City Editor Rilee here. With temperatures on the rise and summer on my mind, I was thrilled when our team asked me to spend a day at Lakeside Village. In case you have yet to visit, Lakeside Village is a shopping center — scratch that, a lifestyle center — filled with everything you need for an afternoon outing (or that to-do list you've been trying to knock out).

Whether you're a foodie, looking to be pampered, ready to do some shopping, or looking for a pet-friendly patio, you can find it all in these beautifully landscaped streets and courtyards.

What we tried

Here's what my day included:

Pure Barre 50-minute class
Planet Smoothie refueling with the Road Runner smoothie + a scoop of mango boba
StretchLab consultation and 25-minute stretch session
Paint Lakeland gel manicure

What not to miss

I got so much from the Pure Barre instructor, Whitney, who helped me with guided form adjustments during the multi-section class (think: core, arms, lower body). This class does it all.

Planet Smoothie is a great post-workout (or mid-shop) stop. The expansive menu of real-fruit smoothies has pre-built + customizable options — including lower calorie, high protein, energy, meal replacement, beneficial add-ins + more.

What we’re still talking about

The MAPS assessment that Flexologist Britnai administered before my session taught me so much about myself — including my own mobility and posture challenges. She even taught me some at-home stretches.

Paint Lakeland is known for using 5,7,9-free products (read: less exposure to toxins) and for having an odor-free salon, which I can confirm. It was so relaxing to enjoy my complimentary mimosa without the chemical smell and loud drilling noises.

My main takeaway? Lakeside Village is the place to be this summer (and beyond). Pro tip: Check Lakeside Village’s calendar for upcoming events like markets, live music, photo ops, and other seasonal happenings.

How you can experience this

Check out Lakeside Village's directory to plan your next visit.

Things to know if you go

Experience: Spend a day shopping, eating, working, or lounging at Lakeside Village
Price: Prices vary
Website: shoplakesidevillage.com
Address: 1479 Town Center Dr., Lakeland, FL 33803
Hours: Hours vary
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