Lake Wales works to create a vision for the future
In the shadow of the iconic carillon at the Bok Tower Gardens lies Lake Wales, a charming Polk County city of 17,000 with a rich past and a promising future. City leaders here are in the middle of a massive reinvigoration plan, including an $18 million upgrade to the historic downtown, improving walkability and preserving valuable open space. All of this is in line with the vision of Frederick Law Olmstead Jr., the iconic American landscape architect who imagined that Lake Wales could be a living, growing work of art – a city as a garden. “You go downtown and you see the revitalization projects going on, the changes that are being made,” says Karen Boyette, a Realtor with KB Realty Team. “It’s really awesome for Lake Wales that people will be able to get around a historic district where more and more little shops are opening up. It’s very exciting.”
In the shadow of the iconic carillon at the Bok Tower Gardens lies the city of Lake Wales.
Lake Wales has seen a massive reinvigoration with an $18 million upgrade to downtown.
The reinvigoration of downtown is the centerpiece of the community’s redevelopment plans.
The gardens at Bok Tower feature many different species of flora, and changes with the seasons.
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Downtown revitalization is key to the city's growth
The reinvigoration of downtown is the centerpiece of the community’s redevelopment plans. Projects include retrofitting streets to make them more pedestrian-friendly and accessible to bike riders and preserving open space that will be connected to downtown via a network of trails. The downtown district is a growing hub of activity that features a collection of local shops and eclectic eateries. Additional shopping and dining destinations are concentrated along several commercial corridors, with the busiest being State Road 60. “You’ve got Manny’s Original Chophouse; Norby’s, which has been around forever; and Crazy Fish, which is really popular,” Boyette says. The Publix-anchored Southgate Shopping Center is located along SR 60 as well.
Olmsted Jr. who designed Bok tower gardens also helped design the downtown district.
Downtown Lake Wales is full of local mom & pop restaurants and shops
The historic Rhodesbilt Arcade building features an array of shops & dining options for guests.
Start your morning off with a fresh cup of coffee and homemade pastry from The Ranch Coffeehouse
Manny’s Original Chophouse is a local favorite in Lake Wales.
Locals flock to Publix Supermarkets for their weekly groceries
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Tourism and citrus anchor the economy
A revitalized downtown will bring more tourism dollars into the city and boost an economy that has traditionally been dependent on the citrus industry. Citrus groves are still found in and around the city, and Florida’s Natural Growers on U.S. Highway 27 is a major employer. The city’s attempts to attract more manufacturing jobs are an effort to diversify the economy. Advanced Drainage System began construction of a state-of-the-art pipe-making facility in May of 2024.
Rolling Citrus groves are still found in and around Lake Wales.
Residents of Lake Wales can enjoy the fragrance of orange blossoms and citrus every spring.
The Citrus giant, Florida’s Natural Growers is one of Lake Wales' major employer.
In 2024 Advanced Drainage System began construction on a new facility in Lake Wales
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Outdoor recreation is a big draw
Recreational opportunities are plentiful throughout the city. Lake Wailes, which retains a different spelling, is the center of recreational activity within the city limits. Joggers and cyclists can take advantage of the paved Lake Wales Park Trail. The city recently received a $282,380 grant for the Tower Boulevard trail project that will connect the trail to Bok Tower Gardens. Other recreational attractions include the Linton Sports Complex, which hosts youth baseball and softball competitions, and the Lake Wales Soccer Complex. Lake Wales Country Club features an 18-hole public golf course and a tennis program for children and adults. The city’s activity extends to community events, including the annual Orange Blossom Review and Pioneer Days festivities. There’s also plenty to do outside the city. “In the unincorporated areas, there are a lot of interesting things like Lake Kissimmee State Park, and there are a lot of lakes in addition to Lake Wailes,” Boyette says.
