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Race Tracks Golf Courses | Tennis Courts | Beaches | Parks | Bike Trails Arts & Culture Creative Endeavors Museums | Art Dealers and Galleries | Dance | Music | Theater | Performance Venues | Arts Information Tampa Bay is home to more than 20 museums, seven performance halls (three of which attract Broadway shows), more than 10 county and state parks, and an array of major events and festivals. The annual - often compared to Mardi Gras - draws some 400,000 people to Tampa's scenic Bayshore Boulevard while the annual attracts some 800,000 people from throughout the state to Plant City. Cultural excitement is brewing in downtown Tampa. A new $50 million will serve as an anchor for the city's new Cultural Arts District. Already huge draws to downtown are the - one of the top five arenas in ticket sales in the U.S. - and the , which hosts over 700 performances a year. The , a beautiful, Rococo-style theater, features an acclaimed film series, independent features, and Hollywood classics. Opened in 1926, it remains one of America's most elaborate movie palaces. The Theatre was donated to the City of Tampa in 1973. Regally perched on the east bank of the Hillsborough River, the is one of the top 10 performing arts centers in the nation, and the largest of its kind south of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The Center's four theaters present world-class entertainment, ranging from Broadway shows to local theater. The features exhibits and traveling displays showing the geographical, historical and multicultural influences that shaped the Tampa Bay region. Its interim location is within the Tampa Bay Convention Center. The sits beneath lofty minarets punctuated by the Tampa skyline. In the turn of the century, this building provided Tampa's guests with the utmost in elegance, serving as the Tampa Bay Hotel. The 500-room hotel was the dream of railroad magnate Henry Bradley Plant, and today's museum visitors can relive the ambience those early tourists from the Gilded Age experienced. Curtis Hixon Park opened in 1995 as downtown's largest and most visible park, with about seven acres of riverfront greenspace at the edge of Tampa's high-rise core. Across the bay, St. Petersburg is home to both the Florida International Museum, which presents the life and times of President John F. Kennedy, and the Salvador Dali Museum, which contains the world's largest single collection of the surrealist's paintings. Indeed, with so many opportunities in their own backyard, Tampa Bay residents find it easy to stretch their cultural horizons from bay to gulf. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE MuseumsHillsborough County
705 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 tel: 813-228-8766 website: The American Victory Mariners Memorial and Museum (AVMM&M) is located on board the SS American Victory, a 455-foot, classic merchant vessel with the traditional and graceful sweeping lines of the famous Victory Ship class built during World War II. The memorial provides a living piece of American maritime history, which will present meaningful maritime education, great entertainment and upscale dining for visitors and Tampa Bay residents alike. Henry B. Plant Museum 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-254-1891 website: Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, The Henry B. Plant Museum transports you to turn-of-the-century Florida. It is housed in the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel and is now a National Historic Landmark. It was built by Henry Bradley Plant, the transportation magnate and instrumental in the development of Florida and the City of Tampa. This quintessential Victorian palace features unique Moorish revival architecture and dramatic minarets. Kid City Children's Museum 7550 North Blvd. Tampa, FL 33604 tel: 813-935-8441 Kid City is a unique children's museum with 13 child-sized buildings and interactive exhibits that allow children to explore their future through the "power of play". Tampa Bay History Center 225 S. Franklin Street Tampa, FL tel: 813-228-0097 website: Take a peek behind the scenes of a regional history museum. Learn about collecting, preserving, and interpreting and exhibiting artifacts. Offering a glimpse into the fascinating heritage of the Region. Tampa Museum of Art 600 N. Ashley Dr. Tampa, FL 33602-4305 tel: 813-274-8130 website: Located along the scenic Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa, the museum collection includes nineteenth and twentieth-century photography and contemporary art and a renowned collection of Greek and Roman antiquities. University of South Florida Contemporary Art Museum College of Fine Arts 4202 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, FL 33620 website: Contemporary artists shine on the USF campus. Exhibitions featuring regional, national, and international works change during the year. Veteran's Memorial Park and Museum 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. Tampa, FL 33619 tel: 813-744-5502 This museum pays tribute to those who served in all the U.S. wars. Ybor City State Museum / Cigar Worker's Cottage 1818 Ninth Ave. Tampa, FL 33605 tel: 813-247-6323 website: Against the historic backdrop of the Cuban Revolution and the Spanish-American War, Tampa emerged as the cigar capital of North America. The museum and cottage show how these events changed Tampa history and give a glimpse into the daily life of an average cigar worker. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Pinellas County
1143 Michigan Blvd. Dunedin, FL 34698 tel: 727-298-3322 This gallery and education center for the visual arts features changing exhibitions and a gift shop. Dunedin Historical Museum 341 Main St. Dunedin, FL 34698 tel: 727-736-1176 Housed in an old rail station, the museum exhibits drawings and artifacts from Dunedin's and Florida's past. The railroad that runs along the station has been converted into a linear park, and the street nearby attracts visitors who like to browse among the antique shops and restaurants. Florida Holocaust Museum 55 Fifth St. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-820-0100 website: The fourth largest Holocaust museum in the United States. Historical, art and cultural exhibits outline the tragedies of the Holocaust and World War II. Florida International Museum 100 Second St. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-822-3693 website: Now Showing: Barbie: Celebrating 45 Years of Fashion Permanent Exhibit: Revisit 1962 - Cuban Missile Crisis Opening Feb. 19, 2005: Diana: A Celebration to purchase your tickets now for this special exhibit and reserve your group visit. Home of the Kennedy Collection and Cuban Missile Crisis Exhibit plus a variety of rotating American and international exhibits. A Smithsonian Institution Affiliation. Gulf Beaches Historical Museum 115 10th Ave. St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 tel: 727-552-1610 Traces the rich history of the barrier islands running north from St. Petersburg. Displays special exhibits of historical topics of interest in the Gulf Beaches Area. Gulf Coast Museum of Art 12211 Washington Rd. Largo, FL 33778 tel: 727-518-6833 website: Features permanent and changing exhibitions of contemporary art created by Florida artists from 1960 forward and fine contemporary craft media objects from the Southeastern U.S. Heritage Village 11909 125th St. N. Largo, FL 33774 tel: 727-582-2123 Several historic buildings that have faced the bulldozer were saved and moved to this spot that re-creates life in Pinellas County's pioneer days. Guides in period costumes lead informational tours. Museum of Fine Arts 255 Beach Dr. NE St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-896-2667 website: This Mediterranean style museum is located in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg and houses wonderful examples of impressionist art including Monet, Gauguin, Cezanne and Renior. Also showcases photography, crystal, paintings and sculputures. Safety Harbor Museum of Regional History 329 Bayshore Blvd. Safety Harbor, FL 34695 tel: 727-726-1668 Exhibitions of Native American relics show the culture that thrived before European settlers arrived. It is located on an Indian mound. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral 18 Hibiscus St. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 tel: 727-937-3540 Icons and stained glass are highlights of this historic example of Byzantine architecture. St. Petersburg Museum of History 335 Second Ave. NE St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-894-1052 website: The third oldest Historical Society in Florida, offers guests a chance to view the history of St. Petersburg. Take a stroll down memory lane in a Walk Through Time Gallery or fly away in the history of flight in the First Flight Gallery. Salvador Dali Museum 1000 Third St. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-823-3767 website: A collection of Salvador Dali's paintings, drawings, graphics, sculptures and objects. St. Petersburg hosts one of the largest collections of works by the Spanish surrealist, famous for his melting clocks, eccentric behavior, and pronounced mustache. The gallery runs the gamut from sketches to enormous masterworks, covering nearly every phase of the painter's iconoclastic career, with tours that offer a perspective on Dali's artistic growth. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Art Dealers and GalleriesHillsborough and Pinellas County
531 Central Ave, St Petersburg tel: 727-822-2787 website: Specializing in fine original art, rare prints, and photographs. Featuring high quality artwork from around the world in a beautiful contemporary atmosphere. Adrian Howard Gallery 3000 34th Street South St. Petersburg tel: 727-865-6906 Featuring contemporary and regional artists. Works include oil, acrylic, water color, bronze sculptures, paper casting, African art, pottery and more. Arts Impact, Inc. 2623 Jetton Ave. Tampa, FL 33629 tel: 813-251-3688 Baisden Gallery 442 Grand Central Ave Tampa, FL tel: 813-250-1511 Featuring paintings, sculptures and glass pieces by contemporary artists such as Dale Chihuly, Dante Marioni, Lorraine Genovar, and Carolyn Heller. Brandon Town Gallery Westfield Shoppingtown Brandon Brandon, FL tel: 813-662-1300 Exclusively represents the artwork of Thomas Kinkade, "The Painter of Light". Clayton Gallery 4105 S. MacDill Ave Tampa, FL tel: 813-831-3753 A contemporary mix of regional artists such as Mernet Larsen, Rebecca Sexton Larson, Craig Rubadoux, Jeffrey Kronsnoble, Bruce Marsh, Bruce Helander, Lynn Davidson and more. Florida Craftsmen Gallery 501 Central Ave St. Petersburg, FL tel: 727-821-7391 website: Gallery of fine craft pieces including glass, metal, porcelain, clay and more. Galerie du Soleil at International Plaza 2223 N. Westshore Blvd. Suite 191 Tampa, FL tel: 813-354-5600 Featuring artistic paintings of realism and impressionism from 12 different artists from all over the world. Limited edition canvas prints and sculptures. Masterworks Galleries at Old Hyde Park Village 1619 Snow Ave. Tampa, FL tel: 813-250-9890 Featuring artistic paintings of realism and impressionism from 12 different artists from all over the world. Limited edition canvas prints and sculptures. Hoffman Porges Gallery 1907 E. 7th Ave Tampa, FL tel: 813-247-2000 Showcases 18th, 19th and 20th century fine arts. Collections of antique gravures, botanicals and architecturals along with art deco figurative pieces and contemporary mixed media. Abstracts can be viewed in this Bohemian warehouse setting. Syd Entel Galleries 247 Main St. Safety Harbor, FL tel: 727-725-1808 website: Through an emphasis on education, this gallery has a wide display of contemporary art and stunning glass sculptures. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE DanceHillsborough County
901 W. Virginia Ave. Tampa, FL 33603 tel: 813-223-9369 This dance and music troupe performs locally and nationally. Universal Movement Performing Arts Company 11117 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, FL 33618 tel: 813-969-0240 Universal Movement offers classes and hosts performances.
535 Fourth Ave. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-892-5202 Ballroom dancing and live entertainment are featured on one of the nation's biggest dance floors. Co-Motion Dance Theater P.O. Box 13489 St. Petersburg, FL 33733 tel: 727-341-4686 This is the resident dance company of St. Petersburg Junior College. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE MusicHillsborough County
14015 Pointe Anne Dr. Odessa, FL 33556 tel: 813-920-4900 This quartet's sax appeal comes from playing all types of music with saxophones. Choir of Men & Boys, St. John's Episcopal Church 906 S. Orleans Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-259-1570 Touring the United States and Britain, this choir also provides music for local services and festivals. Florida Orchestra 101 S. Hoover Blvd., Suite 100 Tampa, FL 33609 tel: 813-286-1170 website: An 80-piece symphony ensemble, the Florida Orchestra is a major cultural institution with an extensive repertoire that includes classical and contemporary pieces and pops series. Gulf Coast Youth Choirs, Inc. P.O. Box 273656 Tampa, FL 33688 tel: 813-909-0044 Four choirs of boys and girls tour throughout the community and the state. Master Chorale of Tampa Bay 1918 Cass St. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-258-9468 This choral group joins the Florida Orchestra with 150 voices. Spiritual Renaissance Singers of Tampa 10904 Montrose Ave. Temple Terrace, FL 33617 tel: 813-988-0133 This choral ensemble presents African-American spirituals. Tampa Bay Chamber Orchestra 200 E. Madison St. Tampa, FL 3602 tel: 813-307-0098 The classical chamber orchestra performs in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties. Tampa Bay Children's Chorus 5415 Burchette Rd. Tampa, FL 33647 tel: 813-977-5588 The singing group is for children aged nine through 15. Tampa Bay Heralds of Harmony/Men's Barbershop Society P.O. Box 22731 Tampa, FL 33622 tel: 813-228-7730 A 100-voice chorus performs throughout the year. Tampa Oratorio Society P.O. Box 5124 Tampa, FL 33675 tel: 813-247-3866 A civic chorus performs classical and contemporary works. Toast of Tampa Show Chorus P.O. Box 20165 Tampa, FL 33622 tel: 813-963-7464 This 140-voice chorus performs old-time, barbershop music throughout Tampa Bay.
Tampa Bay Arts, Inc. 3000 34th St. S., Suite C-310 St. Petersburg, FL 33711 tel: 727-865-9004 The chorus produces three major concerts yearly at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE TheaterHillsborough County
12904 Tom Gallagher Rd. Plant City, FL 33565 (813) 659-0659 Locally and abroad, the company's nine-foot-tall puppets thrill audiences of all ages. Carrollwood Players 4331 Gunn Hwy. Tampa, FL 33624 tel: 813-265-4000 Musicals, comedies, and mysteries are part of this community troupe's presentations. Daniels June Voice Studio 702 E. Caracas St. Tampa, FL 33603 tel: 813-238-8750 The professional group specializes in abridged and full-length musicals, variety shows, and conventions. Looking Glass Theater in Residence at Mary Jo's Dance Studio 11117 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, FL 33618 tel: 813-969-0240 This children's theater group offers several productions a year. Off Center Theater P.O. Box 518 Tampa, FL 33601 tel: 813-222-1087 Local and alternative artists present their works in an intimate setting within Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Plant City Community Theater P.O. Box 2473 Plant City, FL 33564 tel: 813-707-8100 This community theater presents drama, comedy, and musicals. Stageworks Theater Company 120 Adriatic Ave. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-251-8984 box office tel: 813-258-6757 A private, nonprofit, professional group, currently performing at various venues throughout the Bay Area.
