Winter Haven, situated an hour southwest of Orlando, is a Central Florida city that offers theme park fun, lakeside recreation, and culinary adventures for the whole family. Home to LEGOLAND and Peppa Pig Theme Park, Winter Haven is also just 30 miles from Walt Disney World and 18 miles from Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, making it an ideal destination for a park-filled getaway.
With 50 lakes within or bordering its city limits, Winter Haven is known as the Chain of Lakes City and Water Ski Capital of the World. Here, visitors can watch the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team on Lake Eloise, take a scenic boat cruise, do some kayaking or paddleboarding, and rent a pontoon boat to explore the chain of lakes and fish for bass. Off the water, there are plenty of land-based adventures to be had, from birding to exploring the parks and trails.
In town, entertainment takes a variety of forms at the Historic Ritz Theater, Gram Parsons Derry Down, and Theatre Winter Haven, which has been called “one of the best community theaters in America.” Retail therapy can be found in Winter Haven’s boutiques, including Andy Thornal Company, and 417 Boutique, and foodies will delight in the city’s wide variety of restaurants, from popular waterfront eateries including Harborside Winter Haven and Harry’s Old Place to Andy’s Igloo, a family favorite since 1951, where visitors can grab burgers, shakes, and ice cream. To taste a little bit of everything, foodies can check out Winter Haven Food Tours, which offers a variety of food-tour packages.
When it comes to finding a place to stay, Winter Haven has accommodations to suit any travel style or budget, from LEGOLAND’s three hotels — Pirate Island Hotel, LEGOLAND Hotel, and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat — to RV parks and campgrounds.
Plan your trip at Visit Central Florida.
FAMILY FUN
Visit kid-friendly theme parks and other attractions.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Catch a show and see public art displays.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Explore the parks and trails, paddle the water, and take a boat cruise.
WATERWAYS
Winter Haven boasts 50 lakes within or bordering its city limits.
ACCESSIBILITY
Check out Winter Haven’s accessible parks and attractions.
DINING
Enjoy fine dining, visit a cozy cafe or bake shop, or take a food tour.
SHOPPING
Shop the local boutiques for clothing, gifts, and outdoor gear.
SPAS & WELLNESS
Book a relaxing spa treatment or yoga session.
SPORTS
Hit the links on Winter Haven’s sunny golf courses.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Visit dog-friendly restaurants and attractions.
PLACES TO STAY
Choose from hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and more.
