BEST GYM/ FITNESS STUDIO
ADRENALINE BODY WORKS
202 Lake Miriam Dr Suite 126, Lakeland
(863) 712-1653
FB: Adrenaline Body Works
IG @adrenalinebodyworks
Adrenaline Body Works is an exclusive 100-members-only fitness studio offering group fitness, private training, and therapeutic exercise. Members can also enjoy the benefits of a cold plunge, sauna, and recovery equipment. With a five-star rating across the board, one member writes in part, “I’ve been working out at ABW with Adam, on and off for about 7+ years. Routinely, I come back to meet new fitness goals. In 2023, I decided I’m back for good - focusing on consistency for my mental wellness. The atmosphere in the gym is always electric! It makes me want to keep showing up, be aggressive, and better myself every day.”
2nd: The Balance Culture
3rd: Just Move
BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO
KARATE BEYOND BY MASTER CHOE
4124 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 354-5467
FB @karatebeyond
IG @karatebeyond
The well-structured classes at Karate Beyond are a black belt in child psychology and development. Designed to boost coordination, physical fitness, and mental toughness, they also sharpen social skills. From pre-K ninjas to kids, teens, and adults, they offer martial arts training, summer camp, and after-school pick-up. One parent writes, “Master Jae is amazing with his students. Since starting at Karate Beyond a couple months ago, my son has had a boost in his confidence. Master Jae is kind, patient, and very encouraging. My son looks forward to coming to karate every week. I highly recommend this dojo.”
2nd: Sifu Och Wing Chun Kung Fu
3rd: Champions Mixed Martial Arts
BEST MEDICAL CANNABIS DISPENSARY
SURTERRA WELLNESS
1222 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(850) 391-5455
FB: Surterra
I’ll be blunt, Surterra has weeded out the competition. Their products are nurtured in their cutting-edge facility, the largest greenhouse on the East Coast, where they steer clear of harmful chemicals. With a full menu of medical cannabis offerings—prerolls, edibles, vaporizers, concentrates, oral and sublingual options, flower, topicals, and more—they’ve got all your needs covered for a highly enjoyable experience.
2nd: Trulieve Lakeland Dispensary
3rd: MÜV Dispensary Lakeland
BEST WELLNESS STORE
ANTHONY’S HEALTH HUT & RESTAURANT
5329 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 644-5330
FB @anthonyshealthhut
IG @anthonyshealthhut
Looking for an extensive selection of health foods and products from herbs and spices to vitamins and supplements? Anthony’s Health Hut has it! This healthy haven has served Lakeland for over 30 years with tasty, feel-good food, including homemade soups and juices. The Restaurant boasts a menu brimming with bright bites, including salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, juices, and more. “This place is amazing, their expertise on their products along with their customer service is second to none. Their food is delicious and well priced, this is the place to go for an inexpensive lunch that is healthy and flavorful. Anthony, Joey and Penny are some of the sweetest people I’ve ever met and they have my business for life,” wrote one customer.
2nd: Chamberlin’s Natural Foods
3rd: Your CBD Store | SUNMED
BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP
ACCESS CHURCH
4303 Florida Ave S, Lakeland
(863) 688-8100
2620 Kathleen Rd, Lakeland
FB @AccessChurch
IG @accesschurch
Dr. Jason and Lis Burns are the founding and lead pastors of Access Church. In 2007, Jason and Lis started Access as a college Bible study in their living room with 15 friends. Today, thousands of people in Central Florida call Access Church their home. Access Church says, “We help people take the next step in their relationship with Jesus. That’s how we’re going to make a difference, and it’s the motivation behind everything we do.” One Access Church congregant writes in part, “I can’t say enough good things about Access Church. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with open arms and a genuine sense of community. The worship experience is uplifting, the sermons are both inspiring and relatable, and the leadership is truly committed to making a positive impact on people’s lives.”
2nd: Lakes Church
3rd: First United Methodist Church
BEST FAMILY DOCTOR
JAMES G. HARDIGAN, DO | WATSON CLINIC
1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland
(863) 680-7190
FB @watsonclinicfl
IG @watson_clinic
Dr. James G. Hardigan joined Watson Clinic in 2007 and specializes in Family Medicine. He earned his DO at Nova-Southeastern University and did his internship and residency at St. Joseph Community Hospital in Mishawaka, IN. Dr. Hardigan is a member of the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Medicine and has his American Osteopathic Board of Family Medicine Certification. One patient writes, “I would give 10 Stars if possible. Doc Hardigan is beyond PHENOMENAL!!!! He is always upbeat, with one of the best bedside manners I have ever seen. And considering some of the hospitals I have dealt with, and exposure to the medical community, it says quite a lot. He is always aware of what is going on, and his care and concern is top notch, knowledgeable, involved, and compassionate.”
