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11 minute read
Attractions
and artisan-made soaps, candles, housewares, chocolates and other gifts “both funky and functional.” 633 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727.954.0117. www.merchantstpete.com
Vintage Stores
LA FRANCE
From Victorian-styled steel- boned corsets to sequins and feathered flapper dresses, this shop offers an immense collection of fine and reproduction vintagewear and accessories. 1612 E. Seventh Ave., 813.248.1381.
REVOLVE
This small, local chain of boutique consignment stores gathers and resells high-end, desirable fashion apparel and accessories with a nod to luxury services such as concierge attention and personal shopping. 2000 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg, 727.399.7788; 1620 E. 7th Ave., 813.242.5970. www.revolve.cx
Visitor Services
ADVENT HEALTH CENTRA CARE TAMPA BAY
Advent Health Centra Care’s physicians are accessible daily at six locations, with some centers open until midnight. Advent Health Centra Care offers treatment for urgent, non life-threatening medical problems. 301 N. Dale Mabry Highway, 813.284.0985 ; 4001 W. Linebaugh Ave., 813.644.6991. www.centracare.org
CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY
Scientology is a religion that offers a precise path leading to a complete and certain understanding of one’s true spiritual nature and one’s relationship to others. The Clearwater Scientology Information Center is open daily from 10 am-10 pm. 500 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727.467.6966. www.scientology-fso.org
CLEARWATER VISITOR INFORMATION
CENTERS/AMPLIFY CLEARWATER Clearwater is home to several convenient welcome centers armed with local information to help you plan your stay. Stop in for last-minute help with accommodations, restaurants, attractions, golf, fishing excursions and much more. 600 Cleveland St., Clearwater, 727.461.0011. www.clearwater florida.org/ visitors-centers
FRANK T. HURLEY REAL ESTATE
Frank Hurley Real Estate has been serving the beach market for three generations. Founded in 1948, the company is a member of the Florida Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. 2506 Pass-a-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach, 727.367.1949. www.hurley-associates.com
ST. PETERSBURG- CLEARWATER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
When you fly to PIE, you’re right in the heart of Tampa Bay and just a quick drive away from St. Petersburg or Clearwater. Customized educational tours are available to youth and adult groups. 14700 Terminal Blvd., Clearwater, 727.453.7800. www.fly2pie.com
Wineries
FLORIDA ORANGE GROVES WINERY
Experience a home-grown Florida winery offering tropical, berry and citrus wines, stamped with the seal of approval by the Florida Department of Citrus. The winery is open for tours daily. 1500 Pasadena Ave. S., St. Petersburg, 800.338.7923. www.floridawine.com
THE FLORIDA WINERY
Visit one of the most unique, award-winning wineries in Florida, specializing in 20 varieties of wines and sangria, fermented and bottled on-site at John’s Pass Village. 12945 Village Blvd., Madeira Beach, 727.362.0008. www.thefloridawinery.com
Attractions
ADVENTURE ISLAND
Corkscrew slides, waterfalls, a giant wave pool and a rambling river await in such venues as Paradise Lagoon. Rent a cabana equipped with four lounge chairs, a mini-fridge and a locker. 10001 N. McKinley Drive, 813.884.4386. www.adventureisland.com
ALLIGATOR & WILDLIFE DISCOVERY CENTER Get up close and personal (even kiss them) with alligators, plus see other animals, too, including tortoises, frogs, chameleons, stingrays and more. Open daily. 12973 Village Blvd. A-D, Madeira Beach, 727.329.8751. www.kissagator.com
BADA BING WATER SPORTS
Take an eco-friendly electric boat, kayak or paddleboard on the water at St. Pete’s Downtown Municipal Marina. 101 Bay Shore Drive NE, St. Petersburg, 727.592.1111. www. badabingwatersports.com
