Introduction: Florida’s Unexpected Treasure
When people think of Florida, they often imagine coastal cities like Miami, Tampa, or Orlando. Yet nestled quietly in the center of the state is a town that offers a completely different flavor of Florida living—one defined by natural beauty, community charm, and a rich tapestry of culture. Welcome to Lake Placid, a town known not only for its tranquil lakes and stunning murals but also for being called “The Town of Murals” and “The Caladium Capital of the World.”
Lake Placid isn’t just another dot on the map—it’s a place where small-town hospitality meets natural wonder. In this blog, we dive deep into what makes Lake Placid such a unique and vibrant place to live, visit, and invest in.
1. Geographic Location and Setting
Lake Placid is located in Highlands County, roughly in the geographic center of Florida. It’s situated about two hours south of Orlando and slightly under two hours northwest of Fort Lauderdale. While not directly on the coast, it offers a serene, inland experience surrounded by more than 27 freshwater lakes.
This central location provides the best of both worlds—close enough to Florida’s major cities for convenience, yet removed enough to offer a quiet, nature-centric lifestyle. It is the kind of place where people smile at strangers, where traffic is never more than a few cars deep, and where community events actually feel like communal gatherings.
2. Historical Roots and Growth
Lake Placid’s origins trace back to the early 20th century when it was initially called Lake Stearns. The town was renamed Lake Placid in 1927, inspired by the famous village in New York, thanks to the efforts of Melvil Dewey—the man behind the Dewey Decimal System—who spent winters in the area and lobbied for the name change.
Over the decades, Lake Placid transformed from a rural retreat into a cultural and agricultural hub. While the town’s population remains modest, its influence and character stretch far beyond its borders. With a current population of around 2,500 people (and growing), Lake Placid continues to attract residents looking for a relaxed, high-quality lifestyle.
3. The Town of Murals
Arguably Lake Placid’s most unique visual identity comes from its nearly 50 outdoor murals painted on buildings throughout the town. These murals capture elements of Florida’s history, wildlife, and local life—offering both residents and visitors a walking tour of art and heritage.
More than just decoration, the murals serve as educational pieces. Many include hidden elements or interactive components, making them a favorite among children and adults alike. The mural program has been instrumental in boosting tourism and civic pride.
4. Lake Life and Outdoor Recreation
True to its name, Lake Placid is surrounded by lakes—making it a paradise for outdoor lovers. The town is adjacent to Lake June-in-Winter, one of the largest and most popular freshwater lakes in the region.
Popular Activities Include:
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Boating and Jet Skiing: Many lakes have public access ramps.
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Fishing: Known for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.
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Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Tranquil waters ideal for non-motorized fun.
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Picnicking and Camping: Many parks and lakefronts offer shaded areas and facilities.
The region also boasts nearby nature reserves and state parks, offering hiking, bird-watching, and eco-tours. Archbold Biological Station, located just outside town, is a world-renowned research center studying Florida’s unique ecosystem.
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5. Caladium Capital of the World
Lake Placid produces over 95% of the world’s commercial caladium bulbs, earning it the nickname “Caladium Capital of the World.” These colorful ornamental plants are grown for their vibrant foliage and are exported globally.
The town hosts an annual Caladium Festival, a summer event that celebrates its agricultural pride. Featuring garden tours, art exhibits, parades, and live entertainment, the festival attracts thousands of visitors and plant lovers from all over the state and beyond.
6. Local Culture and Arts Scene
Despite its small size, Lake Placid has a surprisingly rich cultural fabric. In addition to its mural program, the town features:
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The Historical Society Museum: Chronicling the region’s evolution.
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Toby’s Clown School and Museum: The only school of its kind in the country, adding whimsy to the local identity.
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Downtown Art Walks and Farmers Markets: Promoting local artists, crafters, and culinary talent.
Music, dance, and theater events are frequent, often hosted at the local community center or outdoor spaces. The town’s love for arts is visible not just in murals but also in its commitment to education and enrichment programs.
