About this city
Also known as: The Chain of Lakes City
Winter Haven is a scenic, fast-growing inland city located in Polk County, Florida, positioned roughly in the center of the Florida peninsula between Tampa and Orlando. Developed in the late 19th century around the citrus industry and expanding rapidly in the 20th century, it was the historic home of Cypress Gardens, Florida's very first major theme park famous for its water-ski shows and botanical beauty. Geographically unique, the city is acclaimed for its spectacular Chain of Lakes, featuring 50 distinct freshwater lakes interconnected by a historic network of navigable, man-made canals. Today, Winter Haven has transformed into a premier family tourism and tech destination, notably hosting the massive Legoland Florida Resort on its historic lakefront.
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Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–3 days
Ride family-friendly coasters and splash at Legoland Florida Resort, rent a pontoon boat to cruise through the historic Chain of Lakes canal network, and watch a performance at the historic Ritz Theatre.
