Many tourist attractions and popular activities in Lakeland revolve around the parks and lakes. Hollis Garden, Lake Mirror, and the Common Ground Park are all beautiful areas perfect for an outdoor excursion.
Seasonality of Lakeland, Florida
Lakeland is an interesting part of Florida to visit, because it puts you halfway between two popular Florida destinations: Tampa and Orlando. The tourism seasons that affect Tampa and Orlando also play a role in Lakeland's crowds and hotel rates, but to a lesser degree.
Florida's weather gets extremely hot and humid in the summer, but that doesn't stop many summer vacationers from visiting the parks and the beaches. Winter also gets crowded as snowbirds travel to Florida, and as people from the north come to escape the cold for a few days. That means the best time to visit Florida is in fall or spring, when the kids are in school and the temperature hasn't broken into the 90s yet.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lakeland, FL:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Lakeland, FL. Analyze these line graphs to evaluate the least expensive seasons to book a room in Lakeland for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Lakeland, Florida
4 Star Average Prices: $119.72
To get resort hotel luxury, you'll have to look at properties about 20 to 30 miles away from Lakeland. Lakeland's proximity to Disney World and Tampa, Florida means that most resort hotels are nearer to either the long list of Disney Theme Parks, or to the bustling bay of Tampa.
That being said, some lovely upscale hotel properties are within easy driving distance of Lakeland. Stay at the four-and-a-half-star Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate near Disney World for access to all your favorite luxury amenities. They offer on-site spa services, a health club, and a hair salon. Their outdoor seasonal pool has a poolside bar, a lazy river, and a water slide. The spa tub and the steam room will relax your muscles and your mind. Let the concierge assist you with tours and tickets, then book a limo or town car for your day's adventures.
To be closer to the bay area, stay at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. This four-star property has designed its rooms for ultimate guest comfort. Your bed will have a pillowtop, your toiletries will be designer, and the bathtub is designed so you can take a deep, long soak. They've got a casino, a full-service spa, and a nightclub, so no matter what kind of entertainment you're looking for, you're sure to find it.
The most upscale property within Lakeland city limits is the Hilton Garden Inn Lakeland. This three-star hotel might not have the same scale of luxury you'll find at Disney resorts, but it's a great option if you need to stay in Lakeland. Previous guests have loved this property, rating almost every aspect of the hotel quite highly. The cleanliness, great staff, breakfast, and amenities like the pool and the garden delighted many reviewers. For some pampering, take advantage of the laundry and dry cleaning services, dip into the spa tub, or call for room service during limited hours.
Affordable Options in Lakeland, Florida
3 Star Average Prices: $123.19
Florida, with its great weather and beautiful beaches, has a reputation as a vacation state, which means most people visit expecting hotel rates to be high. When you stay in Lakeland, however, you'll find many budget and low-cost hotel options, many of which offer rooms well below $60 a night.
With rates as low as $50 a night, the Suburban Extended Stay in Lakeland fits within many budgets. This two-star hotel sits near I-4, giving you quick access to Orlando and to Tampa. They offer in-room accessibility, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. The Suburban Extended Stay is a great option for families, because kids 18 and under stay for free with parents, as long as you don't need additional bedding. Plus, they let you bring your pets for $30 a night.
The Howard Johnson Lakeland is another affordable option, with room rates starting just above $50 a night. They offer an affordable roll-away bed fee of just $10 per night, and a pet fee of $10 per night. The Howard Johnson has a 24-hour front desk, express check-out, a business center, and an outdoor pool. Free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and a multilingual staff all add to your convenience.
The Sleep Inn & Suites Lakeland offers comparable rates with the Howard Johnson Lakeland. Former guests have enjoyed the hotel's location, free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and clean outdoor pool. If you need an airport shuttle, you can reserve one beforehand with the hotel. Like the Suburban Extended Stay, the Sleep Inn & Suites lets kids 18 and younger stay for free with parents or guardians, as long as they use the bedding already in the room.