If you think Tampa is just beaches and theme parks, get ready to be surprised by this Tampa area road trip.
This road trip takes you to 11 incredible spots around the Tampa Bay area that most people totally miss (trust us, you don’t want to be one of them).
We’re talking tiny towns with big flavor, secret beaches, and even a place where you can swim with manatees.
These really are some of the best things to see and do in the Tampa area.
Whether you’re into nature, food, history, or just weird but wonderful stuff, there’s something on this list that’ll have you saying, “Wait… this is in Tampa?!”
1. Ybor City
Ybor City is a historic Tampa district lined with cobblestone streets, old brick buildings, and stories dating back to the 1800s.
It was once the cigar capital of the world, and you can still watch hand-rolled cigars being made at spots like Tabanero Cigars on 7th Avenue.
The neighborhood is also buzzing with colorful street art, vintage shops, and wild chickens that roam around like they own the place.
And at night, it comes alive with Latin music, theater shows, and some of the best Cuban sandwiches you’ll ever eat (Columbia Restaurant is a must-try!)
2. Bok Tower Gardens
If you want to slow things down a bit, head over to Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales.
It’s just an hour’s drive from the city, where 250 acres of lush gardens surround a 205-foot singing tower.
This place is all about peace and beautiful views, with winding paths, blooming camellias, and a bird sanctuary that houses both native and migrating species.
But what truly steals the show is the carillon tower, playing dreamy bell music at 1 and 3 p.m. every day.
3. Siesta Key
When the beach is calling, Siesta Key is the perfect answer.
This barrier island near Sarasota has some of the softest, whitest sand in the U.S.—made of 99% quartz that stays cool even on the hottest days.
You can chill at Siesta Beach (ranked Best Beach in America multiple times), splash in the clear Gulf water, or catch a drum circle at sunset on Sunday nights.
It’s super laid-back, totally walkable, and packed with beachy shops, ice cream spots, and seafood joints.
4. Fort De Soto Park
For a mix of beach and adventure, Fort De Soto Park is a total win.
It’s a 1,136-acre park that spans five connected islands at the southern tip of Pinellas County, with beaches, picnic spots, and a Spanish-American War-era fort.
The North Beach here is a local favorite, with calm, shallow water that’s perfect for floating.
You can also rent a kayak and paddle through the mangroves, hop on the 7-mile bike trail, or take the ferry out to Egmont Key for even more exploring.
5. St. Pete Pier
Next up is St. Pete Pier, where the city meets the sea in the most fun way possible.
This 26-acre waterfront spot in downtown St. Petersburg offers plenty to enjoy, including splash pads, art installations, open lawns, and a rooftop tiki bar.
You can also walk to the end of the pier for stunning views of Tampa Bay, then swing by the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center to learn about local marine life.
It’s super family-friendly but also great for date night, especially when the sun starts to set and the whole place lights up with that golden glow.
6. Safety Harbor
Then there’s Safety Harbor, a cute small town with a big personality.
It’s right along the west shore of Tampa Bay and packed with funky art shops, sidewalk cafés, and very friendly locals who actually say hi to strangers.
Start with a coffee at Café Vino Tinto, then check out the giant Baranoff Oak (it’s over 300 years old!) before catching live music at Crooked Thumb Brewery.
And if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, which has been pumping natural spring water since 1925.
7. Caladesi Island State Park
Up for a beach day that feels like a total escape? Then Caladesi Island State Park is the move.
You can only reach it by boat or ferry, which keeps the crowds away and maintains a chill atmosphere.
The effort pays off with soft white sand, clear blue water, plenty of shorebirds, and activities that make it more than just a spot to tan.
You can also rent a kayak and paddle through the mangrove forest, or hike the nature trail that winds through slash pines and old oak trees.
8. Tarpon Springs
Next stop: Tarpon Springs, a sponge-diving town with serious Greek flavor.
It’s famous for its historic docks along the Anclote River, where you can watch boats unload their catch and browse shops selling natural sea sponges.
You can also visit a little aquarium, take a dolphin tour, or walk along Spring Bayou, where manatees like to hang out when the water gets chilly.
And once hunger hits, grab a Loukaniko or fresh octopus at Hellas Restaurant & Bakery and pick up some baklava to go.
9. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
If you’ve ever wanted to swim with manatees (yep, actual manatees), Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is the place to do it.
Located about 1.5 hours from Tarpon Springs, this is the only place in the U.S. where it’s legal to hop in the water and snorkel alongside these gentle sea cows.
You can also skip the swim and go kayaking, paddleboarding, or walk the boardwalk trails to watch them chilling below the surface.
Fun fact: The refuge protects multiple warm springs, including the famous Three Sisters Springs, where the water stays a comfy 72°F year-round.
10. Dade City
Next up is Dade City.
This small town is famous for its antique shops, Southern cuisine, and wild animal encounters.
And if you stroll downtown, you’ll find colorful murals, cozy boutiques, and pastries that locals swear by at Olga’s Bakery.
Be sure to try delicious food at Steph’s Southern Soul Restaurant before heading to Giraffe Ranch, where you can feed giraffes from a safari truck.
11. Hillsborough River State Park
Last but definitely not least, Hillsborough River State Park is the perfect spot if you’re itching to get into the woods without driving too far.
It’s just 30 minutes from Dade City and loaded with cypress trees, hanging moss, and one of the only Class II rapids in Florida.
Here, you can hike the 7.3-mile trail loop, rent a kayak to ride the rapids, or just hang out by the suspension bridge.
Don’t forget to bring snacks, bug spray, and your sense of adventure because this place is as wild as it gets.
At the time of writing, some parts of Hillsborough River State Park are still closed for restoration after storm damage, so check online before planning your visit.
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