211 Third St. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-823-7529 In a 120-seat venue, this troupe performs some of the bay area's best of the modern and classical genre. St. Petersburg Little Theater 4025 31st St. S St. Petersburg, 33712 tel: 727-866-1973 Local productions and talent are showcased. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Performance VenuesHillsborough County
428 W. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-253-6238 Operated by the University of Tampa, this is a 900-seat theater. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center 1010 N. MacInnes Pl. Tampa, FL 33601 administration tel: 813-222-1000 box office tel: 813-229-7827 website: As the largest performing arts venue south of Washington, D.C., the center houses four theaters ranging from 300 to 2,493 seats with a variety of programming.
400 First St. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-892-5798 website: Bayfront Center houses an 8,400-seat arena for larger productions and the smaller Mahaffey Theater for concerts, ballets, opera, and plays. Ruth Eckerd Hall 1111 McMullen-Booth Rd. Clearwater, FL 33759 tel: 727-791-7400 website: Ruth Eckerd Hall embodies elegant design and near-perfect acoustics. Its schedule includes top-drawer opera, dance, symphonic, and virtuoso performances, as well as popular concerts, comedy, and Broadway musicals. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Arts Information
705 E. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33602 tel: 813-276-8250 24-hour artsline: 813-229-2787 An organization that promotes all forms of artistic expression in Hillsborough County, the council provides grants, presents educational programs , and coordinates efforts among cultural groups. Its 24-hour ArtsLine provides information about artistic events. Pinellas County Arts Council 14700 Terminal Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33762 tel: 727-453-7860 24-hour artsline: 813-229-2787 The county's official cultural agency promotes the arts, assists artists, and provides services to artistic groups, educators, government agencies and the business community. BACK TO ARTS & CULTURE CREATIVE ENDEAVORS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Attractions - Indoor and Outdoor PursuitsResidents and tourists alike enjoy Tampa Bay's multitude of attractions. Top on the list is , one of few amusement parks in the U.S. to offer the thrill of heart-stopping rides alongside wildlife preserves. The park draws 5 million people a year. Other Bay area attractions include Ybor City, Tampa's historic cigar-rolling district; ; ; , a water park operated by the owners of Busch Gardens; and . Additionally, Tampa is a profitable homeport to several cruise lines. Almost three-quarters of a million people cruised from Tampa last year, and that number is projected to increase to an even million by 2006. Attraction Information
400 N. Tampa St., Ste. 2800 Tampa, FL 33602 tel: 813-223-1111 ext 44 website: Need directions? Recommendations for an evening out? The CVB promotes tourism in Hillsborough County via an information center in downtown Tampa at 615 Channelside Dr., Suite 108A. There, friendly counselors await with answers concerning places to go and things to do. St. Petersburg / Clearwater Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) 14450 46th St. N., Ste. 108 Clearwater, FL 33762 tel: 727-464-7200 Want to know what's happening in Clearwater and St. Petersburg? The CVB is Pinellas County's source of information for entertainment, attractions, events, and of course, beaches.
4500 Bougainvillea Ave. Tampa, FL tel: 813-987-5600 website: Tampa Bay's only water park features water play areas, a championship volleyball complex, outdoor cafes, picnic and sunbathing areas. Guests can conquer speed slides and float along on a rambling river. hours: Vary adult admission: $29.95 child admission: (3-9) - $27.95, Under 2 - FREE Busch Gardens 3000 E. Busch Blvd. Tampa, FL 33612 tel: 888-800-5447 website: Capture the spirit of Africa at this 300-acre family entertainment park. Unique combination of thrilling rides, zoological habitats, more than 3,300 animals and live entertainment. hours: Vary adult admission: $51.95 child admission: (3-9) $42.95, Under 2 FREE Celebration Station 24546 U.S. Hwy. 19 N. Clearwater, FL 33763 tel: 727-791-1799 website: Rides, games and miniature golf are fun for the whole family. Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage Clearwater, FL tel: 888-239-9414 website: Observe the rehabilitation and care of rescued dolphins, whales, otters and sea turtles! Get your hands wet petting stingrays. Marine Life Adventures offers an interactive marine experience in Clearwater Bay. hours: Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. adult admission: $8.75 child admission: (3-12) $6.25, Under 2 FREE group rate admission: $4.75 Coral Sea Aquarium 850 Dodecanese Blvd. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 tel: 727-938-5378 Marine exhibitions are on display at the famous Sponge Docks. Dinosaur World, Inc. 5145 Harvey Tew Road Plant City, FL 33565 tel: 813-717-9865 website: At Dinosaur World, you can experience up close the amazing giants that ruled the earth for almost 200 million years. Dinosaur World offers you and your family a unique opportunity to meet over 100 scientifically accurate, lifelike dinosaurs in a lush subtropical jungle where you can learn, have fun, or just relax. Florida Aquarium 701 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL tel: 813-273-4000 website: Explore Florida's water story from underground source to open sea. See native plants and animals including fish, rays, sharks, birds, otters, alligators in air-conditioned comfort. hours: Mon. - Sun. 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. adult admission: $15, Seniors (60+) $12 child admission: (under 13) $10, Under 2 FREE GameWorks 1600 E. 8th Ave, Suite A147 Tampa, FL 33605 tel: 813-241-9675 website: GameWorks®, a unique combination entertainment-restaurant-bar, is located in the Centro Ybor complex of Ybor City. GameWorks is an innovative entertainment facility like nowhere else. Great Exploration Hands-On Museum 1925 N. Fourth St. St. Petersburg, FL 33704 tel: 727-821-8992 website: Launch a tennis ball into the height of the museum, race a car, make a pizza, be a computer animator, sail a vessel... or just hang out. Harborview Center 300 Cleveland St. Clearwater, FL 33755 tel: 727-462-6778 website: Formerly a department store, the center is now a multipurpose facility in downtown Clearwater. Just for Weekends Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd. Lake Wales, FL 33853 tel: 863-676-1408 website: Sweet, bell-like sounds ring out amid a peaceful garden setting. Lowry Park Zoo 7530 North Blvd. Tampa, FL tel: 813-935-8552 website: One of the top three zoos of its size in North America, this 24-acre zoological garden features over 350 species in natural habitats including a Florida Manatee and Aquatic Center, Florida wildlife exhibit, Primate World, Asian Domain, aviary, and petting zoo. hours: Mon. - Sun. 