Winter Haven, Florida, might be better known for its scenic lakes and the Legoland theme park, but it’s also a surprisingly tasty spot for food lovers. What makes it stand out is its mix of small local shops, international flavors, and relaxed vibe—perfect for a food tour. We especially like how some of these tours combine sampling delicious eats with learning about the city’s unique spots, like the original Publix site or hidden bakery treasures. If you’re after a sweet treat or an international flavor explosion, Winter Haven has options that won’t disappoint.
Among these, the Winter Haven: Coffee, Tea & Dessert Food Tour appeals to those who love a good caffeine kick paired with sweet bites, while the Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour offers a wider taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene. For a combined food experience with spectacular views, the Food Tour & Tipsy Sunset adds a relaxing cruise to the mix. Whether you’re after a quick afternoon stroll or a more in-depth taste adventure, these tours deliver a genuine bite of Winter Haven.
1. Winter Haven: Coffee, Tea & Dessert Food Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Winter Haven: Coffee, Tea & Dessert Food Tour offers a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth and caffeine cravings in just 3 hours. This guided walking tour is perfect for foodies of all ages who appreciate rich desserts and expertly brewed coffee. You’ll begin at Richard’s Fine Coffees, where sampling gourmet muffins and freshly brewed coffee sets the tone for the day. From there, the tour takes you to Tempo 1930, famous for its classic Floridian key lime pie, tangy and sweet enough to make your taste buds dance.
What makes this tour stand out is its variety of international desserts, such as coconut sticky rice and flan, giving a taste of different cultures without leaving the city. Unique treats like banana-stuffed fried wontons are also included, making this tour more than just a sugar rush. The guide is knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring you learn about each treat and the local spots that make Winter Haven’s dessert scene special.
The price of $134 per person is reasonable given the variety and quality of tastings. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, sweet treats, and a morning or afternoon stroll. Be prepared for a good amount of walking and plenty of tasty samples to keep you energized.
Bottom line: If you love desserts and coffee, this tour offers a well-rounded, flavorful experience that’s both fun and delicious.
$134 per person
2. Winter Haven: Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour
Number 2 is the Winter Haven: Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour, which is slightly more comprehensive at 3 hours and priced at $136 per person. This tour is geared toward those who want to experience the full range of Winter Haven’s culinary scene, including international dishes, local favorites, and interesting city sights.
The tour kicks off with coffee and muffins before taking you to see the original site of the Publix supermarket, a noteworthy piece of local history. From there, you’ll visit The Treasured Olive, where infused olive oils and gelato are on the menu—perfect for those who enjoy sophisticated flavors. The journey continues with flavorful Asian options like spring rolls and dumplings at Thai Haven, offering a contrast to the earlier sweet treats. The tour wraps up at a local bakery, with cakes and cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth and give you a true taste of Winter Haven’s baking talents.
Many reviews mention how this tour does an excellent job of “awakening your senses” and providing a well-rounded look at local and international cuisine. The balance of food, history, and culture makes it an excellent choice for curious travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
Bottom line: For a flavorful, educational tour that combines diverse cuisines with local history, this guided experience offers good value and a memorable walk through Winter Haven.
$136 per person
3. Winter Haven: Food Tour & Tipsy Sunset
Closing out our list at number 3 is the Winter Haven: Food Tour & Tipsy Sunset, which costs $165 per person and lasts 3 hours. This tour combines the culinary delights of Winter Haven with a relaxing sunset cruise on Lake Howard, making it a perfect choice for those seeking both good food and scenic views.
The food portion of the tour mirrors the Flavors of the City experience, with stops for coffee, muffins, infused olive oils, and gelato at The Treasured Olive. You’ll also sample Asian dishes like spring rolls at Thai Haven, ending with bakery treats. What sets this tour apart is the sunset cruise on Lake Howard, where you can enjoy a tipsy sunset while reflecting on the day’s tastings. It’s a slower-paced, more scenic experience ideal for couples or anyone who wants to combine food with relaxation.
The reviews highlight that the cruise offers “stunning views” and a peaceful atmosphere after the busy eating stops. The price reflects the added cruise experience, making it a good value for those who want a full evening of both dining and scenic beauty.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a combination of culinary exploration and scenic relaxation, especially those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a memorable evening.
$165 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Winter Haven
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. The Coffee, Tea & Dessert Tour is perfect for sweet tooth enthusiasts and those who prefer a shorter, more focused experience. If you want to explore a broader range of flavors and learn about local history and culture, the Flavors of the City Tour offers a richer, more diverse tasting. For a laid-back, scenic experience that combines food with a sunset view, the Food & Tipsy Sunset Cruise is an excellent choice.
Budget-wise, all are fairly comparable, but keep in mind that the sunset cruise adds extra value with its relaxing Lake Howard views. Book early, especially during peak travel months, as these tours fill up quickly.
In summary, Winter Haven offers a surprising variety of food tours that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you’re craving sweet treats, international bites, or a scenic combo of food and sunset views, these tours deliver a genuine taste of what makes this Florida city special. For a quick indulgence, the Coffee, Tea & Dessert Tour hits the mark, while the Flavors of the City Tour is great for those wanting a deeper dive into local culture. And if you’re planning a memorable evening, the Tipsy Sunset cruise combines food with stunning lake views. Whichever you choose, be sure to book early and enjoy discovering Winter Haven’s culinary charm firsthand.