On the outskirts of the hustle and bustle of downtown Lakeland, you'll find a lakeside park where you're encouraged to slow down. Veterans Memorial Park is packed with meaningful tributes to Polk County veterans, law enforcement, first responders, and others who have made an impact on the United States.

The park started decades ago on Lake Beulah Drive as a small collection of monuments, but the support of the Polk County Veterans Council grew it into what it is today.

Platform Art raised money for this sculpture by artist Becky Ault, called "Friends of Freedom." | Photo by LALtoday

Upon entering the park, you'll find 14 monuments and memorials. Many honorees are represented, from the Buffalo Soldiers of the Spanish-American War who camped out on the shores of Lake Wire, to the organizations that support Polk County's 60,000+ veterans.

Additional memorials are being added over time, with one in honor of the American Revolution now in the works (and accepting donations). Learn more about its history + inspiration from local veterans and city leaders themselves.

Find the Rose Garden blooming near the north end of the park. | Photo by LALtoday

Walk the paved paths to each monument to learn more about the stories behind them, or take a seat on a bench beneath the shade of an oak tree for a quiet moment. You'll also find the Bicentennial Rose Garden, which was erected to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Veterans Memorial Park is free to enter and open any time you need a moment of peace. Pro tip: There's a small three-car parking area near the park's northwest corner.