Lake Placid, FL 1-7
Lake Placid, Florida is a charming town located in Highlands County, just off of Route 27 and south of Sebring. Known as the “Caladium Capital of the World” and the “Outdoor Mural Capital of Florida,” it offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and fun. The town has a population of approximately 2,500, but the surrounding communities increase the actual population to about 21,000.
The town is renowned for its vibrant murals, with 46 artworks adorning the sides of many Lake Placid businesses. These murals, which tell the town’s varied history, were inspired by a visit to Chemainus, British Colombia, by residents Bob and Harriet Porter in the early 1990s. The murals have become a significant draw for tourists, leading to a significant increase in tourism since 1993.
One of the town’s major attractions is the annual Caladium Festival, drawing thousands of visitors to witness the beauty of the caladium plants. Lake Placid’s agricultural heritage is evident in the abundance of caladium plants, with the town growing 95 percent of the world’s caladiums. The rich, dark soil on County Road 621 contributes to the thriving growth of these plants. Next article.
The murals also depict the town’s early role in the turpentine industry, its citrus heritage, and a nod to Florida’s citrus groves, which cover more than 13 percent of Highlands County. A must-see mural is the Cracker Trail Cattle Drive, a 175-foot wide and 30-foot high mural that vividly portrays the historical cattle transportation in the area.
Art is an integral part of the Lake Placid experience, with many downtown benches and trash containers adorned with painted clowns, old cars, and nature scenes. The town is also home to Toby’s Clown School and Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of clowning and enjoy an array of clown memorabilia. The school, founded in 1993, has graduated over 1,500 clowns who have gone through a 25-hour clown class.
For those interested in delving into the town’s history, the Lake Placid Historical Society Depot Museum provides an immersive journey into Lake Placid’s evolution, from its early settlers to its transformation into the “Caladium Capital of the World.” The museum, housed in a charming 1926 train depot, offers a nostalgic trip through Florida’s history.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the diverse ecosystems of Lake June-in-Winter Scrub State Park, which is in proximity to Lake Placid. The park offers scenic hiking trails, rare plants, and native wildlife, providing a serene escape into untouched Florida landscapes.
Overall, Lake Placid, Florida, with its rich culture, vibrant murals, and natural beauty, offers a delightful blend of history, art, and outdoor experiences, making it a truly captivating destination for visitors and residents alike.
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