Charming, quaint, and full of history, South Lake Morton continues to grow as one of the best neighborhoods in Lakeland. Since its early days, this neighborhood has quickly become a favorite part of town for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and historic home lovers. If you haven’t explored, it might be time to rediscover why so many people — perhaps even you — love to call it home.

*Swans + cygnets on Lake Morton circa 1970* | *Photo courtesy of Special Collections at the Lakeland Public Library*

Need to know

If you want to know how Lakeland got the nickname “Swan City,” just head to Lake Morton. Here you’ll find Lakeland’s population of swans that were gifted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1957. The swans have become an icon of the city, which takes care of the flock. Feel free to walk on the lakeshore to get a closer look, but keep a safe distance and be sure to only feed them with the food in the dispensers around the lake.

Walk through Florida Southern College's Esplanade, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. | Photo via @glenbowman

The early days

The South Lake Morton Historic District is one of seven districts in Lakeland on the National Register of Historic Places + is known for its “architectural integrity and historical elements.” As early as 1906 through the 1920s, construction of this Mediterranean-inspired neighborhood attracted newcomers from all over the country who desired to live in Florida.

This area is also home to Florida Southern College, which got a major facelift from world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright starting in 1938. Thanks to its mid-century modern architecture, FSC consistently ranks as one of the most beautiful campuses in the US, and its design has influenced the bungalow-style homes in this area.

It's nearly time to go behind these walls for an inside look. | Photo by LALtoday

Arts + culture

For all of you art aficionados, you can find world-class galleries and festivals to enjoy throughout the year in South Lake Morton.

The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art is one of Polk County’s top museums, filled with works by big names (think: Warhol, Matisse, and Picasso), plus the art of local students on display. The best part? It’s always free to enjoy.
Explore the Lakeland Public Library’s Main Branch, where you’ll find way more than just books — although you can’t beat the selection. It’s also home to the Lakeland History & Culture Center, where you can browse interactive exhibits about years past.
Each year, Lakelanders look forward to the Mayfaire by-the-Lake juried fine art festival that first began in 1971. Mark your calendar for Mother’s Day weekend to browse the works of 150+ artists set up around Lake Morton.
Get a deeper understanding of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture by taking a tour of Florida Southern College. The Sharp Family Tourism and Education Center offers tours from as little as 20 minutes to in-depth behind the scenes experiences.

Viewing Lake Morton wildlife at sunset is a Lakeland staple. | Photo via @thehikerdad

Outdoors

Love the smell of fresh air and catching sun? This neighborhood is the perfect area for taking walks –– especially around the lake. Here are landmarks to look out for.

Take a walk or run around Lake Morton. Pro tip: The Lakeland Runners Club holds a Brew Crew run every Saturday starting at the Lakeland Public Library’s Main Branch.
Bring your sweetheart with you for a lakeside picnic, and find the Lover’s Oak at the corner of Success Avenue + Lake Morton Drive. This towering tree is something of a local landmark, and it’s even older than the city of Lakeland itself.
Forget your worries after a few minutes of meditating by the Water Dome. Frank Lloyd Wright first created this stunning fountain in 1948, when it was his largest water feature to date. Find it behind Florida Southern’s Watson-Fine Administration Building on Johnson Avenue.

Eat + drink

Keep it casual with one of Lakeland’s oldest and most-beloved eateries, or try something fresh at a more upscale restaurant. The choice is yours.

Inside the Lakeland Public Library’s expansive main branch, you’ll find a Black & Brew Coffee House and Bistro location. Stop here for a specialty coffee or quick meal and catch up with a friend on the shady patio.
Every nibble is a good bite at Mister Fish, an unassuming hole in the wall that opened in 1968. Here you can find freshly fried fish sandwiches and homestyle sides like hush puppies + cheese grits.
Head around the corner to Peach House for dinner and drinks in a bungalow-style restaurant. The menu has tantalizing items like raw oysters, dragonfruit margaritas, and fried alligator bites.
When you need to get a little cheesy, Pizza Odyssey is the spot for you. Order ahead and pick up a pie made your way, plus flatbread subs + breadsticks, from the Lake Morton Deli convenience store.