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Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau • 2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823 • 1-800-828-7655 Central Florida Vacation Ideas For Free Fun Year Round Having fun at Barnett Family Park A savvy Central Florida visitor knows there are many ways to enjoy the Sunshine State without spending a dime. From beautiful outdoor activities to fun and educational experiences, there are many exciting and free Central Florida attractions for visitors to enjoy. 1

Central Florida Vacation Ideas for Free Fun Year Round

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A savvy Central Florida visitor knows there are many ways to enjoy the Sunshine State without spending a dime. From beautiful outdoor activities to fun and educational experiences, there are many excited and free Central Florida attractions for visitors to enjoy.

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Page 1: Central Florida Vacation Ideas for Free Fun Year Round

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

Central Florida Vacation Ideas For Free Fun Year Round

Having fun at Barnett Family Park

A  savvy  Central  Florida  visitor  knows  there  are  many  ways  to  enjoy  the  Sunshine  State  without  spending  a  dime.  From  beautiful  outdoor  activities  to  fun  and  educational  experiences,  there  are  many  exciting  and  free  Central  

Florida  attractions  for  visitors  to  enjoy.

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Hollis Garden

This  free  public  garden  is  the  perfect  place  to  wander  and  enjoy  the  day.  

Located  along  the  shores  of  beautiful  Lake  Mirror  in  Lakeland,  Florida,  Hollis  Garden  has  a  distinctive  neoclassical  design.  

Explore  the  many  wandering  paths,  leading  to  beautifully  symmetric  fountains  and  thriving  plant  life.  

Hollis  Garden  itself  is  free  to  visit  and  can  be  enjoyed  year-­‐round  (although  they  are  closed  on  Mondays);  guests  are  encouraged  to  explore  on  their  own,  but  guided  tours  can  be  scheduled  for  a  small  fee  for  a  particularly  large  group  interested  in  the  Garden.  

Circle B Bar Reserve and Polk Nature Discovery Center

Once  a  functioning  cattle  ranch,  the  1,200  acre  Circle  B  Bar  Reserve  has  been  restored  to  its  original  natural  state  as  one  of  the  most  impressive  bird  habitats  in  Central  Florida.  Complete  with  numerous  trails  and  unique  treasures  like  a  freshwater  marsh  and  hardwood  swamp,  Circle  B  Bar  Reserve  offers  something  for  everyone  in  your  family.  Bicycling,  horseback  riding,  fishing,  hiking,  and  picnicking  are  all  encouraged  at  this  free  admission  reserve.  

The  Polk  Nature  Discovery  Center  is  located  at  the  Circle  B  Bar  Reserve.  This  recently  constructed  center  helps  visitors  of  all  ages  understand  the  delicate  ecosystem  of  Central  Florida  with  indoor  and  outdoor  classrooms  and  numerous  exhibits.  The  free  Discovery  Center  has  exhibits  specifically  designed  to  engage  and  excite  young  minds,  making  it  a  great  choice  for  families.  

For the budget

consciousfamily

For the outdoor enthusiast

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

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Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

Common Ground Inclusive Playground

The  Common  Ground  Inclusive  Playground  is  a  new  type  of  playground  that  offers  opportunities  for  every  child,  regardless  of  abilities  or  disabilities.  This  park  is  situated  near  picturesque  Lake  Hollingsworth,  and  offers  many  different  playground  facilities  and  amenities  to  enjoy  with  your  child.  For  larger  functions,  gazebo  and  picnic  facilities  can  be  rented,  but  there  is  no  charge  for  general  admission.  Be  sure  to  look  for  the  creative  statues  placed  throughout  the  park,  too!

Florida's Natural Growers Grove House

The  Florida's  Natural  Grower's  Grove  House  is  a  celebration  of  Florida's  state  fruit,  the  orange.  The  Grove  House  offers  historical  retrospectives  on  the  fruit,  video  tours  and  even  delicious  free  samples  of  Florida's  famous  orange  juice  (and  other  citrus  juices).  The  Grove  House  provides  visitors  with  a  lot  of  free  fun,  but  there  are  also  plenty  of  gifts  to  choose  from  to  commemorate  your  trip.  Open  seasonally  from  October  through  Memorial  Day,  visitors  can  enjoy  The  Grove  House  from  10  a.m.  to  5  p.m.  Monday  through  Friday,  and  10  a.m.  to  2  p.m.  on  Saturday.

