Ideally located at almost the exact center of the state,Southern Dunes makes the perfect base for the vacationer who prefers the serenity of country living, but wants to be within driving distance of nearly every major attraction in the state. (All mileage and driving times given are approximate).

SPOOK HILL 12½ miles- 20MIN

At this famed attraction in the heart of Lake Wales, drivers are amazed to find when they park at the bottom of the hill and put their car in neutral, it starts to move slowly backwards…uphill!!! There are several legends about Spook Hill but no one can explain it. Centrally located with directional signs and FREE.

HISTORIC BOK SANCTUARY 12 miles- 20 MIN

This 205 foot stone and marble tower, dedicated to America by Edward Bok, is located south of Chalet Suzanne off Scenic Hwy (SR 17) and Burns Ave. on Tower Blvd. Surrounded by nature trails, picnic areas, woods and flowers, the spacious grounds provide an unusual sense of peace and tranquility on the highest point in peninsular Florida. The carillon plays every half-hour, with a full recital daily at 3:00 pm. Admission. 863-676-1408

LAKE WALES DEPOT MUSEUM 12 miles- 15 MIN

The Lake Wales Museum & Cultural Center, also known as The Depot, is a restored 1928 Atlantic Coast Line railroad station. The museum contains railroad memorabilia and a variety of historical items recalling the early days of Lake Wales. Located at 325 S. Scenic Hwy (SR 17). FREE. 863-678-4209

FLORIDA’S NATURAL GROVE HOUSE VISITOR CENTER 9 miles- 15 MIN

Sample Florida’s Natural juices and learn about growing, processing and packing citrus fruit from grove to glass. Interesting exhibits, short videos and a feature film presentation will bring the citrus industry and its history to life. Citrus themed gift shop. Located ½ mile north of SR 60 on US Hwy 27.FREE. 800-237-7805

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN 8 miles- 14MIN

Historic downtown Lake Wales was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990 and is also one of Florida’s Main Street cities. Lake Wales Main Street program has been instrumental in the preservation of its small town charm. Many antique and specialty shops.

LAKE WALES ARTS CENTER 6 miles- 7 MIN

Built in 1927 and served as the Holy Spirit Catholic Church for more than sixty years. The Arts Center provides musical performances, tours, lectures, classes and art exhibitions and the annual Art Show. FREE. 863-676-8426

WORLD SKYDIVING CENTER 6 miles- 7 MIN

Make your first jump today with Tandem Skydiving. The easiest way to experience freefall. Let our professional tandem instructors show you the world and 120 mph. One of our camera flyers films a tandem pair exiting the Twin Otter 2.5 miles in the air. Professionally edited video can be produced to capture your skydiving experience forever. Call 863-678-1003.

EAGLE RIDGE MALL 7 miles- 14 MIN

Three anchor stores- Dillards, JC Penny & Sears- are featured at this mall along with 80 specialty shops, a 12 screen theatre and a food court. 863-676-2300

CYPRESS GARDENS ADVENTURE PARK 8 miles- 12 MIN

Rediscover Florida’s first theme park. Cypress Gardens Adventure Park blends it’s storied past with sensational new thrills creating a unique family experience. www.cypressgardens.com 863-324-2111