Lake Wales works to create a vision for the future
In the shadow of the iconic carillon at the Bok Tower Gardens lies Lake Wales, a charming Polk County city of 17,000 with a rich past and a promising future. City leaders here are in the middle of a massive reinvigoration plan, including an $18 million upgrade to the historic downtown, improving walkability and preserving valuable open space. All of this is in line with the vision of Frederick Law Olmstead Jr., the iconic American landscape architect who imagined that Lake Wales could be a living, growing work of art – a city as a garden. “You go downtown and you see the revitalization projects going on, the changes that are being made,” says Karen Boyette, a Realtor with KB Realty Team. “It’s really awesome for Lake Wales that people will be able to get around a historic district where more and more little shops are opening up. It’s very exciting.”
In the shadow of the iconic carillon at the Bok Tower Gardens lies the city of Lake Wales.
Lake Wales has seen a massive reinvigoration with an $18 million upgrade to downtown.
The reinvigoration of downtown is the centerpiece of the community’s redevelopment plans.
The gardens at Bok Tower feature many different species of flora, and changes with the seasons.
1/4
Downtown revitalization is key to the city's growth
The reinvigoration of downtown is the centerpiece of the community’s redevelopment plans. Projects include retrofitting streets to make them more pedestrian-friendly and accessible to bike riders and preserving open space that will be connected to downtown via a network of trails. The downtown district is a growing hub of activity that features a collection of local shops and eclectic eateries. Additional shopping and dining destinations are concentrated along several commercial corridors, with the busiest being State Road 60. “You’ve got Manny’s Original Chophouse; Norby’s, which has been around forever; and Crazy Fish, which is really popular,” Boyette says. The Publix-anchored Southgate Shopping Center is located along SR 60 as well.
Olmsted Jr. who designed Bok tower gardens also helped design the downtown district.
Downtown Lake Wales is full of local mom & pop restaurants and shops
The historic Rhodesbilt Arcade building features an array of shops & dining options for guests.
Start your morning off with a fresh cup of coffee and homemade pastry from The Ranch Coffeehouse
Manny’s Original Chophouse is a local favorite in Lake Wales.
Locals flock to Publix Supermarkets for their weekly groceries
1/6
Tourism and citrus anchor the economy
A revitalized downtown will bring more tourism dollars into the city and boost an economy that has traditionally been dependent on the citrus industry. Citrus groves are still found in and around the city, and Florida’s Natural Growers on U.S. Highway 27 is a major employer. The city’s attempts to attract more manufacturing jobs are an effort to diversify the economy. Advanced Drainage System began construction of a state-of-the-art pipe-making facility in May of 2024.
Rolling Citrus groves are still found in and around Lake Wales.
Residents of Lake Wales can enjoy the fragrance of orange blossoms and citrus every spring.
The Citrus giant, Florida’s Natural Growers is one of Lake Wales' major employer.
In 2024 Advanced Drainage System began construction on a new facility in Lake Wales
1/4
Outdoor recreation is a big draw
Recreational opportunities are plentiful throughout the city. Lake Wailes, which retains a different spelling, is the center of recreational activity within the city limits. Joggers and cyclists can take advantage of the paved Lake Wales Park Trail. The city recently received a $282,380 grant for the Tower Boulevard trail project that will connect the trail to Bok Tower Gardens. Other recreational attractions include the Linton Sports Complex, which hosts youth baseball and softball competitions, and the Lake Wales Soccer Complex. Lake Wales Country Club features an 18-hole public golf course and a tennis program for children and adults. The city’s activity extends to community events, including the annual Orange Blossom Review and Pioneer Days festivities. There’s also plenty to do outside the city. “In the unincorporated areas, there are a lot of interesting things like Lake Kissimmee State Park, and there are a lot of lakes in addition to Lake Wailes,” Boyette says.