Davidson of Dundee

Davidson  of  Dundee  provides  some  of  the  sweetest  citrus  candies,  jellies,  and  marmalades  in  the  world,  and  their  factory  is  located  right  here  in  Central  Florida.  Free  tours  of  the  factory  are  offered  daily,  giving  

Common Ground Inclusive Playground

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visitors  the  chance  to  see  Davidson  employees  making  candy,  marmalade,  jelly,  chocolate,  and  more  the  old  fashioned,  handcrafted  way.  Davidson's  has  been  featured  on  the  Food  Network  and  many  other  national  shows  recognizing  America's  most  unique  culinary  treasures.

Webb's Candy Shop

Family  owned  Webb's  Candy  Shop  has  become  nationally  recognized  for  their  unique  and  delicious  candies.  From  their  famous  goat's  milk  fudge  to  their  unique  citrus  candies,  Webb's  Candy  Shop  is  a  fascinating  experience  for  children  and  adults  alike.  Take  a  free  tour  of  the  factory  and  see  experts  making  fudge,  citrus  candy,  peanut  brittle,  and  other  confectionary  delights.  

Ridge Island Groves

Family  owned  and  operated  Ridge  Island  Groves  grows  fresh  citrus  and  ships  to  locations  throughout  the  state  and  the  nation.  Visiting  the  groves  can  become  a  fun  family  event  if  you  choose  to  pick  your  own  oranges  and  fill  a  gift  box.  Keep  it  for  yourself,  or  send  it  off  to  family  if  you're  feeling  generous.  There's  no  better  place  to  visit  on  a  sunny  day  than  Ridge  Island  Groves.  Visiting  is  free,  as  are  samples  of  the  company's  orange,  tangerine  and  grapefruit  juices.  

Ridge Island Groves

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

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Begin Your Adventure!Hollis Garden702 E Orange SrteetLakeland, FL 33801(863) 834-2280Learn More

Circle B Bar Reserve And Polk Nature Discovery Center4399 Winter Lake Road  Lakeland, Fl 33803Entrance south side of SR 540 (Winter Lake Road) between US 98 and Thornhill Road(863) 668-4673Learn More

Common Ground Inclusive Playground1000 E Edgewood Drive(863) 834-2233Learn More

Florida's Natural Growers Grove House20160 Hwy 27Lake Wales, FL 33853(863) 679-4110Learn More

Davidson of Dundee28421 US Hwy 27 NDundee, FL (800) 654-0647Learn More

Webb's Candy Shop38217 Highway 27Davenport, FL 33837800-289-9322Learn More

Ridge Island Groves6000 Polk City RoadHaines City, FL 33844 863-422-0333Learn More

Spook HillAdjacent toSpook Hill Elementary321 Dr. J. A. Wiltshire Ave E.Lake Wales, FL 33853Learn More

Barnett Family Park/Sunflower Preschool Playground730 E. Orange StreetLakeland, FL 33801863-834-2280

Barnett Family Park/Sunflower Preschool Playground

A  local  favorite,  this  playground  has  something  to  offer  every  child.  Preschoolers  can  enjoy  a  play  area  designed  specifically  for  their  growing  bodies  and  minds,  while  older  children  will  have  fun  climbing  the  numerous  safe  play  structures  located  in  a  nearby  separate  area.  Other  attractions  include  a  splash  wet  area  and  enough  picnic  space  to  host  many  families.  Best  of  all,  this  neighborhood  gathering  spot  and  public  park  is  completely  free.  

Spook Hill

Spook  Hill  has  gained  worldwide  notoriety  as  one  of  the  most  confounding  potentially  haunted  locations  in  existence.  Visitors  come  from  around  the  world  to  park  their  cars  at  the  bottom  of  Spook  Hill  and  experience  the  mysterious  force  that  seems  to  defy  gravity  and  makes  cars  roll  backwards,  up-­‐hill.    Visit  Spook  Hill,  park  your  car  at  the  white  line,  put  it  in  neutral,  and  see  the  results  for  yourself!

Barnett Family Park

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

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Homeland Heritage Park

The  Homeland  Heritage  Park  is  dedicated  to  pioneer  life  during  the  earliest  days  of  settlement  in  Florida.  The  structures  in  the  park  are  original,  and  include  a  meticulously  preserved  farmhouse,  church,  and  school.  The  park  is  free  to  visit  and  makes  a  fun  and  educational  field  trip  for  students  and  families  alike.  

