Lakewood Ranch began as a planned residential community, but it’s become an attractive place for visitors, too. Most spend their time exploring the upscale boutique shops and restaurants on Main Street (there’s everything from an Italian trattoria to a sushi place), or catching a mainstream or indie flick at the small movie theater. There’s a good chance you may wander into an event while visiting: farmers markets, festivals and concerts are held regularly, including Music on Main (free and held the first Friday of every month).

A great deal of Lakewood Ranch is set aside as park or public recreational space, and visitors can take advantage of the area’s playgrounds, miles of walking and jogging trails, and myriad championship golf courses.

The Landscape
Apropos to its beginnings, the area has a tidy and manicured feel. Fully half the land in Lakewood Ranch has been set aside as public lands: Parks and trails offer nature experiences – places to run, walk, bike or rollerblade – and several playgrounds for little people. With so much green space, the feeling here is quiet and relaxing.

The Accommodations
Because Lakewood Ranch is a relatively new community, accommodations in the area are primarily newer properties that have major brand-name recognition. Since Lakewood Ranch is situated close to the interstate, staying at a property here means that you have easy on-and-off access to Interstate 75, allowing you to explore the Bradenton area with ease.

The Locals
About 1,500 people call Lakewood Ranch home – generally affluent urban professionals and retirees.

The Dress Code
The dress code in Lakewood Ranch is "resort casual" all the way. By definition, that means nice shorts and tops, or casual dresses that can take you from a leisurely late brunch to a shopping excursion on Main Street to a relaxed dinner out on the town.

The Weather
Balmy days and breezy nights are the norm here most of the year. You should, however, pack a light sweater or wrap, as restaurants and shops can be well air-conditioned and chilly.

Average seasonal highs/lows:
Spring – 82°F/60°F
Summer – 90°F/71°F
Fall – 84°F/64°F
Winter – 73°F/51°F