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. adult admission: $9.50, Seniors (50+) $8.50 child admission: (3-11) $5.95, Under 2 FREE The Musuem of Science & Industry 4801 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, FL 33617 tel: 813-987-6300 website: MOSI is the largest science center in the Southeastern United States and home of the first IMAX® Dome Theatre. Guests can get blown away in the Gulf Coast Hurricane exhibit or cruise the galaxy in The Saunders Planetarium and there are many hands on opportunities for children. The Pier 800 Second Ave. NE St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-821-6164 website: The five-story, inverted pyramid has become a symbol for a downtown renaissance in St. Petersburg. Inside, visitors find shops, a museum, dining, and an aquarium. Outside are boat rentals, fishing areas, and a fantastic view of Tampa Bay. Rogers' Christmas House 103 S. Saxon Ave. Brooksville, FL 34601 tel: 877-312-5046 website: Open every day except Christmas Day, Rogers' Christmas House is located atop one of the many hills in historic Brooksville. The Christmas House is actually an enchanting village featuring five turn-of-the-century houses filled with an array of gifts for all occasions. Sea World Orlando 7007 Sea World Dr. Orlando, FL 32821 tel: 800-327-2424 website: This world famous, water-themed attraction serves as a home for Shamu the Killer Whale and for sharks. On the gentler side, dolphins and penguins are also part of the show. A Polynesian Luau Show is held nightly. Sponge Factory 510 Dodecanese Blvd. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 tel: 727-938-5366 Greek immigrants brought their sponge-diving skills to the Gulf of Mexico, and the tradition still thrives. This museum pays homage to a rich heritage. Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary 18328 Gulf Blvd. Indian Shores, FL 33785 tel: 727-391-6211 website: Human hands help injured birds at North America's largest bird hospital. Universal Orlando 1000 Universal Studios Plaza Orlando, FL 32819 tel: 407-224-6560 website: With two amazing theme parks, non-stop nightlife and world-class resorts, Universal Orlando offers an unforgettable vacation. You can Ride the Movies at Universal Studios Theme Park, explore the epic adventures at the all-new Islands of Adventure theme park or enjoy City Walk, Orlando's hottest spot for night-time entertainment. Universal Studios Florida 1000 Universal Studios Plaza Orlando, FL 32819 tel: 800-711-0080 website: The next best thing to being on the set of a Hollywood movie, Universal gives a behind-the-scenes look at ET, Back to the Future, and Terminator 2, with accompanying rides and attractions for the kids, such as the new Woody Woodpecker's Kids Zone. Walt Disney World Resort PO Box 10000 Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 tel: 407-934-7639 website: People thought Walt Disney was crazy when he announced he was buying so much land in the middle of Florida scrub country. However, more than 25 years later, the theme park that transformed Orlando is still drawing visitors from around the world. Disney's newest theme park is its Animal Kingdom. January | February | March | April | May | June July | September | October | November | December January Hillsborough County
tel: 813-874-BOWL The college football teams from the Southeastern Conference and the Big 10 Conference do battle at Raymond James Stadium on New Year's Day. Gasparilla Distance Classic tel: 813-229-RUNN Prize money draws top runners and wheelchair racers to these 15K and 5K events, but amateurs compete just for the thrill of it along scenic Bayshore Boulevard.
tel: 727-937-3540 Epiphany draws thousands of spectators to Spring Bayou. A woman ceremoniously releases a dove of peace into the air, and boys dive for a cross tossed in the water. Greek music, dancing, and food follow. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Parade tel: 727-327-0085 The annual parade features bands from around the country. Pinellas Folk Festival tel: 727-582-2123 Folk music and dancing highlight this festival. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE FebruaryHillsborough County
tel: 813-248-3088 The Krewe of Sant' Yago leads an illuminated parade with hundreds of floats. Activities start early with something for the whole family. Fiesta Day tel: 813-248-072 website: A festival in Ybor City to celebrate the heritage of the early settlers of Cuban, German, Italian, African Cuban, Jewish and Spanish descent. Florida State Fair tel: 813-621-7821 website: Carnival rides galore, good food, big-name music stars, and prize-winning livestock make the fair a must-see event at Tampa's Florida State Fairgrounds. Southwest Airlines Gasparilla Pirate Fest tel: 813-251-4500 website: While it's doubtful that pirate Jose Gaspar ever existed, that hasn't kept Tampa from throwing a big annual party in his honor. A rigged pirate ship and about 700 movers and shakers dressed in cut-throat regalia "invade" the city and march down Bayshore Boulevard. Strawberry Festival tel: 813-754-1996 website: As delicious as it sounds, this annual Plant City event includes rides and many attractions.
tel: 888-34-SPEED website: The downtown streets come alive as CART series cars roar through the streets of St. Petersburg. Greek Fest tel: 727-937-3540 Greek music, dancing, food, arts and crafts, and children's activities are part of this festival at St. Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral, Tarpon Springs. SPIFFS International Folk Fair tel: 727-327-7998 Ethnic food, dances, and a parade are featured during this multicultural celebration of the world's countries. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE MarchHillsborough County
tel: 813-876-1747 Each year, hundreds of artists show their talents along the Hillsborough River at Curtis Hixon Park during a weekend juried event. St. Patrick's Day Parade tel: 813-248-3712 A celebration that marches through the streets of Ybor City.
tel: 727-562-4819 Fans are invited to welcome the Phillies to their spring training site at Jack Russell Stadium, Clearwater, during this fun-filled event. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE AprilHillsborough County
tel: 813-253-0358 website: A 4-day event where guests experience great food, wine tastings, educational seminars and wine dinners. Carrollwood Craft Festival tel: 813-962-0388 At this annual festival, artisans display their wares at the Village Center in north Tampa. Brandon Balloon Classic tel: 813-689-1221 More than 50 balloonists from around the country fill the sky and compete for $10,000 in prize money.
tel: 727-586-5423 American Stage presents supercharged Shakespeare along St. Petersburg's waterfront. The adaptation of the Bard's work has attracted more than 50,000 people annually. Festival of States tel: 727-898-3654 Since 1921, marching bands from around the country have met in downtown St. Petersburg for two weeks of brassy competition. Highland Games and Scottish Festival tel: 727-736-5066 Tests of strength and games of Scots are the focus of this festival in Dunedin. Mainsail Sidewalk Art Show tel: 727-892-5885 Nearly 300 artists set up in this nationally ranked show near the waterfront of downtown St. Petersburg in North Straub Park. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE MayHillsborough County
tel: 813-645-3808 The delicious Ruskin tomato is undoubtedly the star of the festival. Live entertainment, a farmer's market and a Street Rod Show.
