Land O' Lakes, Florida - Things to see and do

Things to see and do in Land O' Lakes, Florida

Visited December 2021

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Land O' Lakes, Florida: Quiet Growth in the Sunshine State

Land O' Lakes might sound like a place pulled from a postcard — and in some ways, it is. Located just north of Tampa in Pasco County, this fast-growing community blends natural Florida beauty with suburban comfort. With its abundance of lakes (yes, the name fits), family-friendly neighborhoods, and strong sense of local pride, Land O' Lakes is one of Florida’s quieter success stories.

Land O Lakes is near our home and we pass through it almost every day.

More Than Just a Pretty Name

Let’s clear up the obvious first — no, Land O' Lakes isn't where the butter comes from. But the name still fits. This area is dotted with over 100 lakes, giving residents access to boating, fishing, and waterfront living that feels more private than Florida’s crowded coasts. Nature is never far away. Cypress trees, herons, and sunsets over still water are part of daily life here. Despite the proximity to Tampa (about a 30-minute drive), Land O' Lakes holds onto its own identity. It’s not a suburb pretending to be a city. It’s a hometown.

A Hot Spot for Families

Land O’ Lakes has seen explosive growth in recent years, especially among young families. New master-planned communities like Bexley, Connerton, and Terra Bella offer modern homes, trails, parks, and A-rated schools — all the things parents are looking for. The schools, in particular, are a big draw, with some of the best public options in the Tampa Bay area. Safety, good schools, and a neighborly vibe make this a no-brainer for people wanting the Florida lifestyle without the chaos.

The Tampa Premium Outlets outdoor shopping mall is surrounded by shops and restaurants. It is a very popular shopping destination.

Outdoor Living, the Florida Way

If you like the outdoors, Land O’ Lakes delivers. The area is packed with parks, preserves, and — of course — lakes. Lake Padgett and Bell Lake are among the more popular spots for boating and watersports. There’s also Crews Lake Wilderness Park, which has a boardwalk through wetlands, a miniature train ride, and plenty of space for weekend picnics. Cyclists and runners will love the Suncoast Trail, a scenic 42-mile path that runs just west of town and connects to other regional trail systems.

Annual events include a water ski show and a Christmas boat parade on Lake Padgett.

Dupree Gardens

Dupree Gardens was one of Florida's original tourist attractions. It once was 25 acres of flowers for the public to enjoy. A 1948 American Automobile Association publication described the 900-acre estate as including "a beautiful 25-acre tropical garden with winding paths, meandering streams and sparkling waterfalls" and called it "one of Florida's major attractions". It wasn't just a blooming display of flowers either. Visitors had the lodge, tea room, gift shop and boat rides at the lake to enjoy. Camellia blooms from the garden were auctioned and sent to New York's mayor, along with Havana cigars, according to an excerpt from The Historic Places of Pasco County. The president of National Airlines pledged a winning bid of a quarter of a million dollars in war bonds. Today, all that remains of the gardens is the entrance and a historical marker.

The Tunnel to Towers Let Us Do Good Village, located nearby is a community of 80 mortgage-free homes specifically built with the unique needs of our Fallen First Responder Families, Gold Star Families, and Smart Home recipients in mind, while lifting the financial burden of a mortgage off their shoulders.

A Community That’s Still Growing

While it’s not a nightlife destination, Land O’ Lakes is slowly building its own food and drink scene. Breweries like In the Loop Brewing offer a cool place to relax, and new restaurants pop up regularly as development continues. The area’s mix of long-time locals and new transplants creates a welcoming, community-first vibe. The balance is what makes it work — rural roots with just enough modern edge.

Final Word

Land O’ Lakes isn’t flashy. It’s not trying to be the next Miami or Orlando. And that’s exactly the point. It’s where you go when you want space to breathe, water to unwind, and a community that actually feels like one. If you’re looking for a slice of real Florida — family-focused, outdoorsy, and growing without losing its charm — Land O’ Lakes might be exactly what you didn’t know you were looking for.

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For more information on wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries in the area visit https://flbwd.com