The L.B. Brown House

The  L.B.  Brown  House  is  both  a  museum  and  an  architectural  masterpiece.  Built  by  self-­‐taught  master  carpenter  Lawrence  B.  Brown,  the  nine-­‐room,  1,700  square  foot  home  is  listed  on  the  National  Register  of  Historic  Places.  Today,  it  is  a  museum  honoring  the  contributions  of  African  Americans  to  Florida  history.  Lawrence  B.  Brown  was  a  former  slave  who  rose  from  humble  roots  to  become  an  accomplished  master  carpenter  and  an  upstanding  citizen  of  Florida,  and  today  his  house  continues  his  legacy  of  education  and  community  service.  Guided  tours  are  by  appointment  only,  but  visitors  are  welcome  to  enjoy  the  exterior  architecture  and  look  inside.  The  L.B.  Brown  festival  is  free  to  the  public  and  is  held  on  the  grounds  every  February.  

For a fun &

educational

experience

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

Begin Your Adventure!The L.B. Brown Home470 Second AveBartow, Florida 33830 (863) 534-0100Learn More

The Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center (The Depot)325 S. Scenic Hwy.Lake Wales, FL 33853863-678-4209Learn More

The Mulberry Phosphate Museum 101 S.E. 1st StreetMulberry, FL 33860863-425-2823Learn More

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture at Florida Southern College111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr.Lakeland, FL 33881863-680-4444Learn More

The Polk County Historical Museum100 E. Main St.Bartow, FL 33830863-534-4386Learn More

The Polk County Genealogical Library100 E. Main St.Bartow, FL 33830863-534-4380Learn More

The Historic Dundee Depot Museum102 Main St.Dundee, FL 33838863-419-3145Learn More

The Lake Wales Arts Center1099 S.R. 60 E.Lake Wales, FL 33859 863-676-8426Learn More

The Polk Museum Of Art800 E. Palmetto St.Lakeland, FL 33801863-688-7743Learn More

L.B. Brown House

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Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

The Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center (The Depot)

Originally  built  as  a  station  by  the  Atlantic  Coast  Line  Railroad  in  1928,  this  distinctive  pink  building  has  become  one  of  the  most  recognizable  cultural  landmarks  of  Lake  Wales.  Although  rail  traffic  eventually  slowed,  the  Depot  remained.  In  1974,  local  organizations  began  the  process  of  transforming  the  old  building  into  a  destination  that  would  celebrate  Lake  Wales  and  serve  the  citizens.  Today's  Depot  collects  and  showcases  Lake  Wales  history,  preserving  the  city's  past  and  sharing  it  with  today's  visitors.  Open  year-­‐round,  the  Depot  often  hosts  special  events  and  is  always  free  to  enjoy.  

The Mulberry Phosphate Museum

The  Mulberry  Phosphate  Museum  is  a  fun  and  free  attraction  that  will  spark  your  kids'  interest  in  history  and  science.  The  museum  covers  many  topics,  including  scientific  perspectives  on  phosphate,  how  and  where  it  is  used,  and  how  it  has  led  to  the  development  of  Central  Florida's  business.  However,  unlike  most  historic  attractions,  the  Mulberry  Phosphate  Museum  was  designed  with  kids  in  mind.  For  an  added  sense  of  adventure,  the  museum  is  housed  in  a  series  of  historic  train  boxcars.  Kids  love  taking  the  journey  from  boxcar  to  boxcar  to  discover  and  learn  more  about  this  important  mineral.  Additionally,  kids  enjoy  digging  in  the  museum's  exciting  outdoor  exhibit,  a  44  yard  Dragline  bucket  that  was  once  used  for  excavating  phosphate  rock.  

The Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center

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Many  hidden  treasures  can  be  uncovered  here,  including  sharks  teeth  and  other  prehistoric  animal  remains.  Museum  visitors  can  also  get  up  close  and  personal  with  exciting  fossils  and  other  exhibits  inside.  Best  of  all,  admission  to  the  Mulberry  Phosphate  Museum  is  completely  free.

