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Places To Visit Near Tampa

Last Updated At: 22-Mar-2024

10 Best Places To Visit Near Tampa | For An Exciting Vacation

Are you planning a trip to the Sunshine State? If you are, do check out the tourist spots near Tampa. The Lightning Capital of the World rests along the Gulf Coast of Florida and is deemed popular for beautiful beaches and nature reserves around its periphery.

Yes, the spots within the city are indeed a delight to visit. However, the spots around the city are worth your time as well. And you don’t have to worry about the time. Most of them are a two-hour drive away. Not only can you revitalise your mind, but you can also bask in the sun at some of the best places around Tampa.

List Of Top 10 Places To Visit Near Tampa

Tampa is a city famous for numerous things, such as Florida’s largest port, the longest sidewalk, the most haunted sites, a gigantic ship museum, and much more. However, this is not it. If you step outside, there are several remarkable things to do near Tampa. Let’s read ahead and find out what they are!

  • Silver Springs State Park
  • Hillsborough River State Park
  • Clearwater Marine Aquarium
  • Caladesi Island State Park
  • Bok Tower Gardens
  • Sarasota
  • Ybor City
  • Walt Disney World
  • Legoland Florida Resort
  • Tiger Creek Preserve

1. Silver Springs State Park | The Glass-bottom Boat

If you are up for a serene spot outside the hustle and bustle of the city, Silver Springs State Park is the spot-on match. The glass-bottom boat is the most fascinating thing about Silver Springs State Park. You can book a glass-bottom boat tour and witness the beauty of underwater wildlife and wilderness from the bottom of the boat.

There can be a crowd on the boat. You can avoid it by booking a special kayak tour for a better experience. The 4000-acre park is the home to the Silver River, which has over 30 springs in the upper part of the river. To calm your mind, you can take the trails. The 2.3-mile Spring Trail takes you through the open and lush green pine forest and oak hammock. If this is not enough, you can take the Swamp Trail, Creek Trail, etc., to find peace outside the city.

  • Distance from Tampa: 168 km

2. Hillsborough River State Park | The Oldest State Park

If you are not a beach person, then the Hillsborough River State Park is one of the best Weekend getaways close to Tampa. The best thing about the park is that it is the closest spot near Tampa. With four natural hiking trails, the park offers its visitors enough greenery to trigger the Dopamine level in your body.

The calming river of the park refreshes your senses as soon as you gaze at it. If you like water activities, the park provides you the facility to kayak, canoe, or fish. You may also spot some iconic Florida alligators near the river. Make sure you mind your distance from them. The trails measure a total of seven miles and have a lot of natural habitats and wildlife. So, do pack your binoculars to observe them. The outdoor swimming pool and camping facilities are another plus for the visitors.

  • Distance from Tampa: 34 km

3. Clearwater Marine Aquarium | A Rehab to Rescued Marine Life

When discussing tourist spots near Tampa, how can we forget The Clearwater Aquarium? This mesmerising underwater world offers an exotic journey among various species of marine animals. It’s a rehab tourist destination for different aquatic creatures that were rescued and provided expert care and help. The very foundation of this aquarium was laid to educate the locals about marine life.

Located just north of Clearwater Memorial Causeway, Florida, it offers over 15 animal habitats and guest experience areas. This Life Rescue Center houses a dolphin legacy tributing an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin named Winter. You can take a boat tour that teaches the visitors about the local wild dolphin population.

  • Distance from Tampa: 38 km

4. Caladesi Island State Park | Home to Unspoiled Beaches

Caladesi Island Park is worth every effort if you are ready to cover some extra miles to witness an unforeseen magical spot. But the catch is that the island state park is only accessible by passenger ferry or other boats. This area is located on the northern tip of Clearwater Beach. It showcases extensive flora, including enormous oaks, pine trees, tropical mangroves, and palms. You can go to places to visit near Tampa, but still, Caladesi’s beauty is unmatchable.

Your to-do list of things to do near Tampa shall be ticked in one go here. It has it all: amenities, concession stands, kayaking, hiking, paddling, swimming, and whatnot. When in Caladesi, you are flooded with adventurous options. The list is endless - from grabbing a spot for a picnic and overnight boat camping to visiting the Great Florida Birding Trail and Historic Scharrer Homestead.

  • Distance from Tampa: 43 km

5. Bok Tower Gardens | A Romantic Picnic Spot

If you want to give your partner a surprise on the weekend, pack a blanket and lunch and take them to Bok Tower Gardens. Ranking among the top Tampa nearby attractions, Bok Tower Gardens are filled with breathtaking and blooming seasonal plants. Spread across an area of 200 acres, you can easily find azaleas in the spring season and magnolias in the summer.

Though the blooming plants, lush greenery, and winding walkways of the gardens make it lucrative, the primary attraction of the park is the Singing Tower. The 150-foot-tall towers emit beautiful music that can take your senses on a melodious journey. Unfortunately, the inside of the tower is not accessible, but it has 60 bells and a playing cabin. A musician sits in the cabin to guide these bells to produce enjoyable melodies. The gardens have an outdoor kitchen where you can satisfy your tummy.

  • Distance from Tampa: 107 km

Read More : Places To Visit In Tampa 

6. Sarasota | Experience the Peruvian Cuisine

Another gem in the hit list of Tampa neighbouring destinations is Sarasota. It’s a booming art and culture hub with some relaxing vibes and scenic coastal beauty. The zestful cultural scenes aided by arts and humanities are inspiring and thriving to look at in this county. Yes, you can call it a classic business and tourist centre point, which is a great getaway if you are looking for tourist spots near Tampa.

