Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Auburndale, FL

Auburndale, a city with a population of nearly 20,000, is located in a picturesque region of Central Florida characterized by its numerous lakes. Notably, nearly 40% of Auburndale’s area is composed of open water.

Many of the lakes in Auburndale are bordered by residential neighborhoods or RV resorts, with Camp Margaritaville being the largest, featuring a relaxed, island-inspired atmosphere.

A leisurely stroll around Auburndale is a delightful experience, starting at the City Park in the downtown area. This park serves as the focal point of a low-key commercial district, with various buildings dating back to the early 20th century.

In terms of dining, Auburndale presents an enticing selection of restaurants, some of which have been operational for decades.

The city also boasts a fantastic cable park for water sports and a multi-purpose trail that ventures into the Central Florida wilderness.

1. Auburndale City Park

Source: Susilyn / shutterstock

A distinctive aspect of downtown Auburndale is the lush park situated at its very core, which is intersected by an operational railroad line, enriching its historical narrative.

The preserved Seaboard Air Line Rail Depot, constructed in 1926 and exhibiting Mediterranean Revival architecture, serves as an event venue. Additionally, a bandstand in the southern corner accommodates outdoor concerts.

This park is a popular destination for families seeking a place for children to expend energy, featuring ample open spaces and various playground equipment.

There are numerous shaded seating areas, where visitors can enjoy refreshments from local dining establishments, as will be discussed further below.

In the western corner, a newly created butterfly garden has been established, featuring native plants that attract pollinators.

2. Auburndale TECO Trail

Source: Catch Central Florida / Flickr

For a significant portion of the year, the climate in Central Florida is ideal for outdoor activities. The Auburndale TECO Trail presents an effortless option for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature and exercise without the need to travel to a distant park.

Conveniently, the path is entirely flat, requiring navigation across only a few roads. The trail can be accessed at the northeastern corner of Plymouth Road and Berkley Road, while the trail connects with General James A. Van Fleet State Trail in Polk City.

For those interested in observing wildlife, the Van Fleet Trail extends northward for an additional 30 miles, leading into remote wetlands teeming with alligators, wading birds, raptors, deer, and armadillos.

This multi-use paved trail, which follows the route of the historic Seaboard Air Line Railroad from the 1880s, spans nearly seven miles.

3. International World Market

Source: International Market World Auburndale Flea Market / Facebook

Situated along US Highway 92 in Auburndale, the International World Market operates as both a farmers’ market and a flea market. Moreover, it serves as an engaging social hub in the community.

Showcasing a wide selection of fresh, seasonal produce from Florida along with prepared foods, books, tools, and vintage clothing, this market is a unique attraction in the area. Visitors may find themselves lingering longer than anticipated.

Weekends at the market feature a variety of activities, including live entertainment and even alligator exhibits.

With ample complimentary parking available, there is no admission fee, and the market is renowned for its delectable coffee and fresh baked goods.

4. Lake Myrtle Sports Park

Source: City of Auburndale / Wikimedia

Lake Myrtle Sports Park stands out for its impressive array of sports facilities.

Hosting nine baseball fields, eleven standard soccer fields, and one championship-style soccer stadium, the complex is perpetually buzzing with activity.

Though the fields are often reserved for organized sports leagues, many visitors opt to attend games and matches. The concession stand located in the heart of the facility is available to serve patrons.

Additionally, the park houses the Polk County Sports Hall of Fame, offering visitors a valuable perspective on the region’s rich athletic history.

Each April, Lake Myrtle Sports Park serves as the venue for Auburndale City Fest, a prominent local event that will be elaborated on further below.

5. Auburndale City Fest

Every April, Lake Myrtle Sports Park hosts Auburndale’s significant annual celebration, which truly offers something for everyone.

The festival features live music throughout the day, catering to a diverse array of musical preferences, including soul, blues, party music, and pop rock. Concurrently, a water sports competition on the lake showcases some of North America’s top wake sports athletes.

Children will delight in the touch-a-truck experience, where they can sit behind the wheel of various vehicles, from a police car to an airboat. Furthermore, there is a dedicated fun zone for younger attendees and a food court offering treats such as Italian ice, fudge, and kettle corn.

6. Baynard House Museum

Source: Ebyabe / Wikimedia

Just a short distance from Downtown City Park, one encounters the Baynard House Museum, an historical house constructed in 1894. Named after Ephraim Mikell Baynard, a prominent developer and citrus grower (1860-1933), this house was at risk of demolition towards the end of the 20th century.

This historic site was successfully preserved and restored by a dedicated group of local students, uncovering remarkable original features like heart pine flooring and intricately hand-carved door and window frames.

The interior of the house is furnished to reflect its appearance at the turn of the 20th century. In recognition of his contributions, Baynard was designated a Great Floridian by the Florida Department of State in 2000, with a plaque located inside commemorating this honor.

During my visit, the building was temporarily closed to drop-in visitors. However, it was noted that tours are available upon request, and the venue can be reserved for special events.

7. Elite Cable Park

Considering the abundance of water surrounding Auburndale, it is hardly surprising that water sports are prevalent here. The Elite Cable Park, regarded as one of Florida’s premier cable parks, is conveniently located at Lake Myrtle, adjacent to the TECO trail.