The nearby River Ranch community provides a popular spot for hunting and camping. The Westgate River Ranch Resort is the largest dude ranch east of the Mississippi and a luxury glamping destination. “People like to come here for all the outdoor activities,” Boyette says. “That’s a big draw.” Bok Tower Gardens is a stunning collection of botanical diversity that was a gift from author and philanthropist Edward Bok to the United States for the opportunities it had given him after moving from The Netherlands at age 6. Bok is buried at the base of the tower, whose bells are rung by a professional carillonneur every 30 minutes. A concert of the bells is performed twice daily. The gardens feature an array of native wildlife at a popular gathering place that is more than a tourist attraction. “I have a membership,” Boyette says. “On Sundays, it’s a great place to go and have a picnic. There’s also Hammock Gardens, which is specifically for kids. They have cooking classes where they use herbs from the gardens, and there are events around the holidays. It’s very important to the community.”
Locals get their exercise on the Lake Wailes Trail, which winds 2.5 miles around Lake Wailes.
The Linton Sports Complex hosts youth baseball and softball competitions.
Lake Wales Soccer Complex offers a variety of soccer-related activities.
Lake Wales Country Club features an 18-hole public golf course.
Lake Kissimmee State Park was named one of the best parks in Florida.
Exceptional water sport activities can be found at Lake Wales Park.
A stunning collection of botanical diversity Bok Tower draws thousands from across the U.S.
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Sought-after homes in 55-plus communities
Older homes in a variety of architectural styles are found in walkable neighborhood settings in the heart of the city. Larger homes are found in waterfront settings, golf course settings and on acreage lots in outlying areas. The Lake Ashton 55-plus community features some of the most sought-after housing. Single-family home prices range from the mid-$100,00s to more than $700,000 for lakefront homes. Manufactured homes starting at $60,000 provide an alternative single-family option. Multi-family options include condos and townhouses from the low $100,000s to the high $200,000s. The city’s median sales price is around $300,000. “New construction is going up everywhere, in the outskirts as well as the city proper, but it’s still a good value compared to Lakeland and Winter Haven, which are bigger and more developed,” Boyette says.
Lake Wales if full of eclectic home styles that keep the small town charm.
Larger homes are found in waterfront settings, on large acres of land in Lake Wales.
Manufactured homes starting at $60,000 provide an alternative option for those 55 and older.
Multi-family options include condos and townhomes from the low $100K to the high $200K.
New construction is going up everywhere in the Lake Wales area.
Lake Ashton features some of the most sought-after housing in all of Lake Wales.
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Lake Wales High School partners with Bok Tower Gardens
Students are served by Polk County Public Schools, a district that earns a B from Niche. Lake Wales has its own charter school district, which features the Bok Academy middle school. Lake Wales Senior High School, rated B-plus, benefits from a partnership with Bok Tower Gardens to offer courses focusing on the environment, agriculture and tourism.
Polk Avenue Elementary School is a public school located in Lake Wales, FL.
Edward W. Bok Academy North is an above average public charter school located in Lake Wales, FL.
McLaughlin Middle School is a public school located in Lake Wales, FL.
Lake Wales Senior High School is an above average public school in Lake Wales, FL.
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Several main roads connect the city to Central Florida destinations
Citrus Connection bus stops are found mostly in the city’s established residential areas, concentrated between State Road 60 and Central Avenue. Advent Health Lake Wales is located near SR 60 in the heart of the city. SR 60 provides access to larger communities to the west, including Bartow and Lakeland. Heading north, U.S. Highway 27 leads directly to Haines City, and Scenic Highway 17 leads directly to Davenport. The nearest full-service airport, Orlando International, is about a 40-mile drive up Interstate 4.
Crime
According to FBI data provided by the city's police department, while murders increased, the overall rate of violent crime fell 33 percent from 2022 to 2023. The rate of property crime fell 8 percent during that time.
