Mystical Spook Hill: A Gravity-Defying Wonder
Discover the enchanting Spook Hill in Lake Wales, Florida, where gravity seems to play tricks and local legends come to life in a unique tourist attraction.
Nestled in the charming town of Lake Wales, Florida, Spook Hill is an intriguing historical landmark that beckons tourists with its peculiar optical illusion. The site is renowned for its gravity-defying slope where vehicles appear to roll uphill, captivating visitors with an experience that feels like magic. This phenomenon is attributed to the surrounding landscape, which creates a visual trick that fascinates both children and adults alike. The hill is steeped in local folklore, with tales that speak of a Native American legend involving a fierce battle between a chief and an alligator, adding a layer of cultural significance to the site. As you approach Spook Hill, you will find a designated area where you can safely park and experience the thrill for yourself. It's advisable to turn off your vehicle and let it roll back slightly down the slope to appreciate the unusual gravitational pull fully. The location is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful setting for a family outing or a fun stop during a road trip through Central Florida. Be sure to snap some pictures and share the experience with friends and family. With no admission fee, Spook Hill is an accessible and memorable attraction that highlights the quirky charm of Florida’s natural wonders. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Lake Wales area, which offers additional attractions, dining, and the serene beauty of Bok Tower Gardens, making for a perfect day of exploration.
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best experience and visibility of the hill's optical illusion.
- Bring a camera to capture the fun moments as your vehicle rolls uphill!
- Take some time to read the historical markers nearby to learn more about the local folklore.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like Bok Tower Gardens for a full day of exploration.
- Check the weather beforehand, as clear days provide the best visibility and experience.
A brief summary to Spook Hill
- 321 Dr JA Wiltshire Ave, Lake Wales, Florida, 33853, US
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Orlando, take the FL-408 E exit toward Titusville. Merge onto I-4 W and follow signs for Tampa. Take exit 27 to merge onto US-27 S toward Miami. Continue on US-27 S for about 30 miles, then take exit 55 toward Lake Wales. Keep right at the fork and follow signs for Lake Wales. Once in Lake Wales, turn left onto Dr JA Wiltshire Ave. Spook Hill will be on your right at 321 Dr JA Wiltshire Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853.
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Car
From Tampa, take I-75 S toward Naples. Merge onto I-4 E toward Orlando. Take exit 55 toward Lake Wales and keep right at the fork. Follow signs for Lake Wales and merge onto US-27 S. Continue on US-27 S for about 20 miles. Turn left onto Dr JA Wiltshire Ave. Spook Hill will be on your right at 321 Dr JA Wiltshire Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853.
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Public Transportation
If you're using public transportation, take a Greyhound bus from Miami to Lake Wales. The bus will drop you off at the Lake Wales depot. From there, you can use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft to reach Spook Hill, which is approximately a 10-minute drive away. Enter the address 321 Dr JA Wiltshire Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853 in the rideshare app.
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Public Transportation
From Orlando, take a Lynx bus to the Lynx Central Station. From there, you can catch a Greyhound bus to Lake Wales. Upon arrival at the Lake Wales depot, use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft to reach Spook Hill. It's about a 10-minute drive from the depot to the landmark at 321 Dr JA Wiltshire Ave, Lake Wales, FL 33853.
