Where is Fort Meade, Florida

Fort Meade is a historic city in central Florida and part of the Lakeland–Winter Haven metropolitan area. It is about 30 miles southeast of Lakeland and 55 miles east of Tampa in Polk County. The city is known for its small-town character, phosphate mining history, historic downtown, Peace River access, and location among the lakes and citrus groves of Central Florida.

Location Map of Fort Meade, Polk County, Florida

About Map: The map shows the location of Fort Meade in Polk County, in the U.S. state of Florida.

Fort Meade Map, Florida

Where is Fort Meade Located?

Fort Meade is a city located in Polk County, Florida, the United States. It lies in central Florida, about 30 miles southeast of Lakeland, 20 miles south of Winter Haven, and roughly 55 miles east of Tampa. Fort Meade is positioned at approximately 27.752° North latitude and 81.801° West longitude. The city covers about 7.04 square miles, or 18.23 square kilometers, of land. The 2020 Census recorded 5,100 residents, while recent estimates place the population at about 5,200. Fort Meade stands at an elevation of roughly 150 feet above sea level. The city dates to the 1840s and is one of Polk County's oldest communities. Its history includes military settlement, agriculture, railroads, and phosphate mining. The Peace River passes near Fort Meade and is an important natural feature of the area. The Fort Meade Historical Society and the city's historic neighborhoods help preserve its past. Nearby attractions include Peace River access points, Homeland Heritage Park, Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, and Bok Tower Gardens. U.S. Highway 17 and State Road 630 connect Fort Meade with Bartow, Wauchula, Lakeland, and other Central Florida communities.

Most Viewed US Maps

Fort Meade City Facts

Distance from Fort Meade, FL to Nearby Cities

• Bartow, FL – 12 miles (19 km)
• Wauchula, FL – 15 miles (24 km)
• Mulberry, FL – 20 miles (32 km)
• Winter Haven, FL – 20 miles (32 km)
• Lake Wales, FL – 20 miles (32 km)
• Avon Park, FL – 35 miles (56 km)
• Haines City, FL – 30 miles (48 km)
• Lakeland, FL – 30 miles (48 km)
• Frostproof, FL – 20 miles (32 km)
• Plant City, FL – 35 miles (56 km)
• Sebring, FL – 40 miles (64 km)
• Winter Garden, FL – 55 miles (89 km)
• Tampa, FL – 55 miles (89 km)
• Orlando, FL – 65 miles (105 km)
• Sarasota, FL – 75 miles (121 km)
• Bradenton, FL – 70 miles (113 km)
• Clearwater, FL – 75 miles (121 km)
• St. Petersburg, FL – 75 miles (121 km)

Top Attractions in Fort Meade

• Peace River – A major natural feature near Fort Meade that offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, wildlife viewing, and fossil hunting.
• Fort Meade Historical Society – A local organization preserving artifacts, photographs, and records related to the city's long history.
• Historic Downtown Fort Meade – A traditional downtown area with historic buildings, local businesses, restaurants, and community landmarks.
• Fort Meade Community Park – A local recreation area with sports fields, playgrounds, walking areas, and open space.
• Homeland Heritage Park – A nearby Polk County heritage park preserving historic buildings and agricultural structures from the region.
• Lake Wales Ridge State Forest – A protected natural area with trails, scrub habitat, wildlife, and scenic landscapes unique to Central Florida.
• Paynes Creek Historic State Park – A nearby state park with trails, wetlands, pine forests, and historical sites related to the Second Seminole War.
• Bok Tower Gardens – A nationally recognized garden and historic landmark near Lake Wales featuring landscaped gardens, a carillon tower, and nature trails.
• Spook Hill – A well-known optical illusion and roadside attraction in nearby Lake Wales where vehicles appear to roll uphill.
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort – A major family attraction in Winter Haven featuring rides, shows, water attractions, and LEGO-themed areas.

Airports Near Fort Meade

• Bartow Municipal Airport (BOW) – 15 miles
• Winter Haven Regional Airport (GIF) – 25 miles
• Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL) – 35 miles
• Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) – 75 miles
• Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 65 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official City of Fort Meade website and local government records.

Florida Related Maps and Info