Lake Wales 5
Lake Wales, Florida is a charming city located in Polk County, Central Florida, USA. Known for its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and a strong sense of community, Lake Wales offers a variety of attractions and activities for both residents and visitors.
The Early History
The foundations of Lake Wales were laid in the late 19th century when the area was surveyed and considered to be uninhabitable by early settlers. The Lake Wales Land Company, established by a group of businessmen, purchased 5,000 acres in the hilly wilderness around Lake Wailes, a pristine lake named after Sydney Wailes, a land agent employed by the State of Florida after the Civil War. The city was incorporated in 1917, and the City of Lake Wales was granted its municipal charter in 1921.
Historic Sites and Landmarks
Lake Wales is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks that showcase its rich heritage. The Lake Wales History Museum, housed in the old Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Depot, offers exhibits and artifacts from the pre-Columbian era to modern times. The commercial historic district in the heart of the old town contains important examples of architecture from the period of the Florida land boom of the 1920s, including the Walesbilt Hotel, which is currently undergoing restoration. Other notable landmarks include Spook Hill, an optical illusion that makes a car in neutral appear as if it is traveling uphill, and the Shrine of Ste Anne des Lacs. Click to read more articles.
Natural Beauty and Recreation
The city is located on the Lake Wales Ridge, a sandy upland area running parallel to both coasts in the center of the Florida peninsula. The rolling hills and clear lakes in the region offer year-round recreational opportunities. Lake Wales is also home to the Bok Tower Gardens, established in 1929 on nearby Iron Mountain. The gardens, famed for their plant and animal life, form a peaceful setting for the Bok Singing Tower, a 205-foot high structure that contains a carillon of 57 bells. The area is also dotted with thousands of lakes, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Economic and Educational Landscape
The city’s economy has been historically based on the citrus industry, and it has recently diversified to include manufacturing, construction, and electronics firms. Lake Wales is also home to educational institutions like Warner Southern College and Webber International University, along with local extensions of the University of South Florida and Bethune-Cookman. The community has taken responsibility for the quality of its schools, with charter schools playing a significant role in providing quality education for the residents.
Overall, with its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, Lake Wales, Florida, offers a delightful blend of attractions and activities for both residents and visitors. Whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, enjoying the natural surroundings, or taking part in community events, Lake Wales has something for everyone, making it a truly special place to live and visit.
POI #1 – Publix Super Market at Southgate Shopping Center, 102 State Rd 60, Lake Wales, FL 33853
POI #2 – Lake Wales Public Library, 290 Cypress Garden Ln, Lake Wales, FL 33853
POI #3 – Lake Wales High School, 1 Highlander Way, Lake Wales, FL 33853