Attractions and Places To See around Highland City - Top 9

Highland City and its surroundings offer several natural attractions. You can visit Circle B Bar Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and trails, or enjoy the scenic 3-mile loop around Lake Hollingsworth. Loyce E. Harpe Park is another popular spot with sports fields, playgrounds, and mountain biking trails. Banana Lake Park also provides fishing piers and walking trails.

Yes, the area is excellent for birdwatching. At Lake Hancock, you'll find a wooden gazebo over the water, perfect for observing various bird species like herons and ibis. Circle B Bar Reserve is also a haven for birds, including white ibis, roseate spoonbills, sandhill cranes, and bald eagles. Additionally, Lake Morton in Lakeland is known for its diverse bird population, such as blue herons and wood storks.

While Highland City itself is primarily residential, the nearby area offers historical points of interest. The city of Bartow, founded in 1851, holds significant historical context. You can also explore the historic site of Bartow Air Base, which played a role during World War II, preserving a connection to the region's past.

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and biking on trails at Circle B Bar Reserve or cycle along the Fort Fraser Trail. Loyce E. Harpe Park is well-regarded for its mountain biking trails. For more options, explore the cycling routes around Highland City or find easy hikes in the area.

Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. Loyce E. Harpe Park features playgrounds and open spaces. Circle B Bar Reserve offers easy trails for wildlife viewing that children often enjoy. In nearby Lakeland, Barnett Family Park provides creative playground equipment and a splash pad, making it a popular family destination.

For walking or running, the 3-mile loop trail around Lake Hollingsworth is a popular choice, offering paved paths and scenic views. The Fort Fraser Trail is another excellent option, extending 7.75 miles for pedestrians and cyclists. Loyce E. Harpe Park also has walking trails.

Cyclists have several great options. The Fort Fraser Trail is a dedicated 7.75-mile pedestrian and bicycle trail. Lake Hollingsworth features a popular 3-mile paved loop for cycling. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Loyce E. Harpe Park offers some of the best trails in Central Florida. You can find more detailed routes in the road cycling guide for Highland City.

While Highland City is a smaller community, nearby Lakeland offers significant cultural sites. Florida Southern College hosts the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, designated as a National Historic Landmark. You can also visit Hollis Garden, a beautifully landscaped botanical garden in downtown Lakeland.

Yes, Loyce E. Harpe Park is known for having a dedicated dog park, making it a great option for pet owners. Many of the walking trails in natural reserves like Circle B Bar Reserve are also dog-friendly, though always check specific park rules regarding leashes.

Visitors particularly enjoy the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, especially at Circle B Bar Reserve where alligators, bobcats, and various bird species can be seen. The scenic trails around lakes like Lake Hollingsworth are also highly appreciated for running, walking, and cycling, offering beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature.

Highland City has its own commercial hub, the Highland City Town Center. Here, you can find various shops, restaurants, and essential services, including local favorites like Highland City Diner and Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream.

The Fort Fraser Trail is a 7.75-mile pedestrian and bicycle trail that extends from the Polk State College campus south to Bartow. It offers a scenic route for outdoor recreation, popular for walking, running, and cycling.