Winter Haven, located 40 minutes from Orlando, has many meanings. For some, it’s as literal as it sounds – the perfect retreat from the harsh winter months up north. For others, Winter Haven means a relaxing way to enjoy its 55+ lakes. Here, you can watch vibrant orange and pink sunsets from a dock while sipping a glass of wine or craft beer. It’s also the perfect place for pontoon boat rides or sports like paddleboarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking and fishing.
Ready to book a weekend getaway for the whole family? Below is a list of exceptionally fun things to do in Winter Haven.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park
For the kids – or even the kid in you – Winter Haven is home to LEGOLAND Florida Resort, a theme park that is both entertaining and interactive. This resort includes the Pirate Island Hotel, LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat. And just a short walk from LEGOLAND is the Peppa Pig Theme Park for preschoolers.
Grove Roots Brewery
Downtown Winter Haven is home to one of Central Florida’s best breweries: Grove Roots Brewing Co. Not only do you get amazing beer here, it’s also a welcoming place for the whole family, including kids and dogs. Little ones can choose from a variety of sodas, juices, and sparkling waters. In addition to outdoor games, Grove Roots has a variety of board games that can be borrowed from the staff.
Arts & Culture
Winter Haven offers a rich variety of arts and culture options. You can explore multiple art galleries and interactive art experiences, locally owned restaurants and artisan shops, and stroll the shopping district in the historic downtown. Additionally, the town is renowned for the locally produced music renaissance at Gram Parson’s Derry Down and the historic Ritz Theatre. It’s also home to one of Florida’s best community theaters, Theatre Winter Haven. A great way to get to know the town is to book a culinary experience with Winter Haven Food Tours.
Boat Tours
No weekend in Winter Haven is complete without exploring the many lakes that make up the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes. We recommend booking a tour with The Living Water Boat Cruises while you're here. This company offers 10 different types of boat tours, including a sunset cruise, a day trip with lunch, or a 2-hour tour. Tours depart from various locations around Winter Haven.
Harborside
This gorgeous restaurant is on the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes, allowing you to enjoy incredible sunset views while dining. Harborside offers a delicious array of seafood, as well as meat and pasta options. The kids menu includes Jumbo Fried Shrimp, Cheese Quesadilla, Chicken Tenders, Fettuccine Pasta, and Cheddar Mac & Cheese. We dare you to eat your entire Harborside Fish Sandwich in one sitting.
Andy's Igloo Drive In Restaurant
Last but not least, we present Andy's Igloo Drive In Restaurant, where you can savor delicious burgers, fries, and the famous Garbage Can shake. Not only is this place the most retro and super “cool” building in town, but it also offers ice cream and shakes that are out of this world.
All this diversity of activities makes Winter Haven a perfect destination for everyone, ideal to visit, enjoy, and why not, stay for more than a weekend.
Source: Visit Central Florida.