Bonnet Springs Park is a massive redevelopment in Lakeland. When the park opened of October of 2022, the project transformed an abandoned industrial site into a vibrant urban park and recreational space for the community. The park is designed to encompass a wide range of amenities and attractions to provide a variety of experiences for visitors of all ages.

The park is located in Lakeland along the I-4 corridor making it easily accessible to locals and vacationers visiting the Orlando and Tampa areas. The park celebrates Lakeland’s diverse population while offering public spaces that serve a wide range of needs. Everyone is welcome, even your pets! Admission to Bonnet Springs Park and parking is free.

Park Features and Amenities

The park is full of surprises and we recommend spending most of a day roaming the trails and discovering all of the slides, bridges, boardwalks, and playgrounds that are connected by a system of walking and biking trails. The wide trails make it easy to explore the park. Here are some of the key things to watch out for while you explore.

Hollis Family Welcome Center

The Hollis Family Welcome Center is the flagship building for the park and the first of many beautifully designed spaces that visitors will first encounter upon arrival at Bonnet Springs Park. Hollis Family Welcome Center features a full-service restaurant with a chef-driven menu, regionally relevant selections, and contemporary food options that create the opportunity for a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Florida Children’s Museum

Located within Bonnet Springs Park, you’ll find Florida Children’s Museum, an interesting museum with interactive exhibits for children. Admission is $15 a person but many discount options are available on their website.

Crenshaw Canopy Walk

The Crenshaw Canopy Walk provides a relaxing walkway through the trees. The elevated walkway is about 20 feet off the ground in most parts and provides great views of Bonnet Springs Park.

The AgAmerica Heritage Garden

The AgAmerica Heritage Garden features beautifully sculpted linear gardens providing a natural cover, while you can experience one of the many health and wellness equipment pieces offered in the community fitness area. Also located within is the Joe L. and Karen Ruthven Train Playground.

GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center

Learn about the wildlife that call Florida home at the magnificent GiveWell Community Foundation Nature Center and Ann & Ward Edwards Boathouse! Inside the Nature Center, you will find interactive displays that showcase the native animals and wildlife of Florida.

Event Center

The Event Center features the Citizens Bank & Trust Ballroom, Wesley Beck Patio, and George W. Jenkins Outdoor Kitchen, the event center accommodates up to 400 guests for weddings and reunions. Corporate retreats, conventions and celebrations can enjoy up to 7,000 square ft. of available space, including the ballroom with the modern lighting and presentation technology.

Many Playgrounds

Playgrounds can be found throughout the park, all connected by trails and walkways. The kids will find places to play throughout the 168-acre park but the Ruthven Family Playground is considered the largest playground in the park. 

The Significance of the Bonnet Springs Park Project

The development of Bonnet Springs Park was anticipated to have a significant positive impact on the community of Lakeland and so far it has not disappointed. It has revitalize an underutilized and neglected area, providing a new recreational and leisure destination for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the park has boosted tourism and contributes to the overall quality of life in the Lakeland area.

Bonnet Springs Park Location

The park is located in Lakeland, Florida, a city located in Polk County in the central part of the state. Lakeland is about half-way between Tampa and Orlando along Interstate 4.

The nearest airport is the Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL). It is a public airport located approximately 6 miles southwest of downtown Lakeland.