2nd: Ayesha Jafri, MD | Robinson Family Clinic
3rd: Dr. Celestino Vega
BEST PEDIATRICIAN
CARA CANNON, MD | LAKESIDE PEDIATRICS
(Multiple locations)
FB @lakesidepeds
IG @lakesidepeds
Dr. Cara Cannon was raised in Canada and moved to the States in 1996. She has an undergraduate degree from Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University and a master’s degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder, both in aerospace engineering. She attended medical school at the University of Colorado School of Medicine before moving to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where she completed her general pediatric residency. She returned to Colorado for two years of additional Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology training before joining Lakeside Pediatrics in 2015. Dr. Cannon is passionate about breastfeeding and is dedicated to improving breastfeeding rates in the Lakeland community. She treats ADHD, anxiety, and depression and works with patients with a history of trauma. She is board–certified in pediatrics and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the AAP Section on Breastfeeding. Dr. Cannon maintains active medical staff status at Lakeland Regional Health.
2nd: Wilson Cornett, MD | Watson Clinic
3rd: Nicole A. Hinds, MD | Lakeland Regional Health
BEST EYE SPECIALIST/ OPTOMETRIST
EYE SPECIALISTS OF MID-FLORIDA, P.A.
3350 Harden Blvd, Lakeland
(863) 662-3010
2004 CR 540 A, Lakeland
(863) 937-4515
IG @eyespecialistsmidfl
What started as a modest eye-opener of an ophthalmology and optometry practice in downtown Winter Haven in the early 1960s, Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A. has now grown into a visionary network with multiple locations throughout Central Florida. You don’t need a magnifying glass to see why Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida is the Best of LKLD. They focus on personalized, high-quality eye care, including ophthalmology, optometry, glaucoma, LASIK, laser surgery, cataract treatment, and eyelid lifts. Plus, they offer a full range of eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, sunglasses, frame repair, and optical accessories to keep your vision sharp and stylish!
2nd: Eyes on Lakeland
3rd: MyEyeDr.
BEST ORTHOPEDIC DOCTOR
ERIC DOUGLAS WICKS, MD | LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH GRASSLANDS CAMPUS
3030 Harden Blvd, Lakeland
(863) 687-1250
FB @LakelandRegionalHealth
IG @lakelandregionalhealth
Dr. Wicks brings extensive experience in Orthopedic Surgery, Athletic Training, and Chiropractic care to both his Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Sports Medicine practice, where he specializes in the evaluation, prevention, and nonsurgical and surgical treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. He currently serves as a Team Physician for Florida Southern College and previously served as a Team Physician for the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia Flyers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Villanova University. Prior to earning his medical degree, Dr. Wicks worked as a Doctor of Chiropractic, Certified Athletic Trainer, and Personal Trainer. Certified by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association and the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Dr. Wicks sees patients ages 12 years and older.
2nd: Phuc Vo, MD | Watson Clinic
3rd: Timothy Evans, MD | Lakeland Regional Health
BEST OB-GYN
TAREK G. GARAS, MD | WATSON CLINIC
1755 N Florida Ave, Lakeland
(863) 680-7312
FB @watsonclinicfl
IG @watson_clinic
We’re here to ‘deliver’ the good news. Dr. Tarek Garas is board-certified in OB-GYN and Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (Urogynecology). He specializes in general gynecology, advanced gynecologic surgery, bladder incontinence, bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, robotic surgery, and diVa® laser vaginal therapy. Dr. Garas is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a member of several prestigious medical organizations, including the American Urogynecologic Society, Physicians for Women’s Health, American College of Surgeons, Florida Obstetric and Gynecology Society. He is bilingual in English and Spanish. What accomplishment is Dr. Garas most proud of? “I am most proud of each patient I am able to help restore to health and of every baby I assisted with entering this world safely.”