From enjoying paddling eco-tour in Sarasota to circus thrills and pristine beaches, Sarasota lacks nowhere to satisfy your wanderer cravings. Other valuable attractions to explore here are the Classic Car Museum, Crowley Museum, Historic Spanish Point, Selby Gardens, etc.

  • Distance from Tampa: 98 km

7. Ybor City | Once Called The “Cigar Capital of the World”

If entertaining nightlife, cigars, and a lively atmosphere are your language, then welcome to Ybor City. Finish your list of weekend getaways close to Tampa by visiting this historic neighbourhood just northeast of Downtown Tampa. This local folklore-rich district is home to diverse cultures and immigrants, but, hush, the locals consider it spookish sometimes.

The Tampa nearby attractions are incomplete without visiting this epicentre of hand-rolled cigars. Also, don’t miss the state’s Columbia Restaurant and Cuban restaurants to taste some authentic cuisines during your day trips near Tampa. Additionally, Ybor City is a hub for history lovers. Head on to Seventh Avenue in Ybor City, which features the district’s historical buildings.

  • Distance from Tampa: 5 km

8. Walt Disney World | An Ideal Children Spot

Of course, who doesn’t know about Disney? We all grew up watching the studio's cartoons and movies. This entertainment resort complex should be on your must-visit list if you are seeking day trips near Tampa. It is the largest Disney-centered theme park with innumerable activities to plan out your vacation.

You can visit some of the most iconic attractions here, like the Animal Kingdom theme park, to experience the festival of the Lion King. But the show isn’t over yet. Get ready to be surprised by the cosmic rewind of Guardians of the Galaxy and have a memorable encounter with your famous Disney character. Your children are going to love this. Furthermore, Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, Epcot, Magic Kingdom Park, and Disney’s Hollywood Studio are other celebrating attractions to make your day more memorable and adventurous.

  • Distance from Tampa: 110 km

9. Legoland Florida Resort | Another Children's Spot

Welcome to the Legoland Florida Resort with the world’s first Peppa Pig-themed park. This vacay destination in Florida features on-site accommodation and offers a truly amazing world for your kids. Step into this dreamy abode to explore a 4D world of your wildest adventures. The Lego characters with new experiences are a reality here.

On your mark, get, set, and splash!! Yes, the water park here is another level of excitement enriched with a wave pool to the Build-A-Raft lazy river with many tube and body slides. Additionally, the theme park here has more than 50 rides to offer. You won’t get bored easily, and there is no “now what-I-should-do-next” game to play here since everyone got their hands on something interesting.

  • Distance from Tampa: 87 km

10. Tiger Creek Preserve | A Place For Mysteries

If you are a hiking freak and looking for weekend getaways close to Tampa, then Tiger Creek Preserve should be your next destination. Situated in Florida’s ancient islands, this place holds mystery and contrast since it protects most of Florida’s habitat.

Now again, if you wish to explore some threatened and endangered species of plants and animals, go visit this place. It is one carefully preserved piece of the Lake Wales ridge that has footpaths instead of blazed forest roads. This impressive biological diversity shall help you leave the hustling and bustling everyday life behind and get involved in quiet surroundings. So put on those untouched hike boots of yours and proceed on this exciting journey.

  • Distance from Tampa: 120 km

Read More : Beaches In Tampa 

So, are you ready to witness the beauty of the beaches and wilderness around Tampa? If yes, then begin packing your bags and let Adotrip.com take care of your voyage planning. Adotrip is a professional travel planning service provider that takes the hassle of flight booking, hotel reservations, and visa assistance from your mind. Whether you want to book sightseeing tours or want a great deal on travel packages, we are here to help.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Tampa

Q1. What are the must-see attractions and outdoor activities near Tampa?
A1.
If you are up for some outdoor activities, there are various Places to Visit Near Tampa, such as Walt Disney World, Hillsborough River State Park, Legoland Florida Resort, and more.

Q2. Can you suggest any family-friendly theme parks, zoos, or entertainment spots near Tampa?
A2.
Yes, Legoland Florida Resort, Tiger Creek Preserve, and Walt Disney World are some of the family-friendly spots near Tampa.

Q3. Are there any scenic parks, beaches, or water-based activities near Tampa?
A3.
Caladesi Island State Park, Bok Tower Gardens, and Hillsborough River State Park are the places to enjoy the water activities near Tampa.

Q4. Where can I find information about dining and local culinary experiences near Tampa?
A4.
If you want information about dining and local culinary near Tampa, you can refer to food blogs, Google listings, etc. To help you quickly, some of the best restaurants near Tampa are Bern’s Steak House, Ulele, Epicurean Hotel Tampa, Élevage Restaurant, etc.

Q5. What upcoming events, festivals, or sports games are happening near Tampa?
A5.
Currently, various events are happening near Tampa, such as Rod Wave, Dunedin vs. Osceola HS Football, CloZee, etc. The events may change based on your time of visit. So, kindly confirm before going!

Q6. Are there any historical sites, museums, or cultural centres to explore near Tampa?
A6.
Some historic sites and museums near Tampa in Sarasota include the Classic Car Museum, Crowley Museum, Historic Spanish Point, and Historic Scharrer Homestead.

Q7. What day trips are worth taking from Tampa to nearby coastal towns or natural sites?
A7.
Among the various day trips from Tampa, you can visit Manatee Viewing Center, Apollo Beach, Delightful Dunedin, Indian Rocks Beach, and Tarpon Springs.

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--- Published By  Adotrip

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