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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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On average, homes in Lake Wales, FL sell after 78 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Wales, FL over the last 12 months is $282,355, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Situated on 2.3 acres, fully fenced and gated. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 1,700 square feet of comfortable living space along with a large workshop/garage. Walking in the front door, you'll step into the living room with vaulted ceilings and stone fireplace that flows into the kitchen and breakfast nook. The dining room is conveniently located just off the kitchen and entryway. The
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
Virtually Staged. Discover the ultimate Florida lifestyle in this beautifully maintained single-family home located directly on the waterfront of Dinner Lake. This home is nestled within the private, gated community of Dinner Lake Shores, offering an exceptional blend of natural beauty and modern structural integrity. Step through the front entryway to find a highly efficient floor plan with a
NO HOA! An acre of land. BEAUTIFUL HOUSE, BEAUTIFUL SETTING. On dead end road, but just a 1/4 mile to BOAT RAMP ROAD (boat access to Lake Pierce). Immaculate 4BR/2BA beauty has everything you've been hoping for & more. It boasts almost 2160 sq ft including the lanai, a layout that features a completely redone "cooks dream" kitchen that comes fully equipped with all of the appliances and has tons
Begin the next exciting chapter of your life in Lake Ashton, Central Florida's premier 55+ active-adult community, where this beautifully maintained and tastefully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath home with a den enjoys a desirable location overlooking the Lake Ashton East Golf Course. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the care and quality found throughout. The updated kitchen features newer
THE CDD BOND IS FULLY PAID on this unique one-owner Marbella floor plan home. As one arrives and tours this home, the pride of ownership is evident. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath open-floor-plan home is located on a large corner lot at the end of a dead-end street. Curb appeal comes from the paver drive and walk, quality plantings, and well-maintained landscaping beds. The lawn and landscaping are
Enjoy true Florida waterfront living at 4742 Cypress Dr in Lake Wales. Available fully furnished. This home sits on a canal with direct access to Lake Pierce, a 3,700-acre Old Florida lake known for peaceful views and excellent bass and speck fishing. An updated seawall, covered dock with two boat slips, and quick access to the open lake make this a great spot for boating and relaxing by the
Virtually Staged. Discover easy Florida living in this beautifully maintained home in Lake Ashton featuring the popular expanded Hemingway floor plan with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a versatile den perfect for a home office, hobby room, or guest space. Best of all, the CDD bond debt is fully paid. Pride of ownership shines throughout, from the landscaping and paver driveway to the move-in ready
ADULT ONLY COMMUNITY---RARE; MAY BE 18 AND UP!!! MOTIVATED SELLER AND OPEN FOR OFFERS!!! Discover LOT 63-15898 US-27 in beautiful Lake Wales, Florida! This turnkey 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom **park model** home is move-in ready and waiting for its next owner to enjoy the relaxed campground lifestyle. The sellers have thoughtfully upgraded this cozy retreat with a spacious deck perfect for soaking up
Looking for a 5-Acre Country Retreat? Don't Miss This One!Bring the horses, bring the toys, and enjoy the peaceful country lifestyle offered by this beautiful 5-acre property!As you enter through the gated entrance, you'll be welcomed by a scenic drive down to the home surrounded by nature and a picturesque pond. A good sized concrete parking area leads to the home, where a spacious
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 the signature 11th hole on Lake Ashton's East Course, as well as a large
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
Experience the freedom of country living without sacrificing convenience at this exceptional 3.79-acre fully fenced and gated estate in Lake Wales. Offering over 3,800 square feet of living space, this versatile property is designed for those who value privacy, flexibility, and room to grow. Whether you’re looking for a multi-generational home, a place to run a business from home, space for
NO DOWNPAYMENT? NO PROBLEM!* NEW PRICE!!!! Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, perfectly designed for comfortable living and entertaining!Step inside and be greeted by an inviting open-concept living space, featuring beautiful tile flooring that flows throughout the main areas. The spacious living room and dining area are bathed in natural light, creating a warm and welcoming
**Motivated seller - all offers welcome!** Discover a park model that defies expectations. This charming 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home has been thoughtfully expanded with generous add-ons, giving it the spacious feel of a mini triple-wide. Step inside and you'll immediately notice the abundance of storage throughout - a rare find in park model living. Even better, everything you see in the home
Resort-Style Living at Its Finest – Fully Furnished Villa Available for Rent! Experience comfort, convenience, and an active lifestyle in this beautifully furnished villa located within a highly desirable resort-style community. Move right in and enjoy a carefree living experience with everything you need already in place. This charming villa offers a welcoming and comfortable layout, perfect for
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
Well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath duplex offering a functional layout. The open living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen, featuring ample cabinetry and a closet pantry. An inside utility area with washer/dryer hookup is located just off the kitchen for everyday ease. Both bedrooms are generously sized, complete with ceiling fans and 4x4 walk-in closets. Remodeled bathroom with new tile
Find your sanctuary at Serenity at Lake Wales. Our contemporary one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes deliver luxury living off US-27, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy impressive finishes, resort-quality amenities, and a peaceful setting that makes coming home feel like a vacation. Experience serene, elevated living in the heart of Florida.
Available starting June 1st—just in time for your summer move! Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 2024, offering 1,671 sqft of modern living space with a bright open-concept design that seamlessly connects the main areas. The home features a fully equipped kitchen with pantry, a spacious primary suite with private bath and walk-in closet, a dedicated laundry area, and a 2-car garage.
Georgetown Square Apartments is located within walking distance of grocery stores, banking & shopping, and only 5 miles from Eagle Ridge Mall, Georgetown Square is truly unique.**We require all renters to have renter's Insurance**Monthly flat rate water charge:1x1 - $611x1 - $66 with washer & dryer connections 2x1 - $802x1 - $85 with washer dryer connections
NO APPLICATION FEE! Nice 3-bedroom, 2-bath mobile home fully updated for rent. 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 laminate flooring throughout—no carpets! The home also includes an indoor laundry room for your washer and
This recently remodeled ESSEX has a great view of the 14th fairway of Lake Ashton's East Course. A pond and preserve are on the opposite side of the fairway and provide great viewing. The interior of the home has been freshly painted. New laminate flooring, custom cabinets with 42" uppers, a granite countertop, and stainless steel appliances are some of the recently added upgrades. The home's
This home is move-in ready. Schedule your tour now or start your application today.Maymont Homes provides residents with convenient solutions, including simplified utility billing, a flexible rent payment option, and an affordable security deposit alternative. Visit our website or contact us for more details. This information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All measurements
Comfortable 2-Bedroom, 2-Bathroom Fully Remodeled Mobile Home for Rent at Hidden Lakes Resort – 112 Laureti LaneWelcome to your new home at 112 Laureti Lane in Hidden Lakes Resort, a charming mobile home and RV park. This fully remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom mobile home offers modern upgrades and a fresh, inviting atmosphere.Step inside and discover a spacious open-concept living and
Property Id: 2720293 Tower Lakes Mobile Park 55+ community. Set near SCENIC Winter Haven - THE CITY OF 100 LAKES, this community offers AFFORDABLE, active RETIREMENT living with nearby favorites like LEGOLAND and BOK TOWER GARDENS. Enjoy TOP AMENITIES like a FITNESS CENTER, heated POOL, JACUZZI, BILLIARDS room, LIBRARY. Stay social with BINGO, POTLUCKS, DANCES, CARD GAMES, and
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