Haines City FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Haines City, Florida.
1. Lake Eva Park
RECREATION AND RELAXATION
Lake Eva Park offers visitors a wonderful place for walking, picnicking, and enjoying outdoor activities in Haines City. The park features magnificent oak trees surrounding the lake, creating a refreshing breeze and peaceful atmosphere. Families particularly appreciate the super playground designed for small children.
2. Ridge Island Groves
AUTHENTIC CITRUS FARM
Ridge Island Groves is a popular citrus farm in Haines City showcasing Florida's agricultural heritage. The farm typically closes for summer vacation and reopens in September when Florida citrus comes back in season. Visitors can experience firsthand the citrus farming traditions that have been central to the region's identity.
3. Ridge Scenic Highway
HISTORIC FLORIDA DRIVE
The Ridge Scenic Highway extends 38 miles along the Lake Wales Ridge from Haines City to Frostproof, offering a glimpse into old Florida. Travelers can enjoy views of lakes, orange groves, and attractions like Bok Tower along this designated Florida Scenic Highway. The drive introduces visitors to historic communities and rural agriculture that Central Florida is famous for.
4. Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park
NATURAL FLORIDA WILDERNESS
Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park offers visitors a peaceful natural retreat near Haines City. The sandy trails require appropriate footwear, but reward hikers with authentic Florida wilderness experiences. Visitors particularly appreciate the peace and quiet that can be found within this unspoiled state park.
5. Haines City Community Theater
LOCAL LIVE PERFORMANCES
The Haines City Community Theater has been providing intimate live theatre experiences for decades to guests from near and far. The venue features a nicely finished interior with a welcoming lobby area and a small but impressive performance space. This dedicated group offers very reasonably priced entertainment, with current schedules available on their community website or Facebook page.
6. Southern Dunes Golf Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Southern Dunes Golf Club is consistently recognized as one of the Orlando area's finest golf courses, offering an 18-hole championship experience. The dramatic hillside layout stretches over 7,200 yards and features impressive 100-foot elevation changes unusual for Florida. The course is characterized by large, undulating greens, wide fairways flanked by more than 170 bunkers, and a challenging yet rewarding design.
7. Haines Family Farm
SEASONAL BLUEBERRY PICKING
Haines Family Farm welcomes visitors each spring for blueberry U-pick experiences, offering farm-to-table goodness in a rural setting. Located inland from Orlando, this family farm provides adventurous types with memorable outdoor activities in the heart of agricultural Florida. The farm is nestled in the scenic countryside, providing a genuine connection to Florida's farming traditions.
8. Thunder on the Ridge
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Thunder on the Ridge is Haines City's premier Independence Day celebration held annually at Lake Eva Park. The event features live music, food vendors, and a beer garden for attendees to enjoy while celebrating the Fourth of July. This community gathering has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike seeking festive summer entertainment.
9. La Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
La Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant offers delicious, locally-owned Mexican cuisine in downtown Haines City. The restaurant is particularly known for its excellent Chiles Rellenos and Camarones a la Mexicana dishes that come highly recommended by visitors. Food enthusiasts who seek authentic local dining experiences in each town they visit will appreciate this culinary gem.
10. Lake Marion Creek Horseshoe Scrub Tract
DIVERSE ECOLOGICAL PRESERVE
The Lake Marion Creek Horseshoe Scrub Tract encompasses 8,083 acres of diverse Florida ecosystems near Haines City. This natural area contains pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, hardwood swamps, oak hammock, scrubs, and freshwater marshes with at least 14 species of rare plants. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot various animals from deer and turkey to scrub jays while exploring this ecological treasure.
11. Balmoral Resort Florida
LUXURY VACATION EXPERIENCE
Balmoral Resort Florida provides a luxury vacation rental experience for visitors to Haines City. Guests can enjoy the resort's water park (with day tickets available for non-residents), have poolside drinks at the Bar & Grill, and access premium amenities. The Balmoral Event Center regularly hosts various events and shows, adding entertainment options to the resort experience.
12. Lake Eva Aquatic Center
SWIMMING AND RECREATION
The Lake Eva Aquatic Center features a competition pool offering refreshing aquatic recreation in Haines City. This facility is part of the larger Lake Eva Park complex, providing swimming opportunities for visitors and residents alike. The center serves as a community hub for water-based activities and fitness throughout the year.
13. Snodgrass Island
NATURAL LAKE RETREAT
Snodgrass Island is a natural attraction near Haines City offering a serene escape for nature lovers. This island setting provides opportunities to experience Florida's lake country in a more secluded environment. Visitors appreciate the chance to explore authentic Florida landscapes away from more developed tourist areas.
14. Ember Dog Park
CANINE RECREATION AREA
Ember Dog Park provides a dedicated recreation space for dogs and their owners in Haines City. This pet-friendly destination allows canine companions to exercise and socialize in a safe, enclosed environment. Dog lovers appreciate having a specific area where their four-legged friends can run freely while they enjoy Haines City's pleasant outdoor setting.
15. Feltrim Sports Premier Sports Complex
ATHLETIC EVENTS VENUE
Feltrim Sports Premier Sports Complex serves as Haines City's hub for sporting events and athletic activities. The complex provides facilities for various sports, catering to both competitive events and recreational play. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy watching tournaments or participating in organized sports activities at this modern venue.