Polk County Tourism Powers Growth Through Unforgettable Experiences  

A strong tourism and creative industries sector does more than attract visitors. It strengthens local economies, creates vibrant communities, and enhances the quality of life that residents value and businesses seek when deciding where to invest. As tourism continues to grow, it serves as a catalyst for economic impact by driving investment, supporting businesses, and showcasing the unique assets that make a destination an attractive place to live, work, and do business. 

Polk County welcomed more than 5.7 million visitors last year generating $3.3 billion in economic impact and supporting over 27,530 jobs. These assets contribute to a dynamic business environment that benefits companies across all industries. 

From world-class attractions to outdoor destinations and signature events, Polk County offers a diverse mix of experiences that attract millions of visitors each year. These destinations not only enhance the county’s quality of life but also serve as powerful economic drivers, drawing visitors, supporting local businesses, and strengthening Polk County’s reputation as a premier destination. 

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins 

Located in Auburndale, Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins offers a resort-style getaway that blends outdoor adventure with modern comforts. Guests can choose from premium RV sites, motorhome suites, and fully equipped cabana cabins, making the destination welcoming to both seasoned RV travelers and first-time visitors alike. Beyond its accommodations, the resort features multiple pools, a 147-foot waterslide, mini golf, live entertainment, dining options, family-friendly activities, pet-friendly amenities, and day passes that allow visitors to enjoy the experience without an overnight stay.

Camp Margaritaville also hosts weddings, corporate events, rallies, and community celebrations, further expanding its role as a year-round destination. Conveniently located between Tampa and Orlando, the resort provides visitors with easy access to many of Central Florida’s top attractions while encouraging longer stays and increased tourism throughout Polk County. 

SUN ‘n FUN 

SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is held annually at Lakeland Linder International Airport, with the next event scheduled for April 6–11, 2027. Since 1974, the expo has grown into the second-largest airshow in the United States and has become a major driver of tourism and economic activity in Polk County. Each year, it attracts aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, exhibitors, and visitors from around the world for a week of airshows, aircraft displays, educational workshops, hands-on activities, and networking opportunities.

During SUN ‘n FUN, Lakeland Linder International Airport becomes one of the busiest airports in the world, underscoring Polk County’s prominence within the aerospace and aviation industries. Events like SUN ‘n FUN create memorable experiences for visitors while supporting local businesses and reinforcing the county’s position as a hub for aviation innovation. 

LEGOLAND Florida 

Located in Winter Haven,  LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a 150-acre theme park that offers interactive experiences for all its guests. This theme park primarily caters to families with children ages 2–12. In addition to the theme park, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is also home to LEGOLAND Water Park, LEGOLAND Hotel, LEGOLAND Pirate Island Hotel, LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida, and SEA LIFE Florida.

The park continues to introduce new attractions and experiences, including the recently announced Galacticoaster, a thrilling ride that takes guests on an immersive mission through the LEGO Galaxy. LEGOLAND Florida Resort plays a key role in Central Florida’s tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world to Polk County. 

Visit Central Florida 

Visit Central Florida, the tourism and sports marketing division of Polk County Government, serves as the county’s official destination marketing organization. Through strategic destination marketing, visitor services, sports tourism, and partnerships with local attractions and businesses, the organization works to increase visitation, strengthen the local tourism industry, and generate economic impact throughout Polk County.

In addition to promoting the county as a premier travel destination, Visit Central Florida recruits sporting events, supports tourism partners, and operates visitor services that help travelers discover everything Polk County has to offer. The Visit Central Florida Welcome Center in Davenport, along with VisitCentralFlorida.org, provides trip-planning resources, local recommendations, maps, attraction information, and discounted attraction tickets to help visitors make the most of their stay. 

Bok Tower Gardens 

Opened in 1929, Bok Tower Gardens features experiences for visitors of all ages. This 250-acre garden and animal sanctuary provides a peaceful and educational experience for all visitors. Some of Bok Tower’s most notable attractions include its acclaimed Singing Tower, El Retiro Estate, Olmsted Gardens & Trails, and Hammock Hollow Children’s Garden. Each of these attractions provides opportunities for nature-focused family experiences, where guests not only enjoy themselves but also learn something new. 

In addition to its attractions, Bok Tower Gardens is recognized for its conservation efforts. The organization prioritizes both research and outreach, allowing the public to understand the importance of Central Florida’s wildlife. 

Bonnet Springs 

Bonnet Springs Park is a 168-acre urban nature park in Lakeland that has quickly become one of Polk County’s premier destinations for recreation, education, and community engagement. Developed on the site of a former rail yard, the park transformed the property into a vibrant public space that brings together nature, culture, recreation, and education. With free daily admission, visitors can explore scenic walking trails, botanical gardens, interactive playgrounds, a canopy walk, the Florida Children’s Museum, the GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center, and year-round events and educational programs.

The park also offers a variety of venues for private events, from weddings and corporate gatherings to community celebrations. Beyond providing memorable experiences for residents and visitors, Bonnet Springs Park exemplifies how thoughtful investment in quality-of-life amenities can strengthen communities, support tourism, and enhance Polk County’s appeal as a place to live, work, and invest. 

Traveling to Polk

Commercial air service is giving Polk County a powerful new connection to travelers and markets beyond Central Florida. Avelo Airlines’ expanding service at Lakeland International Airport is making it easier for visitors to reach the heart of Polk County while giving residents convenient access to destinations across the country and beyond. Since launching service in 2024, Avelo has flown more than 300,000 passengers through Lakeland, demonstrating strong demand for a convenient local gateway.

Why Visit Polk

From nationally recognized attractions and outdoor adventures to premier sporting events and family-friendly destinations, tourism continues to play a vital role in Polk County’s economic success. It supports local businesses, creates jobs, enhances the quality of life, and showcases the community’s unique character to visitors from around the world. As Polk County continues to grow, its tourism industry remains a key competitive advantage that helps attract visitors today while reinforcing the quality of life and destination appeal that support future business investment and workforce attraction.