BOYD HILL NATURE PRESERVE
Overlooking Lake Maggiore, discover Willow Marsh, Swamp Woodlands and Pine Flatwoods. Enjoy 6 miles of trails and boardwalks, picnic areas, overnight camping facilities, guided tours. Open Tu-Su. 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg, 727.893.7326. www.stpeteparksrec.org/ boyd-hill-nature-preserve.html
CALADESI ISLAND FERRY Accessible only by boat, Caladesi Island is consistently rated as one of Tampa Bay’s best beaches. The ferry departs from Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin every half-hour, every day at 10 am. One Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, 727.734.5263. www.caladesiferry.org
CALADESI STATE PARK
This peaceful and pristine park is one of the last uninhabited places in Florida. Take the 3-mile kayak trail through the mangroves and bay or hike the nature trail. One Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, 727.469.5918. www.floridastateparks.org/ park/Caladesi-Island
CAPTAIN MEMO’S PIRATE CRUISE
Enjoy a pirate-themed adventure aboard this scenic cruise. Take a two-hour cruise in the Gulf of Mexico while enjoying a full-service bar. Evening sunset Champagne cruises available. 25 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater Beach, 727.446.2587. www.captainmemo.com
CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM This working aquarium is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of marine animals. See marine exhibits, underwater viewing tanks, animal care presentations and dolphin movie stars Winter and Hope. 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, 727.441.1790. www.seewinter.com
THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM
Exhibits at this 200,000-square- foot aquarium are categorized by ecosystems. Guests can immerse themselves in interactive programs like “Dive With the Sharks,” for certified scuba divers 15 and older. 701 Channelside Drive, 813.273.4000. www.flaquarium.org
HILLSBOROUGH RIVER STATE PARK
Go camping at one of Florida’s first state parks, explore more than 7 miles of nature trails or take a ranger-led tour of Fort Foster from the Second Seminole War. $4-$6 per vehicle. Open daily from 8 am-sundown. 15402 U.S. 301 N., Thonotosassa, 813.987.6771. www.floridastateparks.org/ park/Hillsborough-River
PIER 60
Pier 60 features a fishing pier and recreational park, with a bait house, telescopes and six covered pavilions. Watching the sunset, bird-watching and dolphin-watching are activities not to miss. One Causeway Blvd., Clearwater Beach, 727.462.6466. www.myclearwater.com/
government/city-departments/ marine-aviation/pier-60
SEA LIFE SAFARI
Take a hands-on expedition for the whole family on this 90-minute boat tour to a shell island while learning about sea life. Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, 727.441.1790. www.seewinter.com/visit/ activities/sea-life-safari
SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO
In collaboration with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel offers elegant accommodations. The hotel features a spa, pools and a casino with popular gaming machines. 5223 Orient Road, 866.388.4263. www.seminolehardrocktampa.com
ST. PETERSBURG SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB
This institution became a city historical landmark in 1994 and continues to thrive today. Games are $5 for non-members and in addition to open hours, club members can play any- time. 559 Mirror Lake Drive N., St. Petersburg, 727.822.2083. www.stpeteshuffle.com.
TAMPA BAY GRAND PRIX
Fully equipped with Italian electric OTL pro-karts. Race along the track at 50 mph against friends or the clock. Rent two private rooms or the whole facility for your event. Open daily in both locations. 12350 Automobile Blvd., Clearwater, 727.527.8464 ; 3404 Cragmont Drive, 813.341.6300. www.tampabaygp.com
TAMPA BAY WATER BIKE CO.