Self-Guided Architecture Tours

The  Florida  Southern  College  Campus  in  Lakeland  is  the  largest  single  site  collection  of  Frank  Lloyd  Wright  works  (12  structures)  in  the  world.  A  self-­‐guided  tour  will  lead  you  through  the  numerous  archways  and  walkways  that  connect  the  buildings,  allowing  you  ample  time  to  enjoy  Wright's  work  at  its  finest.  All  the  architecture  here  has  been  meticulously  restored  to  ensure  authenticity  and  integrity  to  Wright's  initial  vision.  A  self-­‐guided  tour  is  free  fun  at  its  best  for  architecture  buffs  and  novices  alike.  

The Polk County Historical Museum

Located  inside  the  historic  Old  Polk  County  Courthouse,  the  Polk  Country  Historical  Museum  features  the  latest  artifacts  and  historical  information  about  Polk  County.  In  addition  to  its  ever-­‐growing  collection  and  unique  showcases,  the  museum  also  offers  special  events,  educational  opportunities,  and  volunteer  programs  to  help  enrich  the  community.  Admission  to  this  community  space  is  free  to  the  public.  

Polk County Historical Museum

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

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The Polk County Genealogical Library

The  Polk  County  Genealogical  Library  is  located  in  historic  Bartow,  but  genealogists  and  historians  nationwide  access  its  extensive  online  databases  to  help  their  work.  Many  of  the  books,  magazines,  microfilms,  and  other  materials  found  in  the  Polk  County  Genealogical  Library  are  irreplaceable  and  only  available  here.  In  addition  to  its  extensive  collections,  the  library  offers  classes  and  other  services  to  help  visitors  get  the  information  they  need.  The  library  is  free  to  access.  

The Historic Dundee Depot Museum

Once  a  thriving  depot  on  a  busy  train  line,  the  Historic  Dundee  Depot  Museum  celebrates  the  history  of  the  railroad  in  Central  Florida.  Located  on  the  original  site  of  the  first  depot  on  the  Haines  City  to  Sebring  line  of  the  Atlantic  Coast  Line,  this  museum  features  original  architecture,  houses  historical  artifacts,  and  gives  visitors  the  chance  to  explore  an  authentic  1968  caboose.  The  museum  is  completely  free  but  does  run  somewhat  limited  hours.  Plan  your  trip  ahead  of  time  to  ensure  you  have  the  time  to  really  enjoy  it.  

Polk County Genealogical Library

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

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Free Fun for Teachers Too!LEGOLAND®  Florida  opens  to  the  public  on  October  15,  2011,  and  Florida  school  teachers  can  register  for  a  complimentary  standard  Annual  Pass  at  www.legoland.com.  

The  pass  enables  Florida  teachers  to  explore  the  park  and  uncover  why  a  field  trip  to  LEGOLAND  Florida  would  be  a  fun  and  exciting  experience  for  students.The Lake Wales Arts Center

The  Lake  Wales  Arts  Center  brings  together  visual  and  performing  arts,  offering  Central  Florida  the  best  of  both.  The  Lake  Wales  Arts  Council  maintains  the  center,  arranging  classes,  concerts,  and  exhibitions  that  rotate  throughout  the  year.  The  center  has  extensive  gallery  space,  and  visitors  are  always  welcome  to  enjoy  the  center's  most  recent  display.  The  Lake  Wales  Arts  Center  offers  many  free  and  fun  events  throughout  the  year.  Check  the  Lake  Wales  Arts  Center  calendar  for  the  most  recent  information  about  collections,  presentations  and  classes  at  the  center.    

The Polk Museum Of Art

The  fine  arts  in  Polk  County  live  in  the  Polk  Museum  of  Art.  Widely  recognized  as  one  of  the  ten  best  art  galleries  in  all  of  Florida,  the  Polk  Museum  of  Art  offers  something  to  appeal  to  every  artistic  taste.  Outdoor  gardens  showcase  permanent  sculptures,  while  the  indoor  exhibit  halls  feature  a  permanent  installation  of  pre-­‐Columbian  artifacts.  The  rest  of  the  building  is  dedicated  to  rotating  exhibits,  including  traveling  exhibits  and  local  arts.  A  full  schedule  of  events  and  educational  opportunities  make  the  Polk  Museum  of  Art  a  destination  for  anyone  who  enjoys  the  fine  arts.  View  the  Polk  Museum  of  Art  calendar  for  a  current  list  of  exhibits  on  display.  Although  admission  is  not  usually  free,  budget-­‐savvy  visitors  can  enjoy  free  admission  between  10  a.m.  and  noon  every  Saturday.    

