RP Funding Center
A versatile event venue in Lakeland, Florida, hosting concerts, sports, community events, and more, with a history of legendary performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the buzz of live shows
RP Funding Center
Best Time
Experience the buzz of live shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A versatile event venue in Lakeland, Florida, hosting concerts, sports, community events, and more, with a history of legendary performances.
"A large, clean facility with multiple wings and stages, offering plenty of parking and restrooms."
🎟️ Check Event Schedule
Visit RPfundingcenter.com for the latest events, from concerts to community gatherings.
🚗 Parking Info
Parking is available but can be cashless and may have a fee. Plan ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jenkins Arena
Host to major concerts, sporting events, and large-scale gatherings. Experience the energy of live performances here.
Youkey Theater
An intimate venue for theatrical productions, smaller concerts, and community events. Discover local talent and touring shows.
Wildlife Mural
A vibrant outdoor mural showcasing Florida wildlife, adding a splash of local art to the venue's exterior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Tickets & Entry
Navigating the Venue
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Check Event Schedule
Visit RPfundingcenter.com for the latest events, from concerts to community gatherings.
🚗 Parking Info
Parking is available but can be cashless and may have a fee. Plan ahead!
🚫 No Re-entry Policy
Once you leave, you can't come back in, even with a ticket.
💧 Outside Food/Drink
Strictly prohibited. Plan to purchase concessions inside.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Check Event Schedule
Visit RPfundingcenter.com for the latest events, from concerts to community gatherings.
🚗 Parking Info
Parking is available but can be cashless and may have a fee. Plan ahead!
🚫 No Re-entry Policy
Once you leave, you can't come back in, even with a ticket.
💧 Outside Food/Drink
Strictly prohibited. Plan to purchase concessions inside.
🎨 Local Art Displays
Enjoy impressive murals and art installations around the venue.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the RP Funding Center are mixed. While some visitors praise its cleanliness, organization, and the presence of local art, others point to outdated facilities and a lack of customer service. The venue's accessibility and multiple event spaces are often highlighted positively, but issues with strict policies and staff engagement are recurring concerns.
"The RP Funding Center is conveniently located and easy to access from the main roads, which initially gave me a positive impression. Unfortunately, the rest of the experience didn’t meet expectations and left me disappointed with several aspects of the visit.
Upon arriving, the staff seemed very disengaged. There was a noticeable lack of warmth or hospitality, which set an unpleasant tone right from the beginning. We were informed that no outside food or beverages were allowed inside the facility. While this is a common policy at many venues, there should be some flexibility, especially for guests with medical needs. I attempted to bring in a bottle of water due to personal health concerns, but even that was not permitted. This felt unnecessarily strict and lacking in basic accommodation or understanding.
Once inside, we were surprised to learn that there would be no re-entry allowed—meaning if you left the building for any reason, you would not be permitted back in, even with a valid ticket. This policy was not clearly stated beforehand and seemed overly rigid, especially for guests attending longer events where stepping out briefly might be necessary.
Throughout the visit, interactions with the staff remained negative. They came across as indifferent at best and rude at worst. There was little effort to assist guests or make the experience more comfortable. Basic customer service was sorely lacking.
The general condition of the facility also raised concerns. Much of the venue appears outdated and in disrepair, and it’s clear that renovations and upgrades are overdue. From worn-out seating to poor signage and aging infrastructure, the environment felt neglected and uninviting.
That said, I will give credit where it is due: the arena area where the ceremony is being held was in good repair and, for the most part, clean and organized. It was the one part of the facility that seemed properly maintained and ready to host an important event like a graduation.
Despite that, my overall impression of the RP Funding Center is not favorable. I found the experience to be uncomfortable, unwelcoming, and not up to the standards of a professional public venue. I do not plan to return in the future."
Brian Lee
"Just returning from the Snowbird Extravaganza hosted at the RP Funding Centre.
What an excellent venue.
Clean, organized, multiple theatres to have presentations and performances, and some nice grounds around it with a very nice veterans park bordering the one side.
Thank you Lakeland and the RP Funding Centre!"
