Hotels in Lakeland

Awakening Tranquility: Discover the Enchanting Heart of Lakeland

Nestled between the shimmering lakes of central Florida, Lakeland is a charming city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural vibrancy. Renowned for its picturesque parks and the enchanting Bok Tower Gardens, visitors can indulge in serene strolls amidst lush landscapes. The historic downtown area boasts delightful boutiques, inviting cafes, and vibrant murals, perfect for leisurely exploration. With its rich history, including the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College, Lakeland is a hidden gem for those seeking a unique blend of relaxation and inspiration, making it an ideal off-the-beaten-path escape.

Discover great hotels in Lakeland

Lakeland offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly options to upscale stays. You'll find a variety of guest rooms, amenities, and star ratings to suit your needs. Room rates vary widely, making it easy to find the best hotels in Lakeland for your vacation. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Lakeland:

1. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Lakeland Plant Cityopens in new window: This 2.5-star hotel is designed for travellers seeking a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for family and LGBTQIA experiences. The property features essential amenities for children, including complimentary cribs. Frequent travellers appreciate the comfort offered in the well-appointed rooms, ensuring a restful stay. The inviting ambiance and family-friendly services create a distinctive experience, making it an excellent choice for those on a leisurely getaway.
2. Best Western Auburndale Inn & Suitesopens in new window: A 3.5-star hotel, Best Western Auburndale Inn & Suites caters to travellers looking for a blend of comfort and convenience. The property provides essential amenities for children, including complimentary cribs, creating an accommodating space for families. With its modern design and inviting atmosphere, guests find themselves in a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Lakeland's attractions. This hotel ensures a memorable experience for those seeking a pleasant retreat.
3. Quality Inn Plant City - Lakelandopens in new window: The 2.5-star Quality Inn Plant City - Lakeland stands out for its pet-friendly policy, welcoming those travelling with their furry companions. The property features essential pet amenities, allowing for a seamless stay with added comfort. It is perfect for leisure travellers who appreciate a relaxed environment and the opportunity to explore the area with their pets. This hotel is an excellent choice for those looking to combine their love for travel with their passion for pets, providing a delightful experience for both.

Top locations to stay in Lakeland

Some of the best areas to stay in Lakeland, Florida, are Haines City, Dover, and Sydney. Haines City boasts beautiful lakes and outdoor activities, making it perfect for nature lovers. Dover is family-friendly, offering a welcoming atmosphere for visitors with children. Sydney features interesting points of interest, ideal for those keen on exploring local culture. For first-time visitors, Haines City is highly recommended.

1. Haines Cityopens in new window: Nestled by scenic lakes, Haines City is a delightful spot for nature lovers and families. The picturesque waterfront offers a range of outdoor activities, from fishing and boating to relaxing picnics along the shore. The area's charming parks and trails are perfect for those seeking a leisurely outdoor experience. Additionally, you can explore nearby attractions like the Legoland Florida Resort, making it an ideal base for family fun. With a friendly small-town vibe, Haines City provides easy access to the natural beauty of Florida while still being close to larger attractions.
2. Doveropens in new window: If you're looking for a family-friendly destination, Dover is a fantastic choice. This quaint community offers a peaceful setting, ideal for enjoying quality time with loved ones. With its proximity to beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, families can engage in various recreational activities like hiking and picnicking. Additionally, Dover's charming local shops and markets provide a taste of the community while allowing you to pick up unique souvenirs. The welcoming atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle make it a great spot for a relaxed getaway.
3. Sydneyopens in new window: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Sydney is a lively area that caters to a range of interests. With a mix of cultural attractions and shopping opportunities, visitors can explore local art galleries, theatres, and markets. The area's nightlife scene is buzzing, offering a variety of entertainment options, from live music to cultural events. Sydney's unique blend of urban energy and community spirit makes it an exciting place to stay, especially for those keen to experience local events and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere.

Things to do in Lakeland

Lakeland beckons with its stunning lakes, lush forests, and gentle hills, offering a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy leisurely strolls through parks, exhilarating hikes, or tranquil boat rides. With vibrant local theatres, thrilling sports events, and eclectic shopping, this charming locale promises a delightful blend of relaxation and excitement.

• Grand Hotelopens in new window – Step into history at the Grand Hotel, a stunning monument that showcases the architectural charm of Lakeland. Take a leisurely stroll around the grounds, soaking in the beautiful surroundings that reflect the area's rich heritage. The hotel’s serene location near the lake makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
• LEGOLAND® Floridaopens in new window – Dive into a world of creativity and fun at LEGOLAND® Florida, where LEGO bricks come to life! This amusement park offers an array of rides, shows, and attractions that cater to kids and families. Don't miss the interactive experiences, where you can build and play alongside your favourite characters. It’s a thrilling day out for the young and young-at-heart!
• Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Parkopens in new window – Embark on an adventure at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, where nature and magic intertwine. Explore the lush landscapes, encounter exotic animals, and enjoy exciting rides that take you through immersive environments. Be sure to catch the spectacular shows that celebrate wildlife and conservation, making it an unforgettable experience.
• Disney's Hollywood Studios®opens in new window – Experience the glamour of film and television at Disney's Hollywood Studios®. This theme park is packed with attractions inspired by iconic movies and shows. From thrilling rides to live performances, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to snap a photo with your favourite characters as you make your way through the enchanting themed areas!

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Lakeland

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Lakeland is from September to November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those wishing to explore the city’s key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This budget-friendly duration allows visitors to enjoy the stunning lakes, indulge in shopping, catch a baseball game, experience live theatre and music, and savour delightful dining options. With its great value for money, Lakeland offers an enriching experience for families, art enthusiasts, and sports fans alike.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Lakeland, begin by exploring the Dealsopens in new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, ensuring you don't miss potential savings. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options. This way, you can be among the first to know if rooms become available or prices decrease, making your last-minute getaway more affordable.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Lakeland. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised touch and, at times, greater value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we will suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Lakeland's excellent public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Lakeland

Lakeland experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 60.1°F (15.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 81.9°F (27.7°C). August is usually the wettest month. February, March, and July are the peak travel months in Lakeland, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, September to November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.