7. Real Estate Market and Living in Lake Placid
Lake Placid offers a wide range of housing options—making it attractive for retirees, remote workers, families, and vacation homebuyers.
Residential Property Types:
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Single-Family Homes: With generous yards and often lake access.
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Lakefront Estates: Premium homes on Lake June or other major lakes.
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Townhouses and Condos: Found closer to the town center.
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Rural Properties and Ranches: Ideal for those seeking space and tranquility.
Affordability and Appeal:
Compared to coastal Florida, Lake Placid is highly affordable. Home prices are below the state average, while the cost of living is also lower. There’s no state income tax in Florida, and property taxes in Highlands County are relatively moderate.
It’s common to find homes with lake views or direct water access at prices that would be unthinkable in other parts of the state. This affordability is driving new interest from retirees, seasonal residents (snowbirds), and digital nomads.
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8. Education and Schools
Lake Placid is served by the Highlands County School District, which includes several elementary, middle, and high schools in the region. These schools offer:
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Standard academic programs
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Athletic teams and extracurriculars
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Vocational and technical education opportunities
The town places emphasis on small class sizes, community involvement, and fostering student success. Nearby, South Florida State College provides higher education and continuing education options.
9. Healthcare and Wellness
Healthcare access in Lake Placid is facilitated by:
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AdventHealth Lake Placid: A full-service hospital offering emergency, surgical, and outpatient care.
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Local clinics and specialist offices: Covering family medicine, pediatrics, dental care, and wellness.
The town also promotes wellness through walking trails, senior fitness classes, and recreational leagues. Emergency response times are strong, and the town works closely with Highlands County for coordinated health services.
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10. Economy and Business Environment
Lake Placid has a diversified economy rooted in:
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Agriculture: Especially ornamental plants, citrus, and cattle.
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Tourism: Driven by festivals, murals, and lake activities.
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Small Business: Including boutiques, restaurants, and professional services.
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Light Manufacturing and Logistics: With room for commercial expansion.
The town government is actively encouraging economic growth through incentives, zoning flexibility, and infrastructure upgrades. Entrepreneurs find Lake Placid a friendly place to start or relocate a business.
11. Events and Festivals
Community is at the heart of life in Lake Placid, and that means plenty of events throughout the year:
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Caladium Festival: Celebrating the town’s signature plant.
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Annual Holiday Parade: A winter favorite complete with floats and music.
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Weekly Farmers Markets: Featuring local produce, crafts, and food.
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Fourth of July Celebrations: Fireworks over the lake are a highlight.
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Lake Placid Mural Tours: Self-guided or organized group events.
These events bring the community together and foster a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
12. Safety and Public Services
Lake Placid benefits from a well-run municipal government and strong public safety infrastructure. The Lake Placid Police Department maintains a visible and accessible presence, and the Fire Department is equipped to handle both structural and wildfire emergencies.
The town invests in public utilities, clean water supply, and regular infrastructure maintenance. Storm preparedness is taken seriously, with local agencies working with the county and state for coordinated response.
13. Future Outlook and Development Plans
Lake Placid is embracing smart growth. The local government is focused on balancing development with environmental stewardship and community values.
Planned Improvements Include:
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Downtown revitalization to encourage foot traffic and new business.
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Roadway and utility upgrades to accommodate growth.
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Affordable housing initiatives for young families and essential workers.
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Expanded recreational trails and green spaces for public health.
With an increasing number of people seeking quieter, more affordable places to live, Lake Placid is poised for a measured, community-driven evolution.
Conclusion: Why Lake Placid is Florida’s Best-Kept Secret
Lake Placid, Florida is far more than a dot on a map—it’s a community of artists, growers, entrepreneurs, and families who have built something unique. With its combination of affordability, beauty, culture, and charm, it’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle of city life without sacrificing quality or connectivity.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, thinking about relocating, or seeking the perfect lakefront retirement home, Lake Placid offers a peaceful pace and a rich, rewarding lifestyle.