tel: 727-392-3331 Nationally known bluegrass bands flock to Seminole for this annual event. Food, arts and crafts, and children's activities are also featured. Fun 'n Sun Festival tel: 727-562-4894 A two week salute to Spring brings concerts, beach volleyball competition, and illuminated night parade. Fun 'n Sun Illuminated Night Parade tel: 727-562-4804 Florida's sun is enjoyed at night in downtown Clearwater. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE JuneHillsborough County
tel: 305-237-3413 An outdoor street fair is part of this two-week event, which includes all styles of dance in public performances, classes, and workshops at numerous venues.
tel: 727-595-4575 At this new event, local and national artists and craftspeople exhibit their work at St. Pete Beach. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE JulyHillsborough County
tel: 813-353-8073 Tampa marks Independence Day with a bang at downtown Tampa's Curtis Hixon Park, featuring live music and fireworks.
tel: 727-821-6443 St. Petersburg's Pier holds a weekend of steel drum bands, authentic Caribbean food, and limbo dancing. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE SeptemberHillsborough County
tel: 813-274-7741 A celebration with ethnic flavor features arts and crafts, food, music, and international folk dance.
tel: 727-347-0575 Firefighters organize powerboat races on St. Petersburg's Lake Maggiore. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE OctoberHillsborough County
tel: 813-621-7121 A Halloween celebration that begins with Family FunFest in the daytime and ends with the Mama Guava Stumble parade, a costume contest, and multiple outdoor concerts that night. NSRA Southeast Street Rod Nationals tel: 303-776-7841 Chrome gleams and big-block engines growl at what organizers tout as "the largest street rod show in the Southeast." Taste of Florida tel: 813-259-7376 Whose chili packs the most heat? Find out at the chili cook-off, one of the highlights of an event where Florida cooks seek to tickle taste buds at Curtis Hixon Park.
tel: 727-461-5200 A list of past performers reads like a who's who of jazz musicians. Thousands of people pack Coachman Park in downtown Clearwater for this four-day, free festival. Kahlua Cup International Yacht Races tel: 727-447-6000 About 100 racing yachts from around the world compete in this annual event held by the Clearwater Yacht Club.
tel: 352-588-2085 San Antonio Park pays homage to a critter that's dangerous when alive, but considered a delicacy by Florida Crackers. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE NovemberHillsborough County
tel: 813-645-3808 Those with a taste for seafood head to this arts and crafts show on Tampa Bay.
tel: 727-539-8733 Christmas tree decoration reaches art-form status during this holiday celebration to benefit family service centers in Pinellas County. Ribfest tel: 727-823-8534 Barbecue rules as chefs showcase their messy treats in downtown St. Petersburg. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE DecemberHillsborough County
tel: 813-223-7999 Enjoy a fun-filled event in downtown Tampa, including a boat parade and waterside home lighting competition. Santa Fest & Holiday Parade tel: 813-274-8615 website: The City of Tampa's annual holiday celebration complete with a parade, Santa visits, snow, ice skating and activities. Victorian Christmas Stroll tel: 813-254-1891 website: The Henry B. Plant Museums turns into a Victorian holiday delight to visitors of all ages.
tel: 727-823-8906 St. Petersburg's downtown, rings in the New Year with food and entertainment. Lighted Boat Parade tel: 727-893-7494 tel: 727-893-7329 tel: 727-821-4069 Boats of all sizes will be lit up in the Christmas spirit at the Pier. BACK TO 2004 CALENDAR OF EVENTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Sources: St. Petersburg/Clearwater Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tampa/Hillsborough Convention and Visitors Association, Pasco County GovernmentShopping There's no shortage of shopping in Tampa Bay. Retail sales for the Tampa - St. Petersburg - Clearwater metropolitan area exceeded $32 billion in 2002 and are expected to exceed $41 billion in 2007. There are more than 450 shopping centers in the Bay area, from Super Regional Centers like and two to Community Centers like in Tampa and Baywalk in downtown St. Pete. While most shopping centers offer a myriad of dining options, the Bay area is home to hundreds of quality neighborhood restaurants too. Some of those, like in Hyde Park, have gained national recognition. Major Area Malls Hillsborough County
459 Brandon Town Center Brandon, FL 33511 tel: 813-661-5100 website: One of the bay areas premier shopping malls with four anchors including Burdines, Dilliard's, JCPenney, Sears and 120 specialty stores. Centro Ybor 1600 E. 8th Ave. Tampa, FL 33605 tel: 813-242-4600 website: Located in the heart of Ybor City, Centro Ybor features an exciting mix of retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues situated around a palm-lined plaza that captures the flavor of Tampa's historic Latin Quarter. Enjoy a state of the art movie at Muvico's Centro Ybor 20, or enjoy GameWorks, the ultimate entertainment destination for the whole family. The Cigar Museum at Centro Ybor will give you a sense of the historic heritage of Ybor City while orienting you to the sights and sounds of Ybor's present. Westfield Shoppingtown Citrus Park 8021 Citrus Park Town Tampa, FL 33625 tel: 813-926-4644 website: Citrus Park Town Center is 1.1 million sq. feet of diverse stores, lively entertainment, exciting restaurants, family-friendly features and comfortable ambiance. Anchored by Burdines, Dillard's, Sears and JCPenney, this mall has a Regal Cinema with 20 screens and a 700-seat Food Court, all with a ³Main Street USA² design concept. International Plaza 2223 N. Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607 tel: 813-342-3790 website: Adjacent to Tampa International Airport, International Plaza opened as the most distinctive shopping and dining destination of Florida's West Coast. Fashionable department stores, over 200 specialty shops and Bay Street at the Plaza - an open-air village of fine restaurants and small boutiques - bring world class shopping to the Tampa Bay area. Anchors include Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Dillard's. Old Hyde Park Village 748 S. Village Cir. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-251-3500 website: The 247,856-sq. foot Old Hyde Park Village encompasses shops, movies, restaurants, office and residential space, and caters to upscale customers and high-class specialty retailers. Some of its shops include Potterybarn and Potterybarn Kids, Restoration Hardware and Godiva Chocolatier. University Mall 2200 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, FL 33612 tel: 813-971-3465 website: Conveniently located between I-75 and I-275 on Fowler Avenue, just 5 minutes from Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, The Museum of Science and Industry and the University of South Florida, University Mall has over 150 specialty stores and four department stores: Burdines, Dillard's, JCPenney and Sears. WestShore Plaza 250 West Shore Plaza Tampa, FL 33609 tel: 813-286-0790 website: Located at the corner of Kennedy and Westshore Blvd., WestShore Plaza features Saks Fifth Avenue and over 100 specialty shops including Old Navy, Ann Taylor, bebe and more. Enjoy complimentary valet parking, a variety of eateries and a 14-screen AMC Theatre with stadium seating. The Channelside Shops 615 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 tel: 813-221-5882 website: Located in the heart of Tampa's growing Channel District, Channelside offers 230,000 square feet of entertainment, shopping and dining options. Anchored by a multi-screen and IMAX theater, Channelside is a place where people can enjoy waterfront dining, special events, entertainment and shopping at a variety of upscale retail shops. BACK TO SHOPPING INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Pinellas County
