Rated as one of the top cities in the U.S. by National Geographic, Lakeland, FL is a true hidden gem of the Sunshine State. It’s also recognized for its wide array of unique pet stores and dog-friendly restaurants per capita. With that in mind, the Swan City should certainly have a place on you and your pup’s travel bucket list!
While it may not be considered a “vacation destination” compared to its booming tourism industry neighbors, Lakeland’s convenient location right in between Orlando and Tampa make it ideal for a Florida day trip!
Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll around the beautiful lakes or dining in one of the town’s noteworthy restaurants, you’ll always find fun things to do with your dog in Lakeland, FL.
Planning on bringing your four-legged best friend with you to Florida? Then you’ll definitely want a FREE copy of my handy dandy Doggie Packing Checklist!
This is the same list I use when preparing for travels with my own dog, and it has definitely saved me from forgetting important items that we’ll need during our trip. It’s a great and simple way to stay organized and ensure you and your dog have everything you’ll need to enjoy your vacation to its fullest!
Our Favorite Things to Do With Your Dog in Lakeland, FL
1. See Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture at Florida Southern College
Fun fact! Florida Southern College is more than just the world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. It’s also my alma mater!
This stunning college campus sits right on the shores of Lake Hollingsworth and houses 13 structures designed by the world-famous architect. Wright is known for his visionary and innovative style that wowed the world and forever changed the game of architectural design.
The Florida Southern College campus is relatively small, so it’s easy to get around and finish your self-guided tour within an hour or two. The school also loves visitors, and your dog will be welcome to join you in any of the outdoor areas!
Your pooch is sure to get some loving attention from the students too. As a former student myself, I can certainly attest to the fact that we thoroughly enjoy a few puppy kisses during a study session.
Some of the things you won’t want to skip during your tour include the water dome, the rose garden, and the Hindu-inspired meditation garden complete with a wishing pool.
2. Take a Loop Around Lake Hollingsworth
As the very heart of Lakeland itself, Lake Hollingsworth is a hot spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those hoping to enjoy a peaceful stroll on a sunny Florida day.
A paved 2.93-mile trail wraps around the perimeter of the lake, making it easy for joggers, bicyclists, and dog-walkers like yourself to get around. During your excursion, you’ll be greeted by beautiful views of Lake Hollingsworth’s shimmering blue water and some of Lakeland’s most exquisite homes.
There are also quite a few public docks and a nature park with detailed information about the lake’s colorful botanics and wildlife, so don’t forget to take advantage of these attractions.
3. Visit Downtown Lakeland
While Lakeland may be viewed as a small and quiet Florida town, the downtown area is as vibrant as it is beautiful!
The easily walkable Downtown Lakeland is a hub of activity with its wide variety of incredible restaurants, street festivals, lively bars, and eclectic shops. If you foster a deep appreciation for the arts, you’ll also find a multitude of thought-provoking sculptures crafted by regional artists scattered throughout the area, particularly at the outdoor art exhibition on Lemon Street.
Bring your four-legged friend and take a walk through the peaceful streets, shop for interesting goods and fresh food at the weekly Farmers Curb Market (hosted each Saturday excluding August), or simply soak in the Florida sunshine in Munn Park.
4. Meet the Royals at Lake Morton
If tiny tiaras could be crafted for the heads of swans, I guarantee that Lakeland would invest in them. Why? Allow me to enlighten you!
In the early 1950s, the city saw it’s last swan fall victim to an alligator attack. A Lakeland native by the name of Mrs. Robert Pickhardt heard about her hometown tragedy while she was living in England. She was familiar with a flock of swans that lived on the Thames River and inquired about purchasing a pair to bring home.
Would you believe that Queen Elizabeth herself agreed to part with two of her very own swans and have them delivered to Lakeland, FL?
Now all of the gorgeous swans you see gracing the waters of Lake Morton are descended from the two regal birds from the Queen of England. For this reason, swans are considered to be royalty in Lakeland and have become the very symbol of the town.
During your visit to Lakeland, be sure to stop by Lake Morton to meet them for yourself. Be careful not to touch, taunt, or hurt them! They are royalty after all and should be treated as such.
5. Watch the Sunset at Lake Mirror
Lake Mirror is one of the town’s crown jewels, and it’s not difficult to understand why!
Located on the outskirts of downtown, this scenic lake is bordered by a historic promenade, Hollis Gardens, Lakeland’s famous “Tribute to the Spirit of Volunteers” sculpture, a family park, and some of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Lakeland, FL.
The undeniable beauty and tranquility of the area draw thousands of locals, visitors, photographers, and artists each year. This is also one of my favorite spots to watch the sunset in Lakeland!
After you and your pup enjoy a restful walk around the lake, find a comfortable spot at the outdoor amphitheater and prepare to be awestruck by the spectacular views of a colorful Florida sunset.
Once the sun has disappeared underneath the horizon, the pet-friendly Texas Cattle Company Steakhouse and The Poor Porker on 801 E. Main are just steps away!
