Dundee, Florida
A Charming Getaway to Dundee, Florida
Welcome fellow travelers! Today, we embark on an adventurous journey to the charming town of Dundee, Florida. Nestled in the heart of Polk County, this hidden gem offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, unique attractions, and warm hospitality. Join me as we explore the best of what Dundee has to offer during our three-day weekend trip.
Day 1: Discover Dundee’s Natural Beauty
Morning: Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
Our first day begins with a tranquil immersion into nature at the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest. This protected wilderness encompasses over 27,000 acres of diverse ecosystems and is home to an abundance of plant and animal species. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on one of the forest’s scenic trails, such as the Arbuckle Tract Trail, which winds through ancient sand dunes and offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for the elusive Florida scrub-jay, as this forest is one of its last remaining habitats.
Lunch: Dundee Café
After working up an appetite in the great outdoors, head to Dundee Café for a satisfying lunch. This cozy eatery is known for its homestyle cooking and friendly service. Treat yourself to a mouthwatering burger or indulge in their famous Southern fried chicken. Don’t forget to grab a slice of their homemade pie for a sweet ending to your meal.
Afternoon: Bok Tower Gardens
No visit to Dundee would be complete without a visit to the iconic Bok Tower Gardens. This enchanting botanic sanctuary features meticulously manicured gardens, tranquil ponds, and a magnificent Singing Tower. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, inhaling the fragrant blooms and listening to the birds serenade you. Climb to the top of the Singing Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and be captivated by the mesmerizing melodies of its carillon bells.
Dinner: Cabin Ribs BBQ
For dinner, satisfy your craving for delicious barbecue at Cabin Ribs BBQ. This local favorite is renowned for its smoky, tender ribs and mouthwatering pulled pork. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the rustic ambiance while savoring classic Southern sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. It’s finger-licking good!
Day 2: Adventurous Excursions and Quaint Delights
Morning: LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Today, we dive headfirst into a world of imagination and fun at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Perfect for both kids and the young at heart, this theme park offers a plethora of thrilling rides, interactive exhibits, and intricate LEGO constructions. Embark on a virtual reality roller coaster, build your own LEGO masterpiece, or watch captivating shows. It’s a day filled with laughter, excitement, and boundless creativity.
Lunch: Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant
After a thrilling morning at LEGOLAND, take a nostalgic trip back in time with a visit to Andy’s Drive-In Restaurant. This retro-style diner will transport you to the golden age of diners, complete with vintage cars, neon signs, and mouthwatering comfort food. Sink your teeth into their signature Andy Burger, topped with all the classic fixings, or savor a juicy hot dog with a side of crispy onion rings. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a milkshake or a sundae for the ultimate indulgence.
Afternoon: Crooked Lake Preserve
Escape the bustle of the theme park and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Crooked Lake Preserve. This idyllic nature reserve offers miles of scenic trails that wind through ancient oak hammocks, cypress swamps, and alongside the tranquil shores of Crooked Lake. Keep your camera handy, as you may encounter a variety of wildlife, including herons, deer, and elusive alligators. Take a leisurely hike, breathe in the fresh air, and let the peaceful ambiance rejuvenate your soul.
Dinner: Harry’s Old Place
As the day winds down, treat your taste buds to a feast of fresh seafood at Harry’s Old Place. This beloved local establishment is a seafood lover’s paradise, renowned for its delectable oysters, succulent shrimp, and melt-in-your-mouth fish dishes. The casual, laid-back atmosphere is the perfect setting to unwind with a cold beverage and relish the flavors of the sea.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Culinary Delights
Morning: Polk Museum of Art
On our final day, let’s immerse ourselves in the vibrant world of art at the Polk Museum of Art. Located in nearby Lakeland, this exceptional museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artworks from both national and international artists. Explore the diverse exhibitions, admire captivating sculptures, and broaden your artistic horizons. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a guided tour or participate in one of the museum’s interactive workshops for a truly engaging experience.
Lunch: Café Zuppina
Indulge in a delightful Mediterranean culinary experience at Café Zuppina for lunch. This charming café offers a mouthwatering selection of fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Savor a traditional falafel wrap bursting with aromatic spices or try their rich and creamy hummus served with warm pita bread. The friendly staff and vibrant ambiance make this a perfect spot to relax and refuel.
Afternoon: Explorations V Children’s Museum
Let your inner child run free at the Explorations V Children’s Museum, also located in Lakeland. This interactive museum provides a stimulating environment for kids (and curious adults) to explore, learn, and play. From tinkering in the Inventor’s Lab to creating artistic masterpieces in the Art Studio, there’s something to ignite the imagination of every visitor. Let the laughter and boundless joy fill the air as you make unforgettable memories.
Dinner: Cove Bar & Grill
For our final meal in Dundee, let’s savor the flavors of coastal cuisine at Cove Bar & Grill. Overlooking a picturesque lake, this waterfront restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and tantalizing pastas. Whether you opt for their signature blackened grouper, tender filet mignon, or a delectable vegetarian dish, each bite is a celebration of culinary excellence. Raise a glass to a memorable weekend with their extensive selection of craft beers or handcrafted cocktails.
As our three-day adventure in Dundee comes to an end, we bid farewell to this charming town with hearts full of cherished memories. Dundee offers an oasis of natural beauty, unique attractions, and culinary delights that exceed expectations. Until our next travel escapade, happy exploring!
Please note that due to the ever-changing nature of attractions and restaurants, it is advisable to check their websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information and any potential COVID-19 restrictions.