Surrounded by cattle ranches and orange groves, Sebring is enveloped in natural beauty and pristine parks. Highlands Hammock State Park and Lake Wales Ridge National Wildlife Refuge are only minutes from the city. Sebring rests about 60 miles southeast of Tampa and 50 miles west of Florida's eastern coastline.
Called the “City on the Circle” for its original circular design by George E. Sebring, the city is at the southern end of Lake Wales Ridge. The ridge is what's left of an ancient island chain that was a unique habitat boasting rare plants and animals. Today, Sebring is home to just over 10,600 residents.
Shopping options in Sebring range from malls to quaint, local shops. The Lakeshore Mall boasts several major retailers, popular chain restaurants, and local boutiques. Dining choices in Sebring are abundant. Choose from chains like Chili's and Olive Garden or local eats like Sebring Diner and Dee's Place. There's something for every craving, from steakhouses and seafood to Mexican, Chinese, Cuban, and Greek fare.
Lodging choices in Sebring are somewhat limited since it's a small town. There are some chain hotels and a few higher-end options. Even if you can't find a room right inside of Sebring, there are plenty of hotels within a half-hour drive.
When to Visit Sebring, FL
The spring months of April and May and the fall months from September through November are the best times to visit the city. The weather is not oppressively hot and humid, and there are fewer tourists.
In Sebring, March is a big month because of the Twelve Hours of Sebring race. Expect higher hotel rates during racing events. During the spring months from March through May, you'll see temperatures in the 80s during the day and in the 50s and 60s at night. You shouldn't see too many rainy days.
Outside of the Twelve Hours of Sebring, the area hosts many wonderful springtime events. Every March, the Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival takes place in Okeechobee. This four-day festival boasts diverse music, art, and foods. West Palm Beach hosts SunFest during May each year. Over four days, 50 bands play on three stages. Enjoy the battle of the bands, games in the ChillZone, and great food and drinks from dozens of vendors.
Summers in Sebring are hot and humid. Luckily, there are lakes to play in to help you keep cool. Water activities draw tourists and locals alike, so expect the city to be more crowded and hotel rates to increase. High temperatures from June through August hover in the low 90s with low temperatures in the 70s. Summer months are the rainiest in the city, and afternoon thunderstorms can be strong with lightning, wind, and hail.
During the summer, Sebring hosts a monthly Food Truck Invasion where food vendors congregate to create culinary delights. Choose from fusion fare, comfort foods, and tasty treats at this immense outdoor picnic. Also monthly, the Saturday Night Cruise draws car lovers from across the region to show off their hot rods and enjoy live entertainment.
From September through November, daytime temperatures hover around 80 degrees. Lows drop from the 70s in September to the mid 50s in November. September is still rainy, but not like the summer months. Rain tapers off to lower amounts through the fall. Expect hotel rates to decrease since traveler numbers drop with the temperature.
In November, the city holds the Crazy Pepper Chili Cook Off, where teams from across central Florida compete to win. Enjoy chili samples, games, and a chili dog eating contest. In West Palm Beach, celebrate fall at the long-standing Oktoberfest. Genuine German cuisine, draft beer, and musicians come to engage in this raucous good time.
Winter in Sebring is quiet. Tourist numbers are low, and the temperatures are mild. Average daytime highs linger in the 70s with lows only reaching the high 40s at the coldest. There are occasional bursts of frosty weather, but those are few and far between. Rain tapers off, making for mostly dry days.
It's worth the day trip to Tampa to attend the Florida State Fair in February. With loads of indoor and outdoor exhibits, fair food vendors, and what's dubbed “America's largest midway,” you're sure to have a memorable time.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Sebring, FL:
Sebring by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Sebring, FL. You can use these charts to evaluate the most cost effective time to book in Sebring for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Sebring, FL
4 Star Average Prices: $166.17
Experience top-of-the-line lodging, amenities, and service at Chateau Elan Hotel and Conference Center in Sebring. You'll rest easy in rooms that other travelers said were “great sized rooms with very comfortable and wonderful beds.” Many of the rooms offer trackside views of Sebring International Raceway, including the track's exciting hairpin turn.
All suites feature separate living and sleeping areas, fridges, microwaves, and private balconies or patios. In-room entertainment includes cable channels of the flat screen, video game consoles, and free wired and wireless internet. Indulge in a gourmet meal from Esperante Restaurant taken in your room if you like. Book a spa treatment such as a facial, massage, or body treatment at the full-service spa.
At Inn on the Lakes in Sebring, you'll be near Sebring Golf Course, Lakeshore Mall, and Veterans Beach. All rooms include a microwave, fridge, and coffee maker. Many rooms boast views of the hotel's garden or Lake Jackson. The largest suite, the Orange Blossom, offers two bedrooms, a living room, and full kitchen. Relax poolside in a lounger while the kids splash nearby. Treat yourself to a tasty meal and cocktail from Chicanes Restaurant, a gourmet eatery with a festive, lakeside atmosphere. Enjoy free breakfast daily from 6:30 to 10:00 a.m.
Budget Hotels in Sebring, FL
3 Star Average Prices: $128.77
For simple rooms at a great rate, check out Econo Lodge Sebring. You'll be close to the Durrah Martin Complex and Depot Museum as well as the Children's Museum of the Highlands. Bring the family, including the dog. Kids under 18 stay free in a parent's room and will love the outdoor pool. Enjoy cable channels, free parking, and ticket and tour assistance. Top off your stay with a complimentary continental breakfast.
At Green Gables Inn in Lake Wales, you'll delight in the historic surroundings. Plus, you'll be a short drive from Sebring. Rooms include microwaves, fridges, and private baths with complimentary toiletries. Keep downtime entertaining with cable channels and free Wi-Fi. Stay in shape in the fitness center, in the outdoor pool, or with a tennis match on the hotel's courts. Afterward, rest with a quick bite from the restaurant outside in the picnic area.