No training wheels needed here, just rent a water bike or a pedal biyak, and start exploring Tampa’s downtown. Beginning at $30. Open daily from 10 am-sunset. 333 S. Franklin St., 813.465.8025. www.tampawaterbikes.com
TREASURE ISLAND FUN CENTER Treasure Island Fun Center is a day of fun away from the sun. There’s plenty of pizza, ice cream, wings and other treats if you need a break from gaming. Theme parties are available. 7770 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, 727.391.9105. www.tifuncenter.com
Golf
BABE ZAHARIAS
Lined with trees in a residential neighborhood, the course, playing 6,244 yards, provides a unique challenge to golfers of all levels, especially the back nine with four holes over 400 yards. Par: 70. 11412 Forest Hills Drive, 813.631.4374. www. babezahariasgolf.net/home
THE CLAW AT USF
The Claw at USF is a public course that’s home to alligators, deer and other wildlife. The par-71 course is populated with oak, cypress and pine trees. Grab a bite or a beer at Rocky’s Sports Grill. 13801 N. 46th St., 813.632.6893. www.theclawatusfgolf.com
COVE CAY GOLF CLUB
Cove Cay is an 18-hole, championship length course right on Tampa Bay. Majestic wildlife, sprawling foliage and challenging holes make this course Tampa’s “Best Kept Secret.” 2612 Cove Cay Drive, Clearwater, 727.535.1406. www.covecaygolf.com
DUNEDIN GOLF CLUB
The former home of the PGA of America. Come play where the legends have played. Reservations required. 1050 Palm Blvd., Dunedin, 727.733.2134. www.dunedingolfclub.com
EAST BAY GOLF CLUB
Located next to the Gulf beach- es, this popular, championship 18-hole, par-71 golf course features a practice range, putting greens and pro shop. 702 Country Club Drive, Largo, 727.581.3333. www.eastbaygolfclub.com
MANGROVE BAY GOLF COURSE
Offers 18 holes of championship golf on USGA-modified greens, a clubhouse, a lighted driving range and a pro shop. 875 62nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, 727.893.7800. www.golfstpete.com
PEBBLE CREEK GOLF CLUB
This highly rated public course integrates beauty with challenges, as most of the 18 holes involve water, but offers a serene setting among moss- draped oak trees. 10550 Regents Park Drive, 813.973.3870. www.pebblecreekclub.com
TPC TAMPA BAY
This par-71 course challenges players on the Champions Tour while providing a memorable experience for everyone. The hole design features water hazards and large, undulating greens. Yardage: Four sets of tees, 4,990-6,898. 5300 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz, 813.949.0090. www.tpctampabay.com
Miniature Golf
CAPTAIN BLIGH’S LANDING
Captain Bligh shows you twists, turns and waterfalls on his 18- hole putt-putt course. Open 10 am-10 pm (daily). Call for ticket prices. 630 S. Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater, 727.443.6348.
CONGO RIVER GOLF
An adventure miniature golf course for the whole family, Congo River brings the fun of an African safari to Florida. Activities include 18-hole golf, arcade games and alligator feeding. 20060 U.S. Highway 19 N., Clearwater, 727.797.4222. www.congoriver.com
Museums
AMERICAN VICTORY MARINERS MUSEUM
The SS American Victory saw action in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Located behind the Florida Aquarium, the ship offers visitors the opportuni- ty to explore the three-level cargo holds, hospital, galley, flying bridge, engine room and more. 705 Channelside Drive, 813.228.8766. www.americanvictory.org
CHIHULY COLLECTION
The Chihuly Collection show- cases the glass art by renowned artist Dale Chihuly. It includes Chihuly’s spectacular large- scale installation “Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier,” created specifically for the collection. Open daily. 720 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727.822.7872. www.moreanartscenter.org
DALI MUSEUM
The world’s most comprehensive collection of works done by Spanish artist Salvador Dali includes small impressionistic pieces to giant surrealistic montages. Tours are conducted regularly. Open (daily). One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727.823.3767. www.thedali.org
DUNEDIN FINE ARTS CENTER
Participate in an art class or visit an exhibit at the museum or gallery. Don’t miss week- end brunch at the Palm Cafe. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, 727.298.3322. www.dfac.org
FLORIDA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM
One of the largest Holocaust museums in the country. The museum’s permanent exhibition, titled “History, Heritage and Hope,” traces the Holocaust from medieval Eastern Europe to implications in modern times. Open daily. 55 Fifth St. S., St. Petersburg, 727.820.0100. www.flholocaustmuseum.org
GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Offers 170-plus, hands-on “interactivities” in 21 themed areas, including a cruise ship, an engineers’ workshop and a firehouse, intended to “grow the minds” of children up to age 10. Open daily. 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza (Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park), 813.443.3861. www.glazermuseum.org
HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM
Henry Plant built the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel, and its lavish- ness attracted the likes of Teddy Roosevelt. It offers changing exhibitions and re-creations of what rooms and spaces were like in the hotel’s heyday. Call for hours. 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., 813.254.1891. www.plantmuseum.com
IMAGINE MUSEUM
The studio contains more than 500 pieces of American studio glass and represents more than
55 artists who helped develop the medium as an art form. Open Tu-Su. 1901 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727.300.1700. www.imaginemuseum.com
JAMES MUSEUM OF WESTERN & WILDLIFE ART
The spirit of the American West is alive and well at the museum. Its more than 400 works of art evoke the spirit of a wide-open frontier and the beauty of life in the wild. Open daily. 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727.892.4200. www.thejamesmuseum.org
MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS The museum’s comprehensive collection includes European, American, Asian and African works. Highlights are French Impressionist paintings, mod- ern photographs and Steuben glass. Open daily. 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, 727.896.2667. www.mfastpete.org
SUNKEN GARDENS—
The oldest living museum in St. Petersburg, Sunken Gardens is home to more than 50,000 plants and flowers. Garden tours, horticultural programs and special events are also for the offing. Open daily. 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg, 727.551.3102. www.stpete.org/sunken
TAMPA BAY AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM
Dedicated to the history and engineering innovations of the 1920s and 1930s. Each vehicle, like the Alvis and BSAs from England, was hand-picked for its contributions to the automotive world. Open daily except Tuesday. 3301 Gateway Centre Blvd., Pinellas Park, 727.579.8226. www.tbauto.org
YBOR CITY MUSEUM
This museum in the heart of Tampa’s historic cigar district includes exhibits about the cigar industry and the founders of Ybor City. Open W-Su, 9 am-5 pm; children under 5 free. 1818 Ninth Ave., Tampa, 813.247.6323. www.ybormuseum.org
Tours
CALYPSO QUEEN
The Calypso Queen (StarLite Cruises) offers lunch and dinner sightseeing cruises with free beer, wine and rum punch. Prices vary. Departure times based on season. 25 Causeway Blvd., Slip 18, Clearwater Beach, 727.462.2628. www.calypsoqueen.com
DOLPHIN LANDINGS
Dolphin Landings provides ex- tensive services while touring the Gulf Beach communities. Services include dolphin watch- es, sunset cruises, island excursions, deep-sea fishing and local tropical island cruising. Prices vary. 4737 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, 727.360.7411. www.dolphinlandings.com
HUBBARD’S MARINA
This family-owned business offers a variety of trips such as sunset cruises and dolphin watches, in addition to snorkeling tours. 170 Johns Pass Boardwalk, Madeira Beach,
There’s always more to explore.
727.393.1947. www.hubbardsmarina.com
TAMPA BAY BREW TOURS BY THE THIRSTY PELICAN
Guided, all-inclusive tours of the most buzz-worthy brew experiences—more than 85 breweries to choose from. Pick- up available from Downtown St. Pete or beach hotels for daily public tours. 727.201.8221. www.thirstypelicantours.com
TAMPA BAY FOOD TOURS
Sip and taste your way through the Bay Area, from Dunedin and St. Pete to Tampa’s Heights neighborhood, on three-hour food tours. 813.310.44 www.tampabayfoodtours.com
Enjoy an immersive experience of exciting and up-close animal encounters in a educational atmosphere. Make friends with hundreds of exotic animals from around the world. Visit kissagator.com to book your encounter.