153 Second Ave., N St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-895-9277 Located in downtown St. Petersburg, BayWalk offers unique shopping, fine dining and entertainment. Enjoy a movie at Muvico's 20 theaters with stadium seating or a delicious meal at one of its many restaurants. Crossroads Mall 15579 U.S. 19 (SE corner of Roosevelt Blvd.) Clearwater, FL 34620 tel: 727-535-2337 288,000 square feet. Bargain shopping is enjoyed at 65 stores, with anchors such as TJMaxx. Westfield Shoppingtown Countryside 27001 U.S. Hwy. 19, Suite 2096 Clearwater, FL 33761 tel: 727-796-1079 website: 1.1 million square feet Countryside Mall is home to more than 180 stores, anchored by Burdines, Dillard's, Sears and JCPenney. Area residents also enjoy the indoor ice skating rink. Largo Mall 10500 Ulmerton Rd. Largo, FL 33771 tel: 727-587-0100 555,241 square feet. This mall's 70 stores include an Albertson's grocery store, Bealls and Target. Parkside Mall 7200 U.S. Hwy. 19 N. Pinellas Park, FL 33781 tel: 727-527-7241 830,000 square feet anchored by Dillard's and Montgomery Ward, Pinellas Square offers 68 stores. Prime Outlets Ellenton 5461 Factory Shops Blvd. Ellenton, FL 34222 tel: 888-260-7608 website: The largest factory outlet on Florida's westcoast with over 135 designer and brand name outlets such as Coach, Nike, Off 5th Saks Fifth Avenue and Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store. Seminole Mall 11201 Park Blvd. N. Seminole, FL 33772 tel: 727-392-8174 Seminole Mall's 70 stores service a wide variety of needs, including a Publix grocery, AMC Theaters, and food court. Tyrone Square Mall 6901 22nd Ave. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33702 tel: 727-347-3889 The largest regional mall in Pinellas county with more than 170 stores include anchors such as Dillard's, JCPenney and Sears. BACK TO SHOPPING INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Pinellas County
9409 U.S. Hwy. 19 Port Richey, FL 34668 tel: 727-848-3600 More than 100 stores entice shoppers to Gulf View Square. Burdine's, Dillard's, JCPenney, and Sears are among the mall's anchors. Recent renovations include a new food court. BACK TO SHOPPING INTRO | TOP OF PAGE DiningTampa Bay menus satisfy just about any appetite or budget. In recent years, two trends have made their mark on the local dining scene. First, steak houses have come into vogue again. Also, an influx of Mexican restaurants, both familiar chain varieties and family-run operations, are adding spice to area dining. Additionally, Tampa Bay restaurants are blazing new trails in gourmet cuisine. They're also serving up fresh seafood and Florida's state pie, key lime. Menus, like the area's people, reflect a diverse range of cultures, featuring items that run the gamut from five-alarm Thai curry to Greek pastries oozing with honey. Tampa Bay Dining Guides
website: Published Fridays, it contains restaurant reviews and notes on dining establishments. Tampa Bay Metro Magazine website: This monthly, upscale lifestyle publication features listings of dining establishments. Tampa Tribune's Friday Extra website: Like the Times' Weekend, it's published Fridays. Weekly Planet website: This alternative newspaper and entertainment guide publishes reviews and a very extensive list of restaurants arranges by category. The paper is free, distributed in racks at bay area restaurants and shopping centers. Professional Sports | Major League Baseball Spring Training | Collegiate Sports They're Super Bowl Champions! The will once again play to sellout crowds at , sharing the field with thousands of fans and one other local team: the , led by none other than former Buc, Lee Roy Selmon. Tampa Bay has evolved into a sports mecca, offering professional baseball and hockey teams, in addition to football. Catch the at Tropicana Field in St. Pete or the during Spring Training at Tampa's Legends Field. 2003 Division Champs, the will draw record numbers of hockey fans to the in Tampa's . In analyzing sports climates, The Sporting News ranks Tampa high, at No. 30 of more than 300 U.S. and Canadian cities. Professional Sports
Raymond James Stadium 4201 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, FL 33607 tel: 813-350-6500 tickets tel: 813-879-BUCS website: In 2003, the Tampa Bay Bucs won the Super Bowl, and became World Champions. The team plays at Raymond James Stadium, which features a private village and 103-foot-long pirate ship with 12 cannons spewing smoke, confetti, and noise. 65,000 seating capacity. Since their first NFL game in 1976, the Bucs have won two National Football Conference titles and are XXVII Superbowl Champions. No competitor is safe from the pewter pirates. Tampa Bay Devil Rays One Tropicana Dr. St. Petersburg, FL 33705 tel: 727-825-3137 tickets tel: 727-825-3137 website: The Devil Rays opened their first regular season in March of 1998, and are managed by Tampa native Lou Piniella. Tampa Bay Lightning The St. Pete Times Forum 401 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 tel: 813-229-BOLT website: Florida fans love hockey, and they get a close-up view of the action at the Lightning's state-of-the-art, seven-level St. Pete Times Forum, which features optimum sight lines and a wide variety of amenities for spectators. 2002-2003 brought the team great success by becoming the Southeast Division champions. Tampa Bay Storm The St. Pete Times Forum 401 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 tel: 813-276-7300 website: The Storm calls the St. Pete Times Forum home. They are the 2003 Arena Bowl Champions and have won four previous championships. Arena football season runs April through July. BACK TO SPECTATOR SPORTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Major League Baseball Spring Training
Legends Field 3802 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. Tampa, FL 33614 tel: 813-875-7753 website: Philadelphia Phillies Jack Russell Stadium 800 Phillies Dr. Clearwater, FL 33755 tel: 727-442-8496 Toronto Blue Jays Grant Field 373 Douglas Ave., Suite A Dunedin, FL 34698 tel: 727-733-9302 BACK TO SPECTATOR SPORTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Collegiate Sports
4202 E. Fowler Ave., PED 214 Tampa, FL 33620 tel: 813-974-2125 website: USF Bulls Head Coach Jim Leavitt hopes to build the NCAA's next great football program. The USF Bulls entered their seventh season this past fall and plan to be playing a full C-USA schedule in 2004. Of course, football is not the only sport at USF. The other popular sports include baseball, golf, tennis, soccer, cross-country, and track and field. Equally exciting women's sports at USF include basketball, cross-country, golf, tennis, soccer, volleyball, track and field, and sailing. University of Tampa (UT) 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-253-6240 website: The UT Spartans excel in Division II sports. The baseball team finished the 2003 season ranked 2nd in the nation, and basketball, tennis, and soccer are also popular sports. In fact, Spartan teams have won four national championships in recent years, three in baseball and one in soccer. The university's location on the Hillsborough River lends itself to crew teams. The sea walls near the campus boast the marks of teams that have competed in the annual President's Cup Regatta race from Garrison Channel to Harbour Island. Hillsborough Community College Dale Mabry Campus 4001 Tampa Bay Blvd. Tampa, FL 33614 tel: 813-253-7446 website: With 4 campuses throughout Hillsborough County, HCC's varsity sports program consists of volleyball, basketball, tennis and fast pitch softball for women and basketball and baseball for men. The mascot is the Hawks and the teams are members of Region VIII of the National Junior College Athletic Association. BACK TO SPECTATOR SPORTS INTRO | TOP OF PAGE Race Tracks
Pari-Mutual Wagering 10490 Gandy Blvd. St. Petersburg, FL 33755 tel: 727-576-1361 Derby Lane, open January through June, is the oldest greyhound racing track in Florida with pari-mutual wagering. Tampa Bay Downs 11225 Race Track Rd. Oldsmar, FL 34677 tel: 813-855-4401 Thoroughbred horse racing is a tradition here between December and May. Tampa Greyhound Track 8300 N. Nebraska Ave. Tampa, FL 33604 tel: 813-932-4313 Fast-paced greyhound racing takes place July through December. With a mild climate year-round and a lush landscape, Tampa Bay is a haven for golfers. The area is home to nearly 100 private clubs and public and semiprivate courses, each requiring varying degrees of skill and determination.
