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

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