{"id":15179,"date":"2023-05-08T18:46:56","date_gmt":"2023-05-08T18:46:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/?p=15179"},"modified":"2023-05-11T03:44:32","modified_gmt":"2023-05-11T03:44:32","slug":"day-trips-from-tampa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/day-trips-from-tampa\/","title":{"rendered":"37 Wonderful Day Trips From Tampa"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Wondering what are the best day trips from Tampa? Here are a few suggestions!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite not having as many visitors as Miami or Orlando, Tampa is currently growing and becoming more popular as a destination in Florida.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tampa is a great place to work, play, and unwind thanks to its combination of historic architecture and contemporary landmarks, a culture infused with Cuban and Spanish flavors, vibrant business districts, and lovely waterways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The city is also renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and year-round warm weather, making it a favorite destination. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another thing that makes Tampa great is the fact that it is located in plenty of great locations in Florida that are worth checking out, so you can expect your itinerary to be pretty full!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We asked some of our favorite travel bloggers to suggest their favorite day trips from Tampa and these were their recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are the best day trips from Tampa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

From dreamy natural springs you can swim in to access to some of the best amusement parks in the world, there is a plethora of incredible day trips from Tampa to choose from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s all up to you and your interests, but rest assured that no matter what day trip or place you wind up choosing, you’re bound to think the detour was definitely worth the effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some day trips are just a short drive away while some require a bit more driving, but each and every one of them will provide an experience that will become the highlight of your trip to this part of Florida. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

35 Wonderful Day Trips From Tampa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Sanibel Island<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sanibel Island is well known for its laid-back atmosphere and undeveloped, shell-filled beaches, making it one of the best day trips from Tampa for a relaxed day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Due to the island’s development from west to east, both the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico regularly wash thousands of shells ashore, making it a popular beach destination for families and shell collectors. Even a shell museum, the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, exists there where you can study marine biology and shells.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sanibel provides a wide range of outdoor activities. There is plenty of space for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, biking, and birdwatching thanks to the area’s 15 miles of undeveloped beaches, 25 miles of bike path, and excellent hiking trails. There are golf courses available as well for golfers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Hillsborough River<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For those seeking outdoor adventure near Tampa, Florida, a day trip to paddle the Hillsborough River is a perfect experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The canoe trip is a chance to see the \u201creal Florida\u201d as you paddle past wild alligators and majestic Spanish moss draped trees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll also see white ibis perched in trees, deer and wild hogs venturing through the swamp, and turtles sunning on logs. If you are lucky, an otter will pop up in the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The start for this day trip from Tampa is at Hillsborough State Park. The park is located 12 miles north of Tampa. Canoe rentals, shuttle service, and trip planning advice are available from local outfitters in Thonotosassa, FL. Trips range from an hour to a full day of paddling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have never had a chance to paddle past an alligator in the wild then this canoe trip is for you. As you cruise around the many twists and turns on the river, sunning alligators will be resting amid the knees of bald cypress growing on the banks. Don\u2019t worry, the alligators will leave you alone, but they are exciting to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The park also has 7 miles of hiking trails and a dedicated biking path if canoeing with alligators is not your thing. All in all, Hillsborough State Park outdoor adventures are a wonderful, nearby alternative to the city adventures in Tampa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recommended by Karen at Outdoor Adventure Sampler<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. St. Augustine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

