Lake Placid
Lake Placid, situated near the center of Florida between Sarasota and Fort Pierce, is a picturesque small town boasting 27 freshwater lakes, nearly 50 outdoor murals, and a bustling downtown of boutique shops and diverse restaurants.
Known as the Caladium Capital of the World, Lake Placid is where nearly all of the world’s caladiums are grown, a fact that is celebrated during the town’s annual Caladium Festival, a multi-day event that includes a car and bike show, art competitions, entertainment, and more.
Lake Placid offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, from fishing and boating on its many lakes, including 28,000-acre Lake Istokpoga, to exploring the hiking trails at Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park, which is home to the endemic Florida scrub-jay, as well as other rare plants and animals. Highlands Hammock State Park, a quick 30-minute drive from Lake Placid in nearby Sebring, offers the chance to see more rare and endemic species than any other state park in Florida. There, visitors can stroll the elevated boardwalk, bike, hike, or take a narrated tram tour of the park.
In downtown Lake Placid, visitors can see colorful murals, visit boutique shops and restaurants, check out the Lake Placid Historical Society Depot Museum, and on Saturday mornings, buy plants, local goods, and fresh produce at the Lake Placid Farmers Market.
Plan your trip at Visit Sebring.
FAMILY FUN
Spend time outside and check out kid-friendly attractions.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Explore rugged natural areas, fish the lakes, and spot rare plants and animals.
- Lake June-in-Winter Scrub Preserve State Park
- Highlands Hammock State Park
- Birding
- Boat ramps
- Fishing
WATERWAYS
Lake Placid boasts 27 freshwater lakes.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
See the murals, visit the depot museum, and check out local festivals and events.
ACCESSIBILITY
Visit the area’s accessible attractions and trails.
DINING
Enjoy a variety of cuisines from Italian to Salvadoran.
SHOPPING
Shop for clothing, gifts, pet gear, and more in the stores downtown.
GOLF
Tee off on the area’s golf courses all year long.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Explore dog-friendly parks and attractions.
PLACES TO STAY
Choose from a variety of accommodations to suit any travel style
Highlands County in 60 seconds
Quick Facts
Freshwater lakes and downtown murals
Nearest Airport
LAKE PLACID BUSINESS LISTINGS
Nearby Cities
RELATED CONTENT
Off the Beaten Path in Sebring, Avon Park and Lake Placid, FL
- 13 minute read
In Central Florida, two hours south of the bustling theme parks of Orlando, you’ll find Highlands County, a unique getaway that encompasses the...
Lake Istokpoga: Trophy Fish, Photos & Gators in Lake Placid
- 3 minute read
By Vanessa Caceres The word “Istokpoga” means “people have died here” in an old Seminole language. It’s been said...
Lake Placid: The Caladium Capital of the World
- 4 minute read
By Vanessa Caceres The Caladium Capital of the World. The Town of Murals. Home of Toby’s Clown School. These cute monikers all describe just...