FROSTPROOF,  FLORIDA

Frostproof is a small town of about 3,114 people on Florida Scenic Highway 17 in Polk County, Florida.  Don't be confused:  this is not U.S. Highway 17 which is many miles to the west.

Vintage Postcard Frostproof Downtown

Florida Scenic Highway 17 is also known as the Ridge Scenic Highway.

Frostproof is south of Lake Wales, north of Sebring and east of Winter Haven.  Take Highway 630 out of town to the east and you'll go through Indian Lake Estates and Yeehaw Junction.

Aerial Photo of Frostproof Between the Lakes

The town is located on an isthmus between Reedy Lake and Lake Clinch.  This favorable situation has a lot to do with the town's moderate winter temperatures.

The town was originally named Keystone City, but people kept getting it confused with Keystone Heights up in North Central Florida.

Frostproof:  The Perfect Citrus Town Name

The town fathers, being good promoters, came up with the perfect Florida name: Frostproof.

Unfortunately, a couple of years later a severe frost visited the area and destroyed most of the citrus groves.

Even so, it is still one of the most "frostproof" areas in the state and the citrus industry still thrives here.

Ben Hill Griffin, Jr.

Latimer "Latt" Maxcy

Frostproof is home to two of Florida's legendary agricultural giants: Ben Hill Griffin, Jr. (left) and Latimer "Latt" Maxcy (right).

Florida Fruit Canners, Inc., 1935

These pioneers controlled most of the ranch and grove land in this part of Florida for years.

One of Ben Hill Griffin's descendants is Katherine Harris, former Florida Secretary of State.

Old Frostproof City Hall, by Ebyabe

Ben Hill Griffin was also a University of Florida graduate, and donated enough to his alma mater that the stadium in Gainesville where the Gators play football is known as Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at Florida Field.

He is also beloved by Gator fans as being one of the boosters that talked  Steve Spurrier into becoming Gator head football coach.

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, University of Florida

Spurrier is such a beloved Gator hero that the entire name of the venue is now Steve Spurrier-Florida Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

Most Gator fans now just call it "The Swamp."

Although Frostproof sometimes feels like it is in the middle of nowhere, it is actually only about an hour's drive from Legoland, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sebring and its raceway and many other central Florida attractions.

Florida Citrus Label

A fun thing to do when visiting Frostproof is to walk the Frostproof Historical Trail.  It can be a self guided tour that tells you all about the history of the old buildings you will see in town.

Frostproof City Hall

The current Frostproof City Hall at 111 West 1st Street used to be Frostproof High School in earlier days.  It is on the U. S. National Register of Historic places.

THINGS TO DO IN FROSTPROOF, FLORIDA

Historical Frostproof City Hall: Visit 111 W 1st St, Frostproof, FL 33843 to see this beautiful example of historic Floridian architecture. The building serves as an emblem of Frostproof's past, encapsulating its cultural and administrative history.

Reedy Lake: This picturesque lake, located near N Lake Reedy Blvd offers a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water. It's an ideal spot for bird watching, with numerous species frequenting the area.

Ramon Theater: Head to 15 E. Wall Street, Frostproof, FL 33843 to enjoy local theater performances. This community theater produces a range of shows, offering an exciting mix of musicals, plays, and community events.

Ridge Audubon Center: 200 N. Crooked Lake Rd, Babson Park, FL 33827- Explore the wonders of nature at this bird sanctuary, featuring walking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and educational programs, allowing visitors to connect with the diverse wildlife of the region.

Frostproof Historical Trail: Begins at 111 W 1st St, Frostproof, FL 33843 - Embark on a self-guided tour through Frostproof's history along this trail, marked with informative plaques, allowing visitors to learn about the town's significant landmarks and events while enjoying a leisurely walk.

Lily Lake Golf Resort: 6603 US Hwy 27, Frostproof, FL 33843 - Tee off at this scenic golf course surrounded by picturesque landscapes and tranquil lakes, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.

The Frostproof Depot: 118 E Wall St, Frostproof, FL 33843 - Visit the restored Frostproof Depot, a historic train station turned community center, which hosts various events, including art shows, performances, and farmers markets, providing a hub for local culture and entertainment.

Frostproof Historical Society and Museum: 210 S Scenic Hwy, Frostproof, FL 33843 - Delve deeper into Frostproof's history at this museum, where you can explore captivating exhibits, photographs, and artifacts that offer insight into the town's past and the people who shaped it.