2nd: Samantha J. Curtis, MD | Watson Clinic
3rd: J. Brian Hopper, MD | Watson Clinic
BEST PLASTIC SURGEON
FAEZA R. KAZMIER, MD | WATSON CLINIC WOMEN’S CENTER
1400 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland
(863) 680-7676
FB @watsonclinicfl
IG @watson_clinic
When it comes time for a little nip and tuck, we know where you can smooth out all of the wrinkles. Dr. Faeza R. Kazmier provides a variety of plastic surgery services, ranging from cosmetic procedures to reconstructive care, from her office at the Watson Clinic Women’s Center. Having completed dedicated training focused on plastic surgery, along with 18 years of experience, Dr. Kazmier seeks to help her patients achieve real, natural-looking results from head to toe. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society while at Albany Medical College. Dr. Kazmier, who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, is also an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
2nd: Jacob Gerzenshtein, MD
3rd: J. Scott Ferguson, DO | Watson Clinic
BEST DENTIST/ ORTHODONTIST
SCOTT ORTHODONTICS
5030 S Lakeland Dr, Lakeland
(863) 709-1941
211 6th St SE, Winter Haven
(863) 299-1261
FB @DrScottSmiles
IG @scottortho
Now, here’s a win that’ll make you grin! Voters continue to trust their pearly whites to the Smile Specialists at Scott Orthodontics year after year. The board-certified orthodontists provide a full range of orthodontic options for children, teens, and adults. Whether you’re looking for traditional metal braces, clear ceramic options, or advanced choices like Invisalign, Damon Smile, Incognito hidden lingual braces, and In-Ovation C, they’ve got your smile covered! One patient wrote, “The staff here at the Lakeland location are fantastic. Everyone is always smiling, courteous, and helpful. Appointments were always quick and timely, but they always made sure any and all questions were answered for me. Dr. Scott and Dr. Patel are SO friendly and knowledgeable in their specialty. I had such a positive experience here with everyone through my Invisalign treatment and would definitely recommend this location for children or adults for all orthodontic needs.”
2nd: Agnini Family Dental
3rd: Kawveh Nofallah, DMD
BEST CHIROPRACTOR
LOVE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER
5227 US Hwy 98 S, Lakeland
(863) 709-1600
FB @LoveChiropracticCenterFL
IG @love_chiropractic
Drs. Steve and Tiffany Love, Erika Love, and Chris Terry strive to address your problems quickly and effectively. “Many of our patients will notice a substantial difference in just a few visits. In most cases, we will set up a short-term regimen to make sure you are progressing as anticipated. If, by any chance, we are not seeing progress, we will refer you to a specialist in the area whom we trust. As always, we give you the treatment you need. No more. No Less,” says Love Chiropractic. One patient writes in part, “We are both patients at Love Chiropractic and couldn’t be more pleased with our individual treatment and care. This “Award Winning Facility” offers top-shelf treatment, efficient expert care, along with state-of-the-art equipment, procedures, and treatment.”
2nd: David Choate, DC
3rd: Kern Chiropractic Clinic
BEST HOSPITAL
LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH
Multiple Locations
FB @LakelandRegionalHealth
IG @lakelandregionalhealth
Congratulations to Lakeland Regional Health for once again taking the crown as the Best Hospital! With a legacy that’s been going strong for over 100 years, this hospital continues to “deliver” outstanding outcomes and top-notch care by putting people at the heart of everything they do. They’re all about boosting lives through wellness, education, and discovery. The LRH Physician Group features over 340 doctors and providers across more than 40 specialties at over 20 locations. As one of Florida’s largest hospitals with 910 beds, Lakeland Regional Health also scores big as the second-largest private employer in Polk County, with over 7,000 staff members and a medical team of more than 700.
2nd: AdventHealth
3rd: BayCare
BEST URGENT CARE
WATSON CLINIC URGENT CARE MAIN
1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland
(863) 680-7271
Watson Clinic Urgent Care South
1033 North Parkway Frontage Road, Lakeland
863-647-4047
FB @watsonclinicfl
IG @watson_clinic
For those minor emergencies, illnesses, and accidents, you don’t need to rush to the emergency room. Watson Clinic Urgent Care is staffed with board-certified specialists and a highly trained team ready to tackle earaches, minor cuts and fractures, upper respiratory infections, and more. No appointment is needed, and new patients are always welcome. With on-site x-ray, laboratory, CT, and other diagnostic testing, plus medical support from skilled professionals, it’s a smart and cost-effective alternative to an emergency room visit. At Watson Clinic Urgent Care, “We Make You Feel Better Quicker.”
