StayAndy’s local guide
Make the most of your Sebring stay with freshwater fishing, nature trails, racing history, and easygoing days around the Circle.
Start with the lakesFlorida’s Lake Country
The Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid area is known for freshwater fishing, wildlife, motorsports, and small-town Florida character. Here are our starting points for an easy day out.
Cast a line
Closest lake experience
Lake Jackson covers about 3,412 acres and is known locally for crappie, bluegill, catfish, and relaxed shoreline fishing. City Pier Beach offers a fishing pier, public beach, covered tables, restrooms, and a play area near Downtown Sebring.
Trophy bass country
Nearly 28,000 acres of classic Florida water make Lake Istokpoga a destination for largemouth bass anglers. Istokpoga Park has a double boat ramp, large fishing pier, boardwalk, bathrooms, picnic facilities, and nature trails.
Beyond the water
01
Nature & wildlife
Walk beneath ancient oaks, watch for deer, alligators, birds, and butterflies, explore nine trails, ride the three-mile bike loop, or take a park tram. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset; check the official page for current trail closures and fees.
Plan your park visit ↗02
Motorsports
Visit the birthplace of American endurance racing. The 75th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring runs March 17–20, 2027, and lodging demand is strongest during race week. Text Andy early when planning a race-week stay.
2027 race information ↗03
Historic downtown
Stroll the heart of the “City on the Circle,” then explore nearby shops, dining, public art, and the Sebring Welcome Center in the Historic Circle Theatre.
Explore Circle Park ↗04
Arts & culture
See regional exhibitions, local work, and handmade gifts in the historic Clovelly House near Lake Jackson. Admission is free; hours are seasonal.
Check current hours ↗05
Plan your own day
Find current events, family activities, dining, shopping, arts, nightlife, and seasonal ideas across Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid.
Browse all activities ↗06
Local inspiration
Florida Adventures shares parks, lakes, events, hidden gems, and local places throughout Highlands County. Follow their ongoing exploration of things to do around Sebring, Lake Placid, and Avon Park.
Explore Highlands County on Facebook ↗
Our favorite local activity
Sebring is small-town Florida at its best: laid-back, friendly, and far from big-city traffic. Some days, the whole itinerary should be a cool drink, a comfortable chair, and a few unhurried hours chilling by the lake.
A little local planning
Hours, admission, events, launch access, and trail conditions can change. Confirm details with each attraction before leaving.
Florida sun and afternoon storms can arrive quickly. Pack water, sun protection, and rain gear for outdoor days.
Keep a safe distance from alligators and other animals, supervise children and pets, and follow posted park guidance.
Your home base on Lake Jackson
Start the morning by the water, settle into an Adirondack chair, and watch the day begin over Lake Jackson.