For the arts

lover

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

Polk Museum of Art

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Useful ResourcesThe  City  of  Lakeland  Hollis  Garden  PageHere  you'll  learn  the  basic  information  about  Hollis  Garden,  but  more  importantly  it  includes  photos  of  this  beautiful  landmark  in  its  prime.  Contact  information  is  also  available  for  visitors  who  might  be  interested  in  renting  any  of  the  facilities.  

Circle  B  Bar  ReserveA  comprehensive  and  informative  webpage  that  is  a  must-­‐read  for  anyone  planning  to  visit  the  Circle  B  Bar  Reserve.  This  website  includes  a  map,  a  list  of  exact  recreational  opportunities  available  to  visitors,  and  information  about  how  to  maintain  a  safe  and  fun  atmosphere  in  the  park.    

Davidson  of  Dundee  HomepageThis  website  offers  information  on  a  variety  of  different  Davidson  of  Dundee  products,  in  addition  to  their  factory  tours.  The  website  allows  visitors  to  order  gifts  for  themselves  or  others,  and  lists  all  the  extensive  offerings  available  from  this  company.  Ridge  Island  Groves  HomepageHere  you'll  learn  more  information  about  Ridge  Island  Groves.  Highlights  include  many  pictures  of  the  groves,  a  guide  to  the  varieties  they  grow,  and  a  shop  allowing  visitors  to  order  produce  or  arrange  to  give  it  as  a  gift  to  friends  almost  anywhere  in  the  continental  United  States.

The  Mulberry  Phosphate  MuseumPacked  with  information  about  phosphate  and  about  the  museum,  this  webpage  is  a  must-­‐read  for  anyone  who  intends  to  visit.  Directions  are  available,  as  is  extensive  information  about  what  the  museum  has  to  offer  and  any  events  that  are  scheduled.    

Florida  Southern  Campus  Tour  HomepageOne  of  the  most  extensive  repositories  of  information  about  the  architecture  and  design  of  this  campus.  In  addition,  the  page  has  a  number  of  different  photographs  of  the  campus  to  help  prepare  for  an  unguided  tour,  as  well  as  additional  resources  in  a  virtual  visitor's  center.  

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

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Page 12: Central Florida Vacation Ideas for Free Fun Year Round

Getting The Most Out Of Your Central Florida Vacation

All  of  these  activities  are  just  a  sampling  of  the  many  free  and  fun  experiences  that  can  be  found  in  beautiful  Central  Florida.  There  are  constantly  new  events  being  scheduled  and  new  free  activities  becoming  available  every  day.  Although  many  attractions  are  open  year  round,  when  planning  a  Central  Florida  vacation,  it  is  recommended  to  check  dates  of  operation  for  all  of  the  'must  see'  activities  on  your  list.  Most  nature  parks  are  free  to  the  public,  and  there  are  many  other  landmarks  that  may  merit  exploration.  When  it  comes  to  budget  friendly  things  to  do,  Central  Florida  offers  a  strong  selection.  

Webb's  Candy  ShopThis  website  highlights  the  confections  that  are  made  daily  at  Webb's.  It  is  a  good  starting  point  for  a  future  visit  to  the  factory,  or  to  simply  enjoy  the  wide  variety  of  sweets  that  the  company  produces.  Online  ordering  is  available.      

Polk  County  Genealogical  LibraryThis  online  gateway  to  the  impressive  selection  of  the  Polk  County  Genealogical  Library  also  serves  as  a  good  starting  point  for  anyone  interested  in  visiting.  Its  powerful  search  tools  and  other  online  resources  make  it  invaluable  for  researchers  and  visitors  alike.  

About  the  DepotA  webpage  devoted  to  this  historical  landmark.  This  page  explains  a  lot  about  the  history  of  the  building  itself,  including  its  uses  in  the  present  day.  There  are  also  numerous  other  links  in  the  sidebar  to  fun  events  held  near  or  at  the  Depot.

The  Polk  Museum  of  Art  This  webpage  features  information  about  all  current  exhibits,  as  well  as  calendars  indicating  future  exhibits  and  events.  An  online  museum  store,  visitor  information,  and  membership  section  make  this  a  very  useful  website  for  anyone  interested  in  visiting  the  Museum.

Copyright © 2011 Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau  •  2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale FL 33823  •  1-800-828-7655

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