St. Augustine is not only a stunning coastal destination, but it also has nearly 500 years of history and heritage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The oldest city in the continental United States, it was founded by the Spanish in 1565 and is home to many historical sites that peacefully coexist with lovely beaches, a vibrant restaurant and bar scene, and historical landmarks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you’re inside the city, you can essentially leave your car parked there and forget about it because exploring lovely St. Augustine by foot or on the Old Town Trolley is the best way to get around. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Castillo de San Marcos, which has a view of the Atlantic Ocean, the Bridge of Lions, Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, the Lightner Museum, and the St. Augustine Distillery are all well-known historical sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Rainbow Springs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In addition to being a beautiful natural area with Florida’s fourth-largest spring, Rainbow Springs State Park is also a historically significant location that dates back more than 10,000 years to the time when the area was inhabited by native people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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You can go hiking here among five different natural springs, stunning waterfalls, moss-covered cypress trees, and lovely floral gardens. After that, you can go swimming in the hot springs, tubing, or paddling down the river while getting a chance to see some of the local wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and wild turkeys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Sarasota<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Known for its lovely beaches and its trendy, artistic atmosphere, Sarasota is another great day trip from Tampa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The city, which is home to the renowned Ringling Museum of Art, has developed a thriving community of performers, artisans, and artists who regularly produce original works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although Sarasota Beach is a short distance from the city’s center, beachgoers of all kinds can choose from a variety of cool beaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Marie Selby Botanical Museum, a bayside area with a waterfall, hanging bridges, an Amazonian village, and an adventure trail packed with tropical plants, is a must-see attraction in Sarasota. Among other natural treasures, you can find over 6,000 orchids and butterflies here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Siesta Key<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Only 7 miles separate Siesta Key from Sarasota on the Gulf of Mexico. The beaches on this island are renowned for having only pure white sand, making them perfect for leisure and water sports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The enormous variety of feathered creatures that swoop over the eight-mile-long island will delight bird watchers. Crescent Beach is the best place to snorkel, while Turtle Beach is great if you enjoy wildlife viewing and tend to avoid crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Ocala National Forest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Ocala National Forest is a haven for all things natural and is home to the largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest in the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Ocala is a hidden gem in northern Florida and the ideal place to spend a day trip if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Tampa. It has beautiful hiking and equestrian trails, as well as crystal-clear freshwater springs where you can swim or even snorkel in search of marine life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Florida has a lot of sinkholes, but Devil’s Millhopper is special because it’s one of the few locations in the state where more than 100 feet of rock layers are exposed. It’s a fantastic location to observe how geological features influence ecosystem development!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Simply put, Devil’s Millhopper is a 120-foot-deep cavity that descends into a small rainforest, creating a scene that will make you feel as though you’re in a Jurassic Park movie (actually, a ton of fossilized remains of extinct species have been discovered here!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Matlacha Island<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of Florida’s most picturesque locations is Matlacha Island and it makes for one of the best day trips from Tampa!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This tranquil island is one of the happiest places in the state because of its unrivaled small-town charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only road in the community is lined with bright fishermen’s shacks that have been painted in the liveliest hues and decorated with kitsch. To understand what we mean, picture stuffed bears, bicycles, and dolphins with polka dots on them!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s also fascinating to learn how this tiny island in southwest Florida came to be so colorful. Commercial fishing suffered terrible losses in the 1990s. Residents of Matlacha made the decision to control their own destiny and literally went outside with buckets of paint to transform their fishing community into a hip tropical tourist destination. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The island is now a charming location where you can relax on the beach, go fishing, and eat tasty seafood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Venice Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Scavenger hunts are a very unusual way to spend the day in Venice Beach because the area is known for having ancient shark teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Along with being a great place to practice your paleontology, Venice Beach is also a great place to see wildlife, with many species such as shorebirds, turtles, and dolphins being simple to spot. The beach offers many facilities for visitors to take advantage of, such as a picnic area, boardwalks, and volleyball courts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the foot of the fishing pier is the renowned Sharkey’s Restaurant, where you can stop for a quick meal and beverage on a hot summer day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Blue Springs State Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the most visited springs in Florida is Blue Springs, the largest spring feeding the St. Johns River. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Its warm 73-degree waters and 2,600 acres of lush forested land make it a natural manatee refuge area in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The park offers a variety of activities all year long, including hiking, kayaking, canoeing, camping, cabin rentals, and picnicking, even though swimming is prohibited during the manatee season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. Sebastian Inlet State Park <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although surfers from all over the world and the United States swarm to Sebastian Inlet’s pristine beaches to ride its world-famous “Monster Hole” and “First Peak” waves, there is more to this surfing mecca than meets the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The state park has three miles of undeveloped beaches where you can see turtle nests, go fishing, gather beautiful seashells, and camp nearby. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It also has two museums that are interesting to check out. The McLarty Treasure Museum focuses on the Spanish exploration fleet of 1715, while the Sebastian Fishing Museum features exhibits that trace the region’s history of fishing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. Myakka River State Park <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In addition to being a fantastic outdoor adventure in a breathtaking natural setting, a day trip to Myakka River State Park from Tampa is also like taking a trip back in time to see how the local Native Americans and Spanish explorers lived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This is Florida’s first state park with the designation of a wild and scenic river, and it includes a river as well as prairies, hammocks, wetlands, and pinelands. Boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular local pastimes, as are hiking and biking on the backroads and nature trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

