Lake Wales, FL, is a charming city nestled in the rolling hills of Central Florida, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community. Known for its picturesque landscapes, cultural richness, and strategic location, Lake Wales is an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle. In this blog, we’ll explore four compelling reasons why moving to Lake Wales, FL could be one of the best decisions you ever make.
1. Historic Charm and Scenic Beauty
Lake Wales is a city steeped in history and surrounded by the natural beauty that defines Central Florida. Founded in the early 20th century, the city has preserved much of its historic charm, with its downtown area featuring beautifully restored buildings, quaint shops, and tree-lined streets. The city’s historic district is a testament to its rich past, offering residents and visitors a glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage that makes Lake Wales unique.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Lake Wales is the Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark that has been a symbol of serenity and beauty for nearly a century. The gardens, designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., are a lush oasis of native plants, tranquil ponds, and shaded pathways. At the heart of the gardens stands the Singing Tower, a 205-foot-tall carillon tower that houses one of the finest carillons in the world. The tower’s concerts, held daily, provide a peaceful and melodic backdrop to the garden’s natural splendor.
The city’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in the numerous parks and outdoor spaces that are scattered throughout Lake Wales. Lake Wailes Park, for example, offers stunning views of Lake Wailes, with walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pier that provide residents with ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The park is also home to several community events throughout the year, making it a central gathering place for residents.
Lake Wales is also known for its scenic drives, particularly along State Road 17, also known as the Scenic Highway. This route winds through the hills and valleys of Central Florida, offering breathtaking views of citrus groves, rolling landscapes, and charming small towns. Whether you’re a nature lover or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors, Lake Wales offers a picturesque setting that is hard to match.
In summary, Lake Wales’ historic charm and scenic beauty make it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful and aesthetically pleasing place to call home. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic downtown, strolling through the Bok Tower Gardens, or enjoying the view from Lake Wailes Park, you’ll find that Lake Wales offers a serene and beautiful environment that is perfect for living, working, and relaxing.
2. A Strong Sense of Community with Rich Cultural Heritage
Lake Wales is more than just a beautiful place to live; it’s a community where people come together to celebrate their shared heritage, support one another, and build lasting relationships. The city’s strong sense of community is evident in the numerous events, festivals, and cultural activities that take place throughout the year, offering residents plenty of opportunities to connect and engage with their neighbors.
One of the most significant cultural events in Lake Wales is the Lake Wales Arts Festival, which has been a staple of the community for decades. This annual event attracts artists from across the country and offers residents the chance to enjoy a wide variety of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and more. The festival is a celebration of the arts and creativity, bringing together people of all ages to enjoy and appreciate the talents of local and national artists.
In addition to the arts, Lake Wales is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The Lake Wales Museum, housed in a historic train depot, offers a fascinating look at the city’s past, with exhibits that explore the early days of the city, the citrus industry, and the lives of the people who have called Lake Wales home over the years. The museum is a popular destination for history buffs and those interested in learning more about the area’s unique heritage.
The city’s commitment to preserving its history and culture is further evident in its support for local businesses and artisans. The downtown area is home to a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants that reflect the city’s cultural diversity and entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of art, a handcrafted gift, or a delicious meal, you’ll find that Lake Wales offers a vibrant and thriving local economy.
Lake Wales is also a place where community involvement is encouraged and celebrated. The city is home to numerous civic organizations, volunteer groups, and community initiatives that provide residents with opportunities to give back and make a difference. Whether it’s through participating in a local charity event, volunteering at the museum, or joining a neighborhood association, residents of Lake Wales have plenty of ways to get involved and contribute to the community.
In summary, Lake Wales’ strong sense of community and rich cultural heritage make it a welcoming and inclusive place to live. Whether you’re attending a local festival, exploring the city’s history, or supporting local businesses, you’ll find that Lake Wales offers a vibrant and connected community where everyone is welcome.
