Florida's 'City On The Circle' Is A Unique, Lakeside Gem With A Charming Downtown

Florida has long drawn travelers with its beautiful landscapes and endless sunshine. While millions of visitors flock to major cities such as Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, the Sunshine State also hides some of the best lake towns in America worth visiting for those willing to step off the beaten path and explore its more underrated spots. Among them, Sebring, a lakeside gem set in the heart of Highlands County in south-central Florida, stands out.

Founded in 1912 by Ohio industrialist George E. Sebring, for whom the town was named, his distinctive circular layout remains the town's defining feature. The unique design gave rise to its beloved nickname, "The City on the Circle," a name that perfectly captures its historic charm. In 1990, Sebring's downtown, with its 22 preserved historic buildings, was recognized for its architectural and cultural significance and designated a Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, the same circular plan still defines the city's historic character, making it a perfect destination for history lovers seeking a glimpse into the past. At the same time, Sebring is a haven for nature enthusiasts and water lovers, surrounded by more than 100 lakes that offer endless opportunities for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor adventures. Located about 95 miles southeast of Tampa and 85 miles south of Orlando, it's an easy drive via US-27 S or a scenic Amtrak train ride for about two hours at $24. International visitors can fly into Orlando International Airport, Tampa International Airport, or Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, while Sebring's own regional airport sits just eight miles from downtown.

The best way to experience this lakeside town is by starting at the water. Lake Istokpoga, one of Florida's largest lakes, stretching almost 28,000 acres, is legendary among anglers for its trophy-sized largemouth bass. A must-do adventure here is the airboat tour, where guests glide across the lake for a 1.5-hour ride that blends excitement with breathtaking scenery. Priced at $55 for adults and $35 for children, the tour offers close-up views of wildlife and opens to the scenic vistas of Arbuckle Creek, one of the lake's main sources. Nearby Lake Jackson is perfect for water recreation, from jet skiing and kayaking to swimming along its clear, sandy shores, especially at City Pier Beach on the lake's west side in downtown Sebring.

Highlands Hammock State Park, one of Florida's oldest parks and home to some of the world's strangest natural wonders, spans 9,000 acres of ancient oaks and rare endemic species. Trails such as the 0.6-mile Ancient Hammock, 2.4-mile Wild Orange Grove, Fern Garden Loop, and 2.9-mile Hickory and Cypress Swamp Trail are among the park's most popular routes, according to AllTrails. Visitors can also hop aboard a guided tram tour, costing $3 to $5, to spot deer, alligators, and over 400 bird species up close. The park is open year-round, with entrance fees ranging from $2 per person to $40 per bus.

Beyond its natural beauty, Sebring's historic downtown beckons. History enthusiasts can explore the Highlands Museum of the Arts, then step back in time at the Charles F. Weigle House Museum & Gift Shop, where early 1900s furnishings, local pottery, and WWII Army Air Forces exhibits tell Sebring's story. For families with children, the Children's Museum of the Highlands is designed for people of all ages, featuring interactive and educational exhibits.

After exploring Sebring's lakes and history, stop by the Circle Theatre, a downtown icon that first opened in 1923. Once called "the coolest place in town," it still lives up to that name nearly a century later. Today, it hosts performances, film screenings, and community events throughout the year, keeping the town's creative spirit alive.

No visit to Sebring is complete without a stop at the Sebring International Raceway, the oldest permanent road racing track in North America. It draws more than 300,000 visitors each year for the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race, where world-class drivers compete for twelve adrenaline-charged hours. Even if you miss that main event, the raceway's calendar of more than 175 activities ensures there's always something exciting happening, whether you're behind the wheel or in the stands.

Around the Circle, cozy cafés, diners, and boutique shops fill the streets with local flavor. Treat yourself at Sebring Soda & Ice Cream Works, where you can sample over 200 craft sodas or take on the playful Sebring Super Sundae Challenge. For a place to stay, pitch a tent under the stars at Highlands Hammock State Park for $18–$22 per night or check into welcoming hotels like Inn on the Lakes, La Quinta Inn & Suites, or Seven Sebring Raceway Hotel. Whether you visit in spring, summer, winter, or fall, and while it's not on our list, this town remains one of the best historical sites to visit in America and a lakeside gem you'll remember long after you leave.