5300 W. Lutz Fern Lake Rd. Lutz, FL 33601 tel: 813-949-0090 Belleview Biltmore Golf and Spa 8 Hibiscus Rd. Clearwater, FL 33756 tel: 727-581-1500 GOLFline, Inc. 5808 Aventura Ct. Tampa, FL 33618 tel: 813-264-9686 Grenelefe Golf & Tennis Resort 3200 SR 546 E. Haines City, FL 33844 tel: 863-422-7511 Plantation Inn & Golf Resort 9301 W. Fort Island Tr. Crystal River, FL 34429 tel: 352-795-4211 tel: 800-632-6262 Rocky Point 4152 Dana Shores Dr. Tampa, FL 33634 tel: 813-673-4316 Babe Zacharias 11412 Forest Hills Dr. Tampa, FL 33612 tel: 813-631-4374 Rogers Park Golf Course 7910 North 30th St. Tampa, FL 33610 tel: 813-673-4396 USF Golf Course Corner of 46th St. & Fletcher Tampa, FL 33612 tel: 813-632-6893 Hillsborough County
3901 W. Tampa Bay Blvd. Tampa, FL 33614 tel: 813-348-1173 16 hard courts and 12 soft courts, all lighted, racquetball courts and rest rooms. Sandra Freedman Tennis Complex 59 Columbia Dr. Tampa, FL 33606 tel: 813-259-1663 reservations tel: 813-259-1664 Eight clay courts, with showers and locker rooms.
69 Bay Esplanade Clearwater Beach, 33767 tel: 727-462-6138 Three tennis courts and a complex with basketball courts, social hall, game room, and soccer field. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Complex 1201 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Suite J Clearwater, FL 33755 tel: 727-462-6119 Three tennis courts, playground, general pool, shuffleboard court, and horseshoe pit. McMullen Tennis Complex 1000 Edenville Ave. Clearwater, FL 33764 tel: 727-669-1919 17 hard tennis courts, all lighted, plus lockers, showers, and clinics. St. Petersburg Tennis Center 650 18th Ave. S. St. Petersburg, 33705 tel: 727-893-7301 15 Har-Tru courts, lessons, clinics. Hillsborough County
7650 Courtney Campbell Cswy. Tampa, FL 33607 tel: 813-282-2909 Located on the causeway running across Tampa Bay from Tampa to St. Petersburg, the park is part of a mile-long beach surrounded on both sides by water.
1 Causeway Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33767 tel: 727-469-5917 Ranked the third-best beach in the United States by the University of Maryland, Caladesi Island is three miles long. A ferry makes regular trips from the mainland to the island, which is accessible only by boat. The parks department recently launched an improvement program for the island. Fort DeSoto Park 3500 Pinellas Bayway S. St. Petersburg, FL 33715 tel: 727-582-2267 A Spanish-American War fort provides a historic touch to this park, which provides fishing, piers, camping areas and a beach ranked as the eighth best in the nation by the University of Maryland. Fred Howard Park 1700 Sunset Dr. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 tel: 727-943-4081 This 155-acre county park on the Gulf of Mexico is located in northern Pinellas County. Honeymoon Island State Recreation Area 1 Causeway Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33755 tel: 727-469-5942 Next to Caladesi Island but accessible by car this park is on a barrier island that just barely escaped development. Now it provides swimming, shelling, fishing and a nature trail. The beach can be rocky in some areas, so a pair of flip-flops helps. Pier 60 1 Causeway Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33755 tel: 727-462-6466 Located in the heart of Clearwater Beach, Pier 60 offers excellent fishing opportunities, and it's open 24 hours a day. Sand Key Park South of Clearwater Beach 1060 Gulf Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33767 tel: 727-588-4852 Offering a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of Clearwater Beach, sand dunes slope towards azure waters.
