The city of Lake Wales, which is 13.99 square miles in size with just over 11,000 residents, is established along the state's geographical ridge, a ridge that boasts peninsular Florida’s highest elevation -- 295 feet above sea level. This advantageous location gives Lake Wales a climate rich in Florida sunshine, but without the humidity of the coastal areas. Daytime temperatures rarely exceed the mid-90s during the summer, and seldom fall below the 60s in winter. Yearly rainfall averages 53 inches, occurring mostly in late spring and summer.

Unique to Central Florida, the Lake Wales area is characterized by rolling hills, sentinels of lush green citrus trees, and the inviting waters of shimmering lakes. Residents and visitors enjoy an early morning walk on the trail around Lake Wales, visit the lush gardens surrounding the world-renowned bell tower at Historic Bok Sanctuary, enjoy outstanding community theatre, or meander through a lovingly preserved historic downtown district. Visitors enjoy the annual Lake Wales Art Show by the lake, experience music by artists from around the world during the International Carillon Festival, take in the myriad of cultural offerings at the Lake Wales Arts Center, or party at the February Mardi Gras celebration.