14. Paynes Prairie State Park <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you think of Florida, wild horses and bison probably don’t come to mind right away, but Paynes Prairie State Park is a great place to spot wildlife, making it one of the best day trips from Tampa for animal lovers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Hiking along one or more of the preserve’s eight trails will give you the chance to see over 300 different bird species as well as other astounding wildlife, which will help you fully understand why the Seminoles valued this land so highly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

15. Ichetucknee Springs State Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ichetucknee Springs State Park is home to eight springs that are crystal clear and run along the Ichetucknee River. In the midst of dense pine forests, you can engage in a variety of aquatic activities, such as swimming and river tubing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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In addition to hiking three different nature trails, there are also wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is a great place to visit if you want to see some of Florida’s best wildlife because it is home to beavers, otters, turtles, wild turkeys, ducks, and more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

16. Alexander Springs Recreation Area <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alexander Springs, located in the Ocala National Forest, is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, particularly stand-up paddleboarders, kayakers, and snorkelers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alexander Springs is also a fantastic location for outstanding snorkeling if you want to see a turtle swimming among lilies or thousands of colorful fish. With its easy trails and gently sloping spring pool, this location is also great for hiking and swimming if you’re traveling with kids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

17. Ginnie Springs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Located just 2.5 hours away from Tampa, Ginnie Springs<\/a> makes for one of the most amazing day trips from Tampa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Not only is this a privately owned park that is known for its cold (think 72 F), crystal blue waters, but this is a great spot to enjoy SUPing, tubing, swimming, and kayaking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plus, if you\u2019re into scuba diving then you have the unique opportunity to dive beneath underwater caves here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In fact, the water is so clean and translucent that diving at the Ginnie Ballroom, the Devil\u2019s Spring System, and in the Santa Fe River are a must for anyone who loves this activity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, if you\u2019d like to visit for yourself then tickets start at $15.00 per adult during the off-season and $20.00 per adult during peak season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also visit any time between sunrise and sunset. Although, if you\u2019re camping in the park itself then the natural springs here are available to you 24\/7. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, because this is a private park, drinking alcohol is allowed on-site. So, it\u2019s best to avoid this area during spring break and busy weekends since raucous college students like to come here to party the day away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recommended by Victoria of Florida Trippers<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

18. Tarpon Springs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A day trip from Tampa to Tarpon Springs is one of the most unique Florida adventures you can have. Tarpon Springs, a short 45-minute drive from Tampa, is known as the sponge capital of the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Natural sponge beds kept this town busy for decades from the late 1800s to 1946, when a toxic algae outbreak wiped out the industry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks<\/a> is where all the action happens in Tarpon Springs. Some sponge is still harvested today, and this is where you can see it all happen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can catch a boat tour, go searching for manatees in a kayak or check out the fun and unique sponge shops. An excursion to Anclote Key or a dolphin cruise is another fun way to enjoy your time in Tarpon Springs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greek immigrants were a solid portion of the population as Tarpon Springs came to be, and you can still feel their influence today, especially through the tasty Greek restaurants on the Sponge Docks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The best thing about this day trip is that after a long day of exploring the sponge docks or spending time on the water, you only have to travel less than an hour to get back to your home base. Enjoy the history, sights, sounds, and flavor of Tarpon Springs! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recommended by Candice of Exploring the Gulf<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

