City of Charm
Located at the Northern end of Highlands County is the City of Avon Park. With just over 10,000 residents in the 2018 census, it is the oldest town in the county. It was first visited in 1884 by a Connecticut resident wanting to study the Florida Everglades. The town became incorporated in 1886, and later the City was incorporated on January 1, 1926. The town was named after the town Strafford upon Avon in England. It is most famous for the citrus groves and the “Mile Long Mall” shopping along Main Street. South Florida State College is also located here.
Built in the 1920s and located on the National Historic Register, The Hotel Jacaranda can be found on Main Street. This grand hotel will take you back in time to Old Florida Charm. Still in operation today, you can stay at the “gracious lady” and rub elbows in the same rooms as the famous Babe Ruth and Clark Gable once stayed. You can also add a bit of splurge to your life and book a dinner in the dining hall at Christmas time with all the fixings.
Whether you’re looking to catch a fish or just a break from everyday life, Avon Park Air Force Range offers an outdoor recreation program for all your favorite outdoor activities. Grab your gear and head to this 106,000-acre facility for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, birding, and even outdoor educational opportunities for all ages.