- Native wildflowers and pollinator plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Citrus groves and heritage trees, recalling the area’s agricultural legacy.
- Sculptures and public art installations, celebrating local creativity.
- A Reflection Court, where visitors can rest and contemplate the connection between nature and culture.
The gardens are also home to community events such as art fairs, garden festivals, and outdoor concerts. These gatherings reinforce the museum’s mission to preserve culture as a living experience rather than a relic of the past.
Educational and Community Programs
A cornerstone of the museum’s mission is education. Through partnerships with schools, universities, and local organizations, the Lake Wales Museum offers a range of programs, workshops, and lectures designed to foster historical awareness.
Some of these include:
- Hands-on youth programs, where children learn about Florida’s ecosystems, archaeology, and local crafts.
- Storytelling sessions, featuring descendants of pioneer families who share their family histories.
- Historical reenactments, such as depot days that recreate the town’s railroad era.
- Lectures and symposia, exploring broader topics such as Native American heritage, the Civil Rights movement in Central Florida, and environmental preservation.
By making history accessible and participatory, the museum bridges generational gaps and cultivates civic pride. shutdown123