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Polk County is known as the "Culinary Heart" of Central Florida, and for good reason. With a focus on locally produced and locally prepared menu items, visitors can expect a truly unique dining experience. Here are some must-visit restaurants in the area:

Nineteen61 - This restaurant, located in Lakeland, offers a fusion of Cuban and Asian flavors. Chef and owner Marcos Fernandez draws inspiration from his Cuban heritage and world travels to create a menu that is both familiar and innovative. Recommend your clients the ropa vieja or the lechon asado.

Nutwood - Located in Winter Haven, Nutwood features farm-to-table cuisine with a Southern twist. Chef Steven Rojas incorporates ingredients from local farms and even has his own garden on site. Don't miss the crispy chicken skins or the shrimp and grits.

Peebles BBQ - Central Florida’s Polk County is the barbecue capital of Florida. With its longstanding cattle ranching tradition and multiple barbecue festivals your client is sure to have a unique dining experience. And no place is more unique than Peebles BBQ, which was established in 1947, and has hardly changed a bit since opening.

Born and Bread Bakehouse - This bakery in Lakeland specializes in artisan breads and pastries made with locally sourced ingredients. Their sourdough bread is a customer favorite, and the cinnamon rolls are not to be missed.

The Culinary Heart of Florida

Before John Wayne was swaggering over the Wild West Florida was entering its 3rd century of cattle ranching, and the tradition continues in Polk County.

Every Saturday night cowpokes and bronco busters descent upon Westgate River Ranch Resort. This real-life rodeo features trick riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and rodeo clown antics. The fun doesn’t stop once the Florida rodeo ends! If you feel bull riding isn’t that tough, then take a spin on a Mechanical Bull. 

After that, get your feet moving during the lively Dance Party just outside the River Ranch Saloon.

Experience the Rodeo where the Cowboy was Born

Central Florida is a treasure trove of world-class attractions perfect for families with young children or multi-generational vacations.  

LEGOLAND®  Florida Resort is a must-visit for families with little ones who love playing with the iconic toy bricks. Adjacent to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is the new Peppa Pig Theme Park. This charming park is designed for families with young children, with gentle rides, play areas, and immersive experiences. And 2025 sees the opening of Sea Life Florida at LEGOLAND, along with some more surprises.

Visitors can enjoy concerts, nature walks, and special events throughout the year at Bok Tower Gardens. This National Historic Landmark features a 205-foot-tall neo-Gothic and Art Deco Singing Tower, surrounded by landscaped gardens and nature trails. Bonnet Springs Park is another great option for outdoor lovers with a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy the park's playgrounds, splash pads, and picnic areas.

If your clients are looking for an interactive and educational experience for their little ones, the Florida Children's Museum is a must-visit. Ridge Island Groves is a family-owned citrus grove and gift shop where visitors can sample fresh citrus, shop for souvenirs, and learn about the history of the citrus industry.

Finally, for a unique and unforgettable experience, recommend the Saturday Night Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch Resort. This authentic rodeo features bull riding, barrel racing, and other thrilling events, along with delicious barbecue and live music.

Top Attractions in Central Florida

The Central Florida Insider program is designed to give travel professionals everything they need to increase bookings and offer their clients even better advice.

The course contains two foundational chapters, provides a partner directory for quick reference and includes tools like ready-made presentations to make your job easier.

Insider tips and regular promotions and updates make selling easy. And once you graduate, you’ll receive a whole host of exclusive benefits including attraction tickets.

Central Florida Insider Program

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