The nearby River Ranch community provides a popular spot for hunting and camping. The Westgate River Ranch Resort is the largest dude ranch east of the Mississippi and a luxury glamping destination. “People like to come here for all the outdoor activities,” Boyette says. “That’s a big draw.” Bok Tower Gardens is a stunning collection of botanical diversity that was a gift from author and philanthropist Edward Bok to the United States for the opportunities it had given him after moving from The Netherlands at age 6. Bok is buried at the base of the tower, whose bells are rung by a professional carillonneur every 30 minutes. A concert of the bells is performed twice daily. The gardens feature an array of native wildlife at a popular gathering place that is more than a tourist attraction. “I have a membership,” Boyette says. “On Sundays, it’s a great place to go and have a picnic. There’s also Hammock Gardens, which is specifically for kids. They have cooking classes where they use herbs from the gardens, and there are events around the holidays. It’s very important to the community.”
Locals get their exercise on the Lake Wailes Trail, which winds 2.5 miles around Lake Wailes.
The Linton Sports Complex hosts youth baseball and softball competitions.
Lake Wales Soccer Complex offers a variety of soccer-related activities.
Lake Wales Country Club features an 18-hole public golf course.
Lake Kissimmee State Park was named one of the best parks in Florida.
Exceptional water sport activities can be found at Lake Wales Park.
A stunning collection of botanical diversity Bok Tower draws thousands from across the U.S.
1/7
Sought-after homes in 55-plus communities
Older homes in a variety of architectural styles are found in walkable neighborhood settings in the heart of the city. Larger homes are found in waterfront settings, golf course settings and on acreage lots in outlying areas. The Lake Ashton 55-plus community features some of the most sought-after housing. Single-family home prices range from the mid-$100,00s to more than $700,000 for lakefront homes. Manufactured homes starting at $60,000 provide an alternative single-family option. Multi-family options include condos and townhouses from the low $100,000s to the high $200,000s. The city’s median sales price is around $300,000. “New construction is going up everywhere, in the outskirts as well as the city proper, but it’s still a good value compared to Lakeland and Winter Haven, which are bigger and more developed,” Boyette says.
Lake Wales if full of eclectic home styles that keep the small town charm.
Larger homes are found in waterfront settings, on large acres of land in Lake Wales.
Manufactured homes starting at $60,000 provide an alternative option for those 55 and older.
Multi-family options include condos and townhomes from the low $100K to the high $200K.
New construction is going up everywhere in the Lake Wales area.
Lake Ashton features some of the most sought-after housing in all of Lake Wales.
1/6
Lake Wales High School partners with Bok Tower Gardens
Students are served by Polk County Public Schools, a district that earns a B from Niche. Lake Wales has its own charter school district, which features the Bok Academy middle school. Lake Wales Senior High School, rated B-plus, benefits from a partnership with Bok Tower Gardens to offer courses focusing on the environment, agriculture and tourism.
Polk Avenue Elementary School is a public school located in Lake Wales, FL.
Edward W. Bok Academy North is an above average public charter school located in Lake Wales, FL.
McLaughlin Middle School is a public school located in Lake Wales, FL.
Lake Wales Senior High School is an above average public school in Lake Wales, FL.
1/4
Several main roads connect the city to Central Florida destinations
Citrus Connection bus stops are found mostly in the city’s established residential areas, concentrated between State Road 60 and Central Avenue. Advent Health Lake Wales is located near SR 60 in the heart of the city. SR 60 provides access to larger communities to the west, including Bartow and Lakeland. Heading north, U.S. Highway 27 leads directly to Haines City, and Scenic Highway 17 leads directly to Davenport. The nearest full-service airport, Orlando International, is about a 40-mile drive up Interstate 4.
Crime
According to FBI data provided by the city's police department, while murders increased, the overall rate of violent crime fell 33 percent from 2022 to 2023. The rate of property crime fell 8 percent during that time.
