Shortly after 1885, the citizens of Clay Cut persuaded the South Florida Railroad to build a station in their sleepy, citrus-growing town, and then renamed it Haines City, in honor of a senior railway official. “The Heart of Florida” has since grown into the third most populous city in Polk County and yet retains a small town feel. Nowhere is that more apparent than in the city’s downtown Main Street. Listed since 1994 on the National Register of Historic Places, revitalization efforts have worked successfully in tandem with historical preservation in order to bring more shops and restaurants to the area.

Nowadays, golf courses now outnumber citrus trees. One of the city’s most unusual courses was built on the site of a grove destroyed by frost two decades ago. The pure sand used to contour the unique elevations and numerous bunkers at Southern Dunes Golf and Country Club is orange – a testament to its origins. But, golf is not the only amusement available to Haines City residents. Located in close proximity to three major amusement parks, Legoland, Walt Disney World and Universal, Haines makes an ideal location for visitors and residents alike to enjoy the sights year-round without the hustle and bustle of the big city. For those who prefer the great outdoors, there is Catfish Creek Preserve, a kid-friendly nature center, and Central Park, a camper’s haven.

If you like the feel of small town living with a cost of living below the national average, check out this month’s Occupational Therapy job opening. Then call the Centra team at 800 535 0076 and let us help you this or any of our other exclusive nationwide employment opportunities.