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Jeffery Palmer
Video By
Nick Seitz
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On average, homes in Lake Wales, FL sell after 74 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Wales, FL over the last 12 months is $284,990, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 1306 Morningside Dr, a home that exudes charm and sophistication. The living room is graced with a cozy fireplace, perfect for those chilly evenings. The kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting all stainless steel appliances that add a modern touch. Retreat to the primary bathroom, where a jacuzzi tub awaits to provide a spa-like experience. Step outside to a patio that's perfect for
Under Construction. This new four-bedroom home offers convenient single-story living. Upon entry are three secondary bedrooms steps from a full bathroom, leading to an open plan shared between the kitchen, living and dining areas. Tucked away to the side of the home is a versatile flex space, ideal as a studio or office. A luxurious owner’s suite provides a private retreat at the back of the
This two bedroom, fully furnished and turnkey home is located in the 55+ community of Saddlebag Lake Resort, where you own the land, there's no lot rent. The home has been completely renovated in the last four years, and features beautiful laminate flooring throughout, making it easy to clean and pet friendly. The main living area is very spacious, and includes a living room with electric
Welcome to your serene retreat in the highly sought-after 55+ community of Genesis Pointe in Lake Wales, Florida. This charming, well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath condominium offers the ease of single-level living—perfect for embracing the relaxed Florida lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of....Step inside to a warm and inviting living space, where sliding glass doors open to a screened lanai—an
CDD BOND DEBT PAID IN FULL. Thoughtfully designed 2 bedroom plus den RV garage home featuring an oversized, air conditioned Florida room and exceptional handicap accessibility throughout. This home was built with care and intention, offering ADA doorways, pocket doors, accessible closets, kitchen shelving, and a wide open tiled shower in the primary suite. The open concept kitchen and living area
Experience peaceful waterfront living in the guard-gated 55+ community of Lake Ashton. Situated on a prime waterfront lot just moments from the community amenities, this impeccably maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a separate office offers beautiful water views from multiple areas of the home including the living spaces, lanai, and bedrooms. Inside, the home features new luxury vinyl plank
NO HOA! An acre of land. BEAUTIFUL HOUSE, BEAUTIFUL SETTING. On dead end road, but just a 1/4 mile to BOAT RAMP ROAD (boat access to Lake Pierce). Immaculate 4BR/2BA beauty has everything you've been hoping for & more. It boasts almost 2160 sq ft including the lanai, a layout that features a completely redone "cooks dream" kitchen that comes fully equipped with all of the appliances and has tons
THE CDD BOND IS FULLY PAID on this unique one-owner Marbella floor plan home. As one arrives and tours this home, the pride of ownership is evident. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath open-floor-plan home is located on a large corner lot at the end of a dead-end street. Curb appeal comes from the paver drive and walk, quality plantings, and well-maintained landscaping beds. The lawn and landscaping are
HUGE PRICE IMPROVEMENT!! EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS HOME SAYS WELCOME!! Beautifully updated and very spacious 2 bedroom 2-bathroom single family home in a 55+ great community with very low HOA fee that includes a heated pool, a clubhouse with planned activities, a dog park, fishing tournaments on Lake Pierce, a fitness center, and more. If you like to fish and go boating, Lake Pierce is only a couple
Enjoy true Florida waterfront living at 4742 Cypress Dr in Lake Wales. Available fully furnished. This home sits on a canal with direct access to Lake Pierce, a 3,700-acre Old Florida lake known for peaceful views and excellent bass and speck fishing. An updated seawall, covered dock with two boat slips, and quick access to the open lake make this a great spot for boating and relaxing by the
Discover easy Florida living in this beautifully maintained home in Lake Ashton featuring the popular expanded Hemingway floor plan with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a versatile den perfect for a home office, hobby room, or guest space. Best of all, the CDD bond debt is fully paid. Pride of ownership shines throughout, from the landscaping and paver driveway to the move-in ready interior designed for
Central Florida POOL Home with NO HOA or CDD!! Welcome to 1151 Circle Drive in the heart of Lake Wales, home to Bok Singing Tower, outdoor activities galore! This 3 bed 2 bath 2 car garage is teeming with possibilities! Situated on a generous sized lot with a fenced back yard, not in a flood zone, this home has been lovingly cared for by its current owners. Metal roof placed in 2019 and HVAC