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Jeffery Palmer
Video By
Nick Seitz
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tom Langmann,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Lake Wales, FL sell after 70 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Wales, FL over the last 12 months is $285,240, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
If you’re looking for outdoor living with your own private pool—a rare find in this community—this is your new home! Welcome to Chalet Estates on Lake Suzanne, a highly sought-after 55+ gated community.This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, built in 2006, offers over 1,300 sq. ft. of living space. Recent upgrades include pool resurfacing and rescreening (2024), luxury vinyl flooring in the living
Welcome to 1306 Morningside Dr, a home that exudes charm and sophistication. The living room is graced with a cozy fireplace, perfect for those chilly evenings. The kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting all stainless steel appliances that add a modern touch. Retreat to the primary bathroom, where a jacuzzi tub awaits to provide a spa-like experience. Step outside to a patio that's perfect for
Own your land and claim your own piece of Florida paradise in Saddlebag Lake Resort, a gated 55+ boating community in Lake Wales with no lot rent. This move-in-ready one-bedroom, one-bath home offers low-maintenance living in one of Central Florida’s most desirable active adult lakefront communities. Ideal as a winter retreat, snowbird getaway, full-time residence, or a potential income-producing
Not only is this truly unique one-owner Lake Ashton Golf Club home PRICED FOR A QUICK SALE, but the CDD BOND IS ALSO FULLY PAID. One of the very few alternate front-elevation TAHATI floor-plan homes ever built in Lake Ashton, this home is located on an oversized, pie-shaped cul-de-sac lot. The lot abuts the tee boxes of Lake Ashton's East Course's signature 11th hole as well as a large pond. The
NEW PRICE!! YOU OWN THE LAND!! with this beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom doublewide manufactured home located on a spacious corner lot in the desirable, rural, peaceful, 55+ lakefront community of Breeze Hill east of Lake Wales. This home has wonderful curb appeal with the beautiful landscaping that is in place. An irrigation system that helps keep that landscaping looking great year-round. This
OWN YOUR OWN LAND! 55+, pet friendly, community of neighbors! This charming updated home offers 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, perfect for those seeking a comfortable and low-maintenance lifestyle. Landscaped yard and a paver driveway. The open floor plan provides a spacious, light & bright, inviting home. Updated flooring, AC with HEAT PUMP and all duct work replaced just 5 yrs ago. Beautifully
Custom-built and thoughtfully designed, this one-acre corner-lot residence offers a rare sense of space, privacy, and calm within a peaceful lakefront community with lake access and an optional HOA of just $150 yearly. Created for an owner who valued quality, comfort, and quiet living, the home feels intentional, refined, and welcoming from the moment you arrive. Vaulted ceilings and 33x33
THE CDD BOND IS FULLY PAID on this well-maintained, ready-to-move-in, "snowbird-owned" Devon floor plan home. But what sets this Lake Ashton Golf Club home apart is its location on a pond-frontage lot with a nature preserve view and a street that ends at a cul-de-sac. Upon arrival, the outstanding curb appeal catches your eye. The exterior of this home was painted just last year. The roof was
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. MOTIVATED SELLERS! Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath Monte Carlo floor plan on a spacious corner lot in the highly desirable Palms area of the community with a peekaboo view of Lake Ashton. Recent updates include a new roof and exterior paint (2023). Inside, a split floor plan offers privacy with two guest bedrooms and a full bath on one side, and
THE CDD BOND IS FULLY PAID on this outstanding, highly upgraded, snowbird-owned Valencia floor plan. This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with a den and family room, nearly 3,000 square feet, is located on an oversized, premium golf-course-frontage lot with a pond and direct lake views. The home is full of special features, both visible and unseen, such as the wire-mesh-reinforced slab on which this home
If you have a "furry" member of your household, you do not want to miss out on this home. A 24-foot-long, fully "birdcaged" pet run with artificial turf for easy cleanup is at the back of the home and is attached to the covered, screened lanai. Easy access for that family pet. This 3-bedroom/2-bath DEVON floor plan has great curb appeal, with quality plantings, stately palms, an extra-wide paver
Solar will be paid off at closing with an acceptable offer, delivering immediate energy savings to the next owner. Welcome to this completely remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home set on a spacious, private lot in Lake Wales, offering approximately 1,600 sq ft of comfortable, move-in-ready living. Inside, you’ll find all-new flooring throughout, freshly textured walls and ceilings, and new interior
