Visiting Lakeland for the Weekend

Tuesday, Oct 05, 2021 0

See how much fun you’ll have when you visit Lakeland, FL. Tour the world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture (13 structures!) when you visit Florida Southern College. Enjoy locally owned restaurants and bakeries like Red Door Lakeland and Born and Bread Bakehouse.

Recreate this weekend by visiting the businesses featured.

Born & Bread Bakehouse

What started as a booth at the Saturday Lakeland Farmer’s Market has grown into an early morning rite of passage for folks in the Central Florida area. From European style pastries and bread to cheesecakes, biscuits and cruffins – a hybrid between a croissant and a muffin – you’ll quickly see why people stand in line, often around the block, for treats from Born & Bread Bakehouse.

Open only on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Wednesday evening. Online ordering opens Tuesday evening.

COVID-19 Note: At this time, Born & Bread is open for To Go orders through their back patio. If you’re making a last minute decision, no worries! They make extra pastries for walk-ups.

1113A S. Florida Ave. (enter from back patio)

Downtown Lakeland Farmers Curb Market

This 11-month Market (closed in August) is a showcase for the talents and the work of local artisans and local growers. Downtown Farmers Curb Market is open Saturdays 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

210 E. Main St.

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture

Head to Florida Southern College for an intimate look at the largest one-site collection of this influential architect’s work. Featuring 13 stunning structures in all, Frank Lloyd Wright’s “College of Tomorrow” is still considered one of the country’s most strikingly unique campuses nearly 80 years later. Whether you choose to take the guided tour or explore on your own, you’re sure to leave inspired.

840 Johnson Ave.

COVID-19 Note: Tours have been suspended. Visit the school’s website for updates.

Red Door Lakeland

Open for both lunch and dinner, Red Door Lakeland offers a wide variety of eclectic season dishes as well as a solid standard menu, this wine bar bistro also offers vegetarian and gluten free options.

733 E. Palmetto St.

Circle B Bar Reserve

Circle B Bar Reserve is a prime destination for hiking, bird watching and cycling. Visit the Polk Nature Discovery Center and learn about Polk County’s ecosystems through hands-on activities or climb around on the indoor play area that’s perfect for kids. A weekend in Lakeland wouldn’t be complete without an alligator sighting, which can be safely done from the preserve’s pier or shoreline.

4399 Winter Lake Rd.

Twenty Seven

Twenty Seven is a paper goods and lifestyle brand all about whimsy, colors, retro inspiration and hope.

213 E. Bay St.

The Poor Porker

Beignets and tacos and beer, oh my! A mix of food trucks, shabby chic and beer hall, The Poor Porker is as diverse and eclectic as its clientele. The beignets – hot, fresh and covered with powered sugar – are the stars of the show. However, the bar, with an array of beer, cider, wine and even sake to sample, shouldn’t be missed.

801 E. Main St.

Scout & Tag in Lakeland

Scout & Tag

Take a little piece of Lakeland home with you. Scout & Tag is a lovely gift shop full of Lakeland themed housewares, accessories and gifts.

244 N. Kentucky Ave.

Union Hall

An entertainment and event venue, Union Hall features live music acts, a full bar and plenty of room to mingle. A bevy of food trucks provide a variety of culinary treats.