Lake Wales is located in
Polk County east of
Tampa between
Haines City and
Sebring along US Highway 27 near Lake Rosalie and Lake Kissimmee. Lake Wales is part of the
Lakeland-Winter Haven, Florida metro area.
Founded in the early part of the 20th century, the City of Lake Wales grew quickly in Florida's boom years, attracting visionaries and investors from futher north. Here Edward Bok chose to build his fabled carillon tower and magnificent gardens.
Today, Bok Tower Gardens draws visitors from around the world. Other attractions to visitors and residents include Spook Hill and Cypress Gardens.
Two colleges, and numerous prep and private schools are located here, along with a large hospital and many medical and nursing facilities.