2nd: Lakeland Regional Urgent Care
3rd: AdventHealth Centra Care Lakeland
BEST REHABILITATION SERVICES
BANNASCH INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED REHABILITATION MEDICINE | LAKELAND REGIONAL HEALTH
FB @LakelandRegionalHealth
IG @lakelandregionalhealth
Nestled within Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, the Bannasch Institute was crafted with insights from industry experts, care providers, and community members to ensure top-notch, coordinated, and cuttingedge services for patients and their families. Highlights of their facility include a 32-bed unit with all private rooms, a spacious 2,300+ square foot physical therapy gym, and a cozy family area, among other features. For those seeking outpatient care, Lakeland Regional Health offers services at their award-winning Grasslands Campus and North Lakeland YMCA, including one of Polk County’s premier Pelvic Rehabilitation programs for men and women dealing with pelvic pain or urinary issues.
2nd: Leading Edge Physical Therapy
3rd: Watson Clinic
BEST MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
WALK WITH HOPE
215 E Bay St #4, Lakeland
(863) 777-9184
IG @walkwithhopetherapy
Walk with Hope is a team of Licensed Mental Health Counselors who provide quality therapy to individuals, couples, and families. “Using empathy and honesty, our goal is to create a safe space for you to explore your feelings. Connect with us now and take a step towards feeling better,” says Walk with Hope. They are committed to supporting those in the LGBTQ+ community and are proud to provide safe, respectful, and culturally informed therapy. One Walk with Hope client writes in part, “Natalie is an excellent counselor. She creates a safe space and, with each session, helps unpack layer by layer what’s on your heart. She listens with empathy, asks thoughtful questions, and provides a high-level overview to help put things in perspective. In addition, she equips you with the tools (new skills) to help you navigate your way to a better place.”
2nd: Peace River Center
3rd: Atala Counseling
BEST DOGGY DAYCARE
HOLLYWOOF PET RESORT
5845 Brannen Rd S, Lakeland
(863) 644-8152
FB @hollywoofpetresort
IG @hollywoofpetresort
Your dog is the star of your household—so give them the Hollywood treatment! Hollywoof Pet Resort, previously known as Sunny Days Pet Resort, has been rolling out the red carpet for pets since 2001. Located in a tranquil spot away from traffic but close to the SPCA Adoption Center and S. Florida Avenue in South Lakeland, Hollywoof continues to expand its star-studded services, including boarding, grooming, and doggy daycare. They believe every dog deserves their time in the spotlight. This resort ensures a safe environment, with playgroups carefully created to avoid overcrowding and large dogs kept separate from the smaller pups.
2nd: Four Paws Only
3rd: Das Hund Haus
BEST DOG GROOMER
DOGGIE DIVAS GROOMING SALON
1633 Shepherd Rd, Lakeland
(863) 337-4999
FB @Doggiedivasgrooming
IG @ doggiedivasgrooming
Is your pup a total diva? Then pamper them at Doggie Divas Grooming Salon! Doggie Divas offers blueberry facials, natural skin care products, PlaqClnz dental care, and a professional grooming experience in a calm spa atmosphere. One pet dad writes, “Always a pleasure talking with them to make the appointment and pick up the doggo Niko. Niko always looks like so sparkly & clean, they do a fantastic job getting out his Australian shepherd undercoat. Need a groomer? Doggie Divas is the only name you need!”
2nd: Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming
3rd: Lucky Puppy Nail Specialists
BEST VETERINARIAN
DR. BOB IRELAN’S VETERINARY SERVICES
6804 N Socrum Loop Rd, Lakeland
(863) 859-9485
FB @robertirelandvm
“Our exceptional team at Dr. Bob Irelan’s Veterinary Services in Lakeland, FL, is dedicated to providing the best possible veterinary care for your pets. Your concerns are our concerns, and together, we embark on a journey to ensure the health and happiness of your furry companions throughout every stage of life.” This Lakeland vet is your complete source for pet vaccinations and a wide variety of veterinary services, including wellness care, pharmacy, dentistry, euthanasia guidance and services, geriatrics, general surgery, preventive medicine, laboratory testing and diagnostics, chronic disease and pain management, and nutrition. One client raves, “Thank you so much! We are very happy with all the care Dr. Tony and the staff, our doggies were taken care of with great compassion, and professionalism. Lilly and Scrappy’s surgeries were a success, and I really appreciate all they did for our babies! Dr. Bob’s Vet is the only one we would go to. He is the best in the area!”
2nd: All Creatures Animal Clinic
3rd: Cleveland Heights Animal Hospital
