Traveling to Ever After Farms Citrus in Polk City, Florida for a wedding? This helpful travel guide has everything you need to plan the perfect visit. Discover the closest airports, the best local accommodations, top places to eat, and fun things to do in the area before or after the big day.
Whether you’re part of the wedding party or a guest, this guide will help you make the most of your time near one of Central Florida’s most beautiful barn wedding venues.
Welcome to Polk County Florida
Lodging
Hotels
Omni Orlando Resort at Champions Gate
If you are looking for a luxury stay near Ever After Farms Citrus, the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate is an excellent choice. Located just 15 minutes from the venue, this resort offers world class golf, a full service spa, multiple sparkling pools, and a variety of dining options on site.
It is a perfect option for guests who want to turn the wedding weekend into a relaxing getaway or mini vacation in Central Florida.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando South-Davenport
Located just 15 minutes from Ever After Farms Citrus, the Holiday Inn Express at ChampionsGate is a convenient and comfortable lodging option for wedding guests. This hotel offers an outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and is just a short drive from both the venue and Walt Disney World.
It is a great choice for guests looking for affordable accommodations with easy access to both wedding festivities and local attractions.
Hampton Inn Orlando-Maingate South
Just a short drive from Ever After Farms Citrus, the Hampton Inn at ChampionsGate is another excellent local lodging option for wedding guests. This hotel combines comfort and convenience, offering a pool, free breakfast, and easy access to nearby shopping and dining.
Located close to Walt Disney World and within 15 minutes of the venue, it is ideal for guests who want to explore the area while staying near the celebration.
Hampton Inn Lakeland
Located just 20 minutes from Ever After Farms Citrus, the Hampton Inn Lakeland is a convenient and comfortable option for out-of-town wedding guests. Situated in the heart of Lakeland, this hotel offers free breakfast, a swimming pool, and easy access to the area’s charming downtown filled with shops, dining, and local attractions.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lakeland
Located just a short drive from Ever After Farms Citrus, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lakeland offers modern accommodations in a vibrant and convenient location. Guests will enjoy being just minutes from local restaurants, bars, shops, and popular spots like Bryant Stadium, Lakeland Linder Airport, and downtown Lakeland.
Hyatt Place Lakeland Center
Located just 20 minutes from Ever After Farms Citrus, Hyatt Place Lakeland Center offers spacious accommodations in the heart of downtown Lakeland. Guests can walk to local attractions such as the RP Funding Center, Polk Theatre, and Explorations V Children’s Museum, all within a ten minute walk from the hotel.
AirBNBs
We have compiled a list of home rentals in the area that are great lodging options for your guests. These, in addition to the hotel recommendations on our Preferred Vendors List give you additional choices in the surrounding area.
- Lake House Retreat (Polk City, FL)
- Paradise Cottage & Tiki Hut at Bay Lake Resort (Polk City, FL)
- Auburndale Getaway Luxurious Style Open Floorplan (Auburndale, FL)
- Cute, Historic District Home (Lakeland, FL)
- Rural, Pet & RV friendly house centrally located (Polk City, FL)
- Bright Home and Quiet Neighborhood (Lakeland, FL)
Nearest Airports
Orlando International Airport
Approximately 2 hours from Ever After Farms Stockyard, Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest and most accessible airports in the world. With daily flights from all major airlines, including Southwest, Frontier, Spirit, JetBlue, and more, MCO is a top choice for guests flying in from almost anywhere in the U.S. or abroad.
Tampa International Airport
Located just 50 minutes from Ever After Farms Citrus, Tampa International Airport is a convenient option for guests flying in from across the country. This moderately sized airport offers service from major airlines including United, Spirit, JetBlue, Delta, and more.
Sanford International Airport
Located just one hour from Ever After Farms Citrus, Sanford International Airport is a smaller, traveler-friendly airport that offers flights from several affordable international carriers. Airlines include Allegiant, Swoop, Flair, Eurowings, and more, making it a great choice for guests looking for budget-friendly travel options.
Melbourne International Airport
Located about 1 hour from Ever After Farms Stockyard, Melbourne Orlando International Airport is a convenient mid-sized airport offering service from five major airlines: American, Allegiant, Delta, Sun Country, and TUI. With shorter lines and a traveler-friendly layout, it’s a great alternative to busier hubs.
Rehearsal Dinner Spots
Disney Event Planning
For couples or guests looking to extend the magic, Disney Event Planning offers unforgettable experiences. With beautifully themed decorations, customizable event packages, and delicious food options, you can add a little extra sparkle to your stay in Central Florida.
Nineteen61
Located in the heart of Lakeland, Nineteen61 offers an elevated dining experience with luxurious Latin American cuisine, an intimate ambiance, and refined decor. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, it is perfect for a rehearsal dinner, date night, or post-wedding celebration.
With over 2,000 five star reviews, it is no surprise that this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi
Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi offers a sleek, modern atmosphere paired with delicious and artfully prepared Japanese cuisine. Known for its upscale design and attention to detail, this restaurant also features a spacious luxury private dining area, making it a great choice for a rehearsal dinner or group gathering.
Frescos
Looking for a spot that checks all the boxes? Frescos in downtown Lakeland delivers homemade American comfort food, an extensive beer and cocktail menu, and live music by local artists during dinner service. This vibrant local favorite also offers catering services and private dining options, making it a fantastic choice for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding brunches.
Cafe Tu Tu Tango
Colorful, energetic, and full of flavor, Café Tu Tu Tango is known for its diverse small plates menu, artistic decor, and creative cocktails. With a vibrant atmosphere and an extensive drink selection, this Orlando favorite offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that’s perfect for groups looking to celebrate in style.
