Today’s generations think of arcades as gaming places, but in architectural terms, it refers to a Mediterranean Revival style. The Rhodesbilt Arcade, between Park Avenue and Stuart Avenue, was built between 1924 and 1926.
The entrances on either street look quite different, creating one of Lake Wales’ most distinctive buildings. Arcades were a popular style for commercial buildings 100 years ago, and the Rhodesbilt Arcade’s Mediterranean influences include a curved parapet, arched entrances, and decorative ceramic tile.