Lake Wales History Museum

Lake Wales History Museum

WHO WE ARE

Central Florida’s Stop for History!!!

The Lake Wales History Museum showcases the history and heritage of central Florida’s agricultural, railroad, and pioneer families from the greater Lake Wales area. The Lake Wales History Museum is located in Lake Wales, Florida, 60 miles southwest of Orlando and 60 miles east of Tampa. The museum is open free of charge from Wednesday - Saturday, from 10 AM – 5 PM, and offers visitors self-guided historical and changing exhibits, train cars, educational videos, scavenger hunt, and audio tour. Visitors learn about the natural history of the Lake Wales Ridge beginning with Florida’s native people to the development of Lake Wales’ railroad, industry and residents of the 20th century. Guests may visit our newly restored 1926 Seaboard Air Line Railroad caboose, the 1916 Office Car, and 1944 US Army locomotive engine. Guests may also visit, picnic and enjoy the small adjacent park. Three additional historic buildings are included on the property – a 1920 office bungalow originally the site of the Lake Wales Women’s Club, first library and later the chamber of commerce; the original 1916 Seaboard Airline Freight Station, and the original 1920 craftsman style bungalow home, built for one of Lake Wales’ founder, E. C. Stuart.

Our Story

Visiting the History Museum in Lake Wales, Florida


The Lake Wales History Museum will give you the inside track on this area’s history and heritage through exhibits set inside a building built by the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad in 1928. 


Originally a train depot, the Lake Wales History Museum features exhibits beginning with the foundation of Lake Wales in 1911 as well as the formation of the city, industry, places of interest and developments in the 19th century that led to the settlement of the area. Best of all, admission is free.


Lake Wales, Florida is near Winter Haven and 35 miles south of Walt Disney World Resort. 


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