Terrace Grill
Located inside a 100 year old historic hotel in downtown Lakeland, the Terrace Grille offers a grand yet welcoming dining experience. With vintage decor, unique and diverse menu options, and beautifully designed private dining rooms, this is a perfect spot for a rehearsal dinner, brunch, or a special meal with friends and family.
Vincenzo Cucina Italiana
For a more intimate and upscale dining experience, Vincenzo Cucina Italiana offers authentic homestyle Italian cuisine in a warm and luxurious setting. Best suited for smaller rehearsal dinners or special gatherings, this charming Orlando restaurant is known for its quality ingredients, attentive service, and romantic ambiance.
Mojo Federal
If you love barbecue and Southern American cuisine, Mojo Federal in downtown Lakeland is a must. This casual and lively spot is perfect for a laid-back rehearsal dinner with a menu full of smoked meats, comfort food favorites, and an impressive selection of bourbon and craft cocktails. Add in live music and a fun atmosphere, and you have a celebration-worthy location everyone will enjoy.
Big Fin Seafood
For a refined yet approachable seafood experience, Big Fin Seafood Kitchen offers a wide variety of fresh, flavorful seafood dishes in a spacious and inviting dining setting. With large dining rooms perfect for groups and a well-stocked drink menu, Big Fin is an excellent choice for a rehearsal dinner or celebratory meal.
Paddlefish
Located in the heart of Disney Springs, Paddlefish brings together the magic of Disney with elevated dining and stunning rooftop views. The menu features an impressive selection of steak and seafood options, all served aboard a beautifully renovated steamboat. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a group gathering, Paddlefish offers a memorable experience from start to finish.
More Great Food Options
Black & Brew
A Lakeland favorite, Black & Brew has become a local hub with its flagship location in downtown Lakeland and a charming second café at the Lakeland Public Library on Lake Morton. Known for its warm atmosphere and community vibe, Black & Brew serves up comforting breakfast sandwiches, savory lunch and dinner options, and a menu of traditional and creative coffee drinks that keeps guests coming back.
Concord Coffee
Locally founded and operated by three Lakeland couples, Concord Coffee is known for its commitment to quality and community. With internationally and responsibly sourced beans roasted right in Lakeland, Concord offers a menu of exceptional craft coffee in a calm and welcoming space.
It is the perfect spot to relax, recharge, or meet up with friends and family before or after the wedding festivities.
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
Located in the heart of downtown Lakeland, Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille brings bold Southern, Cajun, and Creole flavors to life with a menu full of both classic and modern dishes. With limited locations across the Southeast, Harry’s offers a unique dining experience that blends regional flavor with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Guests can also enjoy a full bar featuring beer, wine, top-shelf liquor, and Harry’s signature cocktails, making it a great spot for a lively dinner or casual celebration.
David’s Club
Located at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, David’s Club is an upscale sports bar and steakhouse known for its premium bourbons, craft cocktails, and high-quality steaks. With a warm and energetic atmosphere, guests can enjoy a cocktail before dinner, dine on innovative American cuisine, and catch the game on the 90-inch video wall — all while taking in spectacular resort views.
Fun Things to Do
Showcase of Citrus
Just a short drive from the venue, Showcase of Citrus offers a truly local Florida experience on a 2,500-acre citrus estate. During the harvest season, guests can pick their own oranges, mandarins, tangerines, lemons, limes, and more from over 50 citrus varieties grown right on site.
This family-friendly attraction is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, take in beautiful views, and experience the charm of “Old Florida.”
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Safari Wilderness
For a rare and unforgettable adventure, Safari Wilderness Ranch offers a truly unique experience just a short drive from Ever After Farms Citrus. Set in a peaceful and secluded natural landscape, this safari-style ranch allows guests to explore wide open spaces filled with grazing exotic animals, soaring birds, and views of cypress domes and bay trees.
This one-of-a-kind attraction offers year-round tours where you can feel completely immersed in the sights, sounds, and serenity of the wild.
Silver Moon Drive-in
Step back in time with a visit to the Silver Moon Drive-In, a beloved Lakeland landmark operating for more than 70 years. This nostalgic spot features two screens showing first-run movies, with double features every night of the week. Bring some blankets, grab popcorn from the concession stand, and enjoy a classic movie experience under the stars.
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Bok Tower Gardens
Since 1929, Bok Tower Gardens has welcomed more than 23 million visitors, offering one of Florida’s most peaceful and inspiring destinations. Nestled among rolling hills and lush landscapes, the gardens provide a perfect setting for artistic, cultural, personal, and spiritual enrichment.
From scenic walking trails and stunning floral displays to the iconic Singing Tower and carillon concerts, there is something to discover here for visitors of all ages.
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Legoland Florida
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, where over 50 rides, shows, and attractions are designed for kids to take the lead. From thrilling roller coasters and water play areas to hands-on activities and live entertainment, there is fun around every corner for the whole family.
Located just a short drive from Ever After Farms Citrus, it is the perfect addition to a wedding weekend for guests traveling with children.
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Walt Disney World
Located just 20 minutes from Ever After Farms Citrus, the Walt Disney World Resort brings the magic of Disney right to your wedding weekend. Celebrate with family and friends as you immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with unforgettable attractions, world class entertainment, and magical moments.
In addition to the parks, guests can also enjoy nearby resorts, dining, shopping, and nightlife at Disney Springs — all just a short drive away.
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Traveling to Ever After Farms Citrus
We hope this guide helps you and your guests make the most of your time in the beautiful area surrounding Ever After Farms Citrus. For even more local recommendations and community resources, be sure to check out the Polk City Chamber of Commerce.
If you have any special requests or creative ideas for your guests’ travel experience, feel free to reach out to our wedding team. And if we do not have the answer, we will gladly connect you with someone who does.