19. Anna Maria Island<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Anna Maria Island<\/a> (AMI) is a bustling destination popular with sun seekers looking for a chilled vacation and day trippers planning to sink their feet into the sand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This barrier island is surrounded by water, lots of it, with the Gulf of Mexico to its west, Anna Maria Sound to the east, Tampa Bay in the north, and Longboat Pass in the south. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The island comprises three cities, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Anna Maria, so even if you’ve visited before, there are plenty of reasons to return. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most popular activity revolves around the beaches, all 7 miles of it. These beaches are unique because they have sugar-like sand and stunning sunsets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visitors who like a bit of action during their beach trips should consider Cortez Beach, as it is close to the historic Bridge Street, where you’ll find lots of entertainment and restaurants. Alternatively, further north is Manatee Beach, which has the Anna Maria Island Cafe, restrooms, and volleyball nets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bean Point Beach is a lesser-known, quieter option with views over Passage Key, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, and St Pete. However, parking is a challenge, and there are no public restrooms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aside from beach hopping, visitors can shop at the Bridge Street Market, play crazy golf at The Fish Hole Miniature Golf, catch a show at The Island Players, fish at the many piers, and hike at Leffis Key Preserve. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recommended by Amanda of Hey! East Coast USA <\/p>\n\n\n\n

20. Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture at Florida Southern College <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Located less than 1.5 hours to the east of Tampa, you can find yourself emersed in the most extensive single-site collection of Frank Llyod Wright Architecture in the world!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The group of buildings, which Wright called the “Child of the Sun,” is also on the National Historic Landmarks registry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Florida Southern College (FSC) in Lakeland has 13 distinct buildings that Wright designed. The buildings share the common theme of organic architecture, meaning they were designed to blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Annie Pfeiffer Chapel is one of the most iconic buildings in the FSC collection. The Chapel has a distinctive geometric design and a soaring spire – a true masterpiece of modern architecture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Frank Lloyd Wright architecture collection at FSC is not just a static display like many of the Wright-designed buildings available for tour. The buildings on campus are used by students and faculty alike – for everything from classes to performances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The climate has not been favorable to the Child of the Sun collection, and restoration is underway to preserve the structures. Currently, the Miller Planetarium is under renovation. The planetarium was the only Wright-designed planetarium ever constructed and was the last Wright building completed on campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Self-guided (consider purchasing a map for $5) and guided options (start at $10) are available seven days a week. I suggest, at a minimum, that you take the Usonian Faculty House Tour ($10), which includes a film overview of all Wright-designed buildings on campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Booking a tour at least a day in advance is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recommended by Teresa of An Acre in the City<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

21. Crystal River<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At just over one hour from Tampa, Crystal River <\/a>is the perfect day trip!  Most people head to Crystal River to swim with the famous manatees, but there are many other exciting things to do in this beach town to fill your day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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It is important to note that if you are hoping to see the manatees, you will need to plan your trip between November and April. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

First and foremost, start your day with a morning snorkel with the docile manatees. There are many (many) tour companies that offer guided tours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They\u2019ll provide you with the needed education and equipment and you can spend the next few hours floating above these magical creatures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

After your morning snorkel, head to the nearby Three Sisters Springs where you can view more manatees and the sparkling blue water from above on the boardwalk. Or, if you are still feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the springs via paddling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now that you\u2019ve definitely worked up an appetite, head to the Florida Cracker Kitchen for some pizza and to watch the monkeys play on the nearby island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, end your time in Crystal River with a trip to Homosassa Springs State Park. Here you can walk the trails, take a boat tour, and do some more wildlife viewing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a fun-filled day, you\u2019ll be ready to head back to Tampa for a good night’s rest. It will surely be a day trip from Tampa you won\u2019t soon forget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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