Central Florida attractions offer travelers a diverse array of activities sure to satisfy tourists of all ages and vacation preferences. Naturists, foodies, shoppers, and even aviation enthusiasts can all find the perfect way to easily fill up a vacation itinerary. However, some visitors don't realize that the Polk County region also hosts a plethora of athletic teams and events making it the ultimate get away location for the sports fanatics in the traveling party. Knowing what the area offers to these aficionados makes it easy to see why sporting events top the list of things to do in Central Florida.

Play Ball!

Sport fans will love checking out the many baseball events when looking for fun things to do in Central Florida. The region hosts spring training for the Detroit Tigers in beautiful Lakeland. With sessions beginning annually from late February through March, it's a great way to catch a glimpse of the player preseason while enjoying the gorgeous Polk County weather. Tickets are available in various price points depending on the opposing teams and packages based on seating selection. Check out the action as the Tigers play in Joker Marchant Stadium.

The Tigers coming to town also means other exciting preseason events sure to please both diehard fans and those with only a casual interest in the game. Visitors can take part in the 65th annual Tiger BBQ. Hosted by the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce on February 22, 2011 from 6pm-8pm, this festival draws crowds of players and fans alike and offers a fabulous food spread and festivities for everyone in the traveling group. Golfers in the travel party will also want to check out the 16th annual Major League Scramble charity golf event to be held on February 24, 2011. Gather up a foursome and play a round of golf with a member of the Detroit Tigers organization! Individual players are also welcome, based on availability. For all events, be sure to purchase tickets in advance so you don't miss out.

Not a Tigers fan? No problem! Lakeland is the perfect home base for a spring training getaway, with six Florida Grapefruit League spring training teams within an hour's drive – including the Atlanta Braves, the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Yankees. Purchase seats and bring the entire family to see your own hometown team.

Fortunately, the end of March doesn't mean the end of baseball when looking for things to do in Central Florida. The Lakeland Flying Tigers are the minor league team for the official Detroit Tigers. With a season running from April - September, there are plenty of opportunities to see the Flying Tigers in action while in Polk County.

Other Sporting Activities

The Florida Sports Hall of Fame offers an exciting outing for fans of all sports when looking for things to do in Central Florida. Located in Auburndale, the museum houses memorabilia from some of the state's most popular athletes. A must see for sports fanatics, the hall showcases items from NASCAR, football, baseball and many others sports - and admission is free.

With so many athletic festivities year round in Polk County, it's no wonder that sporting events top the list of things to do in Central Florida.