New roof done and the Seller is offering buyer credit at closing to help with new carpeting! Seller is motivated, so assistance with carpeting OR a interest rate buy-done; YOU CHOOSE. This community is located near shopping and medical facilities, so convenience is all around! This half-duplex is located in the community's area that is 55+. Brick house, 3 yr old AC, indoor laundry, and master
CDD BOND DEBT PAID IN FULL. Thoughtfully designed 2 bedroom plus den RV garage home featuring an oversized, air conditioned Florida room and exceptional handicap accessibility throughout. This home was built with care and intention, offering ADA doorways, pocket doors, accessible closets, kitchen shelving, and a wide open tiled shower in the primary suite. The open concept kitchen and living area
Modular Home! - USDA Qualified! No HOA, quiet neighborhood, fenced yard, fire pit, carport and workshop shed with power. Split bedroom floor plan! Inside Laundry in utility room provides more storage. AC in 2020, Roof in 2017. This MODULAR home is built with 2x6 walls! The Workshop is 12x24, wood floor and electricity. Carport is on a 23x11 concrete pad. Cute 3/2 has a kitchen with granite
Nice 3-bedroom, 2-bath mobile home fully updated for rent in Hidden Lakes Resort. Welcome to your new home at 102 Laureti Lane in Hidden Lakes Resort, a charming mobile home and RV park. This fully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath mobile home offers modern upgrades and a fresh, inviting atmosphere. Both bathrooms are fully updated with new sinks and both have tiled walk in showers. Enjoy new wood-look
Be the FIRST to live in this brand new 2025 Lennar-built home, nestled in the growing community of Hunt Club Groves! This two-story home blends modern finishes with a spacious layout designed for everyday living and comfort. Step into a long foyer that opens to an inviting great room, where the kitchen overlooks the living and dining areas—perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Durable ceramic
Stunning new house ready for move-in. This gorgeous house has 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. All fully tiled on the first floor, with carpets on the stairs and in the bedrooms. The house layout has all bedrooms on the 2nd floor. The kitchen comes fully stocked with stainless steel brand new appliances such as a Refrigerator, Range, Dishwasher, and Microwave. Open layout with the living and dining
Stunning new house ready for move-in. This gorgeous house has 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. All fully tiled with carpets only in the bedrooms. The house layout has split bedrooms with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on the left side of the house, and the primary bathroom on the right side of the house. The kitchen comes fully stocked with stainless steel brand new appliances such as a Refrigerator,
Set Your Own Pace at Alera at Hunters GlenDiscover a modern vision for upscale apartment living at Alera at Hunters Glen—where style meets simplicity in Lake Wales, FL. Embrace the freedom of a lock-and-leave lifestyle in a sophisticated community designed for those who live life on their own terms. With a seamless blend of contemporary design and refined elegance, Alera is where your
Serenity at Lake Wales will feature a mix of well-designed one, two and three bedroom apartments with a market leading amenity package with a fresh, modern design. Community amenities include but are not limited to: resort- style swimming pool, luxurious, modern clubhouse, state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor kitchen/grill, dog park, car wash and on-site leasing office. Unit amenities include
This expansive two-story home boasts a well-designed layout, featuring a first floor dedicated to shared living and entertaining. The open concept design seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining room and family room, with a patio extending the interior space outdoors. Upstairs, a spacious loft separates the three secondary bedrooms from the serene owner's suite. Completing the home is a convenient
Discover newly upgraded studio apartments at La Provence Studio Apartments in Lake Wales, FL. Choose between a standard studio or a studio with a private patio. Each unit features a modern open layout and updated finishes.The community sits on 12 acres of open land and includes private lake access for fishing and kayaking. Additional amenities include gated entry, on-site laundry, and a
Welcome to your new home in Mabel Place, Lake Wales, FL. Discover this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home located in the growing Mabel Place community. Offering 1,589 square feet of modern single-story living, this home combines comfort, style, and convenience. Washer and dryer units are included in the rent for added value. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, featuring
Extraordinary corner property with cozy spaces and perfect layout for pleasant family enjoyment. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with the comfort you want for your family. A quiet community with access to the market you frequent.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