6. Catch a Movie at the Silver Moon Drive-In
For more than 70 years, The Silver Moon Drive-In in Lakeland, FL has provided moviegoers and their four-legged friends with a fun and nostalgic way to spend a relaxing evening. Although it is the last drive-in theater in Polk County, visitors still gather nightly to watch first-run films on one of two screens. Plus, at only $6 per ticket, an evening at the drive-in is perfect for visitors on a budget.
If a movie night from the comfort of your car (with your canine cuddle buddy, of course) sounds like a great idea, check their schedule to find the best showtime for you! If you’ll be attending on a weekend, the theater suggests arriving approximately an hour early for a good spot. For weeknights, 30 minutes will give you plenty of time to get settled and purchase a few treats or a full meal from the Snack Bar.
7. Get Lost in Nature at Colt Creek State Park
With more than 5,000 acres of Central Florida’s natural habitat to explore, a day at Colt Creek State Park is a day well-spent.
The natural wonderland is comprised of longleaf pine flatwoods, lakes and creeks, cypress domes, and much more. Just jump onto the multi-use trails to meander through the park’s natural communities and enjoy the views with your canine companion in tow. You might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife such as white-tailed deer, bobcats, and a variety of unique birds. Colt Creek State Park is also a great place for you and your pups to enjoy a picnic lunch or kayak/canoe through the waters of Mac Lake.
*Quick Note* Entry into Colt Creek State Park is $4 per vehicle. Canoes and kayaks can also be rented for a small fee.
8. Make New Friends at Lake Crago Dog Park
If you’re looking for a spot to let your furry friend run and play off-leash, you won’t do better than Lake Crago Dog Park in Lakeland, FL.
This well-maintained park is the ideal place to meet fellow dog-lovers and for your pet to make new friends of their own. Dog water fountains, a shower area, and restrooms are also provided.
9. Pick Out a Treat at Benson’s Canine Cookies
Lady loves picking out her own snacks, so I always make sure to stop by Benson’s Canine Cookies anytime we are in Lakeland.
I’m a stickler when it comes to feeding my dog only the best food and treats, so if this place earns my stamp of approval, you know they’re the real deal! They prepare holistic and freshly-baked dog and cat treats each day, and they’re never made with preservatives or artificial flavors.
Bring your dog inside the bakery and let them sniff out their new favorite snack! Plus, the knowledgeable staff is always available to answer any questions about their products or recommend food based on your dog’s needs.
10. Indulge at Red Door Wine Market
Wine lovers, unite!
Red Door is a quaint and artsy bistro in the Lake Morton area known for some of the best food and drinks in Lakeland! What’s even better? Dogs are allowed and even encouraged, to join you on the cozy outdoor porch.
We used to love coming here in the mornings for their incredible brunch selections or in the evenings for a glass of wine with a view. In addition to an extensive wine and cocktail menu, the restaurant also hosts fun Yappy Hours and provides delicious locally-made dog biscuits for their furry patrons.
After treating yourselves to a delightful brunch or dinner, take your pup for a relaxing walk around the lake!
11. Dine Out at Patio 850
This delightful eatery is easily one of the top places for outdoor dining in Lakeland, FL. Pups and their humans are all seated on the stylish patio, which is tucked away from the bustling downtown areas for added peace and relaxation.
As you unwind with a glass of wine, you’ll be able to enjoy the menu’s wide variety of New-American inspired small plates, flatbread pizzas, and live music performances. When Lady and I come here, she loves it when I slip a couple of bites of maple bacon popcorn underneath the table for her.
Patio 850 also hosts several weekly and seasonal events such as “Wine’d Down Wednesdays,” “Pop-Up Wine Tastings,” and “S’mores Nights” around the outdoor fire pits. Cheers to that!
12. Grab a Coffee at Black and Brew
There are few things Lady and I love more than getting cozy in a coffee shop and winding down with a good book and a warm vanilla latte. Without a doubt, my favorite coffee shop in Downtown Lakeland is Black and Brew, located right across the street from Munn Park.
During my school days, I would come here with my laptop, order some coffee and a bowl of soup, and spend hours on the covered porch completing my assignments. Now that I have Lady, we both enjoy lounging outside and refueling before continuing with our day.
If you happen to be visiting in February, you have to try their chocolate-covered strawberry coffee! It’s my favorite Black and Brew drink, and it’s just as heavenly as it sounds.
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With so many wonderful places to discover and things to do with your dog in Lakeland, FL, it’s a wonder this Central Florida gem doesn’t receive the attention it deserves! It has everything you need to take a break from the bustling tourist cities of Florida, reconnect with the beauty of nature, and make memories with your loved ones (both human and four-legged) that you’ll always cherish.
What’s your favorite thing about Lakeland? Which of the things to do with your dog in Lakeland, FL are you looking forward to the most? Let me know all about your trip in the comments!
Also, don’t forget to check out the other wonderful dog-friendly destinations that we’ve visited, including the nearby Orlando, FL, Walt Disney World, Smyrna Dunes Park, andFort DeSoto Dog Beach.
