Bartow (/ ˈbɑːrtoʊ / BAR-toh) is a city and the county seat of Polk County, Florida, United States. Founded in 1851 as Fort Blount, the city was renamed in honor of Francis S. Bartow, the first brigade commander of the Confederate Army to die in combat during the American Civil War.
FDOT began a Traffic Light project on Lyle Road in Bartow in mid-February. For this phase, the contractor will have the road closed for the next 3-4 weeks as they relocate utilities. Note that the rear entrance to Dairy Queen will be open to traffic going to the business during operating hours. Bartow is where the Peace River begins and the area is home to several nature preserves and parks.
Bartow County Shootingfaq, At the north side of town, anglers can set out from the Lake Hancock Boat Ramp in pursuit of bass, bluegill, and crappie on Lake Hancock, a shallow lake covering nearly 5,000 acres. PLAN YOUR VISIT Visiting Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, with its splendid Greek Revival interiors and country setting in Pelham Bay Park, is a unique New York City experience. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Bartow (2026) - Must-See Attractions Bartow is known for its small city heritage and distinctive Southern culture, and is appropriately nicknamed, “City of Oaks and Azaleas.” Discover the top things to do in Bartow, Florida. Explore historic homes, museums, local shops, and restaurants in this charming city. Bartow was incorporated as a town in 1882 and became a city in 1893.
Bartow County Shootingfaq, Phosphate mining, citrus cultivation, and tourism are the city’s economic mainstays, although the manufacture of fertilizer, chemicals, and packaging is also important.
