1. THE FOOD TRUCK RALLY!
If you know me at all, you know this is my jam. I am a food truck rally enthusiast, and am a huge advocate for the Lakeland Food Truck Rally. This blessing happens the second Thursday of every month in Downtown Lakeland at Munn Park. Food trucks from all over Central Florida line up and showcase their unique cuisine. Some months there will be live music or other vendors from around Lakeland. There's nothing I love more than grabbing a ton of different foods, and plopping down on the grass in Munn Park. People bring out their dogs and/or kids and the sun is usually setting. It's easily my favorite part of Lakeland. Be sure to like them on Facebook so you're always up to date on what trucks are rolling in each month.
2. CIRCLE B
Alright, this one only works if you're outdoorsy. Circle B was once an actual cattle ranch, and sits on the shores of Lake Hancock. If you don't mind trail walks or hiking, Circle B is a great place to visit. There's wildlife, a lake, and plenty of trails to discover. Bikes are also welcome if you've got one. Oh, and horseback riding is allowed (bring your own horse). I prefer to pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the picnic areas on site. There is also a pretty sweet nature center that's open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, and 12 pm to 4 pm on Sunday. If you're looking for a way to enjoy some nature, Circle B has what you're looking for!
3. JOKER MARCHANT STADIUM
Sorry (not sorry) about the bias on this one. Joker Marchant Stadium is the spring home of the Detroit Tigers. It also plays home to their Advanced A team, the Lakeland Flying Tigers. So many people miss out on how awesome it is that this is right in our backyard. Spring training is a little pricey, so it may be harder to experience. However, it is so exciting when the big leaguers are in town! You might even get to catch a glimpse of other celebs like Kate Upton (if her and current starter Justin Verlander remain together). Once the glamour of spring ends, its time for the boys of summer to play America's past time. The Lakeland Flying Tigers are a minor league team that showcases the up and coming talent in the Tigers organization. Not to mention they also have some of the best deals in town. $1 Monday, All You Can Eat Wednesdays, and fireworks shows on Saturday are only a few of the awesome things you can find at a Flying Tigers game. This season is winding down, but there's still a firework show left and a beer festival in October!
4. THE LAKES
Also, this one works if you like being outdoors. When I was in college, I would bike around 3, sometimes 4, different lakes in a couple of hours and I LOVED IT! Lakeland has what feels like hundreds of lakes (go figure), but they are each so unique. Some of my top favorite lakes: Hollingsworth, Morton, Mirror, and Hunter. So go grab a bike or put on your running shoes and enjoy the scenery and natural beauty this place has to offer!
5. MITCHELL'S COFFEE HOUSE
I seriously dream about Mitchell's favorite breakfast burrito. My knees go weak at the sight of one. I'm not even a huge breakfast burrito fan, but this one is it. Not to mention they also have an almond joy coffee that does wonders for me. That's only the tip of the iceberg though. Mitchell's is locally owned and a huge part of the Lakeland community. Located downtown, Mitchell's is a great place to study, socialize, or just spend some quality alone time. There are tables of different shapes and sizes, and tables outdoors as well. They have books and board games for you to enjoy, and every local magazine you could think of displayed in the front. It's got a cozy, local feel that I love; think less "hustle and bustle" than Starbucks. Mitchell's is definitely a Lakeland gem.
6. BREW HUB
If you have ever passed through Lakeland on I-4, you might have seen this establishment on the side of the highway. Brew Hub is this warehouse-turned-brewery where craft brewers can brew, pack, and distribute their beer. It's a whole new business model that is really changing the game. Even better? There's a tasting room!!! Brew Hub is such a fun place to go and hang out and enjoy some new beers. They switch up what's on tap depending on what kegs they have in, or what brewers they are currently working with at the time. So, be sure to check out what's on tap before you go by visiting the website or using their mobile app. From time to time, they even have entertainment and it really adds to the environment. I love the feel to this place. It is so unique and different, and is a nice change up from your average bar. It's tricky to get to, but once you've been you'll be glad you took the adventure. I personally recommend the Keybilly Island Ale and Pool Hop Session IPA if they're on tap when you visit.
7. FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
Okay, I couldn't write this and not mention my Alma Mater. Florida Southern College has been placed in the Top 10 Most Beautiful Campuses over and over again and if you've ever visited then you know why. Between the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, the gardens, and being on Lake Hollingsworth it is easily beautiful every day of the week. It's not uncommon to find people taking tours just to see the campus. Not to mention over the past few years, new buildings have been added that are just as breathtaking as the older ones. If you visit, stop by the newly renovated Annie Pfeiffer chapel. Also, we are currently home to the D2 Men's National Basketball Champions! So if you visit during basketball season, make sure to catch a thrilling Mocs basketball game!
There you go, some of the things that will have me missing Lakeland sooner rather than later. Even though I've only been here for two years, this place has taken a huge part of my heart. It may not be as big as Tampa or Orlando, but I think that's where this place gets its charm. This place is the best of Central Florida and if you're every passing through, I recommend you stop to say hi.
Until next time,
Brandt
