Lakeland & Surrounds

The urban and suburban heart of Polk County, centered on Lakeland — the county's largest city and economic engine. Lakeland sits along the I-4 corridor between Tampa (35 miles west) and Orlando (55 miles east), with a revitalized downtown anchored by Munn Park, Florida Southern College (home to the world's largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture), and the Detroit Tigers' spring training facility at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium. The city is famous for its Chain of Lakes — 16 interconnected lakes offering waterfront living and recreation. Mulberry, to the south, has a phosphate mining heritage and affordable housing. Highland City is a fast-growing census-designated place south of Lakeland along US-98. Kathleen, northwest of Lakeland, offers suburban family living near Lakeland's commercial centers. Citrus Connection bus service provides coverage throughout the Lakeland area with color-coded routes radiating from the downtown transit hub.