Winter Haven, Florida

The city of Winter Haven is located in south central Florida, 15 miles (24 kilometers) east of Lakeland, 47 miles (76 kilometers) southeast of Orlando, and 49 miles (79 kilometers) northwest of Tampa. It is part of Polk County, and home to 26,487 residents.

Cypress Gardens Adventure Park is Winter Haven's largest family attraction. Spanning 150 acres (61 hectares), the park offers 41 thrilling rides, beautiful botanical gardens, outstanding concerts, and 10 spectacular shows, including water-skiing stunts, animal shows, and figure skating performances.

Forty-five freshwater lakes are located in the Winter Haven's immediate vicinity, and 14 of those lakes are interconnected, giving the community the nickname "Chain of Lakes City." These lakes offer plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing, and you can also enjoy picnics, swimming, and beach recreation at many lakeside parks. Winter Haven is also the self-proclaimed water-skiing capital of the world, and world champion barefoot water-skier Ron Scarpa operates a school in the area. To learn more about the region's favorite sport, you can also visit the Water Ski Hall of Fame and Museum in Polk City. This museum contains a variety of sports memorabilia, including the first pair of water skis, which were invented by Ralph Samuelson in 1922.

Fantasy of Flight Air Museum is another Polk City attraction, and houses the world's largest private aircraft collection. Here visitors can journey through aviation history from the early days of flight to World War I, World War II, and beyond. The Historic Bok Sanctuary in Lake Wales is another of the area's must-see sights. Highlights include the 1930s Pinewood Estate house, the magnificent Carillon Tower with its 57 bronze bells, and 157 acres (64 hectares) of lush gardens.

Looking for a new home? Then consider all the merits of Winter Haven!

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