Not only is this truly unique one-owner Lake Ashton Golf Club home PRICED FOR A QUICK SALE, but the CDD BOND IS ALSO FULLY PAID. One of the very few alternate front-elevation TAHATI floor-plan homes ever built in Lake Ashton, this home is located on an oversized, pie-shaped cul-de-sac lot. The lot abuts the tee boxes of Lake Ashton's East Course's signature 11th hole as well as a large pond. The
NEW PRICE!! YOU OWN THE LAND!! with this beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom doublewide manufactured home located on a spacious corner lot in the desirable, rural, peaceful, 55+ lakefront community of Breeze Hill east of Lake Wales. This home has wonderful curb appeal with the beautiful landscaping that is in place. An irrigation system that helps keep that landscaping looking great year-round. This
Custom-built and thoughtfully designed, this one-acre corner-lot residence offers a rare sense of space, privacy, and calm within a peaceful lakefront community with lake access and an optional HOA of just $150 yearly. Created for an owner who valued quality, comfort, and quiet living, the home feels intentional, refined, and welcoming from the moment you arrive. Vaulted ceilings and 33x33
PRICE ADJUSTED! Stunning new house ready for move-in. This gorgeous house has 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. All fully tiled with carpets only in the bedrooms. The house layout has split bedrooms with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on the left side of the house, and the primary bathroom on the right side of the house. The kitchen comes fully stocked with stainless steel brand new appliances such as a
Set Your Own Pace at Alera at Hunters GlenDiscover a modern vision for upscale apartment living at Alera at Hunters Glen—where style meets simplicity in Lake Wales, FL. Embrace the freedom of a lock-and-leave lifestyle in a sophisticated community designed for those who live life on their own terms. With a seamless blend of contemporary design and refined elegance, Alera is where your
Well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath duplex offering a functional layout. The open living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen, featuring ample cabinetry and a closet pantry. An inside utility area with washer/dryer hookup is located just off the kitchen for everyday ease. Both bedrooms are generously sized, complete with ceiling fans and 4x4 walk-in closets. Remodeled bathroom with new tile
Find your sanctuary at Serenity at Lake Wales. Our contemporary one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes deliver luxury living off US-27, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy impressive finishes, resort-quality amenities, and a peaceful setting that makes coming home feel like a vacation. Experience serene, elevated living in the heart of Florida.
Available starting June 1st—just in time for your summer move! Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home built in 2024, offering 1,671 sqft of modern living space with a bright open-concept design that seamlessly connects the main areas. The home features a fully equipped kitchen with pantry, a spacious primary suite with private bath and walk-in closet, a dedicated laundry area, and a 2-car garage.
Georgetown Square Apartments is located within walking distance of grocery stores, banking & shopping, and only 5 miles from Eagle Ridge Mall, Georgetown Square is truly unique.**We require all renters to have renter's Insurance**Monthly flat rate water charge:1x1 - $611x1 - $66 with washer & dryer connections 2x1 - $802x1 - $85 with washer dryer connections
Nice 3-bedroom, 2-bath mobile home fully updated for rent in Hidden Lakes Resort. Welcome to your new home at 102 Laureti Lane in Hidden Lakes Resort, a charming mobile home and RV park. This fully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath mobile home offers modern upgrades and a fresh, inviting atmosphere. Both bathrooms are fully updated with new sinks and both have tiled walk in showers. Enjoy new wood-look
This updated 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom unit offers comfortable living in a quiet and desirable part of Lake Wales. The home features RainSoft water through entire home, reverse osmosis drinking water, waterproof LVP flooring, stainless steel appliances, an updated kitchen, fresh interior finishes, and cold blowing AC. Enjoy a covered front porch, private attic storage, and access to a rear laundry
Property Id: 2576602Enjoy privacy, space, and quiet country living on this beautiful property in Lake Wales. This well-kept 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers a comfortable layout with a bright living area, functional kitchen, and two nicely sized bedrooms. Step outside to wide-open land perfect for those who want room to spread out — ideal for outdoor hobbies, or simply enjoying the
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.This home features Progress Smart Home - Progress Residential's smart home app, which allows you to control the home securely from any of your devices. Learn more at Coming soon! This home is
Property Id: 1501763Newly renovated 2 bedroom 2 bath home. Sits on 1/2 acre of wooded land. Beautiful and quiet area. Has 2 large carports for 2 cars. Circle drive for easy access. 10 minutes to the Dollar Store. 25 minutes to WalmartRequirements 1. Must pass a background check 2. Must have a credit score of 5003. 4 person limit4. $1,300 deposit5. Yard will be
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