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Sebring, Florida is a charming city that often flies under the radar of tourists flocking to the state’s more famous destinations. Yet, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting attractions that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers and a beloved home for its residents.
A City with a Unique Design
Sebring, known as “The City on the Circle,” was founded in 1912 by George E. Sebring, an Ohio industrialist with a vision. Inspired by the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis, Sebring designed the town in a distinctive circular pattern, with streets radiating from a central point like spokes on a wheel. This unique layout remains evident in the city’s downtown area today, setting Sebring apart from other Florida towns.
The downtown area, designated as a 1920s Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, showcases the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern development. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll encounter a blend of historic architecture and contemporary businesses, creating a charming atmosphere that captures the essence of old Florida charm. Next article.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures
Highlands Hammock State Park
One of Sebring’s crown jewels is the Highlands Hammock State Park, established in 1931 as one of Florida’s first state parks. This 9,000-acre preserve showcases the diverse ecosystems of central Florida, including cypress swamps, hardwood hammocks, and pine flatwoods.
Visitors can explore the park through its extensive trail system, including nine distinct trails and a three-mile bike loop. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, a tram service takes guests through the park, offering a unique perspective on the natural wonders.
What sets Highlands Hammock apart is its incredible biodiversity. The park is home to more endemic and rare species than any other state park in Florida, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.
Lake Jackson and Beyond
At the heart of Sebring lies Lake Jackson, a 3,212-acre freshwater lake that serves as a recreational hub for the community. The lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports. Its shores are dotted with public beaches, including City Pier Beach, providing residents and visitors alike with easy access to sun-soaked relaxation.
For those seeking more aquatic adventures, nearby Lake Istokpoga offers thrilling airboat tours, allowing visitors to experience Florida’s unique ecosystem up close. With nearly 100 lakes in the area, Sebring is a haven for fishing enthusiasts and water lovers of all kinds.
Racing Heritage: Sebring International Raceway
Sebring’s name is synonymous with auto racing, thanks to the world-renowned Sebring International Raceway. Established in the 1950s on the site of a former World War II airbase, the raceway has become the premier endurance sports car racing facility in the United States.
The crown jewel of the racing calendar is the annual 12 Hours of Sebring, one of the oldest and most prestigious endurance races in the world. This event, along with over 175 others throughout the year, draws more than 300,000 visitors annually, infusing the city with an electric atmosphere of speed and excitement.
Cultural Attractions and Downtown Charm
Sebring’s downtown area, centered around the iconic circular design, is a hub of cultural and commercial activity. Visitors can explore a variety of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, each contributing to the city’s unique character.
Museums and Arts
The city boasts several museums catering to diverse interests:
- Children’s Museum of the Highlands: An interactive space for young minds to explore and learn.
- Highlands Museum of the Arts: Showcasing a multi-media collection of artistic works.
- Military Sea Services Museum: Dedicated to preserving the history of the U.S. Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy.
For performing arts enthusiasts, the Highlands Lakeside Theater offers a range of productions in a picturesque waterfront setting.
Unique Attractions
One of the most charming spots in downtown Sebring is the Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works, which boasts an impressive collection of over 200 soda flavors from around the world. This nostalgic establishment is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth or an interest in unique beverages.
Outdoor Recreation and Sports
Beyond racing, Sebring offers a wealth of outdoor activities and sporting opportunities:
Golf
The area is known for its excellent golf courses, collectively known as the Citrus Golf Trail. Notable courses include:
- Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club (two courses)
- Country Club of Sebring
- Golf Hammock Country Club
- Sebring International Golf Resort
- Sebring Municipal Golf Course
Water Sports
Lake Jackson hosts an annual stop on the Liqui Moly Pro Watercross Tour, adding to the city’s reputation as a destination for water sports enthusiasts.
Cycling and Endurance Events
The Sebring Gran Fondo, an annual 95-mile endurance professional cycling race, is billed as Florida’s longest and toughest cycling event. Additionally, the city has become a popular location for Spartan Race and Tough Mudder events, attracting fitness enthusiasts from across the country.
A Growing Community
As of 2022, Sebring’s population was estimated at11,379, showing steady growth from previous years. The city’s broader metropolitan area boasts a population of over 100,000, indicating its importance as a regional center in south-central Florida.
The demographic makeup of Sebring reflects Florida’s diversity, with a growing Hispanic population and a mix of long-time residents and newcomers attracted by the city’s quality of life and economic opportunities.
Looking to the Future
Sebring continues to evolve, balancing its rich history with modern development. The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has been instrumental in revitalizing the downtown area, investing millions in renovations and improvements.
As the city grows, it maintains its commitment to preserving natural resources, promoting cultural attractions, and fostering a strong sense of community. With its unique blend of small-town charm and world-class attractions, Sebring truly stands out as a hidden gem in the Sunshine State.
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast, nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a unique Florida experience, Sebring offers something for everyone. From the thrill of the racetrack to the serenity of its natural parks, from the charm of its historic downtown to the excitement of its outdoor adventures, Sebring invites visitors to discover the many facets of this remarkable city.
As one local resident puts it, “Sebring may not be the first place people think of when they plan a trip to Florida, but once they visit, they can’t wait to come back. There’s just something special about our little city on the circle.”
Indeed, Sebring’s unique character, rich history, and abundant attractions make it a destination worth discovering. As you plan your next Florida adventure, consider veering off the beaten path to explore the hidden treasures of Sebring – you might just find your new favorite Florida destination.
POI #1 – Sebring Village Mobile Home Park, 890 Village Dr, Sebring, FL 33872
POI #2 – ALDI, 2900 New Life Way, Sebring, FL 33870
POI #3 – Dairy Queen Grill & Chill, 2255 US Hwy 27 N, Sebring, FL 33870