3. Affordable Living with Quality Amenities
One of the most attractive aspects of Lake Wales is its affordability, which makes it an ideal location for individuals and families looking to enjoy a high quality of life without the high cost of living associated with larger cities. The cost of housing in Lake Wales is significantly lower than in many other parts of Florida, offering a range of options from historic homes in the downtown area to modern developments in the suburbs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bungalow or a spacious family home, you’ll find that Lake Wales offers a variety of housing options to suit your needs and budget.
In addition to affordable housing, Lake Wales offers a low cost of living across the board, including utilities, groceries, and healthcare. This affordability allows residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial pressures that can come with living in a more expensive area. For retirees, young families, and professionals alike, Lake Wales provides an opportunity to live well and save for the future.
Despite its affordability, Lake Wales does not compromise on quality amenities and services. The city is home to a number of excellent healthcare facilities, including the Lake Wales Medical Center, which provides comprehensive medical services to the community. The center is part of the AdventHealth network, ensuring that residents have access to top-quality healthcare right in their own backyard.
Education is another area where Lake Wales shines. The city is served by the Polk County School District, which is known for its commitment to academic excellence and student success. Schools like Hillcrest Elementary and Lake Wales High School are recognized for their strong programs and supportive learning environments. For those interested in higher education, Polk State College’s Lake Wales campus offers a variety of degree programs and continuing education opportunities, making it easy for residents to further their education and career goals.
In terms of recreation, Lake Wales offers a wealth of amenities that cater to a wide range of interests. The city’s parks and recreation department maintains a variety of facilities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and community centers, providing residents with ample opportunities to stay active and engaged. The Lake Wales Family YMCA is another popular destination, offering fitness classes, swimming pools, and youth programs that cater to all ages.
Lake Wales’ combination of affordability and quality amenities makes it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether you’re raising a family, planning for retirement, or simply seeking a place to call home, Lake Wales offers a cost-effective solution that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
4. Strategic Location with Growing Economic Opportunities
Lake Wales is strategically located in Central Florida, making it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the tranquility of small-town living while still being close to major cities and attractions. The city is conveniently situated along U.S. Highway 27, providing easy access to both Tampa and Orlando, as well as the nearby cities of Winter Haven and Lakeland. This central location offers residents the best of both worlds—a peaceful environment with easy access to urban amenities and job opportunities.
The city’s strategic location has also made it an attractive destination for businesses and industries looking to establish a presence in Central Florida. Lake Wales is home to a diverse economy, with key industries including agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and tourism. The city’s agricultural heritage is still very much alive, with citrus farming playing a significant role in the local economy. However, Lake Wales has also embraced modern industries, with several manufacturing and distribution companies calling the city home.
Tourism is another major contributor to the local economy, thanks in part to the city’s proximity to major attractions like LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Bok Tower Gardens, and the Chain of Lakes. The city’s rich history and cultural attractions, combined with its natural beauty, make it a popular destination for visitors from around the state and beyond. This influx of tourists supports a variety of local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, creating jobs and economic opportunities for residents.
The Lake Wales Economic Development Council (LWEDC) plays a key role in supporting the city’s economic growth. The council works to attract new businesses to the area, support local entrepreneurs, and create a vibrant and sustainable economy. Their efforts have led to a number of new developments and business expansions in recent years, further enhancing the city’s economic prospects.
Education and workforce development are also priorities in Lake Wales, with local institutions offering programs that prepare residents for careers in growing industries. Polk State College, for example, provides a range of degree and certification programs that align with the needs of local employers, ensuring that the city’s workforce is well-prepared for the jobs of the future.
In summary, Lake Wales’ strategic location and growing economic opportunities make it an ideal place for those looking to advance their careers, start a business, or simply enjoy a high quality of life. Whether you’re commuting to a nearby city, working locally, or planning for the future, Lake Wales offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and economic opportunity.
Conclusion
If you and your loved ones decide to make the move to or from Lake Wales, FL, please feel free to call our team at We Care Affordable Moving. We’ll be more than happy to give you a very affordable quote and make your move an easy and unforgettable experience.
Top Reasons to Move to Lake Wales, FL: A Hidden Gem in Florida