Lake Placid, FL 1-7
Lake Placid, Florida, often referred to as the “Caladium Capital of the World,” is a charming small town nestled in Highlands County. This picturesque community, not to be confused with its more famous namesake in New York, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm that makes it a hidden gem in the heart of the Sunshine State.
A Brief History of Lake Placid, Florida
Early Beginnings
The area now known as Lake Placid was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Calusa and later the Seminoles. European settlers began to arrive in the mid-19th century, attracted by the region’s fertile land and abundant lakes.
From Lake Stearns to Lake Placid
Initially named Lake Stearns, the town was founded in 1925. However, it wasn’t long before the community underwent a significant transformation. In 1927, Dr. Melvil Dewey, the creator of the Dewey Decimal System, visited the area. Impressed by its beauty and climate, Dewey saw potential in developing the town as a southern counterpart to Lake Placid, New York, where he had established a successful resort.
The Dewey Era
With Dewey’s influence and investment, the town was renamed Lake Placid in 1927. He envisioned creating an educational and recreational haven, similar to what he had achieved in New York. Although not all of Dewey’s grand plans came to fruition, his impact on the town’s development and identity was significant. Next article.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation around Lake Placid, FL
The Lake System
Lake Placid is surrounded by a system of 27 freshwater lakes, offering residents and visitors alike a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities. These lakes, including Lake June-in-Winter, Lake Placid, and Lake Clay, are popular spots for fishing, boating, and water sports.
Caladium Fields
One of the town’s most distinctive features is its vast caladium fields. These colorful, heart-shaped leafed plants have earned Lake Placid its title as the Caladium Capital of the World. The town produces over 95% of the world’s caladium bulbs, creating a stunning visual spectacle when the fields are in bloom.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Nature enthusiasts can explore the area’s diverse ecosystems through various hiking trails. The Lake June-in-Winter Scrub State Park offers a glimpse into Florida’s unique scrub habitat, home to endangered species like the Florida scrub-jay.
Lake Placid: Local Culture and Attractions
The Murals of Lake Placid
One of Lake Placid’s most striking features is its collection of over 50 vibrant murals adorning buildings throughout the town. These large-scale artworks depict the area’s history, wildlife, and culture, transforming the town into an open-air art gallery. The mural project, initiated in the early 1990s, has become a significant draw for tourists and art enthusiasts.
Toby’s Clown School and Museum
For those with a fondness for the whimsical, Lake Placid is home to Toby’s Clown School and Museum. Founded in 1993, this unique institution preserves the art of clowning and houses an extensive collection of clown memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the history of clowning, view rare artifacts, and even take classes in clown arts.
American Clown Museum and School
Adding to the town’s quirky charm is the American Clown Museum and School. This institution further cements Lake Placid’s reputation as a hub for clown culture and education, offering another perspective on this unique form of entertainment.
Lake Placid Tower
Standing tall at 270 feet, the Lake Placid Tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, visitors can see for miles, taking in the beauty of the lakes, orange groves, and rolling hills that characterize this part of central Florida.
Agricultural Heritage of Lake Placid, FL
Citrus Industry
Like many parts of central Florida, Lake Placid has a strong connection to the citrus industry. The area’s climate and soil are ideal for growing oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits. Many local groves offer tours and fresh fruit, providing visitors with a taste of Florida’s agricultural heritage.
Caladium Festival
Every July, Lake Placid celebrates its status as the Caladium Capital with the annual Caladium Festival. This three-day event features tours of caladium fields, arts and crafts exhibitions, car shows, and various family-friendly activities. The festival not only showcases the town’s primary agricultural product but also brings the community together in a vibrant celebration.
Notable Residents and Connections
Mel Fisher
Lake Placid was once home to Mel Fisher, the famous treasure hunter who discovered the wreck of the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha. Fisher’s early years in Lake Placid, where he ran a diving shop, laid the foundation for his later adventures in treasure hunting.
Sports Connections
The town has connections to the world of sports through the Lake Placid Camp and Conference Center. This facility has hosted training camps for various sports teams and organizations, bringing a touch of athletic prestige to the small town.
Economic Development and Future Prospects for Lake Placid, FL
Balancing Growth and Charm
Like many small towns, Lake Placid faces the challenge of balancing economic development with preserving its unique charm. The town has seen modest growth in recent years, with new businesses and residential developments emerging. However, there’s a concerted effort to maintain the small-town atmosphere that makes Lake Placid special.
Tourism and Retirement
Tourism plays a significant role in Lake Placid’s economy, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and unique attractions. The town has also become popular among retirees, attracted by its peaceful setting and favorable climate.
Sustainable Agriculture
Looking to the future, Lake Placid is exploring ways to diversify its agricultural base while maintaining its dominance in caladium production. Sustainable farming practices and agritourism initiatives are being developed to ensure the long-term viability of the town’s agricultural sector.
Community Events and Traditions
Christmas Parade and Decorations
Lake Placid embraces the holiday spirit with enthusiasm. The annual Christmas parade is a beloved community tradition, featuring floats, music, and plenty of holiday cheer. The town’s commitment to festive decorations has earned it recognition as one of the best places to experience a small-town Christmas in Florida.
Bass Fishing Tournaments
The abundance of lakes in the area makes Lake Placid a popular destination for bass fishing enthusiasts. Regular tournaments attract anglers from across the state and beyond, adding to the town’s recreational appeal.
Conclusion
Lake Placid, Florida, may be small in size, but it’s big on charm, history, and unique attractions. From its colorful caladium fields and stunning murals to its clown museums and natural beauty, the town offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors and residents alike. As it moves forward, Lake Placid continues to balance its rich heritage with modest growth, ensuring that this hidden gem in central Florida retains its special character for generations to come.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, a peaceful retirement destination, or simply a unique place to visit, Lake Placid welcomes you with open arms and a heart as colorful as its famous caladium fields. This small town proves that sometimes the most extraordinary places are found off the beaten path, waiting to be discovered by those willing to look beyond the usual tourist destinations.
POI #1 – Sun ‘N Lake Volunteer Fire Department, 460 S Sun N Lakes Blvd #9343, Lake Placid, FL 33852
POI #2 – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 770 County Rd 29, Lake Placid, FL 33852
POI #3 – Lakeside Village Mobile Home Park, 7 Pleasant View, Lake Placid, FL 33852