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Bartow

Bartow, Florida, United States

Bartow, a charming city located in the heart of Florida, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Situated in Polk County, Bartow boasts a rich his…

#Small town#Historic#County seat#Agricultural#Central Florida

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Bartow.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

20.6 thousand

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Bartow

Jan

21°9°

Feb

23°10°

Mar

26°13°

Apr

28°16°

May

31°19°

Jun

33°22°

Jul

33°23°

Aug

33°23°

Sep

32°22°

Oct

29°18°

Nov

25°13°

Dec

22°10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Bartow.

What people love

Bartow, Florida, located in the United States, offers several benefits for travelers:

Historic Charm: Bartow is a city rich in history, with well-preserved historic buildings and sites. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, which features beautiful architecture and a glimpse into the city's past.
Outdoor Recreation: The Bartow area is surrounded by natural beauty, with numerous parks, lakes, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and birdwatching in the area's scenic surroundings.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Bartow is known for its small-town charm and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and laid-back environment while exploring the city and its surroundings.
Close Proximity to Attractions: Bartow is located within driving distance of many popular attractions in central Florida, including theme parks, beaches, and cultural sites. Visitors can easily take day trips to nearby destinations such as Orlando, Tampa, and the Gulf Coast.
Local Cuisine: Bartow offers a variety of dining options, including local restaurants serving up delicious Southern cuisine and other culinary delights. Visitors can sample regional specialties and enjoy a taste of Florida's vibrant food scene.

Overall, traveling to Bartow, Florida, can provide a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors looking to explore a historic city, enjoy outdoor activities, and soak up the local culture.

What to know

Bartow, located in Florida, United States, is a charming city with its own unique attractions and characteristics. However, like any destination, Bartow may have some cons for travelers to consider:

Limited entertainment options: Bartow is a smaller city compared to popular tourist destinations in Florida like Orlando or Miami. This means there may be limited entertainment options such as nightlife, shopping, and cultural activities.
Limited public transportation: Public transportation options in Bartow may be limited, making it necessary for visitors to rely on their own vehicles or taxis to get around. This could be inconvenient for travelers who prefer to use public transportation.
Limited dining choices: While Bartow offers a variety of dining options, the choices may be limited compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a diverse range of cuisines or upscale dining experiences may find the options in Bartow to be somewhat limited.
Weather considerations: Florida's weather can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Travelers should be prepared for high temperatures and humidity if visiting Bartow during these times.
Distance from major attractions: Bartow is located inland in Florida, meaning it is not as close to popular attractions like beaches or theme parks as other cities. Travelers looking to visit these attractions may need to factor in additional travel time.

Overall, while Bartow has its own unique charm and attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning a visit to the city.

Bartow, Florida, is a city located in Polk County, serving as the county seat. It has a rich history that reflects the broader development patterns of Central Florida.

Early History

Origins and Naming: The area that is now Bartow was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Tocobaga and the Timucua. The first European contact came with Spanish explorers in the 16th century. The city itself was founded in 1851 and was originally named Fort Blount, after a local pioneer, Redding Blount.
Renaming: In 1867, the city was renamed Bartow in honor of Francis S. Bartow, a Confederate colonel who was the first brigade commander to die in the American Civil War.

Development and Growth

Post-Civil War: After the Civil War, Bartow became an important center in the region due to its location and the establishment of the railroad, which facilitated growth and development.
Citrus and Phosphate: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of the citrus industry and phosphate mining in the area, both of which became economic staples for the region. Bartow played a central role in these industries.

Significant Events

Great Freeze: The Great Freeze of 1894-1895 severely impacted the citrus industry in Bartow and the surrounding areas, leading to economic difficulties but also diversification in local agriculture.
World War II: During World War II, Bartow Air Base was established, contributing to the local economy and subsequently influencing the post-war development of the area.

Historical Figures

Jacob Summerlin: Known as the "King of the Crackers," Summerlin was a cattle baron who played a significant role in the early development of Bartow and Polk County. He donated land for public use, including for schools and churches.
Spessard Holland: A Bartow native, Holland served as Governor of Florida from 1941 to 1945 and later as a U.S. Senator from 1946 to 1971. His contributions to state and national politics remain significant.

Important Landmarks

Old Polk County Courthouse: Built in 1909, this historic courthouse is a classic example of neoclassical architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It now houses the Polk County Historical Museum.
L.B. Brown House: This historic home was built by Lawrence Bernard Brown, an African American entrepreneur, during the late 19th century. It stands as a testament to his success and is a symbol of African American history in the region.
Bartow Air Base: Though no longer in operation, the site of the former World War II airbase is a part of the city's historical narrative and is currently used for various purposes, including as a municipal airport.

Bartow continues to be a city that reflects the historical and economic trends of Florida, balancing its rich heritage with ongoing growth and development.