Our Neighborhood
Welcome to Swan City — the best of Kentucky Avenue and beyond, from the pub that helped start it all.
Molly McHugh's has been part of the fabric of downtown Lakeland since 1996. Gerry McHugh saw the potential in this city before most anyone else, and today Kentucky Avenue is the vibrant heart of a thriving downtown. Here's what makes our neighborhood special — and what to do before or after you pull up a stool.
Every Saturday · Right on Our Street
Every Saturday morning, five blocks of North Kentucky Avenue come alive with over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, artisan crafts, plants, and prepared foods. Established in 2004, the Farmers Curb Market draws 3,500 to 5,500 visitors each week and is one of the best farmers markets in Central Florida.
The market is steps from Molly McHugh's — come for the produce, stay for a pint.
Saturdays 8 AM – 2 PM (Sept–May) · 8 AM – 1 PM (June–July) · Closed August
North Kentucky Avenue · downtownlkld.com
February & March · A Lakeland Tradition
Lakeland has been the spring training home of the Detroit Tigers since 1934 — the longest-standing relationship between a Major League Baseball team and a spring training city. The Tigers play at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium every February and March, and Molly McHugh's has proudly supported Tigers fans for decades.
Whether you're a lifelong Tigers fan making the trip from Michigan or a local who loves Grapefruit League baseball, there's no better place to grab a cold one before or after the game. Catch the Lakeland Flying Tigers — Detroit's Single-A affiliate — throughout the regular season too.
Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium · 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd
tigers.com/spring-training
Open Year-Round · Walking Distance
A stunning 1.2-acre botanical garden set on the shores of Lake Mirror, Hollis Garden features over 10,000 flowers, ornamental shrubs, and native trees across 16 themed "rooms" — all framed by neoclassical fountains, koi ponds, and public art. It's one of the most photographed spots in Lakeland and a favorite for weddings and evening strolls.
The garden sits along the Frances Langford Promenade, a beautiful art deco walkway circling Lake Mirror that's perfect for a walk before dinner and drinks at Molly's.
614 E Orange Street · Free admission · Closed Mondays
lakelandgov.net
Est. 1928 · Downtown Icon
Built in 1928 as a vaudeville and movie palace, the historic Polk Theatre is one of downtown Lakeland's most iconic landmarks. Designed by Italian-born architect J.E. Casale to resemble a Mediterranean village, the 1,400-seat theater has hosted everything from Elvis Presley in 1956 to today's live performances, classic film screenings, and Broadway touring shows.
Grab dinner and a show — Polk Theatre is a short walk from Molly's, and there's nothing better than a post-show pint in a proper pub.
121 S Florida Ave · polktheatre.org
The Heart of Downtown
Named after Abraham Munn, the Kentucky businessman who bought 80 acres of Polk County land in 1882 that became Lakeland, Munn Park is the green heart of downtown. The beautifully landscaped square is surrounded by boutique shops, restaurants, and some of the best local events throughout the year — including First Fridays, holiday celebrations, and live outdoor music.
Walking distance from Molly McHugh's
Swan City · A Short Walk from Molly's
Lakeland is known as "Swan City," and Lake Morton is the reason why. In 1957, Queen Elizabeth II gifted a pair of swans to the city, and their descendants still glide across the lake today — alongside a colorful mix of ducks, geese, and other waterfowl that have made Lake Morton one of Lakeland's most beloved landmarks.
The lake is a short walk from Molly McHugh's and makes for a beautiful detour on your way to or from the pub. Locals and visitors alike come to feed the birds, stroll the sidewalks, and take in the historic homes that line the shore.
Lake Morton · N Massachusetts Ave & E Lime St · Free & open daily
Scenic · Downtown
Lake Mirror is the stunning centerpiece of downtown Lakeland, circled by the art deco Frances Langford Promenade — named for the renowned singer and actress who entertained troops alongside Bob Hope. The promenade connects Hollis Garden, Barnett Family Park (complete with splash pad and playgrounds), and the Lake Mirror Auditorium, home to the Lakeland Community Theatre.
A perfect evening walk before settling in at Molly's
World-Famous Architecture
Lakeland is home to the world's largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. Florida Southern College's campus features 13 Wright-designed structures known as "Child of the Sun," built between 1941 and 1958. Free self-guided walking tours are available, and the campus is just minutes from downtown.
111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr · flsouthern.edu
After you explore — come home to Molly's.
Find Us on Kentucky Ave