Live Like a Local: Auburndale Edition

Auburndale, Florida may be a small city, but it's bursting with hidden gems and exciting activities that you will love exploring from your Auburndale new home.

From culinary delights to shopping, and parks to events, we got the scoop from an Auburndale local about some of the BEST places to visit and things to do in this charming city!

Crave & Copper

This local craft brewery and restaurant in downtown Auburndale not only offers delicious food and drinks, but a community destination and great atmosphere from the inside seating to the outdoor beer garden. With a diverse menu made in-house and featuring dishes like Smoked Fish Dip and Beer Braised Bratwurst, paired with a selection of 20 beers on tap, it's the perfect spot for a gathering with family and friends.

The Modern Pearl

Ladies (or, those shopping for your favorite lady), you’ll love The Modern Pearl, a local boutique in the heart of downtown Auburndale on Main Street. Whether you're looking for a cute outfit, accessories, gifts, or even college gameday attire, this boutique has you covered.

Healthy Tribe Nutrition 

For healthy eats that’ll satisfy both your hunger and your sweet tooth, visit Healthy Tribe Nutrition. Enjoy high-protein shakes, acai bowls, detox drinks, energizing treats, and more. Plus, they host a women’s workout group on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bonus: it’s FREE!

Publix Super Market at Lake Juliana

It’s not often a grocery store is on the list of the best places in a city – but if you’re from the southern U.S., you’ll understand the excitement surrounding the brand-new Publix Super Market at Lake Juliana! With a tagline of “Where Shopping Is a Pleasure,” Publix is a fan-favorite thanks to helpful employees, clean stores, and delicious food including their legendary fried chicken and Pub Subs.

Located off SR 559 in northern Auburndale near I-4, this new Publix serves an area of the city that previously was somewhat of a food desert. The store anchors a plaza that’s also home to a nail lounge, a UPS store (ideal for making Amazon returns), and multiple restaurants – one of which is next up on our list!

Wakame Japanese and Thai Cuisine 

Located in the new Publix at Lake Juliana Plaza, Wakame recently opened and has quickly become a favorite local spot for sushi and hibachi, with both dine-in and takeout options. We hear they have great lunch specials, too!

Calogero’s Pizzeria

Just outside the Auburndale city limits, in neighboring Lake Alfred, Calogero’s offers wood-fired pizza that’s been called the best in Polk County. Chef and owner Calogero “Charlie” Restivo is a first-generation Italian-American and also brings to the table his experience as one of the opening executive chefs at Disney’s Tutto Italia Ristorante and the Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria in EPCOT.

Made in an authentic Italian wood-fired oven with fresh ingredients and classic Italian recipes adapted with Calogero’s personal twist, this is one of the best pizzas you’ll enjoy without traveling to Italy!

Insider tip: Treat yourself to their irresistible cannolis for dessert!

Peebles Bar-B-Q 

Don’t let the simple surroundings of this mom-and-pop restaurant turn you off – it's the best BBQ in town! Peebles has been serving the Auburndale community for more than 75 years, and this family-owned restaurant is open Thursday through Friday seasonally (closed during the heat of July and August).

Auburndale Downtown City Park

Enjoy the outdoors under a shaded tree canopy at Auburndale Downtown City Park, located in the heart of the downtown district. With picnic areas, play areas, a historic depot, and the new Auburndale Rotary Butterfly Garden, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained. And with the historic bandstand onsite, it's a perfect spot for community events.

Speaking of…

1st Saturday Downtown Auburndale Market

Held the 1st Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., this artisan and farmers market in Auburndale’s Downtown City Park features live music, inflatables and activities for kids, and over 50 local vendors. It's a free event for the whole family.

I-4: Your Gateway to Adventure

Explore nearby cities like Lakeland, Tampa, and Orlando, visit Walt Disney World and Central Florida’s other famed theme parks, and travel to both Atlantic and Gulf Coast beaches – with ease! Auburndale's central location on the I-4 corridor opens up endless possibilities for your next adventure.

Find Your New Home in Auburndale, FL

We build new homes in Auburndale near all the great places mentioned here! Find your dream home and become an Auburndale local by calling or emailing our Auburndale New Home Specialists today.