Hotels in Lakeland

Discover the Enchantment of Lakeland: Where Lakeside Dreams and Academic Pursuits Converge

Discover Lakeland, Florida, a charming city that artfully blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. Nestled among shimmering lakes, this delightful destination invites you to explore its picturesque parks and waterfronts. Stroll through the historic downtown, where unique boutiques and delightful eateries await. Don't miss the Lakeland Centre for its lively events or the Lakeland Square Mall for shopping. With a strong sense of community and a backdrop of lush landscapes, Lakeland is perfect for a romantic getaway or a leisurely family visit, offering a refreshing escape in the heart of Florida.

Discover great hotels in Lakeland

Lakeland offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly options to comfortable mid-range stays. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms with essential amenities, while some properties provide unique experiences and charming atmospheres, making it easy to find the right hotel for your needs. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in Lakeland:

1. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Lakeland Plant CityOpens in a new window: This welcoming 2.5-star hotel is a perfect choice for leisure travellers seeking a comfortable stay. With family-friendly amenities and a focus on providing a delightful experience, it offers complimentary cribs for young children. The hotel exudes a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those who appreciate a friendly environment, while its strategic location allows for easy exploration of Lakeland's attractions.
2. Best Western Auburndale Inn & SuitesOpens in a new window: This sophisticated 3.5-star hotel is tailored for leisure travellers desiring comfort and elegance. With an emphasis on convenience, the property features free cribs for children, ensuring a restful stay for families. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s stylish design and well-appointed amenities, creating a memorable experience that blends relaxation and exploration in the charming city of Lakeland.
3. Quality Inn Plant City - LakelandOpens in a new window: This inviting 2.5-star hotel stands out as a pet-friendly haven for leisure travellers. With a focus on providing a welcoming atmosphere for pets, the hotel allows for a unique experience where visitors can enjoy their stay alongside their furry companions. The property features thoughtful amenities and a friendly environment that caters to travellers seeking comfort and a distinctive experience in Lakeland.

Top locations to stay in Lakeland

When visiting Lakeland, Florida, consider staying in Plant City, Auburndale, or Bartow. Plant City is renowned for its vibrant festivals, while Auburndale offers excellent shopping opportunities. Bartow is charming, featuring delightful cafes and shops. For first-time visitors, Plant City stands out as the best choice, providing a lively atmosphere and unique local experiences.

1. Plant CityOpens in a new window: Known for its vibrant festivals, Plant City is a delightful destination for those seeking a lively atmosphere. The city is particularly famous for the annual Florida Strawberry Festival, which showcases the region’s agricultural heritage and provides a fun-filled experience with rides, entertainment, and delicious local food. Beyond the festivities, you can explore beautiful parks and nature trails, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Its charming downtown area offers a variety of shops and cafes, perfect for those looking to unwind and savour local delicacies.
2. AuburndaleOpens in a new window: If shopping is your game, Auburndale is a fantastic place to stay. The city boasts a variety of retail options, from charming boutiques to larger shopping centres, allowing for a satisfying retail experience. Additionally, Auburndale is surrounded by beautiful lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and picnicking. The friendly local vibe makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy the community atmosphere while indulging in a little retail therapy.
3. BartowOpens in a new window: Bartow is a hidden gem, perfect for travellers who enjoy a laid-back environment with a touch of local charm. This city is known for its delightful cafes and unique shopping experiences, where you can find handmade goods and local crafts. Strolling through Bartow’s historic downtown will reveal a rich cultural scene, filled with art galleries and quaint shops. It’s an ideal location for those looking to experience Florida’s small-town allure while enjoying a relaxed pace, making it a wonderful stop on your journey.

Things to do in Lakeland

Lakeland boasts stunning lakes, lush parks, and rolling hills, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy leisurely boating or hiking through serene forests, then indulge in vibrant shopping and lively sports events. With a thriving arts scene and charming theatres, it’s a delightful blend of relaxation and recreation.

• Auburndale City ParkOpens in a new window – Spend a delightful day at Auburndale City Park, an urban oasis perfect for families and friends. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the park's scenic pathways, or take a break under the shade of lush trees. The park's playground is a hit with children, ensuring they have plenty of fun while you relax by the lake.
• Alafia River State ParkOpens in a new window – Adventure awaits at Alafia River State Park, where you can explore the great outdoors. Whether you're hiking along the trails or kayaking on the river, you'll be surrounded by beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature!
• LEGOLAND® FloridaOpens in a new window – Dive into a world of creativity at LEGOLAND® Florida. This amusement park is ideal for families, featuring thrilling rides, interactive attractions, and impressive LEGO displays. Spend the day building memories as you explore the park's various themed areas.
• Dinosaur WorldOpens in a new window – Step back in time at Dinosaur World, a theme park that brings prehistoric creatures to life! Walk among life-sized dinosaur replicas and engage in fun activities like fossil digging. This is an exciting place for kids and adults alike to learn about these magnificent beasts.
• Lake MirrorOpens in a new window – Take a moment to unwind at Lake Mirror, a picturesque spot perfect for relaxation and reflection. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the lovely views and the serene atmosphere. It's a great place to take photos or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Lakeland

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Lakeland is from September to November, when hotel prices may drop, making it an affordable option for travellers. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is ideal for discovering the city's key landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can explore the picturesque lakes, enjoy some shopping, catch a baseball game, and experience the local theatre and live music scene. Lakeland also offers a rich dining experience and numerous family-friendly activities, alongside the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the university and its art offerings, all of which provide great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute hotel deals in Lakeland, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're informed if rooms become available or rates drop. With these tools, you're more likely to secure a great last-minute getaway in Lakeland.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Lakeland. For those seeking unique experiences, boutique hotels might provide a more personalised touch and potentially better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more economical, helping you to secure the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Lakeland's outstanding public transport connections, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less populated neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative locations 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 typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Lakeland, February, March, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with little to no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, September to November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.