Newcomers can partake in activities such as water-skiing and wakeboarding, utilizing a cable system instead of a boat. This is perfect for those just getting started, as the park offers a Get Up Guarantee package that provides coaching, time, and equipment to ensure participants are on their feet by the end of the day.

A pro shop is also available on-site, along with Tantrum’s Lakeside Grill, which serves a variety of options including bowls, tacos, seafood baskets, and more.

8. Lake Ariana Park

Among the numerous large bodies of water within Auburndale, there are few public access points. Lake Ariana Park, located on the southwestern shore of Lake Ariana, is my recommended choice.

This park is the city’s newest addition, having previously been known as Mac’s Beach. It features well-maintained lawns, several palm trees, and three substantial picnic shelters.

There is a boat ramp, a fishing dock, a volleyball court, and a small sandy beach area. Given the gentle waters of the lake, it is an ideal spot for families to enjoy a day of fun.

9. Peebles Bar-B-Que

Source: Auburndale Chamber of Commerce / Facebook

Established in 1947, Peebles Bar-B-Que has become a beloved institution in Auburndale. Although it has expanded significantly from its modest origins, it continues to operate as a family-run business.

The restaurant offers a comprehensive menu of traditional barbecue items, including pulled pork, sausage, sliced beef, and ribs.

The sides are particularly noteworthy, especially their coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad. If space permits, be sure to try the banana pudding for dessert.

With reasonable prices and a friendly atmosphere, Peebles Bar-B-Que delivers an authentic experience of Southern cuisine.

10. Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

A reason to visit Auburndale may be your stay at this RV resort by Lake Myrtle.

Exuding a laid-back, tropical ambiance, Camp Margaritaville features amenities such as a tiki bar, fire pits, a live music stage, a putting course, and a resort-style water park.

With over 300 RV sites equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable access, as well as 50/30/20 amp connections, visitors can expect a comfortable experience. For non-RV guests, there are also 75 cabins available for rent.

Aligned with the resort’s relaxed, festive vibe, there are themed weekends occurring throughout the year, including an entire month dedicated to spooky activities in October.

11. Marshall Hampton Reserve

Located just five minutes south of downtown, Marshall Hampton Reserve encompasses a vast area on the northern shore of Lake Hancock. Acquired by the Southwest Florida Water Management District in 2008, the reserve was opened to the public in the 2010s.

With over 1,100 acres of oak hammock and hardwood wetlands, visitors can explore two loops. The Acorn Hammock Loop Trail invites hikers to traverse a shaded oak hammock, showcasing many impressive live oak trees.

For those interested in birdwatching, the Osprey Overlook Loop Trail, which has no tree cover, provides unobstructed views of raptors, such as ospreys and eagles, hunting over a 60-acre pond.

12. Auburndale Speedway

Source: Auburndale Speedway / Facebook

Established in 1974, this ¼-mile oval racetrack is located just five minutes south of downtown Auburndale.

The current proprietors, who acquired the venue in 2007, replaced the bleachers with benches sourced from Daytona International Speedway.

Visit on Fridays and Saturdays for thrilling high-speed entertainment, featuring categories including pure stocks, Sportsmen, Late Models, Street Stocks, Modifieds, Mini Stocks, Bandoleros, and more.

Children are certain to enjoy events such as the Night of Destruction, showcasing monster trucks, demolition derbies, and figure-8 races involving school buses.

During my visit, I was impressed to learn that NASCAR star Ross Chastain began his racing career at this track, among others in Florida.

13. The Shake Shoppe

Located at the north corner of Downtown City Park, The Shake Shoppe has been a long-standing fixture in Auburndale, offering a variety of frozen treats and lunch options.

I sampled an Arctic Swirl, reminiscent of Dairy Queen’s Blizzards, made with various candies, including Oreo, Butterfinger, Snickers, or Reese’s Cups.

In addition to these specialties, the menu extends to an extensive selection of shakes, soft-serve options, Hershey Ice Cream, sundaes, slushies, floats, and snow cones.

For savory cravings, they provide a range of comfort food items, such as hot dogs, subs, sandwiches, and the popular double cheeseburger.

14. Sweet Magnolias Tea Bistro

Sweet Magnolias Tea Bistro, adorning an exquisite historic building downtown, dates back to around 1908, having served various roles over time, including that of a church and a restaurant.

Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, the bistro features an enticing selection of gourmet teas and coffees, coupled with elevated Southern cuisine.

Notable offerings include a Harvest Cobb Salad adorned with dried fruits and apple cider vinaigrette, or the Hay Ride, which consists of prosciutto, gouda, apples, and a balsamic reduction served on a croissant.

If you are inclined to partake in afternoon tea, an imaginative assortment of pastries awaits you, including pumpkin-shaped treats and white chocolate scones.

15. Fantasy of Flight

Source: Michel Curi / Flickr

Located just north of Auburndale, Fantasy of Flight serves as a seasonal aviation museum, presenting exhibits that highlight the evolution of aviation from the pre-World War I era to the present.

Kermit Week, the founder and proprietor, has curated an extraordinary collection of over 100 aircraft, many of which remain operational.

While many of these aircraft are either on loan or in storage, only a portion can be viewed in the display hangar. During my visit, approximately two dozen aircraft were exhibited, primarily focusing on World War I-era biplanes.

For aviation enthusiasts, there is no better location to dedicate a few hours. At the time this list was compiled, Fantasy of Flight was operating Friday through Sunday, outside of the summer months.