Known as the Crown Jewel of the Ridge, Lake Wales sits in the center of the state, just off Highway 27 and State Road 60. With its historic roots, its quirky qualities, and its persona of a small city with a hometown atmosphere, Lake Wales is a true Floridiana find. Whether you are taking a trip into downtown, visiting the tower on the hill, or participating in any number of festivals and celebrations, nostalgia and culture abound.
Lake Wales History
Lake Wales was first settled in 1911 by a group of businessmen known as the Lake Wales Land Company. These individuals purchased 5,000 acres around Lake Wailes, named after land agent Sidney Wailes. The Lake Wales Land Company saw the property as ripe for a turpentine and lumber industry, as well as growing citrus crops.
Lake Wailes
By the time Lake Wales was incorporated in 1917, it was already on its way to becoming a thriving town, with a school, some paved roads, and a newspaper.
Part of the charm of Lake Wales is its downtown area which is recognized as a National Historic District. A walk around town reveals evidence of the old charm. Informational signs are strategically located to provide information about the area and the numerous buildings restored to the splendor of the 1920s and 30s.
City of Murals
Another way to enjoy the history of Lake Wales is through the 21 murals scattered throughout downtown. The earliest mural was painted in 1942 and hangs inside the lobby of the Post Office on West Park Avenue. Harvest Time Lake Wales measures 14 feet by 5 feet and depicts the area’s citrus industry. A second indoor mural is at the Lake Wales Public Library and portrays animals that are native to the area in their natural environment. The library mural was painted by Tom Freeman, who also painted many of the other murals around town. Freeman, a former teacher, is also the subject of a mural funded and painted by his students.
Tom Freeman Recognition Mural
Another local artist, Lisa Moore, has not only painted some of the murals, but was also commissioned to do restoration work on some of the older murals around town. On one of our visits, we found Lisa working on the Downtown City Mural on East Stuart Avenue.
The Lake Wales murals are part of a statewide trail that connects mural towns with mural enthusiasts. A map of the murals’ locations, as well as descriptions about them can be found at the Lake Wales Mural website.
Lake Wales Museum
Like other old train depots around Florida, the Atlantic Coast Line Depot has been transformed into the Lake Wales Museum. The museum offers a look back at the history of Lake Wales. Starting with its inception in 1911, exhibits depict the people, places and events that have shaped the town. Take a step back in time and learn about the history of the railroad, the turpentine industry and the postal service. There are also special exhibits that are set up throughout the year. Before you leave the museum, make sure to head outside and tour a refurbished Seaboard caboose.
Other Things to See and Do in Lake Wales
Bok Tower and Gardens
You can’t visit Lake Wales without making a trip to Bok Tower and Gardens, located atop Iron Mountain. Founded by Edward W. Bok, the gardens opened to the public in 1929 and now features nearly 50 acres of lush gardens filled with palms, ferns, oaks and other trees. Seasonal plants also provide splashes of color to the grounds.
The centerpiece to the gardens is the 205-foot Bok Tower. Known as the Singing Tower, it houses one of the finest carillons anywhere in the world. With 60 bells, the tower rings out with concerts every day at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Also, on property is the Pinewood Estate, a 20-room mansion built in the early 1930s. The estate is open for tours, but make sure to check the website for blackout dates before you plan your trip.
Spook Hill
Do cars really roll uphill? That’s for you to decide when you visit Spook Hill in Lake Wales.
If you want to know more about Spook Hill, click here. Or even better, drive to Spook Hill, park your car on the white line, put it into neutral, and see what happens!
How to find it: From U.S. 27, take State Road 60 west to Alternate U.S. 27, north past Central Avenue, then east at first traffic light (North Avenue). Then turn left on one-way street to Spook Hill.
Struthers’ Honey
Struthers’ Honey is one of those places you have to visit. Situated about 15 minutes east of Highway 27 along Highway 60, this honey store operates on the honor system. That’s right. There is usually no one inside to take your money. Only shelves full of honey and honey-based products, and a cash box. If you are lucky, you will be there when one of the family members stops by to replenish the shelves. Struthers’ Honey opened for business in 1935 and may be the oldest honey store in Florida working off the honor system.
Orange Blossom Revue
Towns across Florida are known for their festivals and events. In Lake Wales, the Orange Blossom Revue is one of those. The event got its name from the impact of the citrus industry in Central Florida. Held in early December every year, the Revue hosts barbeque competitions, regional musicians, arts and crafts, and craft beer featuring Florida breweries. The weekend is full of fun activities for everyone, not just the locals.
Lake Wales Mardi Gras
Who would think a Mardi Gras celebration would be held in a small city like Lake Wales? In 1984, the celebration began in Lake Wales in memory of Vinton Davis who owned Vinton’s New Orleans Restaurant. Davis is said to have loved carnivals, especially Mardi Gras in New Orleans. The Lake Wales Mardi Gras celebration is usually held the first weekend of March. What’s billed as “A Festival for Florida” features live music, a parade, a 5k run and plenty of fun for the entire family.
There doesn’t have to be an event to visit Lake Wales. This small city with a hometown atmosphere offers many opportunities to learn about its history, get a taste of some of its culture, or enjoy its natural beauty.
Lake Wales is located about 54 miles southwest of Orlando off U.S. 27 and Highway 60. Please watch our slide show for more pictures from our trips to Lake Wales.
Great article about my hometown. I grew up there in the 40’s and 50’s. My father , James “Shakespeare” Longfield-Smith, had the first Radio and TV shop in Lake Wales. He also was the first Commodore of the Lake Wales Pram Fleet which was sponsored by the Optimist Club. I was born there in 1942 and loved this small town with so many wonderful people.
That is so cool! Thank you for your comment. I grew up in Wauchula but never really explored parts of Florida until I decided to start a blog.
I went to BOK TOWER and was freaked out by all the SQUIRRELS.
THEY were even CRAWLING up my husband’s pantlegs!!!
I’ve never seen that happen, but I have seen them come right up to you! Hope you enjoyed it otherwise!
I was wondering if someone could help me. I lived in Lake Wales during the early/mid 70’s. I have beautiful memories of my mom and I walking to Sambo’s restaurant from our home. I know that the Sambo’s has closed. Can anyone tell me what street it was and/or if there’s a business in its place now? I’m planning to visit Lake Wales soon.
Thank you!
I do not know but I will see if I can find out something.