Living Near Lake Hollinsworth in Lakeland Fl

Living Near Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland FL

If you ask people in Lakeland where they go to walk, run, or just clear their head, a lot of
them will say the same thing. The lake. And they mean Lake Hollingsworth.

I get asked about this part of town all the time. Some buyers already know they want to be
here. Others drive the loop once and fall for it. So here is my honest, local take on living near
Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland FL.

Where Lake Hollingsworth Is
Lake Hollingsworth sits just south of downtown Lakeland. It runs east of South Florida
Avenue and west of Bartow Road. The lake itself is about 350 acres, and Lake Hollingsworth
Drive wraps all the way around it.

That location is a big part of the appeal. You are close to downtown, close to the shops and
restaurants along South Florida Avenue, and still on a quiet, tree-lined street.
The Loop Everyone Talks About
The paved path around the lake is just under 3 miles. AllTrails lists it at 2.9 miles, and most
locals simply call it the loop.

It is not just a local favorite. Back in 2017, Under Armour running data put the Lake
Hollingsworth trail on its list of the most popular running routes in the whole country. The
Ledger covered it, and honestly, nobody here was surprised.

On any given morning you will see walkers, runners, strollers, cyclists, and plenty of dogs on
leashes. Saturday mornings are busy. If you live nearby, this becomes your backyard.
Florida Southern College and Frank Lloyd Wright

On the lakes shore you will find Florida Southern College. It is the only college campus
Frank Lloyd Wright ever designed. In 2012, the National Park Service named the Florida
Southern College Historic District a National Historic Landmark. The college calls it the
largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture anywhere.

You do not have to be an architecture fan to enjoy it. The campus adds beauty, history, and a
lively feel to the neighborhood. The college also runs a Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center if
you want to take a tour.
The Homes Around the Lake
This is one of Lakeland older, established areas. You will find a real mix:

 Historic homes with character, many from the early and mid 1900s
 Lakefront properties right on Lake Hollingsworth Drive
 Smaller homes on the side streets that still let you walk to the lake
 Big, mature trees and sidewalks in a lot of spots

Every home is different here. That is part of the charm, but it also means you need to look
closely. Older homes can be wonderful. They can also come with older roofs, plumbing,
electrical, or windows. Those things matter for inspections and for getting homeowners
insurance in Florida.

My advice? Get a good inspection, ask about the age of the big systems, and talk to an
insurance agent early. I help my buyers do all three before they are too far in.
Schools Near Lake Hollingsworth

The area is served by Polk County Public Schools. Depending on the exact street, nearby
zoned schools can include Cleveland Court Elementary, Dixieland Elementary, or Philip
OBrien Elementary, with Southwest Middle or Crystal Lake Middle, and Lakeland High
School.

School zones can change street by street, and they can change over time. Always check a
specific address with the Polk County Public Schools school locator before you make an
offer. I am happy to help you look it up.
Things to Know Before You Buy
A few quick tips from me:

1. Lakefront is its own market. Homes right on the water price differently than homes a
block or two back. Know which one you are really shopping for.
2. Ask about flood zones and insurance. Being near any Florida lake is a reason to check
the flood zone and get insurance quotes early.
3. Visit at different times. Drive the loop on a Saturday morning and again on a
weeknight. See how traffic and foot traffic feel to you.
4. Be ready to move. Well priced homes in established neighborhoods like this one often
get attention fast.
Selling a Home Near the Lake?

If you own near Lake Hollingsworth, your location is a big selling point. Buyers want to hear
about the loop, the trees, the college, and how close downtown is. Good photos, smart
pricing, and telling that story well all make a difference. I would love to walk through your
home and give you an honest opinion on value.

Let's Talk
Whether you want to buy near the lake, sell your home here, or just learn more about this
part of Lakeland, I am here to help. I live and work in Polk County, and I love showing
people what makes our neighborhoods special.

Call or text me at (863) 529-4436. Lets find your place in Lakeland.
Lana Burke,  PINKWARRIORREALTOR

LPT Realty