Lake Wales, FL

Lake Wales is a city located in Polk County, Florida. The area now known as Lake Wales was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Seminole tribes. The first white settlers arrived in the late 19th century, attracted by the region's rich soil and agricultural potential.

The city's founding can be credited to a railroad promoter and real estate developer, Sidney Irving Wailes. In the early 20th century, Wailes acquired large tracts of land in the area and planned the development of a new town. He laid out the streets, built a hotel, and constructed a railway station, attracting settlers to the newly established community.

In 1911, the city was incorporated as Lake Wales, named after its location near a series of scenic lakes. The city quickly grew as an agricultural center, cultivating citrus groves, particularly orange and grapefruit. The region's citrus industry boomed, especially after the completion of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad in 1925, which facilitated the transportation of produce.

During the Florida land boom of the 1920s, Lake Wales experienced significant growth, with the construction of several grand hotels and prestigious residential neighborhoods. However, the prosperity was short-lived as the Great Depression struck in the late 1920s, leading to a decline in the citrus industry and a halt to development.

Despite the challenges of the Depression, Lake Wales managed to survive and begin rebuilding in the 1930s. The city focused on diversifying its economy, including the establishment of the Bok Singing Tower and Gardens, a popular tourist attraction. The tower was completed in 1929 and stands as a landmark in Lake Wales to this day.

In the post-World War II era, Lake Wales continued to grow, benefiting from increased tourism and improved transportation infrastructure. The construction of highways, such as US Route 27, connected the city to other urban centers in Florida, attracting more visitors and residents.

Today, Lake Wales is a vibrant city with a population of over 15,000 residents. It is known for its natural beauty, with numerous lakes and parks, as well as its historical landmarks such as the Bok Singing Tower and Gardens. The city's rich history and connection to the citrus industry are celebrated through various annual events and festivals, promoting local heritage and culture.

Bok Tower Gardens

This National Historic Landmark features beautiful gardens, a 205-foot Neo-Gothic singing tower, nature trails, and a bird sanctuary.

Spook Hill

A unique natural phenomenon where cars appear to roll uphill, defying gravity. It is a popular roadside attraction.

Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park

A lovely state park with various trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It also offers opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.

Lake Wales Museum and Cultural Center

This museum showcases the history, culture, and art of Lake Wales through exhibits and interactive displays.

Florida Skydiving Center

For thrill-seekers, this skydiving center offers tandem jumps and skydiving lessons for beginners.

Crooked Lake Prairie

A wildlife and environmental conservation area, which provides opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography.

Chalet Suzanne

A historic family-owned and operated resort and restaurant known for its unique ambiance and delicious cuisine.

Lake Wales Arts Center

This cultural hub hosts various art exhibitions, live performances, concerts, and workshops throughout the year.

Tiger Creek Preserve

A nature reserve consisting of various ecosystems, including wetlands, grasslands, and sandhills. It offers hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife observation.

The Depot Museum

Housed in a historic train station, this museum displays artifacts and exhibits about Lake Wales' railway history.

Lake Wales, Florida has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, and mild winters. The climate is influenced by its location in central Florida, inland from the coast.

Summers in Lake Wales are long and hot, with temperatures frequently reaching the upper 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (30-35 degrees Celsius). The humidity during this time is high, making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common, particularly in the afternoon and evening, bringing heavy rainfall and frequent lightning.

Winters in Lake Wales are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the low 50s to the upper 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius). Cold snaps occur occasionally, especially in December and January, which can bring temperatures down to the 30s or even below freezing. However, such cold temperatures are typically short-lived.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons in Lake Wales, with temperatures becoming more moderate and pleasant. Spring is known for its vibrant foliage and occasional bouts of severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes. Autumn brings relief from the summer heat, with temperatures gradually cooling down.

Lake Wales receives an average annual precipitation of around 50 inches (1270 mm), which is spread fairly evenly throughout the year. Rainfall is more frequent during the summer months, with the highest chance of tropical storms or hurricanes occurring between June and November.

Overall, the climate of Lake Wales offers warm temperatures throughout much of the year, with hot and humid summers and mild winters.

Lake Wales is a city located in Polk County, Florida. It is known for its scenic beauty, charming downtown, and rich history. While the city itself does not have official neighborhoods, there are several distinct areas that make up Lake Wales.

Historic Downtown

This is the heart of Lake Wales, where you'll find the city's historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It is a walkable area, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

Crooked Lake

Situated south of downtown, Crooked Lake is one of the largest lakes in the area and offers beautiful waterfront homes. The lake provides stunning views and recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports.

Babson Park

Located northeast of downtown, Babson Park is a residential neighborhood surrounded by lush greenery and several lakes. It is home to Webber International University and has a peaceful atmosphere, with a mix of suburban homes and larger estates.

Mountain Lake

Situated east of Lake Wales, the Mountain Lake area features the famous Mountain Lake Estates, a gated community known for its luxurious homes, exquisite golf course, and pristine surroundings. It offers a private and upscale living experience.

Indian Lake Estates

Located southeast of Lake Wales, this community is centered around a large lake known as Lake Weohyakapka. Indian Lake Estates offers affordable housing options and a rural atmosphere with abundant wildlife, making it a popular choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Highland Park

Found northeast of Lake Wales, Highland Park is a historic neighborhood with grand homes dating back to the 1920s. It is known for its tree-lined streets, manicured lawns, and close-knit community. The area has a mix of architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival and Colonial Revival.

Warner University Area

Situated to the northwest of Lake Wales, this neighborhood is home to Warner University, a private Christian college. The area has a collegiate feel, with residential homes, student housing, and amenities catering to the university community.

Each of these neighborhoods in Lake Wales offers a unique living experience, whether it's the historic charm of downtown, the waterfront homes of Crooked Lake, or the exclusive estates of Mountain Lake.