If you like visual time travel, you will love Dixieland Relics in Lakeland, Florida. It’s truly got something for everyone and every taste level.
Take, for example, this little beauty of a camper that sits right outside the front door. I can’t imagine trying to vacation in this, but it might make a fine backyard office.
I think what may set Dixieland Relics apart from other places is its staff. I’ve rarely met friendlier people, willing to stop what they’re doing and chat with you about the history of the place and what, if anything, you might be looking for.
Karen Dasher (center) is the owner. She’s flanked by Mr. Freddie and Allyson. She told me Dixieland Relics used to be an automotive repair and/or paint garage. Now, it’s packed full of interesting goodies from various eras and it’s a feast for the eyes. You may not even know you’re looking for anything – I wasn’t – but end up finding something you just can’t live without.
From a butter churn, to old-fashioned beds, quilts, doors and windows (the HGTV stars would love that, wouldn’t they?), vintage signage, patio furniture, rugs, macrame, paintings, glassware, jewelry, woven baskets, and my favorite, plants, there’s a little something for everyone.
I was surprised, pleasantly so, to find a garden area out back. You know, I moved to my Florida home with its backyard from my Las Vegas apartment because I was determined to have a garden. I can’t begin to tell you how much money I’ve spent on plants that ultimately didn’t make it. Nevertheless, I keep at it. I can’t resist a plant with an interesting shape or color or texture. Dixieland Relics’s garden area pulled me in immediately. I went home with a decorative planter and several shade-loving plants.
By the way, Dixieland Relics is right down the street from the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center at Florida Southern College. The college houses a collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, photographs, furniture and drawings. You could easily take in both on a day trip to Lakeland and still have time for a leisurely lunch or dinner nearby.
- 949 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, Florida
- 863-559-8356
- Sun / Mon 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM and Tues-Sat 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lisa Browder 
Leave a comment