2305 Baillies Bluff Rd. Holiday, FL 34691 tel: 727-942-4030 With its long dock and pier, this site is well known to area fisherman. Hudson Beach Park 6345 Clark St. Hudson, FL 34677 tel: 727-861-3010 This sandy oasis in northwest Pasco County features a lifeguard on duty and a nearby restaurant. Hillsborough County
website: Alderman's Ford Park 9625 Canoe Launch Loop Lithia, FL 33547 tel: 813-757-3801 A canoe-launching site is a popular attraction at this 1,141-acre park, which also features a boardwalk, pedestrian and bicycle trails, and a picnic area on the Alafia River. Dead River 15098 Dead River Rd. Thonotosassa, FL 33592 tel: 813-987-6210 Edward Medard Park 5726 Panther Loop Rd. Plant City, FL 33567 tel: 813-757-3802 This park features a freshwater fishing reservoir with camping, swimming and picnicking. E.G. Simmons Park 2401 19th Ave. Tampa, FL 33614 tel: 813-671-7655 Water attracts boaters, swimmers and anglers to this 469-acre park on Tampa Bay. Nature lovers flock to the mangrove swamps for some bird watching. Eureka Springs 6400 Eureka Springs Rd. Tampa, FL 33610 tel: 813-744-5536 Botanical garden is home to rare plants, a boardwalk and a picnic area. Flatwoods 16400 Morris Bridge Rd. Thonotosassa, FL 33592 tel: 813-987-6211 Hillsborough River State Park 15402 U.S. 301 N. Thonotosassa, FL 33592 tel: 813-987-6771 Created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936, this state-run riverside park continues to welcome anglers and canoeists. John B. Sargeant Sr. Memorial Park 12702 Morris Bridge Rd. Thonotosassa, FL 33592 tel: 813-987-6208 Lake Park 17302 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, FL 33549 tel: 813-264-3806 Five lakes, numerous pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks allow for fishing and picnicking. There's also a BMX track, radio-controlled car track, and archery range. The 600-acre park is the site of equestrian events and the home of the Bakas Equestrian Center for handicapped riders. Lettuce Lake 6920 Fletcher Ave. Tampa, FL 33637 tel: 813-987-6204 A stunning boardwalk takes visitors through cypress stands and wetlands to an observation tower. Bicycle and exercise trails wander through the 120-acre park. Lithia Springs Park 3932 Lithia Springs Rd. Lithia, FL 33547 tel: 813-744-5572 Springwater that's always 72 degrees means swimming all year. The park also has a bath house, playground, picnic sites, and camping area. Morris Bridge 1333 Morris Bridge Rd. Thonotosassa, FL 33592 tel: 813-987-6209 Trout Creek - Morris Bridge Rd. 12550 Morris Bridge Rd. Thonotosassa, FL 33592 tel: 813-987-6200 Upper Tampa Bay Park 8001 Double Branch Rd. Tampa, FL 33615 tel: 813-855-1765 This 2,144-acre park features an environmental study center. Activities include picnicking, hiking on trails, and strolling on boardwalks with views of Tampa Bay. Veterans Memorial Park 3602 Hwy. 301 Tampa, FL 33619 tel: 813-744-5502 Wilderness Park Tampa, FL 33592 Six different areas offer bicycling, fishing, canoeing, hiking, boardwalks, and picnicking. To reach the park, travel east on Fletcher Avenue until it's name changes to Morris Bridge Road.
website: A.L. Anderson Park 39699 U.S. Hwy. 19 N. Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 tel: 727-943-4081 Opened to the public in 1982, this 158-acre park serves the north county area and offers picnic facilities, play equipment, and a boat launch. Park vistas overlook Salmon Bay and Lake Tarpon and a 478-foot nature trail among the cypress trees. John Chesnut Sr. Park 2200 E. Lake Rd. Tarpon Springs, FL 34685 tel: 727-669-1951 This 255-acre park-located on the southeast corner of Lake Tarpon, the county's largest lake-has nature trails, a canoe route, a boat ramp, a 30-foot observation tower, picnic shelters, a ball field, and a playground. John Taylor Park 1100 Eighth Ave. SW Largo, FL 33770 tel: 727-588-4847 A 132-acre park including a 53-acre freshwater lake with fishing and a boat ramp, this recreation area has picnic shelters, a softball diamond, and a 1.8-mile running and exercise trail, with access to the Pinellas Trail. Lake Seminole Park 10015 Park Blvd. Seminole, FL 34647 tel: 727-549-6156 Access to Lake Seminole for water skiing, boating, and fishing is a feature of this 259-acre park. It has picnic facilities, two ponds frequently used by model sail boating enthusiasts, and a two-mile recreation trail. Philippe Park 2525 Philippe Pkwy. Safety Harbor, FL 34695 tel: 727-669-1947 Acquired in 1948, this is the county's oldest park and the home of an Indian mound listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It offers picnic areas in view of Old Tampa Bay, and a boat launch. Pinellas Trail 12020 Walsingham Rd. Largo, FL 33778 tel: 727-549-6099 Created along an abandoned railroad corridor, Pinellas Trail currently extends from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. It is open to walking, jogging, biking, and skating. It was picked by Rollerblade, Inc. as one of the 10 best places in the country to skate for fitness in 1999. When completed, the trail will be 47 miles long, extending across the county from north to south. Sawgrass Lake Park 7400 25th St. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33702 tel: 727-217-7256 Park department personnel offer guided tours of this 390-acre, ecologically sensitive land, which includes a butterfly garden and a 1.1-mile boardwalk that meanders through wetlands. Schools use an on-site classroom for ecology studies. War Veterans Memorial Park 9600 Bay Pines Blvd. St. Petersburg, FL 33708 tel: 727-549-6165 This 122-acre park facing Boca Ciega Bay has a memorial center that features a 3.5-ton granite sundial surrounded by five plaques that commemorate the U.S. military branches. Weedon Island Preserve 1500 Weedon Island Dr. NE St. Petersburg, FL 33701 tel: 727-217-7208 Owned by the state and managed by the Pinellas County Parks department, the preserve has a 9,000-foot-long trail, as well as a 3,000-foot boardwalk that leads through a mangrove forest to an observation tower with a panoramic view of the island and Tampa Bay.
16379 Crews Lake Dr. Spring Hill, FL 34610 tel: 727-856-6742 This 111.3-acre park has a bike trail, boat ramp, and canoe access to Crews Lake, a boardwalk, tent camping, a fishing pier, nature and interpretive trails, a picnic area, and volleyball. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park 10500 Wilderness Park Rd. New Port Richey, FL 34652 tel: 727-834-3247 This 8,069-acre park has a bike trail, tent camping and cabins, an equestrian trail, nature and interpretive trails, a picnic area, and a playground. Samuel W. Pasco Recreation Complex 39835 Chancey Rd. Zephyrhills, FL 33542 tel: 813-788-6900 This park and complex feature facilities for baseball, basketball, football, soccer, and volleyball, as well as a picnic area and a playground. Withlacoochee River Park 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd. Dade City, FL 33525 tel: 352-567-0264 This 408-acre park has canoe access to the river, tent camping, a fishing pier, nature and interpretive trails, a picnic area, and a playground. Hillsborough County maintains a series of trails for bicycling, off-road bicycling, in-line skating, running, and walking.
16400 Morris Bridge Rd. tel: 813-987-6211 This paved, seven-mile loop runs through Flatwoods Park. Trailheads are found at the entrance of Flatwoods Park (off Morris Bridge Rd.) or Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (just north of I-75). Town-n-Country Greenways 7508 Ehrlich Rd. Tampa, FL 33625 trail manager tel: 813-264-8511 ranger on duty tel: 813-264-8512 The first phase of this project is 1.3 miles, and includes a paved surface with trailhead access on the east side of Hanley Rd., between Hillsborough and Waters Avenues. Upper Tampa Bay Trail 8001 Double Branch Rd tel: 813-855-1765 The first phase of this paved trail is 2.5 miles. Phases 2 and 3 should be completed in five years. The current trailhead is located on Wilsky Rd., just north of Linebaugh Ave. Wilderness Trail System This popular off-road system is located just minutes from the University of South Florida in northeast Tampa. The main loop is 20 miles of single track, connecting Flatwoods, Trout Creek, and Morris Bridge parks. Trailheads are available in each park. |