Ian MacRae
"I love coming here to exhibit! Easy yes, easy to park as a vendor, easy to unload (they have dollys at some docks you can use!) and easy to navigate! Also, shout to Nelson as he was extra helpful in my most recent visit. Cant wait for the next event we have at the RPFC!"
Ashley Ciccero
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The RP Funding Center is located at 701 West Lime Street, Lakeland, FL 33815. It's easily accessible from major roads in the area. 
Yes, parking is available for events. Be aware that parking can be cashless and may have a fee, especially during popular events.
Yes, there are at least two nice hotels within walking distance of the venue, making it convenient for out-of-town visitors.
Information on public transportation routes to the RP Funding Center is not widely available, but driving or ride-sharing services are common options.
The address is 701 West Lime Street, Lakeland, FL 33815.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for events at the RP Funding Center can typically be purchased online through their official website or authorized ticket vendors. Some events may also have tickets available at the RP Funding Box Office.
The operating hours for the RP Funding Center vary depending on scheduled events. It's best to check the specific event details or the venue's official website for current hours.
No, outside food and beverages are generally not allowed inside the RP Funding Center. Concessions are available for purchase within the venue.
Typically, re-entry is not permitted at the RP Funding Center. Once you leave the venue, you will not be allowed back in, even with a valid ticket.
The RP Funding Center hosts various community events, some of which may offer free admission, like their 50th Anniversary celebration. Always check the schedule for details.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
The RP Funding Center hosts a wide range of events, including concerts, sporting events (like AEW Collision), wrestling, cheer competitions, science fairs, and community gatherings.
Seating charts are usually available for specific events, especially for concerts and performances in the Jenkins Arena and Youkey Theater. Check the ticketing page for the event you're interested in.
Reviews indicate that while some areas like the arena are well-maintained, other parts of the facility may appear outdated and in need of renovation.
Yes, the facility is equipped with restrooms and other amenities. Some reviews mention that the bathrooms were clean during events.
Yes, the RP Funding Center features impressive paintings by local artists, adding a cultural element to the venue.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, concessions are available for purchase inside the RP Funding Center. Some events may also feature food vendors, like 4 Rivers BBQ.
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the RP Funding Center.
While specific restaurant recommendations aren't detailed, the presence of hotels nearby suggests there are dining options in the vicinity.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by event. For most concerts and performances, personal cameras may be restricted, but phone photography is often allowed. Check the specific event's guidelines.
Yes, the venue features a striking wildlife mural outside, and the interior spaces can be visually interesting depending on the event setup.
You can find RP Funding Center photos on their official website, social media channels, and through event-specific hashtags on platforms like Instagram.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎤 Music & Entertainment Enthusiasts
+1 Check the schedule for upcoming concerts and shows. The Youkey Theater also offers a more intimate setting for various performances. 🛍️ Shoppers & Market Goers
+1 These events are great opportunities to discover unique local vendors and products. Keep an eye on their event calendar for these shopping opportunities.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Look at the RP Funding Center's Venues
+1Complementing the arena is the Youkey Theater, a more intimate setting ideal for theatrical productions, smaller musical acts, and community presentations. This venue offers a closer experience with performers, making it perfect for those seeking a more personal connection to the arts.
+1Beyond these primary performance spaces, the center also includes exhibit halls and other areas that host a diverse range of events, from science fairs and dance competitions to markets and private functions.
+2Community Hub and Event Host
+1Recent social media posts highlight its role in hosting events like the Miss Northeast Florida Scholarship Competition and the SSEF Florida Science Fair, demonstrating its commitment to supporting educational and cultural initiatives.
+1 The venue has also been recognized for its role in community celebrations, such as its 50th Anniversary event, which featured live music and free admission, underscoring its importance to local residents. +1Furthermore, the RP Funding Center actively engages with local educational institutions, offering tours to hospitality and tourism students, providing them with insights into event management and venue operations. This proactive approach solidifies its position as a valuable community asset.
Artistic Flair and Venue Aesthetics
Inside, the convention areas are often lined with impressive paintings by local artists, enhancing the visitor experience and providing a platform for regional talent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit