40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (2025)

The top stops along the way from Gainesville to Bradenton (with short detours) are Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Clearwater Beach, and The Dalí Museum. Other popular stops include Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Manatee Viewing Center, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park.

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Silver Springs State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Silver Springs State Park is a beautiful place to visit, with crystal clear water and interesting wildlife. There are trails and a museum, as well as rental cabins and canoes for those who want to explore the park on their own.

Beautiful and only $2 entry fee. Wish CA would provide it's residents such value.Open and not crowded. Great to paddle around or take a hike. Clean restrooms and great staff. Didn't see a manatee but we were a little late.

Brandon N — Google review

Silver springs is absolutely beautiful. Went there for the first time for our 6 year anniversary. The glass bottom tour was amazing. It was so cool seeing all the different springs like that. The river is so crystal clear it's amazing. Definitely recommend to any first timers. It was very worth it and a truly unique experience. Definitely plan on going back when it's cooler to kayak!

Sarah B — Google review

What a fantastic place to just forget about your troubles. We rented kayaks for two hours and started at 9am. I recommend this time or earlier if you don't like crowds or are new to kayaking. We also did the boat tour, which was awesome, and our captain was very friendly. Don't forget to tip them. 😉 They are going through some renovations which are expected to be completed in the fall so no gift shops or Cafe. You will not be disappointed going here.

Kelly J — Google review

Our kayak trip was amazing! We did the 2 hour float. The water is crystal clear, and pictures do not do it justice. The staff was super friendly and well organized. We showed up a little early for our reservations, and they let us go a little early. The clear kayaks we reserved were out for repairs unfortunately. They refunded us the difference and apologized for them not being available. We still had a ton of fun! Would highly recommend this trip!

JakeTheSnake — Google review

Definitely the glass bottom tour was worth it. We went during December Christmas break and there were plenty pf manatees . We could spot a number of them when they sneak peek above the water. As they were swimming and having their breakfast under water , the visibility was low around them so it was hard to spot them through glass bottom but our captain of the boat was so sweet that he tried to get us a glimpse of it under water and we did, a big one swam just under the glass bottom. It was a great sight. We did see a alligator basking in the florida sunshine ☀️ and number of beautiful fishes. It was so crystal clear and there were several springs which we toured above. It was overall a great experience. Definitely a must do on a clear sunny day. One can also take a glass kayak/canoe and spend their own sweet time in these waters.

Nandita W — Google review

The springs are beautiful. We’ve gone paddle boarding here many times, renting and bringing our own. The loop is easy and can be made in less than an hour, if you’re in a hurry. The long trip down the river is so fun and the gators, monkeys and all the fish and birds make the paddle so fun. This is definitely something worth doing a few times.

Kerry K — Google review

One of our favorite state parks. The rangers at Silver Springs are always welcoming, friendly, and ready to help out. The park is clean, well organized, and beautiful. If you bring your dog, there are miles of scenic trails to meander and if you’re lucky, you may happen upon monkeys! The glass-bottom boats are the highlight of the park and are well worth it! But book online before the day-of to ensure you get your preferred time slot. Also, don’t forgot to pack a picnic lunch. There are a few lunch options onsite, but they rotate at the moment. Also, don’t forget to check out the history museum. Admission is super affordable at $2/person, but they take cash only. For kids, they have a fantastic scavenger hunt, and it’s a great way of learning about the area while cooling off in their AC for an hour. Their living history museum is open for select hours on weekends, but don’t miss it! It’s such a fun experience seeing volunteers playing the part and teaching guests about how life was in early FL settlements. Cannot recommend this park enough!

Alicia N — Google review

Found this beauty while exploring the area on a business trip to Ocala. The most beautiful blueish green water. They have clearly defined trails and a beautiful boardwalk area that loops you through the forest. Didn’t get to take the boat tour but it looked awesome with the clear see through bottoms! Lots of parking, well maintained restrooms, and reasonably priced to enter! A must see if you are in the area!

Aimee — Google review

Really nice outdoor activity to do with family! We were hoping to see a manatee but we didn't, unfortunately! Maybe next time. We brought our dogs, and they loved sniffing around. Lots of new wildlife to see and hear. Wish we had more time to kayak. Such beautiful water here! The boats looked fun, but we didn't go on a tour. The front lady was so nice and spoiled our dogs with loves and dog bones!

Lexi S — Google review

An extensive and beautiful natural park with a couple of shops/restaurants and one can also explore it by boat/kayak/canoe. The boardwalk encompassing a rich forest area has several shaded spots. For me the highlight was watching the wildlife in crystal clear water and seeing a pretty good sized gator from a safe but close distance. Parking is not a problem, lots of free spaces. Well worth returning to.

Thomas T — Google review

We live pretty close to Silver Springs and we try to go every morning for our walk. The staff are great every question you have they have an answer. The grounds are well maintained and very clean. If you come at the right time you will see the monkeys, once you spot the first one it's easy to find the others. You will also see all kinds of wildlife alligators, big fish etc... I could go on and on. We see something different every time we go and that's 4 or 5 times a week. It's a great place to come just to have coffee and enjoy the nature.

Karen W — Google review

There is lots to see why paddling around on the water. You can do a short trip or spend a day there. They have third-party kayak rentals, or you pay the park fee and can launch your own.

Colby — Google review

It's about 2 hours north of us but we've been several times this year for paddling. The shuttle service is great and worth the price. So much gorgeous scenery and wildlife and it is a very relaxing ride down. Would recommend to everyone to go at least once.

Aaron S — Google review

Beautiful place to kayak if you have the chance. It can get pretty busy on the river, so it's best on a weekday first thing in the morning. Highly recommend! We came across a wide variety of wildlife during our time down the river. Manitees, alligators, turtles, monkeys, various birds, even jumping fish!Piece of advice, if you kayak/canoe make sure you utilize a waterproof cell phone bag that FLOATS! Almost lost my phone for good if it weren't for someone with a net coming by just by chance.

Josh S — Google review

Beautiful place a lot of trails a garden out of mates. We did the kayak we bring our kayak you can rent in the place you have a beautiful trail with the kayak. You can see all the kind of animal birds, monkeys mates and if you already pay for the campground, you don’t need to pay for the park And also if you don’t want to go today park you can just bring your own kayak and put in the water and start the trail. It’s very beautiful place quiet and it was not out of people. The water temperature is 72 but you cannot go inside the water in this place, very recommend! Enjoy your trip

Ofek S — Google review

Beautiful place, for sure. The kayaking was peaceful, and we saw a handful of alligators and lots of turtles. I also saw the biggest softshell turtle I have ever seen, an otter playing in the water, and even a manatee! We definitely enjoyed the experience and plan on going again. It's a shame you can't swim, but I understand why they won't let you. We were cut off in a stretch of the river by a nine-footer, and obviously, we kindly let him swim on by. He was literally two feet from the front of the kayak! He didn't have a care in the world. You should probably plan your trip early. It does get a little crowded and makes it a little challenging when you are steering your kayak with everyone else around you as well as all the boats that pass back and forth.

Dixie T — Google review

After a quarter century living in Tampa, we decided to visit Silver Springs. We took the 90 minute boat tour. We got the last two slots by booking a couple hours before. This was on a Tuesday on a very hot day! I highly recommend advanced booking. All staff were friendly. The boat tour captain was excellent - a nice combination of cheesy/old timey jokes, information about history and wildlife, and navigated the boat around so people seated on both sides could see things. He knew his stuff! Even acknowledging many aspects of history of Silver Springs. We lucked into seeing a few manatees in the August heat. Plus, lots of fish, birds, and gators. The highlight / toward the end was seeing an otter swimming. Fantastic!

A — Google review

We love Silver Springs. It is amazing to kayak. You see birds, manatees, alligators, turtle, fish, sunken ships and several springs not just Silver Springs. We have not been on the glass bottom boats but have overheard the boat captains and the seem quite knowledgeable. It is $5/kayak to launch your own kayak but parking is free. We have been here in December and saw several manatees and in April and saw the birds in their estuary, amazing both time frames though I think I'm my opinion the Spring was a little better because of all the birds. However, I don't think you can go wrong any time of year.

I A — Google review

A beautiful nature gem in Silver Springs Florida.As soon as you enter the park, you can start seeing the fauna and flora within the park. The parking is ample and free.The entrance to the park is only $2 and kids under 6 are free. Senior discount is also available. You can have glass boat excursions for an additional $12.The persons attending the booth are superb. They make you feel welcome.The park has many walking trails for you to enjoy. The fauna and flora are all well kept and beautiful.We took the glass boat excursions and saw a lot of enchantment that Silver Springs has to offer.If you are lucky, you may see turtles and alligators during the trip. The captain was a blast. We were laughing from start to finish.Highly recommended.

Ralph C — Google review

We have been to Silver Spring State Park twice so far. It's so enjoyable. We have done the glass tour which is a great experience and also you get a lot of information from the captain of the boat while on it.The canoes / kayak are a must, you will get the opportunity to enjoy at first sight the marvelous ecosystem of this spring, the clear water, the music of the sound of the birds and if you are lucky enough you will see manatees, alligators and turtles. There are also trails and camp grounds.The have some spots to buy food and also have clean restrooms.We are very looking forward to come back soon.Please respect the environment and keep the place clean.

Valentina M — Google review

Amazing experience!! Didn't get to explore the hike as we arrived late. But glass boat tour was awesome and kayaking in rain was wonderful. Clear waters were so freaking clear

Ali B — Google review

Beautiful & wild. Pristine river as nature intended to be. Amazing clear spring water. Well worth visiting. The glass bottom boats will provide you with a unique and mesmerizing experience .

Tony S — Google review

Such a beautiful place to kayak at! We paid the entrance fee and launch fee and brought our own kayaks and paid 12$ for two people, we chose to paddle back and not get out at the Ray Wayside Park which was a little bit of a challenge but definitely do able! We seen fish, turtles, so many birds, a decent amount of alligators and some manatee! Would highly recommend for a nice relaxing float down the river while searching for wildlife!

Robbi R — Google review

We canoed the river and springs in our own boat. What a beautiful place with white sand on the bottom, the sink adding makes the water look aquamarine. We saw dozens of turtles, almost as many Anhinga and Cormorants, Ibis and Blue Herons. Also we spotted a couple of alligators and maybe a dozen Manatee in several small pods, plus a couple alone. Just wonderful. We did the small loop which only took about 70 minutes.

Bryn D — Google review

We love kayaking here at Silver Springs State Park! Not only is the water beautiful, but you can see Manatee, alligators, turtles, and some beautiful birds. After kayaking we enjoy a nice walk along the trails. My husband was excited to see an original suit from his favorite movie Creature From the Black Lagoon on display.

F S — Google review

Staff was argumentative and cranky. Lots of crowds! Would not recommend if you have your own kayaks unless you are patient and can maneuver through all the renters and the glass bottom motor tours to find the nature and peace/quiet-beautiful once you do. (Also did not see any monkeys)

Mary W — Google review

My fiancée and I had a great time here. We will definitely be bringing family back on another trip. We went on a glass boat tour and that was amazing in itself! Everyone was very friendly! The restaurant, the gift shop, the restrooms, the nature trails... just all amazing and beautiful.

Connie T — Google review

This state park is GORGEOUS! It’s about 2 hours from Tampa and 100% worth the drive. We rented a tandem kayak and did the 5-mile trip down to Rays Wayside Park. A shuttle is included in the kayak rental to take you back to Silver Springs. We took our time paddling down, and even did the beginning loop to see the springs and the fort, and this took us about 3.5 hrs to complete. We saw so much wildlife! Alligators, manatees, a million birds and even spots a few monkeys. A great way to spend a day in Florida.

Maegan S — Google review

This is one of my new favorite springs in Orlando! We saw so much wildlife and the spring has a lot of natural shade and is a perfect size for a nice paddle. We saw an otter, turtles, fish, baby and big gators, ducks and an underwater statue too! The water is sooo clear and beautiful it is insane! The launch site is easy and you do not have to get wet.

Jay H — Google review

Kayak rentals where a bit pricey ~($45/$60) and line was long to get shuttle tickets but it is definitely worth it to kayak this river it was gorgeous and see-through the whole 5 mi downstream trip the shuttle cost 15 additional dollars to get back to your original parking spot. We saw tons of monkeys, river otters, alligators, birds and other wildlife. It was beautiful and shaded/had tree cover approximately half the trip so I did not get sunburn even though I forgot my sunscreen. Took about 3 hours to go down all the way down stream.

Moonlight A — Google review

The best place for SUPing and kayaking! The water is crystal clear—you'll be able to see every fish and piece of seaweed. We've spotted a few alligators (only four, none very large). Be aware of monkeys along the bank at the 4/5 mark of your route—avoid getting too close to them.

Aleksei T — Google review

BYOBoard, parking, entry, life jacket fee no more than $20 2nd time going no monkey sightings yet. Saw 1 manatee, gators turtles, fish. Beautiful serene atmosphere.. go early enough to shuttle back if not I suggest not to paddle too far down without being physically capable of paddling against current. Water & sunscreen a MUST! Very peaceful

Danielle L — Google review

This was my first time here. It was once a private park, now a state park. I went kayaking from here to Ray's Landing. It was an amazing trip loaded with wildlife. Will definitely be coming back.

Peter D — Google review

Beautiful but very crowded at the start, partly because the Fort King trail was closed. Really caused a snafu at the put-in. But otherwise lovely! Be warned, if you are an average paddler, definitely turn around at the big orange arrow! It's easy to go farther than you intend and end up paddling against the current on your way back. We were dog-tired when we finished!!

Chris C — Google review

It was a nice ride for 30 minutes with a best skipper who gave us details of everything we saw, its history and what not ! The fishes and the spring are awesome to watch. If you are lucky you will get to see some gators and turtles. The bird island is a wonder with lots of varieties of Birds with their nests and young ones !! The park is quite awesome overrall !!

Preetha S — Google review

I had a fun experience while visiting this area. You can book kayak rentals through Paddling Adventures that is located in the parking area of the park for an easy water access. The park entrance is $2 per person (kayak rental prices vary), but it’s definitely worth it. Bring water, sunblock, and a good hat if you’re going to be out on the water, and be prepared to possibly see lots of wildlife (alligators included).

Holly G — Google review

We brought our own SUP boards and launched at the park. We paid to get picked up after our paddle. The driver was very knowledgeable and friendly. We got to see a monkey as we were getting out. Saw some manatees and a gator. Always better to go during the week. Our driver said they were incredibly busy this past weekend and it was over 100 degrees. During the week only a handful of people were on the river which made the paddle very relaxing a peaceful.

Drew L — Google review

Our group took the 90 minute boat ride down the river & it was a great day. We had a lot of folks who had never been there before I& we were able to see all kinds of wildlife. The river is so beautiful and unspoiled and clean. Well worth the price. It is dog-friendly, with a lovely gift shop, cafe, and welcome center. We saw monkeys, gators, manatees, all kinds of birds and fish. We had a great boat captain

Shirley — Google review

Beautiful grounds! Well kept and easy even walking trails good for kids and grandparents. The water is stunning and they have a great cafe and shop. Many informative signs around with history on the area. Highly recommend!

Michelle B — Google review

It is a beautiful park full of trees and typical plants, the hot springs are unique in their beauty, you can bring your pet, it is like being in a mini jungle where the sounds transport you and the boats with clear bottoms are entertaining. I recommend taking the Extended tour to better appreciate the beauty of the place.

Liliana P — Google review

Such a cute area with plenty to do. Free parking and to enter the park it is $2 per person. There’s shops, cafes, clean restrooms, and cute walkways around the area. There are boat tours and kayak rentals. We did the kayak rental and loved it! Saw so much wildlife, including several alligators. It was pretty calm, there was barely anyone else out there for a Friday.

Cara H — Google review

We visited on a Saturday in mid March and it was packed! Almost no parking when we arrived close to 1 pm. We hadn’t made a reservation for the kayaks but we were able to get one for 2 people without problem. We did a 5 mile trajectory on the river and took us about 2h. The shuttle took us back to the entrance. We saw manatees and monkeys!! Then we hiked for the blue trail and yellow trails. It took us about 1:15h but wasn’t very scenic. There’s not a lot of shade so keep it in mind. We would definitely go back! Beautiful.

Celeste W — Google review

We went here for a stop going back to Michigan. It was well worth it.I believe it’s $2 to walk around d$15 each for boat ride.We went in March and we were told the Manitees were all gone.We saw a mother and baby!Several alligators.All 4 springs. He gives all the history on.

Brent L — Google review

Very beautiful place to visit.. it's about 1.3 hours from Orlando but it's definitely worth it if you need some nature time! The water is beautiful.. you can rent kayaks or go on a boat tour.. it's very clean and well kept. There are several monkeys close to you when hiking around, definitely will be able to see them and get a good picture of them.. They do not like dogs so be mindful of that..

Gimpy N — Google review

My wife and I Kayaked the 1/2 day trip to Ray's something. It was amazing! We had a great time, easy to navigate and saw fantastic sights.... crystal clear water, manatee, gators, monkeys, birds! I recommend going on a weekday morning, less people out. We were told by a few folks that weekends even have people in jet skis running up and down...I wouldn't think you'd see much with that going on.

Jay C — Google review

Had a good time today. We went on the glass bottom boats. It was a really hot day but we survived lol. I was really bummed we didn't see any monkeys. We were about to leave and we saw the boardwalk that was really nice.

Teri T — Google review

Did this trip last year with 2 others and had a blast. Decided to come again with 5 others. Had an absolutely wonderful experience both times.There was a short wait to check in and pay and then put the kayaks in the water, but it wasn't too bad. The River Patrol was very helpful with information and directions.Highly recommend anybody to come and experience this. If you don't have your own kayak, you can rent them.Looking forward to next year!

Shannon M — Google review

4.7

(10328)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (7)

4.5

(2398)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (8)

5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA

(352) 261-5840

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Sholom Park

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Park

Outdoor Activities

Sholom Park is a charming green area that features an elegant pavilion, a pond, and well-manicured gardens surrounded by paved pathways. It's a peaceful environment where visitors can enjoy the scenery while walking around the tranquil forest. Although it's not suitable for intense exercising purposes, it offers an excellent opportunity to unwind and revel in the vegetation, birds, and fish. The park prohibits bikes, pets or drones; thus creating an idyllic atmosphere for those seeking calmness.

Very peaceful, beautiful park. Visually stimulating with colorful flowers in bloom and the Spanish moss to give it a storybook feel. Very nice place to take a walk. I will definitely be returning to this park when I am in the area.

Jessica S — Google review

This park was absolutely beautiful! They have paved walk ways that are mostly shaded open and nice. Plenty of benches, nice grassy areas for picnics or whatever. If I lived closer I would come here everyday.

Jennie C — Google review

Beautiful park to walk, enjoy nature and do some soul searching. Park is quiet and peaceful and can be explored in less than 2 hours. Not allowed: Pets, bicycles, skates, skateboards or drones. There's a nice pond with fish from a boardwalk. Plenty of park benches available to sit and enjoy the surroundings.

Candela_ M — Google review

Gorgeous park! First time back here in over a decade and it looks even better. Very well kept and the big koi fish pond is the perfect spot to relax and feed fish. Also a really relaxing place to read a book, sit by yourself or enjoy a picnic with family/friends. Such a. Peaceful and serene place. Far enough from the major roads that you don’t hear much road noise at all.

Brad S — Google review

There are no playgrounds. No bicycles, pets or drones allowed. This makes for a peaceful and quite environment. Great for walks and to just relax! I will definitely come back. Make sure to bring your camera! And a few bucks for the optional donation.

Roddy B — Google review

This is a private park open to the public and is one of, if not the best parks in Marion County. Amazingly serene place to go for a walk, with of plenty of benches to sit and clear your head, pond with koi fish and machine (.25) to feed them and more than enough shade to enjoy the day without the sun in your eyes. They offer yoga classes, movie nights and several family friendly events are held here throughout the year.

J. P — Google review

this place is absolutely beautiful and it’s one of my top favorite parks!! it’s so clean/well kept and there is a bathroom. i feel very safe walking around there and it’s very peaceful. there’s a lot of wildlife (turtles, koi fish, ducks, birds, turkeys) and pretty flowers/plants!

Cheyenne D — Google review

Beautiful place. Very nice calm walk. This is not a very long trail, so don't come here to try to exercise. This place is a great place to just relax enjoying the trees, birds and fish, a peaceful walk around the enchanted forest.First time visiting since we moved to Ocala, beautiful winters day.

Darwin R — Google review

I go here almost every morning to meditate and clear my mind for the day. Never very crowded when they open and everyone there seems to be respectful of the rules. Leave you phone in the car and look at what’s around. The trails are great with benches all around to sit and take in nature. Don’t forget your quarters to feed the fish.

Roger — Google review

Amazing place to go to relax and plenty of room to get away and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. I have only gone through one half of this park and am extremely pleased. It is very calm and beautiful. There are plenty of paths to walk and numerous benches to sit at to take in nature. Pets are not allowed, which makes sense since it is a privately owned park open to the public. A little over 2 miles of walkable paths to choose from. They are even adding a Zen garden.

Brandon O — Google review

I have been trying to visit Sholom Park the last three times I have been in the area. Finally we visited. This is a wonderful park for quiet and tranquility. You have beautiful concrete paths to walk around beautiful landscaping. A pretty simple formula.There are rules that folks need to know. Pets are not allowed. As are bikes, scooters, golf carts, drones or smoking. As such, there is little to disturb the peaceful nature of this beautiful park.There are multiple garden or paths that you can stroll along enjoying nature. My favorite is the Labyrinth. But close behind are the pond, the olive tree promenade, and the pergebo. I also like the formal garden with the fountain. In reality, I like them all. They all have something different for you to enjoy.If you bring quarters, you can buy food to feed the Koi in the pond. You can sit on many benches and soak in the nature with the sights and sounds of the birds. Even the smell of a lot of the plants and flowers fill the air. There is very little outside noise to destroy this. Although you can hear a car or truck now and then.There are restrooms in the building right behind the pavilion. The pavilion is itself right at the end of the parking lot and is kind of a central location for the paths through the gardens. There is a water fountain that will fill water bottles at the restroom building.They also have a stage and I guess they have events here at times. But I honestly don't know anything about them. And of course the pavilion which has some benches and ceiling fans for relaxation. But the fans were not on when we were there. The fountains were on in the formal garden and in the pond when we were there.There was a lot of shade when we went with lots of foliage to block the summer heat. It was pretty hot out, but the shade helped keep it at bay.All in all, I can't think of many relaxing and tranquil places that costs you nothing to enjoy. If people respect the rules and the park itself. Hopefully people will be able to enjoy this place for a long time to come. It took us a while to find the time to visit. We should not have waited so long. It was one of, if not the best thing we have done in the area.

Sponge B — Google review

Great park overall, free to the public and is very large with lots of trails. There is also a couple of gardens here that are well maintained, everything is kept up with and clean! Highly recommend to anyone who wants to relax with nature.

Darthdave 1 — Google review

Beautiful place for a quiet walk. We took the 3 kids along but dogs and things to ride on (bikes, scooters, etc) were not allowed, which made for the calming experience we had! Place to refill water and bathrooms along with plenty of areas to sit. Feed the fish, take a romantic stroll or just take in nature. Will most Def be coming back to explore more!

Dani C — Google review

WOW, what an amazing place! The grounds/gardens are immaculate! There are different themed gardens all gorgeous.There is a pond (please only feed the feed provided, $.25).There is an abundance of wildlife to be seen.A nice walking park. Not a place for kids to run no scooters, golf carts or bikes (please respect the beauty do not let your kids trample the foliage or wildlife). I did see a few garden snakes provide them space as they pass.I will definitely be back on the next visit.

N F — Google review

If you’re ever in the Ocala, FL area and love visiting new parks, this park is a must see! It’s a privately owned park, open to the public.You will explore beautiful flowers, plants, trails and a beautiful landscape. This park is a place of natural beauty and native wildlife. Be sure to check out the pond and bring a few quarters to feed the huge koi fish and turtles! If you want a beautiful place to take photos, look no further!Parking is easy and there are handicap parking spots if needed. Bathrooms are clean and easy to access. There are also water fountains if you forget your water bottle.Also, if you’re a rock painter or rock hunter, be on the lookout for hidden rocks throughout the park! So much fun!

Angel R — Google review

Sholom Park is a serene and tranquil place that truly embodies its founding vision of being a sanctuary for inner peace and learning. This privately-owned park, open to the public, was inspired by a visit to Boston Gardens and named after Sidney Colen's grandfather, Sholom, which means "peace" in Hebrew. The park does not serve any political or religious agenda, ensuring a neutral and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.The park's design is both environmentally conscious and aesthetically pleasing, with little to no supplemental watering required. It beautifully integrates native plants with ornamentals, perennials, and annuals, creating a resilient and diverse landscape. With numerous species of flora and fauna, including a variety of bird species, Sholom Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The park features miles of paved trails that wind through open meadows and under the shaded canopies of trees like live oaks, hickories, and long leaf pines. Strategically placed tribute benches offer spots for rest and reflection.Adding to the community spirit, Sholom Park has introduced a new volunteer program, "Friends of Sholom," starting in 2024. This initiative involves light park maintenance and sharing the history and vision of the park, along with enforcing tranquility guidelines. This program is open for weekend and weekday volunteering, making it a great opportunity for those who wish to contribute to the park's upkeep and share its story.Sholom Park, with its combination of natural beauty and a mission to provide peace and learning, is a unique and valuable

Abhishek S — Google review

A beautiful place to go and just be outside! Lots of benches to sit and take in the scenery. Picnic tables are located in the far back under shade. Lovely Zen Garden!

Victoria — Google review

This park is one of my favorites. It’s well kept and peaceful! It’s a nice spot to go for a stroll and just to sit and read. There have been some groups around taking wedding and graduation photos too.

Monica R — Google review

This is definitely my favorite park in Ocala. This is not a place which has a playground for children. It was build as a place to meditation and take in the beauty of all of God's creations. They host many different events throughout the year. Check out their website for info on those. My children love to go feed the Coy fish and turtles and walk the trails. They just added the coolest Asian themed Zen area for meditation and reflection. If you need a place to do a photo shoot this has many different areas to do such!

Megan C — Google review

A lovely, relaxing place to walk around a pathway full of flowers and also a longer path beneath trees. Also a pond where koi fish can be fed.

Kristy P — Google review

FREE - Great place to visit in Ocala, Koi fishes, lot of Azalea Flowers (Spring) . For relaxing time, disconnect from the noise and connect with nature, birds singing, flowers, water fountains etc and it is FREE - Go there - A must if visiting Ocala

Nelson R — Google review

Such a beautiful park! There’s so many acres & paths to explore. So many places to sit & enjoy, absolutely love it here

Samantha A — Google review

Shalom park is a beautiful and calming place to visit. It's full of beautiful flowers and paths that are exquisitely decorated. The pond, beautiful pergola, labyrinth, and the Zen garden are just a few reasons to visit this park. It's truly inspiring with little passages written to reflect on. It's a wonderful place to teach your kids and loved ones about nature.

Nancy H — Google review

Looking for a place to just relax. Take a few deep breaths and enjoy the Zen Garden. Or follow the path and get lost in a maze of flowers. Feed a koi fish or two before leaving. But most of all leave with peace in your heart.

Micheal K — Google review

Beautiful park! They have a wonderful zen garden and area where you can feed the koi fish and turtles for 25 cents.

Jennifer R — Google review

Was very serene and peaceful. Took my 6 year old daughter there and she loved feeding the fish.

Gregory P — Google review

There wasn't much to see, probably because it's still winter here. But my favorite part was the manicured bushes, which I'll post a pic of. It's a nice place to walk around or have a picnic. The zen area was cute, but not too much to see. It needs some work, but again, maybe it's because of the time of year. There are bathrooms. And a pond area where you can out a quarter in a machine to get fish food and feed the Koi.

Angelina N — Google review

You’d think one would have to pay to enter a park like this! Koi pond was a crowd favorite. Plenty of trees to take a rest from the Florida sun.

Realtor S — Google review

Beautiful park. Very quiet and clean. If you are looking for a nice day stroll, please stop by. Free admission, onsite bathrooms, and parking is available. The only downside is the park closes promptly at 5 pm.

Amanda C — Google review

4.9

(2328)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (13)

5.0

(630)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (14)

7110 SW 80th Ave, Ocala, FL 34481, USA

(352) 854-3677

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40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (15)

3

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

Mentioned on

1 list

Horse breeder

Sights & Landmarks

Farm

Gift shop

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm is a must-visit destination when in Ocala. The farm houses beautiful horses, as well as goats, donkeys, and birds. The staff is informative about the breed and interact with the animals. Dennis, the owner, currently gives tours which provide historical context and evoke positive emotions. The cost per person is minimal for what visitors get to experience at the farm.

If you are planning a trip to Ocala, Gypsy Gold Horse Farm is a Must See! Dennis, the owner is turning 73 and winding down. He currently gives the tour and the story behind this place is historical, memorable and I can muster the words to say positively emotional. The animals are beautiful. You can see the staff interact with them and care for them. The cost per person is nothing for what you get for. Go Now while Dennis is still hosting the tour!

Steve M — Google review

My husband and I visited Gypsy Gold Horse Farm last Saturday. This was, by far, the best visit of its type I have ever experienced. I knew about Gypsy Vanners thanks to a video some years ago and was enchanted by them. Dennis Thompson brings their history to the forefront and, additionally, presents a wonderful insight into the people who first developed the beginnings of this breed and who are, often, so misunderstood. Dennis presents history well and is incredibly personable and kind. When you leave, you feel you have a new friend.Whether you are just looking for a new and unusual highlight to a vacation, or are interested in becoming more involved at some level, Gypsy Gold is the place to go.We will be returning as often as we can. Dennis has some beautiful and wonderful plans for the future that are best described by him. Go. You will not regret it. You’ll get to meet, up close, some of the finest equine specimens on the planet. Take carrots!

Isleofjava5 — Google review

This was a wonderful place to visit! It was very informative, educational for all. We visited yesterday, my 6yr &14yr old grandchildren are still talking about it! I know we will definitely be visiting again. Owner and all staff are exceptional. Animals are absolutely gorgeous! Thank-you for this experience!

Gidget F — Google review

Great place to visit, the horses are all so friendly and beautiful! Aside from the horses they also have goats, donkeys and birds. The staff were all great and really informative about the breed. Definitely worth the tour around the farm!

Sierra N — Google review

Gypsy Gold farm is inspirational and educational. Dennis, the owner, gave us a wonderful overview of his history with all animals and focused on his connection to the Vanner horses and gypsies. My heart was touched by his commitment to his vision for these horses. I hope everyone will take the time to visit the farm - you will walk away inspired by the people and animals. To be able to be up close and look into the eyes of these majestic horses is an extraordinary experience. They are gentle animals...just amazing. If you have children or Grandchildren this is THE place to bring them and bring a bag of carrots!! The kids will love feeding the animals. The tour is wonderful...really a delightful experience!!! This will become our "go to" destination for our family and friends who visit us in Ocala.

Michele P — Google review

The owners are great; there is a great story behind this place and the breed and the owners spins a nice tale. Also, these are some of the most beautiful horses I’ve seen.

Dr. C — Google review

We had a lovely time touring, learning and loving on the horses. Dennis is a gifted storyteller and made the history come alive. We could have listened for hours - this man needs a YouTube channel or podcast!!!

Cheri B — Google review

We did the 45 minute tour and enjoyed it. Brief introduction from the owner, Dennis, about the history of the horses and the ranch was interesting. Sure, lectures are not for everyone but we wanted to know the history of the breed and the farm so we found it informative. The walking tour that followed did not disappoint. The grounds are beautiful, lots of large oaks and green pastures. The horses are beautiful, friendly and came up to our group. We were are able to get up close to touch and rub them and take photos. The volunteer who gave the tour was excellent. They are very passionate and it shows. We would definitely visit again when beck in the area.

Jose P — Google review

Far exceeded my expectations! I was captivated by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the owners' genuine love for their Gypsy Vanner horses, as well as all of the other animals on the farm. Every corner of the farm resonates with the passion and dedication of the owners, making it a unique and memorable experience. You can feel the love and care that goes into every aspect of this haven for both horses and visitors. It is a truly special place where the owners' vibrant life and and connection with the horses shine through in every detail. I also love that they are now sharing this experience with the local schools, educating the children and teaching compassion. I highly recommend a visit to Gypsy Gold Farm :)

Patricia M — Google review

An unforgettable experience. This place is absolutely magical. A must visit. It is an educational, and inspiring place. The animals are so beautiful and the opportunity to interact so closely with them is humbling, and therapeutic. Thank you for sharing your dream and passion with us. I will definitely visit again and recommend to others.

Danielle B — Google review

Beautiful horses in a picturesque setting. Go for the lecture, you can tell Dennis has a passion for the breed. His presentation was informative and entertaining. Well worth the time to visit.

Cindy H — Google review

Horse Lovers, gotta see theGypsy Vanner . Beautiful farm. Wonderful tour walk. Absolutely loved seeing these Majestic beauties .

Diana C — Google review

Our first visit to Florida HAD to include a tour of Gypsy Gold. I have followed the breed since it was first introduced to the USA by the Thompson. Wonderful breed, love story, and gorgeous horse farm. Everybody at the farm was amazing as well.It was a great day!

Andrea S — Google review

It was a great learning experience at Gypsy Gold Horse Farm.The tour guide is very informative, friendly, outgoing, and able to answer questions. The horses are amazing, healthy, and well taken care ofIf you're a horse lover, I highly recommend Gypsy Gold Horse Farm for you, family, and friends. By the way, they also have donkeys, mules, and parrots.

Laura H — Google review

Wow we were at peace I wish we could live there we would take care of the horses 24/7 I know is a lot of work I have 9 dogs lol but this was by far the best experience of our life it changes me lol I see horses so different now this horses r like golden retriever but with hooves (like Tayler said ) they r so gentle and sweet is unbelievable!! Ohhh pls bring carrots I wish I did… next time I will bring lots of carrots… this experience u have to do … and they give u a history of how this beautiful animal came along is very interesting and if cought me off guard where he was going with it… if u love animals as much as we do u going to feel different about this horses… ohhh and donkeys too there is a baby there that he has tricks🤣🤣🤣🤣 u have to see!!! Before he gets too big!! Go and it will change your life!!!!❤️❤️❤️

Luna S — Google review

Beautiful place to visit! The horses love visits- and CARROTS! Pick some up at a grocery store before visiting. They do not sell carrots at the farm. The horses are wonderful personalities and great with kiddos. 🥰

Brittni L — Google review

My family and I visited today. Dennis and Erin were wonderful. It was a unique experience, and my family felt lucky to hear Dennis' story first hand. His passion for these stunning creatures, his knowledge, and story are a wonder to witness and hear. Please ignore the people saying the over hour talk wasn't worth it. It was worth every minute, and made me teary eyed many times! We feel blessed to have met Dennis and Erin. Dennis and Erin took us on the tour of the property, where we interacted with so many of the horses. Also, Dennis' vision for the future of the Gypsy Gold Farm is just beautiful. If you love horses and animals, then you will love visiting this special place.

Lea V — Google review

Gypsy Gold Horse Farm is a beautiful property with a quite interesting history. The owner, Dennis, told everyone about the beginnings of the Gypsy Vanner breed including a great historical overview of the gypsy families that he spent time with to learn more about their culture. Dennis is an excellent speaker who kept us engaged with lively and humorous stories of his own personal life in the equine industry including the colorful cast of characters he's met along the way. Afterwords he took us on a guided tour of the farm to meet his menagerie of interesting and beautiful animals. The two hours we spent at Gypsy Gold Horse Farm was an enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Robert R — Google review

We had a wonderful time visiting the farm! The stories were great and visiting with the beautiful animals was really amazing. Highly recommend setting up some time to go and visit!

Ashby C — Google review

I brought my daughter here while she was visiting and we both left like we had just watched a movie. The history of this farm, the horses, the people (present & past) so amazing. Dennis is the kind of person you could sit and hear stories of his life experiences for hours. Taylor was also exceptional in speaking with everyone and sharing knowledge with us regarding the farm, and the animals as well.I plan to go again with other family members as I also believe they will love the experience just as much as we did.

Tamara P — Google review

We did the 2 hour tour and loved every minute of it! Dennis’s stories are epic and Erin is a wonder and gracious hostess. Meeting the horses and feeding them carrots were the highlight of my visit to Florida.

Christina W — Google review

What a great day at Gypsy Gold Horse Farm. was so informative about the history of this breed of horse and how he originally brought it to America. Seeing them up close was very nice, along with the young colts. Well worth the cost and time spent there.

Gary M — Google review

I took my Granddaughter and it was a great trip! Mr. Dennis has such a love for his horses, birds, mules, donkeys and mini donkey named "Patience"!! Our guide, Elana, was wonderful. She is knowledgeable of the animals. We were offered water and bug spray for our tour of the farm. I even found a Bryer horse in the gift shop for my Granddaughter. I highly recommend and will visit again!

Sandie S — Google review

4.8

(396)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (16)

5.0

(1063)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (17)

12501 8th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473, USA

(352) 307-3777

4

Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

Mentioned on

3 lists

Museum

Non-profit organization

Specialty Museums

The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing is a long-standing establishment that displays an extensive collection of vintage hot rods and drag racing cars. It is an awe-inspiring place, especially for car enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality exhibits. Although the focus is on drag racing, visitors can enjoy seeing classic cars and other interesting displays. The friendly staff are happy to chat and provide helpful information during the visit. Additionally, there are senior discounts available for those who qualify.

Wonderful place! Beautiful cars. It was set up nicely. The staff was friendly and helpful. It was a very informative visit. It was all great. However the antique cars were my favorite! Prepare to spend some time there!

Rebecca R — Google review

Five stars for everyone who like auto museums. Three stars for the people who don't. The museum consists of two very large buildings. The first building is dedicated to drag racing and the second is an auto museum. I consider "Big Daddy" Don Garrity as of of the founders of drag racing. The museum does an outstanding job of presenting the evolution of drag racing. One hour for a normal visit, but three hours is this is an area you really like. Outstanding signage on vehicles and engines.

Sharon M — Google review

My wife and I moved to an area near the museum in 2022. Once settled I took some time to visit and was overwhelmed by the sheer number of cars at this museum. Although I am a fan of drag racing I am also a huge fan of antiques and classics, so the antique museum became a quick favorite. I liked the museum so much I applied for a position and was hired, first as a volunteer,then as a part-time employee. Being able to work at the museum and meet "Big Daddy" Don Garlits, along with some very interesting visitors, was an experience I will cherish forever. I highly recommend stopping by for a visit if you are in the area. You will not regret it!

Hguilford — Google review

This place is amazing love it I believe I knew it existed but we move out of Florida before I got the opportunity to go in. Now finally we got to go and then I loved it. I like how they have all the history and all the information about the different drivers and cars but all that stuff it is pretty cool and then go in there and live that experience. Then going to the other car museum the antique is pretty nice as well it was it was quite an experience I recommended 100%.

Ruben L — Google review

What a great experience at the museum. Super friendly staff and spent over 3 hours touring. Some very unique cars along with Dons own collection. Must see!

Andrew D — Google review

Awesome place if you can enjoy high quality exhibits of cars. Focus is on drag racing but lots of great classic cars and other things to see. Could go back and spend the whole day like minded people. People working there are super friendly and happy to chat. Senior discount!

Steve B — Google review

Overwhelming ! Too much to take it all in for one day even if you’re not into drag racing because the other building has an amazing number of restored automobiles from the 1900’s – 1930s up to the present. One ticket covers it all. We took about 2 hours to walk through slowly without watching all the videos. This place has all the trophies, newspaper articles, magazine covers, framed photographs, helmets…even entire room for engines! Really a great stop.

Steve S — Google review

I am not a car person, but man, was this place awesome! I became one today. It made me realize how much I loved the antique cars. My kids absolutely loved looking at everything as well. Highly recommend checking it out.

Amy R — Google review

I was 12 years old in 1986 when I saw Big Daddy when the Chief Nationals in Ennis Texas and I was hooked. I'm 49 years old now and I finally got to make it to the museum of drag racing and it was everything I have ever hoped for! All the history! All the memorabilia! Worth every penny!

Matthew C — Google review

Ive been here many times over the past 25 years. A must see for any gearhead/race fan. Staff is great! If you can, take the tour with Don. It's an unforgettable couple hours.

Kory K — Google review

Absolutely wonderful. Legendary Don Garlits has created an entertaining, educating and comprehensive museum of all forms of drag racing. Hundreds of exhibits with the famous cars and people. I planned to spend an hour; I stayed all day. Easy parking, lots of nearby restaurants. Only 90 easy minutes from Daytona or Disney.

William V — Google review

We went to the museum at the end of a visit from my husband's brother. Drag racers since birth, it was great to get them together there. Don was such a sweetheart, he saw me buying something and walked right up and started talking to me.... what a down to earth great guy. Good time, great place with a lot of history.

Paula M — Google review

Car enthusiasts... this is worth checking out!! Beautiful cars, friendly staff and big engines..... Really, what else would you need. Pretty neat to take a small trip back in time! $22 for adults but definitely worth it!

Charlie O — Google review

Awesome place. Would be a little better if you could get a closer look at the other angles of the antique cars, but most were roped off and you can only see the front. But they were all really clean and looked really well restored. Great place to visit.

Jonathan — Google review

Was one of the best places I've ever been.Awesome museum lots to see and learn about. There is so much to see and read. There is so much history about drag racing and Don garlits. Everything was great. I can't wait to go back

Kenneth B — Google review

This drag racing museum is amazing. Check this place out it well worth the stop. Prices adult 22.00 senior, military, college, teenage 17.00 and children under 12 is 10.00The history of drag racing from start and the ups and downs of drag racing. Engine room is cool to see different kinds he used. All different types of drag cars. Then the classic cars museum is incredible of all the old cars and model cars. I would say give yourself 3hrs to see both museum. Then check out the outside walk of fame of drag racing. Kids will enjoy this museum.

Amanda J — Google review

I had always wanted to go to this museum. We have driven past it many times. This time we were stuck in traffic in our rv on 75 (no surprise there). I asked my wife to see how far away we were from the museum. 4 minutes! It was almost closing time and I knew that this was a Harvest Host location where they allow overnight stays in rv's. You need to make reservations 2 days in advance but I figured I would ask anyhow. The nice lady made a call for me to ownership and they made an exception for us. Note: you do get locked into the grounds for the night. You can't even walk in or out of the property. I wasn't crazy about this but my wife found it gave her a feeling of security. So we spent the next morning in the 2 museums. They are both second to none as far as automotive museums. The drag racing museum has got to be the most complete in it's category and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Even my wife was mildly interested. Then we went to the antique car museum. I've been to a lot of these and this one is the best. Obviously a labor of love for Big Daddy. We both thought it was spectacular. I would recommend an entire day here. Unfortunately, we were on our way back to NJ and couldn't stay all day. I have got to go back! To top it all off the price was very reasonable for something of this level of quality. If you have any interest in machines or things automotive go to this place!

Wherever R — Google review

It's the most incredible collection of drag racing history ever! I've been here 3 times or more, and every time, I am in awe of Don's amazing collection. Cars, engines, driving uniforms, helmets, trophies... etc. A MUST SEE!

Jerry ( — Google review

This place is absolutely amazing. Got very lucky when I went and Don Garlits was there. Got to meet him and listen to some of his stories. That man has so much knowledge and those pretty much the history of every single thing in his Museum. Parking lot is big enough for RVs and they are pet friendly

Jason K — Google review

Absolutely awesome!!! Not just drag racing museums , but also classic cars museum. He has other cars you might not see elsewhere. Definitely a place to check out if you're a gearhead!!!!

Paul G — Google review

I've been driving by here forever thinking I would love to go someday, today was the day, went with my 82 year old Dad and had a great day. They had a couple wheelchairs available in each building and walkers which with as much as we had to see was needed. Antique car museum has a very diverse selection, hemi powered air raid siren! No Big Daddy sighting but still a great day.

Jim B — Google review

This place is amazing! So many boyhood memories came flooding back as I walked along the Dragsters and Funny Cars. If you love cars and racing or you're a motor head this place is for you! Highly recommend!

Larry B — Google review

Fantastic museum for drag racing history buffs! Plan to arrive no later than 2-3 in the PM since the doors close at 5. You will need at LEAST 2 hours to go thru the 2 buildings. I recommend more time if you really want to stop, look, and read the exhibit descriptions and look closely at items on display. Nothing short of an awesome experience. Cool stuff in the Gift Shop as well!!

Adam E — Google review

I finally was able to visit Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing. I have visited quite a few museums lately, with this one not being the typical museum. It's not even your typical car museum. In this case, the whole reason for this museum is Drag Racing. I must say mission accomplished.I love the fact that Don's idea of a museum is the correct way. Yes a lot of it does pertain to Mr. Garlits and his career in Drag Racing. But soooooo much is not about Don, but instead many other personalities associated with Drag Racing. There are many cars and items throughout decades of the sport.The Museum itself has three large rooms holding many cars, engines and many other items. I enjoyed taking a break and sitting on a bench to watch a video. You can spend a lot of time here if you really look and read. There were so many cars, people and event subjects that I remember over the years. But just as important were the many of the same that I didn't remember and learned about.My only regret is that my ankle was much less enthusiastic than my brain, about the amount of time that I could spend walking around and standing enjoying the exhibits. Just a great place and better than I was expecting. Well done to Don and the folks that maintain this jewel.There of course is a gift shop where you can purchase things. The rest rooms are in the gift shop if folks need to visit. There is a discount off the price for things like being over 60, or a veteran and such. So you may be able to save a few dollars as well. The price also includes admission for a second car museum on the property. That museum is more of the car museum most folks would picture when mentioning car museums. It's also very nice. I'm sure that I'll be back in the future. There was so much enjoyment to be had if you enjoy motorsports and especially drag racing. Thank you Mr. Garlits for building such a place for folks like myself.

Sponge B — Google review

A thorough exhibit of Drag Racing history expertly displayed with a most pleasant staff. Jenn was especially helpful with upcoming events and “Big Daddy Don Garlits” autographed merchandise (we had just missed meeting him in the museum) Jenn mailed it all with a very positive message on the box! Made our day!❤️

Sandra W — Google review

This place is awesome. I had the best time stepping back in drag racing history and really enjoyed the history of Don. I was very impressed with his collection. Great job keeping everything in amazing shape and very clean. Both buildings were very worth seeing. Needed more time. I will stop back soon.

Dave B — Google review

4.8

(2509)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (18)

4.5

(567)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (19)

13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473, USA

(352) 245-8661

5

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (20)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (21)

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (22)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (23)

Mentioned on

4 lists

Winery

Food & Drink

Wineries & Vineyards

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards is a vast estate that offers guided tours of their facilities and wine tastings, as well as hosting regular music and food festivals. Although California dominates the wine industry in America, Florida is also home to an exceptional winery that produces its own label. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards boasts reasonable prices for both individual bottles and cases of wine. The staff are accommodating, especially for those with strollers, since there is a second-floor tour available.

The video and the tour were exceptional. Was quite a surprise to be able to go through that before for the taste test. We sampled seven exquisite wines. Of course I loved the dry reds. The Cabernet was really good and so was the special reserve Cabernet. We ended up picking out a couple of bottles and some cheese to take back to the room with us. Place was wonderful, the staff were helpful and kind, and the wines are a real delight. Stop in, even if it means going out of your way. You will be glad you did. Be sure to check out my photos on google maps as well.

Tom J — Google review

This was such a lovely place. Very kid friendly too. Definitely bringing chairs and a few games (balls, bubbles, etc.) for the kids is a plus. Felt like being in a backyard with extended family around you. All the wines were delicious but I need to take this opportunity to give a shout out to Olga which greeted us at the door and made us feel very welcomed after mentioning it was our first time. She kept the same energy with every guest that came in. This place is VERY lucky to have such a great person with such amazing energy as the face of the winery. Will absolutely recommend this place to anyone and will be back with no doubt.

Monica S — Google review

A nice vineyard and winery. They offer free tour and free tasting. Their wines are good and have good prices. If you go during the weekend, there's live music and food vendors. Nice parking lot.

Gabriela V — Google review

If you want to spend a relax day in a beautiful picturesque hilltop! This is Theo la e to be. We enjoyed live music, free wine tasting and tour. They also have food on the weekends. Very well recommend.

Omar E — Google review

We had such a great time. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon. We did the complementary tour then relaxed outside while listening to the live band. Make sure you bring your own chairs and a blanket to sit outside. The employees were very friendly. We had a hamburger, it was not the best, but it was alright. I really liked the environment. I recommend this place for a nice and chilled afternoon.

Eileen M — Google review

I really liked the free tasting/"tour" through the winery but I didn't really like any of the wine. I know it's a personal preference thing but the "wines" grown in Florida are way too sweet for me. And the wines they cultivate from California just don't hold up to California bottles around the same price. At all. I do think the FL wines are fairly priced though and I think the extra/reserve tastings were a very good price, as were the cheese trays (though I wish they were curated and not just out of a boar's head box).The store is the best part about the place though! So many unique gifts and food/wine stuff that I've never even seen! The concert venue outside was nice as well, though it's weird that if you buy a bottle in the winery you can't enjoy it on their lawn.

Corbin B — Google review

Great experience, we have a stroller and the staff is very helpful in accommodating us because there's a 2nd floor tour. Lovely place! Reasonable wine prices for both in bottle and case. I surely love all of it. Will definitely come back.

Jade S — Google review

Lakeridge Winery is just a great time! Awesome people enjoying a nice landscape and some delicious wines. Learned a lot of the craftsmanship in making these wines. You learn a sense of how massive the operation must be to keep up with the quantity of grapes. The tour was well done and made the group laugh a good deal! Definitely worth a try if you're nearby. Love the southern red and white wines personally.

Dillon F — Google review

Free tasting and tour! What more can you ask for? The tour experience itself was really fun. Our "tour guide" was very funny and energetic.Personally, the sweet wines made from the muscadine grapes tasted better than the dry ones. I saw many people taste testing pouring out the dry flights. They should just focus on the sweet ones where they grow the grades themselves instead.

J H — Google review

Visited this winery on my birthday and I have to say it was a 10/10 experience. They have offer a great tour which by the way is FREE , great staff that’s knowledgeable about the winery and any questions you may have. It’s such a beautiful property and must experience. Although I’m a sweet red wine person trying all the other wines they offer was also a great experience yes at the end they offer FREE wine tastings definitely worth it. Definitely will be back in June.

Leslie — Google review

Very busy, but we did go on a Saturday afternoon and it would be a wonderful way to spend your afternoon we chose just to check it out. The free wine tasting is neat, a no hassle mini tour. They gift shop has an extensive array of goodies and of course the wine you can buy by the bottle or by the case what ever you want. Tha staff were extremely helpful and welcoming. I hope to come back again and enjoy the outdoor venue, music, and the delicious smelling food booths. Bring your lawn chair and have a relaxing time.

Laura K — Google review

We dropped by to check it out. The personnel was welcoming. Nicely kept grounds. We bought wine and a sherry at fair prices. Sherry you was very good. We were pleasantly surprised to see florida “hills” 😊

Yenca — Google review

Lakeridge Winery has a great location in the hills of Central Florida. I’m not a fan of the Muscadine grape, so I felt the wines were quite biting and acidic. But if you like the Florida grape, try this out! The staff was informative and pleasant. They do allow dogs and have free wine tastings after the facility tour.

Megs — Google review

Just left from here. My husband and I had an amazing time. From the moment we walked through the doors, the staff were very friendly and welcoming. The woman that gave us the tour was the best, very funny and full of life. Very kind, even gave my son some corks to play with so he wouldn’t be bored during the wine tasting. This was our first wine tasting and I learned a lot about the swirl, sniff, and sip. If you have the time, please visit. The tour was great! Delicious wine

Jasmine ( — Google review

This is such a pleasant place to visit! The wine & entertainment are wonderful, but what I found to be a beautiful part is the kind spirit of the employees. One in particular is Miss Olga! A beautiful soul indeed!Thank you, Lakeridge, for a wonderful time! 🥰

C G — Google review

We absolutely loved it! The second we walked through the front doors we were treated like we were family! All the staff made us feel right at home! The staff was very knowledgeable and we learned so much from them while we were there. Everything was very clean and organized, the bathrooms were immaculate. The tour was free, and the wine was delicious! We can't wait to go back in the summer to see the vineyards in full bloom.

Melanie H — Google review

My wife and I loved this experience.Free tour and wine tasting. Great people. Delicious wines!

Eric D — Google review

Lakeridge winery is a fun place to go on the weekend. Nice music outside to enjoy your glass of wine. If you are like me who doesn't drink but wants some good food. They have it. It's very good and great service. You can sit outside under some oak trees a see the vineyards. If like you can see there wines and have a taste learn about them. Fun day.

Luis G — Google review

My husband and I enjoyed the complimentary tour and wine tasting here. Our guide was knowledgeable and fun. If we hadn't had a flight in two days, we definitely would have bought some wine or other goodies! Definitely a nice place to stop if you're in the area.

Kia F — Google review

My family and I really enjoyed this winery. It’s one of the best we have visited. The tour and tasting were complimentary which makes it even better. They do yours all day long so you can show up with out reservations. You will walk up stairs to a room to watch a video on the history of the winery. Then walk around and see where they make the wine at. If you want to see the vineyard in full bloom it’s best to go during the summer time. We can’t wait to return to check out their weekends at the winery! Very great place to visit with family from out of town that love wine!

Aundrea L — Google review

Amazing experience! We did the tour/tasting and our girls took us on a tasting journey. So much fun and so full of friendly energy. If I lived closer I would spend way too much time in the loft, hanging out and overlooking the vinyard working on my laptop all day... such good vibes here. Love almost all of the staff and almost all of the wines! Try the mulled and be ready for flavor explosion!

Kathie W — Google review

Fun afternoon!! We went on a Monday so there was probably more going on during the weekends but we walked right in and jumped into a free tour!! Tour guide was super sweet and gave some great tips on wine. We got a few things at the shop and roamed around a little. Cute spot!

Jessica V — Google review

Absolutely amazing visit !! Free parking and tour .Guided Tours and Tasting are offered 7 days a week starting at 10:00 am each day, with the last tour offered at 4:00 pm. Tours usually run every 30-40 minutes and begin with a 10 minute video presentation, which guides you through the entire wine making process and the history of Florida wine.

Geovanna U — Google review

Awesome place to have a great time, wine tasting and a picnic. They have a humongous area that you’re free to enjoy, bring your folding chairs or blanket and have a nice picnic with their charcuterie board and their food. I’ll definitely be coming back.

Lorendy M — Google review

4.7

(1631)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (24)

4.5

(867)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (25)

19239 US-27, Clermont, FL 34715, USA

(352) 394-8627

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6

Lake Louisa State Park

Mentioned on

+5 other lists

State park

Nature & Parks

Lake Louisa State Park is a beautiful nature reserve in Central Florida that offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking and camping. This park also has a swimmable lake which makes it perfect for water lovers.

The luxury care-free camping was an incredible experience, from the smooth check-in/check-out process to the amenities to the beauty of the park itself. We chose to try this out particularly because it is a pet-friendly option and we are not “camping people” per se. The bed was very comfortable and even for being a true outdoors experience, we didn’t have any unwelcome creepy-crawlies. The bathrooms in the campsite area are extremely well-kept and showers get hot and have great water pressure. We saw red-tailed hawks, a kestrel, fox squirrels, a gator, lots of butterflies, and even a paw paw while hiking! Wish we could’ve stayed longer and can’t wait to go back.

Chelsea L — Google review

The kiddos call the beach at Lake Louisa, wine beach. The water is red and you can’t see the sandy bottom. That makes me a bit nervous especially seeing the “gators in the water” signs. It’s surrounded by tall grass and reeds and stays shallow a long way out giving lots of room for smaller kids to play. There’s a big playground and soft sand. A bit of shade off to the sides with picnic tables and BBQ grills.We like to hike with a purpose and the rangers sponsor GEO Caches throughout the park (ask for the sheet when you enter). Bring plenty of water it gets warm walking in the sun all year round.We have kayaked Dixie Lake (rentals on site). It’s fine for beginners with no motorboats. It a small round lake and takes an hour to paddle around it. Lots of lily pads and two neighborhood gators in residence. $5 for a day pass is worth it for an easy hike and quick dip to cool off.

Lisa M — Google review

The park is quite remarkable in its many avenues of different entertainment for anyone. My interest was for horse camping & trails. I would like to see showers put in the esquitarian camp, considering the nature of what riders deal with. Possibly a water trough as well. Loved the maintenance and truly respect the amount of work that goes into the constant up keep. Kudos to the staff!

Sandra D — Google review

Such a great variety of things to do here! We are frequent hikers but when we visited the first time we had some older folks with us so we weren't sure what to expect for them. Happily there was a place where we could park and take a walk that wasn't very far at all and see some spectacular views of the lake, huge trees and marshy areas. There are lovely picnic tables spaced far apart and we had a pleasant picnic lunch right next to the lake and the older folks didn't have to walk real far. Went back the next day by ourselves and had a great time hiking. Excellent state park, highly recommended.

Phil D — Google review

A beautiful good size state park with a 60 site campground right off a major highway. Campsites are very well maintained with decent vegetation separation between them. Bath houses are clean and have the essentials. Kayaks and bicycles can be rented at the small camp store, which has a limited selection of food and souvenirs, as well as firewood for sale. Horse-back tours are offered with reservations. There are several hiking trails and a lake front beach area on Lake Louisa that we didn't make it to. We stayed several nights and it was very quiet. Alligators frequent the fishing pier at Hammond Lake. I saw several people fishing but no one reported catching anything. There are several picnic areas scattered throughout the park. A very relaxing experience.

Alan M — Google review

Great place to come camp, water and electrical access, fire pit, and picnic table all at your site, all of them have easy access to the bathrooms and showers, the showers are great! There is a washer and dryer for clothes. Great views here we will definitely be coming back here again

Phillip C — Google review

Lake Louisa State Park is a gorgeous nature preserve located in Clermont Florida, near Orlando. There's a significant number of beautiful walking and hiking trails perfect for a wide variety of visitors. I would definitely recommend spending at least a few hours exploring this state park to anyone in the area!

Joshua B — Google review

Wow, what a fantastic park! I may be generous with my ratings but let me tell you Lake Louisa truly earned 5 stars!! Yet again I lucked out and got the best campsite in the park, capacity at the campsite full of campers but out space was surrounded by trees backing up to Dixie Lake so we really didn't notice anyone else around. The park is so big we needed some other transport to get around, but that is part of the beauty of this park. The winding park road going up some nice little hills which had incredible views on the way to and from the the campsite. There is every possible activity (except for gun range) you can think of, kayaks, canoes, bike rentals, and even segue tours which I wanted to try. There was so much nature, we had a big old Alligator hanging out right behind our campsite spotted hawks and owls and even a few gopher tortoises! So one last word is be careful driving in the park we saw several tortoises walking along the road and want to watch out for the little guys!! Right off RTE 27, about 40 min away from Disney world, Lake Louisa might be the best resort option if visiting the Orlando Parks...and still want to enjoy some natural beauty of Florida.

Greggy P — Google review

We took my 4 year old and 7 year old and really enjoyed our time. We live very close by so we stayed only 1 night as it was their first camping experience. The glamping was so great! We got site #2 and it was wonderful....had everything we needed. Unfortunately we had some rain so it prevented us from doing as much as we wanted but we did get to explore and make a campfire. The tent fit us all nicely, the bed was actually really comfortable and the AC was a huge bonus. Bathrooms were very close by and it was actually a very quiet area. We would love to go back again.

Emily F — Google review

Tons of green space and areas to be calm or active. Walking trails to cyclist riding throughout the park. Camp ground is nice. We only stayed one night. It’s a popular camping destination. Everyone we encountered was nice.

Myron M — Google review

We stayed at the campground for a few days and it was very relaxing.. The park offers a range of activities like the “Segway Trail Tour”. Which starts with a quick Segway riding training course and then a guided trail ride. The ranger is friendly and knowledgeable. It was definitely worth the $40. They also offer guided horse trail rides.. Lots of wildlife and I was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t get bit up by mosquitoes. I can’t wait to come back for a girls weekend at the cabins!

Amy S — Google review

The ranger said if you enter the lake you will feel like swimming in a hot tea.I thought he is kidding. But he was right. I felt like in a tea. Very warm water in the summer. Beautiful small beach. Hikes are very hot. Was very cool overall.

Julien — Google review

Have really enjoyed our stay. Site 12 worked well for us. It’s next to the camp store but you do have foliage separating Lake view from rear of RV Could take kayak right across the way to put in Lots of hiking options and great for cycling.

Celia C — Google review

Stayed three nights camping, and had the most AMAZING TIME!!! Restrooms were cleaned often including the shower areas. Our kayak rental experience with Hillary (staff member) made our trip, it wouldn’t have been the same. She was extremely helpful with my husband who was a beginner at kayaking. We both had an amazing experience at the park. The horses were friendly and beautiful, and the wildlife was even more spectacular.

Mikayla R — Google review

Great first camping trip here (June, 2024)! We were in Loop C... super clean bathrooms. Book exchange by laundry area.Sites seemed pretty level. Water in lake appears red (not unusual).Short trail that starts by playground area - at lake - also leads to a boardwalk that exits to another area (with parkind) that looks like it is rarely used ( a couple of picnic tables/grills along that). On the opposite side, very short trail, but with more picnic tables/grills.There is a little store within the campground. But, the ranger station has some items, such as hats & decals for your camper.A lot of the little red ants at campsite. We just used insect repellent on our feet/ankles!We will be back - just in cooler weather to hike the trails that are not shaded.

Smellytoze — Google review

Beautiful park in Clermont. We stayed in the cabins along Dixie Lake, and we loved waking up to that view. Unfortunately, we had some bad weather come through, but the little we were able to enjoy was enough for me to want to go back and explore the rest. I would highly recommend this park

Victoria A — Google review

Loved this park! We were there in early Feb for a quick weekend getaway. The views are of the cabin #17. Very spacious and I was quite surprised that it had a coffee maker, dishwasher, and oven. It also has two bathrooms which are convenient when you are with a large family.We did kayak on Saturday and horseback riding on Sunday. Reservation is recommended for most activities.There are coupons on Groupon for 1 single person kayak. We needed the tandem so we could not use that coupon.Highly recommend this beautiful state park!I forgot that it includes ac/heating 🙂Listing the prices of the available activities

Shirl S — Google review

A wonderful state park that’s landscape is more Midwest prairie than what one thinks of belonging to Florida. All types of overnight accommodations, camping, glamping and cabins. Multiple lakes with miles of trails. Restrooms were always nearby and there is a decent playground for kids. Kayak and SUP rentals as well as guided horseback riding. Definitely will be back. I don’t have a dog, but saw many people with dogs and cats on leashes enjoying the park.

David S — Google review

A great place to camp and enjoy the outdoors. Has a variety of wildlife and a nice bike/hiking trail. Beautiful scenery.

Vindaloo P — Google review

This place has always been a nice State Park, and with the maturing of trees over time, it's even better. Lots and lots of beautiful trails that are great for running or biking. The lake is beautiful and the swimming area has a sandy bottom and a nice beach with picnic areas and playground. Bathrooms are large and very clean. Camp sites are very well maintained, and some offer full hookups.

Michael I — Google review

This place is awesome. Whether you're going on a run, hole, bike ride, or camping. It never disappoints. We wanted to go for just an hour to get a little exercise in and we ended up staying 20 minutes more. We had such a great time. The trails are abundant and are shaded in some areas. Make sure to bring plenty of water and drink away your way. We will definitely be back.

Jonathan M — Google review

Nice state park to go hiking in--albeit a little busier than others. The 6.6 mile Nature Trail is a beautiful hike with a nice mixture of terrain and plenty of shade.

Jomiryz B — Google review

Beautiful park but camp store is lacking! Check in is 3 pm and store closes at 4 pm, so after setting up rig we go for firewood and it’s closed. 2 nd day we go and it’s out of firewood 😳 it’s basically just a shack for rental of kayaks and tents

Jeff M — Google review

Very large state park with several bodies of water. Lots of trails and areas to explore! Has a small beach area and grills and picnic tables. I went during the week, so it wasn't busy at all. I'm sure it gets full on the weekends though.

Eric A — Google review

Wow! We found this beautiful and peaceful state park while driving around on our vacation. The walking trails are well signed, the boardwalk by the lake is very nice and the final beautiful. Most importantly they have cabins to rent for future trips,

Barbara D — Google review

We enjoyed our 3 night stay on site#18. We got lucky with full hook up site! I loved the privacy at our site with trees and bushes surrounding us. It was a quiet and spacious setting. We had a short 30 minute drive to Disney Springs.

Beverly T — Google review

My husband booked us a 2 night stay in one of the parks "Glamping Tent Sites" and WOW!! We were so impressed with how fun and beautiful the park was! Definitely coming back and soon!We were welcomed by the park rangers at the front gate and given a map and directions to the site with landmarks. We were site #1 right across from the canteen. And a short walk to the bathrooms/showers/laundry.Our beautiful glamping tent was super roomy! A two person bed, Keurig, window unit/ optional heater, two chairs, and bedside tables. Remote controlled indoor and outdoor lights were perfect for setting the ambiance.We enjoyed a campfire in the provided fire ring . And had the option to cook with a charcoal grill.The park had miles and miles of hiking trails that also accommodate bikes and horses! Water activities like canoeing and kayaking or paddle boarding for renting !All in all, the park was so clean and well maintained. We had a 10 out of 10 experience and can't wait to come back !

Kate C — Google review

Great place to get out and enjoy nature. I went here with my son for a Valentines day hike . I loved how "old Florida" this place felt. We enjoyed seeing natures tea in the lakes and saw quite a few birds. There are 10 lakes in the park, And we seen a few small fish near the shore of Lake Louisa itself. There was a lot of spanish moss on the trees and even though it's still winter right now, some flowers are blooming. We didn't see any wildlife, but with the amount of people here I wouldn't expect to. Overall I'd rate this park a 9/10 Only because there are so many trails that intertwine and overlap. If you're not paying attention you could end up taking a longer walk than intended. Other than that this place is wonderful.

Tammy S — Google review

4.7

(3114)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (34)

4.5

(1077)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (35)

7305 US-27, Clermont, FL 34714, USA

(352) 394-3969

7

Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

Park

Nature & Parks

State Parks

This sizable tract of public land offers opportunities for camping, nature viewing, fishing & more.

Beautiful. No expectations. The vibe was excellent. Paths were tended to and people we crossed paths were friendly. Perfect golden hour spot. Bathrooms were clean. Nice place and great nature. Seemed big and hope to explore more. The gate closes strictly at 6 PM it seems from the signage so make sure you don't accidentally force yourself to camp by not leaving in time.

D M — Google review

Visited here for the first time on a late Saturday afternoon for a 2-hour hike. Very nice park with lots of bike and hiking trails. Although the park was pretty busy, we were able to have plenty of time to ourselves on the trails as we only ran into a few people. Parking seemed adequate and the restrooms were surprisingly clean and well-maintained.The reason I took off a star is because it seems with this park, you need to know where to park and how to find the trail you want before you get there. Meaning that signs and maps in this place are lacking. There are no clear signs off the road showing where to park for hiking trails. The maps they have posted are not like what you would expect at a park; they look like hand drawn maps with no trail names or labels, only lines. We’ve been hiking extensively through state and national parks and am pretty good with directions, but the lack of available (good) maps makes it difficult to get around. More importantly, the hiking trail we were on had very little signage. We passed several intersections with no signs indicating what trail it was and missed a turn that we apparently were supposed to know to make. We found a few other people backtracking on the trail for the same reason. Now that I know that we can’t rely on the park to provide direction, I’ll make sure to have a better plan next time. All in all it’s a beautiful park work visiting, just find a map online before you go if you plan on hiking. I found that the bike trails were better labeled.

EJB 3 — Google review

This is a beautiful park. Generally very peaceful atmosphere here. Playground areas for the kids. Many shelters and parking lots. Very spacious park in the middle of everything yet seems very remote. Also, camping cabins and the Starkey bike trail starts here. This trail is paved and is a wonderful relaxing ride. I personaly love this park and it is definitely one of my favorites!

Ronald L — Google review

I just moved here from South Florida and read reviews on this park. In the very beginning you’ll find mountain bike trails. Nothing aggressive. Beginner friendly. I rode all the dirt trails and didn’t see not one other rider on these trails. It was a very nice ride. Not many roots. And here’s my only issue with this park. These trails lacked directional signs and several spots where I was hoping I was riding in the right direction. Trail took be as a whole about 30 minutes. There were also a few trees that had fallen on the trails that needed to be picked up. Once I ended that ride I stick to straight pavement. It’s very wide and smooth. I was riding around noon and saw about 60% e bikers. Many elderly riders. Great views, lots of trees, trail was clear and clean of any debris. I only rode about 10 miles. There is a rest area with a rest room. There’s also water at a couple of locations so you could refill and take a rest or snack break in the shade. I spoke with a few locals there. Apparently at the end of the trail you can make a right and ride about 40 more miles or go left and do 60 miles. I was stunned!!! This park is higa and amazing. Very beautiful and very light flow of people. I would of given it 5 stars if the mountain bike trails were maintained a bit more.

Chef E — Google review

Now that the bike path is paved Starkey went from a 3 to a 5 star trail. New bathroom and water fountain around the Suncoast trail was a perfect addition! Great scenery and extremely quiet.

Nathan A — Google review

Starkey is great for it's variety of bike trails. Love off-road biking? They got it! Love the concrete biking? No worries they have that too! Full of lakes, swamps, and fields this beautiful and vast park is a great get away into nature. No matter what season you go, there are always some form plant life to be seen. One of the very few places you don't have to spend a dime to go to!

Jeremy P — Google review

Very nice trails throughout the park. Went for a on the 7 mile loop trail, overall it was in good shape. There was one section that was a bit grown up, but not so much that it was a bother to cover. Definitely long portions of the trail have light to no shade, so be prepared. But overall the trails were very pretty.

Matt R — Google review

Me and my boys and that includes all there friends. We have been going to Starkey Park Camping since we moved here in 2016 always a great time.There's always wildlife around never a dull moment I remember one night I stepped out of cabin to use the restroom to see a bobcat on top of my car what a site! 😳 Not phone ready of course 😭 missed that picture. You can also ⛺ so many options. great Park! No fishing tho😔.

Mariep101 P — Google review

We are lucky to have a place like this for there aren't many wild places left as we leaf hop from suburb to suburb. 19,000 acres of well-maintained forest, marshland, and river tracts make this park so phenomenal to visit. I'm not a bicyclist but the 7-mile paved trail makes the walk to get to some small rivers and swamp vistas easy to get to. And once out there seeing the cypress domes and diverse environments is so worth the walk or ride. I've seen deer, boar, hawks, and owls all in one stroll then a quick ride through the day-use loop to take in a little more of the park and could off before I call it and head out is always welcome.

Rex D — Google review

My favorite spot to camp in Central Florida.Great campsites for tent camping, free firewood at the coral, shower room and restrooms were kept very clean.Great staff, $15 a night tent camping, worth every penny

Michael A — Google review

Wow! How relaxing is this beautiful Park! Miles and Miles of trails! I really like and enjoy this a lot. My first time actually on the Bike trail here. Very nice! Road 6 miles one way and 6 Miles another way! Very nice, and the air and trees are beautiful and the wildlife was amazing! I took some pictures of the Wilderness Park and some wildlife as well.

Demetri ( — Google review

Let’s first start with the downside of my experience and save the best for last. Cabins are rustic, I had to thoroughly sweep, scrub and disinfect (Cabin #3). Bathrooms are filled with cobwebs and dead bugs, shower drains has cigarette butts and hair in there too. The place needs a good power wash and clean up crew.Also I had an emergency and left for couple hours, upon returning I was locked out of my cabin, it wasn’t even near my check out time nor did I CHECKED OUT. It’s not fair that I lost a few hours of my stay.Besides that, my kids and I had a great experience. Visiting this park was to take my mind away from my up coming heart surgery. Staying at this park did just that. The park is beautiful! Lots of birds, great for bird watching. Lots of bikers and joggers during the day time. We made the best of it. Will I return? Of course I will! Will I recommend this park? Indeed I will! However, I would love to see improvements whenever I do return.

Kaé G — Google review

This is a beautiful and peaceful park. It's very big too with bike and running paths all the way around. There are picnic shelters and bathrooms and playgrounds scattered throughout. The shelters are all far enough apart that they feel private and secluded. Here you get to be immersed in true Florida nature. Bring your walking shoes and your dog and plenty of water and have a tranquil day at a great Florida park!

Jay W — Google review

Really nice nature park for hiking and biking! Thanks 🙏

Richard P — Google review

4.7

(1466)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (36)

4.5

(365)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (37)

10500 Wilderness Park Blvd, New Port Richey, FL 34655, USA

(727) 834-3247

8

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium

Mentioned on

9 lists

Stadium

Sights & Landmarks

Baseball field

Arenas & Stadiums

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium serves as the spring training home for the Detroit Tigers, as well as the seasonal home for the Flying Tigers. The stadium boasts recent improvements and is considered to be one of the best parks to watch a game in Florida. During the summer season, minor league games are played at this beautiful stadium.

We have always loved going to the Tigers spring training. Stadium with the new improvements are nice. Sad that you have taken away the vendors that walk around with product.Also, when entering you should have one line for bags and one line for people who DO NOT have bags to search. Quicker lines!

Debbie H — Google review

One of the best kept ball parks in Florida! Every single person who works here is so friendly and greets you with a smile! Parking is free and the concession prices are extremely reasonable for a baseball game, including the beer prices! This is great for the whole family to go see some baseball! They do special events and bingo on Tuesdays which is really fun!

Melissa P — Google review

I'm doing some electrical on some of their equipment is a nice place to do a job at. People are very nice and helpful. And I never knew it was so overwhelming inside

Mike M — Google review

We have always wanted to see a live baseball game in the US, and we finally managed to do it on my birthday too. We went to the all you can eat baseball night, talk about value for money, brilliant!Sadly tho I managed to get mustard and ketchup down my top, hence my hand trying to hide it, in the photo with Corey the camera guy.Corey went above and beyond to make me and my family feel very welcome to the game as we are visiting from England. Corey did everything he could to make sure we were comfortable, got on the big screen, got to meet Southpaw, and secured a couple of baseballs for my son and daughter.My dad absolutely loved it, it was a tick on his bucket list, the wife and I loved it too. If we were to live in the area, this would be our second home, it was a great place to be and enjoy the game.Also a big thank you to the gentleman on the food and drinks counter, again he went above and beyond to help us, I think his name was Mathew and originally from Miami.All the staff were polite, courteous and did their best to help us and make us feel very welcome.We will be back in the near future for another game.

Mark H — Google review

Nice stadium convenient location fun and cheap games lots of fun ! We love coming here as these games really hit home ! See what I did there ! They have great sponsors and a coupon on the ticket for things like boneless wings at hooters . That's a plus and I don't even go to hooters ! We miss the meet and greets with the players , therefore we would like them to come back. The store is pricy but ok for a souvenir store for a baseball game. I got a mini bat and baseball. Batter up ! EDIT ! VISITED TODAY AND I ACTUALLY FOUND A VENOMOUS SPIDER. IM NOT LYING . THE SEATS WERE LOADED WITH WEBS AND I ALMOST GOT BIT. The shade in the upper levels is pretty good. The canteen good is delicious. I got a fry cup , pepperoni super slice , and a souvenir lemonade. Lemonade was very good and the pizza was worth beyond five stars . It wasn't even the best pizza ever 🤣. Fries remind me of the ABC commissary at Hollywood studios with a bit more salt and flavor. They were better than abcc (ABC commissary) . And you get a whole lot more. The Souvenir cups were great. Definitely coming back as I've been coming for more than 5 years !

Sunkissed F — Google review

I will give this stadium 5 stars because it’s very nice once you get inside stadium, great features and lots of nice places to eat and drink. The parking is a major problem if good team is visiting, they have parking problems! Cash only when parking!! Stadium is beautiful and very clean, friendly workers as well.

Kevin S — Google review

Excellent service and a great ballpark with great views everywhere and close access to players!! Staff were super attentive on a day that had a heat index of 120 making sure everyone was alright!! Will be coming back here much more especially for spring training and more games!! I’m from Columbus Ohio so that says something!

Derek K — Google review

Great seats at an unbeatable price and pure fun. I’m not a baseball fan but I had the best time here! We sat really close to the dugout for only $35/seat and players autographed balls for the youngsters in our section. The manager gave us quite a few of the foul balls, too. Top notch concessions and a great ballpark staff and fans made this a night to remember.

Sharon P — Google review

Great experience as first time visitors of this stadium. Nice facility, good options for food and many restrooms. Was a bit of a wait to park but not enough for a complaint. We enjoyed shaded seats and walked around the stadium quite a bit taking in many viewpoints of the game. I'd recommend seeing a game here and I'm sure we'll be back! 😊

Brittany S — Google review

Spring training home of the Detroit Tigers. Beautiful stadium. Best park to a watch a game in Florida. Minor League games all summer

Mike G — Google review

Great fun in the sun watching the Tigers (barely) beat the Twins. Really wonderful way to spend a warm and sunny Florida afternoon. But… don’t expect wonderful food. My hot dog was as cold as rolled up balogna but my pretzel was warm, kind of. Still, we weren’t there for the food. The park is beautiful and both teams played hard. Well worth the forty bucks per ticket. FYI… we were in section 211 and it was in the shade all afternoon. It would have been a little hot if we had been in the sun the whole time.

Phil M — Google review

There is nothing like a great baseball game. But being here gives you a completely different aspect of it. It's like watching the tigers at your hometown field. You feel up close and personal. If you have never been, you need to go. Very reasonably priced. Everyone pretty much working is florida retirees and make it a great event.

Cindy R — Google review

Been to Florida a few times now and we wanted to see a Baseball game, the staff could not have been more helpful and welcoming, thanked us for our support at the end and even organised a game ball for us to take home, would recommend for first timers.

Dale B — Google review

Nice little stadium but the old fogeys running security are the worst. Won't let you bring in a backpack even though other milb stadiums do and are crotchety about it.. Food and beer selection was good. Team store lacking variety on souvenirs like shot glasses and magnets. Also this is a cashless site so bring plastic.

Kevin J — Google review

What a phenomenal experience, this venue is first class and so great. First of all, every employee encountered was friendly and said hello. From the parking lot to exiting the stadium every employee was beyond great. The stadium is clean and inviting. You will get sun on you if you have a lower level seat so be ready. They allow you to bring in an unopened water here. The game itself was great, very fun and fan interactive. Only complaint was exiting the parking lot it was a bit slow, otherwise awesome time.

James M — Google review

Overall, nice park.The kids complained of spiderwebs in the bathroom. The food cost twice as much as the seats, but service was good. Parking directions were a little confusing.The scanner wouldn't scan the tickets on my phone, so we had to go to the ticket counter to get them printed. They put up with my crankiness with that. Luckily, there was a rain delay as we were running late on the hour drive with weather and other issues.Once the sun started going down, the heat and humidity wasn't as bad. Right field seats are in the sun longer, but we were behind home plate.Not too many people at the park, but the team won.We got on the big screen a couple times.Got a ball during the game and got some autographs after the game ended.Overall, the family enjoyed themselves.

Justin B — Google review

I attended an event in the Club section on the second floor and was extremely impressed. The staff was very friendly and everything was very clean. Unfortunately for me, there was not a wide selection of food for my dietary restrictions.There was plenty of seating inside for the event and loves the view from the outside seats that overlooked the field.Parking, security, box office pickup, was all very simple and appreciated!

Kristina L — Google review

Had a great day at a spring training game. Lots of vendors and good options for food and drinks. Would have maybe had a couple more available especially in outfield areas to spread people out in the main concourse area. Great to sit on the grass and watch BP. Few party areas for groups which is nice. Parking was easy and in and out quick.

Curtis W — Google review

Very nice stadium with good sight lines. Parking was easy, stadium attendants drove us directly to our gate on golf carts.

Will R — Google review

First spring training game for my husband and me. What a great time! We had wonderful seats and beautiful weather. Excellent size venue to see the big league guys up close. Stadium was well staffed and didn't have to wait in any lines but we did arrive just after the game started. The place was packed. All the traditions at the ball field were upheld, making for a great day with the family/friends. Would love to come down from South Carolina again to catch a game and maybe a ball!

Laurie D — Google review

A beautiful stadium to watch an Orioles Spring Training game vs Detroit Tigers ❗️The weather was awesome 🌞 Game ended in a 4-4 tie‼️

Georgia S — Google review

Park at the church for $5 just a block north of the stadium! Stadium is very clean & well maintained. Frozen cocktails on 3rd base side concession area are a big plus for hot days. Field is built up a little so front row seats your adult head at players belt level.

Thomas H — Google review

Publix field is a great venue as always. Concessions were a bit busy but it was first game and vs Yankees. The ballpark is super fan friendly. Took a while to park. Would recommend parking 1 hour before first pitch and buying general admission parking online. No need to upgrade parking as they have shuttles running from overflow lots which are a quick walk to stadium.

Daniel T — Google review

I would get there early. The traffic was awful. Getting into the gate was fairly easy. There are multiple lines so don't just get in the big line. You cannot take much into the field, read the list of allowable items. Parking was not terrible, parked at the Lutheran Church on the corner for 5 bucks. It was a nice day and day one, the #Yankees first game against Detroit was 22 to 10.

Joe R — Google review

4.7

(2468)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (38)

4.5

(526)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (39)

2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33805, USA

(863) 686-8075

9

Hollis Garden

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Botanical garden

Nature & Parks

Hollis Garden is a botanical garden located in Orlando, Florida. The garden features a variety of plants and ornamental fountains.

Very beautiful and peaceful. We went on a Sunday afternoon, the weather was great, lots of families all around, but it was not crowded. Beautiful setting right on the lake. Lots of grassy areas for relaxation. It is connected to Barnett Family Playground and Splash Pad, but the playful sounds from the park did not deter from the beauty of the gardens.

Dawn C — Google review

Quite frankly one of my fave places in Lakeland. An always wonderful hit of nature and calm in the middle of the city.The caretakers/gardeners are also super friendly and have no issues with answering questions about the garden, plants, or anything else you may want to know (within their purview of course). And if you ask they’re more than willing to give cuttings if possible (not always allowed for some). Anyway the whole place is beautiful. It’s well laid out, well structured, and a delightful place to visit.

Nordia — Google review

Always a good time here. Peaceful, clean and a very beautiful environment. Absolutely love this place. It’s also one of my favorite spots in Lakeland.

Tonni N — Google review

We stopped on our way back to our friends house after a tasty lunch.This park is stunning. Plenty of spots to take photos. I wish we had a park like this back home.Palm trees, benches, waterfalls, a small pond/lake with Lilly pads, and of course bugs.If I lived here I'd be here taking photos all the time!

The R — Google review

Simply beautiful. Quiet peaceful setting just off Lake Mirror in downtown Lakeland. A perfect place to unwind or take pictures. The plants and flowers are majestic and give off a calming vibe as you walk around. Not huge… but we’ll worth the visit. This place has so many photo opportunities and so much to take in … well worth the trip.

Paul L — Google review

A very nice, small, formal garden next to a lake and open lawn areas. A splash park for children is next door and the most amazing roses I have seen surrounding the "Magnolia Building "which is directly next to Hollis Gardens. I go often just to see the roses.There is a small cafe at the magnolia bldg. and there are many downtown eateries close by. Great garden for a short stroll. There is no fee to enter.Public bathrooms are next to the splash park and not well marked, so look for the two-story building beyond the play area / water park.The kids love the water features and fun looking playground equipment. The nice lawn going down to the lake where the town holds some events gives a good open feel.The garden has a variety of plants including many Tropicals and some vegetables. Each little area has its own theme, surrounded by boxwood hedging. A fountain runs down toward the lake from a large half circle pergola / pavilion. This area is highest point and the garden and gives you an overlook at the areas you can explore working your way down to the lake. There are several artworks in the gardens and on occasion we have gone into the Magnolia Bldg. for little art shows, etc.Drive or walk south to Morton Lake to see a great many waterfowl. Swans, black and white, etc.

Rich D — Google review

Very nice public garden on the southern end of Lake Mirror. Free to walk around, with a great variety of plants and flowers. Would be a good location for a portrait shoot. The Garden Bistro was next door was awesome for Sunday Brunch.

Andrew M — Google review

I recently visited a garden that offered a delightful experience. The vibrant murals featuring butterflies, with flowers such as milkweed depicted in the artwork, added a burst of color and artistry to the surroundings. The garden is free to the public, which makes it an accessible spot for everyone to enjoy. There are some shaded areas, providing relief from the sun, making the visit comfortable even on warmer days.In addition to the murals, I came across various plants and aquatic life. The garden had lush green grass and a koi pond with beautiful fish, enhancing the tranquil environment. I also found an interesting snail shell during my visit, adding to the overall charm of exploring nature.The entire garden can be explored in about thirty minutes, which is perfect for a quick yet refreshing escape. For convenience, there is a public bathroom available at the bistro on the property, ensuring that visitors have necessary amenities close at hand.Overall, it was a wonderful visit, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a brief, enjoyable outdoor activity.

Lorena B — Google review

Very nice well maintained garden. We loved seeing the multiple fountains, and enjoyed watching the birds give themself a little bath. My oldest son liked the art sculptures that were there. Also enjoyed the little pond with the koi. I think they would benefit from a bigger area to swim. My favorite part was the gardenia trees, they smelled so good when you walked by them. Would definitely recommend a stroll through the garden.

Kristin W — Google review

Title: A Botanical Paradise in Lakeland!Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)Review:Hollis Garden in Lakeland, FL is an absolute gem that will leave you enchanted with its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. As a nature lover, I was thrilled to visit this exquisite botanical garden, and it exceeded all my expectations.From the moment I stepped foot into Hollis Garden, I was captivated by its meticulously designed landscape. The garden is a symphony of colors, featuring a stunning array of vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and beautifully manicured lawns. Every corner seems to have been carefully crafted to offer a feast for the eyes.One of the highlights of my visit was strolling along the winding pathways that lead to hidden treasures within the garden. Every turn revealed a new breathtaking vista, whether it was the cascading waterfalls, the charming bridges, or the serene ponds adorned with water lilies. It felt like stepping into a fairytale land where nature and art seamlessly merge.The attention to detail in maintaining the garden is commendable. The staff takes great pride in their work, and it shows. The flowerbeds are immaculate, the sculptures are well-preserved, and the entire garden is kept clean and tidy. It's evident that the team behind Hollis Garden puts in a tremendous amount of effort to create an unforgettable experience for visitors.Apart from its visual appeal, Hollis Garden offers a sense of tranquility and serenity that is hard to find in today's busy world. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat to unwind or a picturesque spot for a picnic with your loved ones, this garden has it all. I found myself completely immersed in the calming atmosphere, feeling a true connection with nature.

KJ H — Google review

Went here and a lovely walk with some great views and plants. Followed this by walking round lake mirror and seeing the sculptures. Total about 1.5 miles but easy walking. Parking available for free

R W — Google review

A small botanical garden with a grand view of the lake in the front. It’s seems like a popular place for people to take photos of weddings and other events in their lives. Best place also for TikTok. Parking is small but additional road side parking

Fowzer T — Google review

In February 2024 I married my beautiful wife here, and the gardens were perfect, the Maintenace staff were extremely friendly, explained everything to us, and gave us no issues. The whole day was great, and I would highly recommend Hollis Gardens for anyone else looking for a wedding venue in Lakeland.

Jeffrey D — Google review

This is a beautiful sculptured garden that borders a lake with interesting spots for multiple age groups. While there, there was a wedding rehearsal, to take advantage of the beautiful settings. The gardens offer ideas on how to group various plants.

James B — Google review

The food is excellent and the wait time was good. The food prices weren't bad and were decent compared to most places.If you like vegan or veteran options, this is the place for you, with meat lovers also getting some love as well.This place has beautiful scenery and nice staff. The outside area lets you view the downtown lake, and you will be surrounded by excellent infrastructure for ventures and gardens. The flowers and plants are beautiful, and the area is well taken care of.The only problem is that the outdoor area is limited and a tad small, so if you are planning to take a group there, reserve a table. The standard setting carters to a couple seats, with a few 4-person tables and only 2 tables on the outside patio. There are plenty of seats inside.I would recommend this place for a hangout for brunch or a morning date.

Ray T — Google review

Beautiful gardens with some unique plants. This one caught my attention enough to share. Lots of free parking I am sure you will enjoy it.

Frank G — Google review

It's rained when I visited the park but it was still beautiful and a very relaxing place to explore. They also have a free little library there.

Lana A — Google review

My first time at Hollis Garden with my family. It's beautiful, lots of room for walking & taking pictures. Small park & water pads for the kids. My daughter & I enjoyed the ducks, Music & Fish in the Garden. Very relaxing. Would love to return.

Diana O — Google review

Hollis Garden is beautiful and wonderful place to take pictures. It's right at Lake Mirror awesome place to walk around. There's a few really nice places to eat at. Love it there lots of duck's

Shelly C — Google review

Very beautiful, beautiful little garden. Well worth the walk through! It's right next to the main lake, downtown, and all the shops! Well kept, lots of flowers, fountains and places to sit and relax

Josiah K — Google review

Such a beautiful area to walk around and enjoy nature and the butterflies.

Judith D — Google review

Absolutely beautiful scenery, immaculate amount of seashells for a park. So much wild life and places to see in one walk.

Dale H — Google review

This is such a beautiful garden. They have so many areas to sit and relax and look out on the lake or sit and appreciate nature. This is a small garden so not much walking but they really maximize their space and take care of all the plants beautifully they have many plants that attract beautiful butterflies and bees as well. Outside food and drink are not permitted.

Raina C — Google review

Absolutely beautiful. I'm an avid gardener a d love coming here for ideas and inspiration. It's often overrun with photographers, but easy to navigate around.

Seth G — Google review

What a delight and it's free. Pristine garden and awesome sculpture and fountain. Plus take a walk around the lake.

Joe L — Google review

Beautiful manicured park. A nice area to hang out and enjoy the beauty

Petra C — Google review

Hollis Garden is a small but lovely garden area close to the shore of Lake Mirror. The water features and sculptures add to the appeal of the space.

Carol J — Google review

This is a review of the Hollis garden in Lakeland Florida.I believe this to be a city maintained park garden that is surrounded by office buildings and restaurants etc.They have a fireworks display at 4th of July late at night from the center of the lake.Is a long walk around but absolutely stunningly beautiful as the lake is filled with various fish, turtles and there are birds, ducks and swans everywhere.We were here on vacationing visiting family but I would have to say if I lived in the area I would be here constantly it's free to just walk around there are playsets for children, we encountered several friendly people who were walking the perimeter for exercise along with others who are just out for a stroll in their lunch break from offices I assume based on the way they were dressed everyone was in good spirits it was not crowded and fairly neat and clean.

Veteran V — Google review

4.8

(2467)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (44)

4.5

(671)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (45)

702 E Orange St, Lakeland, FL 33801, USA

(863) 834-2280

10

Circle B Bar Reserve

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Park

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Circle B Bar Reserve is a 1,267-acre park situated an hour outside of Orlando in Lakeland, Florida. The park features hiking trails and bike paths that provide access to Floridas many natural habitats, as well as a lake for fishing and birdwatching.

When I moved to Polk County, I fell in love with the parks & the lakes. The nature walks are awesome. Circle B is one of my favorites I enjoy it to the max every time I go. There are beautiful birds, turtles, alligators, squirrels, raccoons and the peace you feel inside is the greatest. Enjoy walks with friends, family & kids Highly recommend if your in the area

Dora V — Google review

Circle B is my new happy place. Despite being only feet away at times from large alligators (whether you see them or not), the trail by the lake is incredibly peaceful.This is a great spot to get some steps in on the trails, spot and photograph wildlife in their natural habitat, or just take a break from your hectic life to reflect and appreciate nature.Yes, there are a ton of alligators sometimes on the trail itself, but as long as you give them the respect they deserve they won’t bother you. There are plenty along the “alligator alley” trail but if you keep going on the marsh rabbit run trail you can see many more LARGE gators sunning themselves on the beach just on the other side of the canal. The whole park is full of different types of birds but I highly recommend the boardwalk with a gazebo on the lake that affords an excellent opportunity to see large ospreys and eagles grabbing a meal.I gave the trail 5 stars but keep the following in mind:- There are no water stations along the trail so bring a full bottle before you start your hike.- parking can get crowded at the entrance. Even when the lot is full however the trails themselves never seem crowded.- certain trails can be closed due to a variety of reasons. This is especially true during alligator mating and hatching seasons (typically in the spring and summer) when alligators are known to be aggressive (as I said outside of these periods they’re incredibly chill as long as they’re not provoked).Overall this place is truly a hidden gem and one of the best places in the state to see Florida in all its natural beauty.

Casey L — Google review

Circle B Bar was once a cattle ranch before being acquired by County to restore its natural wetlands. Through dedicated conservation efforts, the area transformed into a thriving habitat for wildlife. Its extensive trail system and diverse ecosystems have made it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe alligators, eagles, raccoons, and other wildlife in their natural environment. Today, it stands as a testament to successful environmental restoration and community engagement, attracting visitors who seek the beauty and tranquility of natural landscapes. Let the pictures speak for themselves.

H W — Google review

Such a great place to see wildlife!! No cost to get in. We have visited twice and both time we saw an armadillo, a wild hog and many many alligators. The alligator alley path is narrow and you can see wildlife on both sides of you. Also there is a bald eagle nest in one of the trees you can see. If its sunny bring lots of water!!

Kevin S — Google review

Great hiking park. Taken family here on visits many times. It has a nice indoor visitors center, it could use a water stand. The trails are nice, when they aren’t closed. Hit or miss. And as for the animals, it’s nice to see them living their life in the wild not zoos. In total. It’s im fun once or twice :)

Jayda O — Google review

We had a great time! Beautiful scenery and easily walkable. We saw probably 25 alligators both large and very small! Some were camouflaged very well so keep an eye out! Saw some beautiful butterflies, majestic birds, turtles, a squirrel, a raccoon, and a friendly armadillo. The trees with Spanish are breathtaking! If you are going with a small child I would probably hold them, push them in a stroller, or at least hold their hand. Most times the path has a steep drop into marshy/brackish water with alligators.

Ruth H — Google review

Nice place to go and get rid of your daughter's boyfriend. He will never be found. Ok in all seriousness, he is a good guy. This is a very nice place to go. Great old trees, scenery, wildlife everywhere- including gators. The trails are walkable or bikeable. No dogs due to gators! Lots of different trails to take and the indoor exhibits are well done. Good place for photos so take your camera.

Andy R — Google review

I go here to be with nature and my thoughts with God. Everything just slows down as you enter the gates (speed is 15) and gives you time to breathe, walk and think. I notice most others slowing down and enjoying the alligator and special bird/animal/plant sightings…I take photos that look professional almost because everything is so beautiful in its simplicity. As I walk, I like to imagine the original owners walking the dirt roads and what they were thinking…and when my family come from Texas and wants to see an alligator (lol), this is my “go to” place to take them.

Leighnae H — Google review

A large, expansive county park with great shaded trails, incredible views of Lake Hancock, and a visitor center that will entice kids and inspire the curiosity of all. The exhibits were informative and accurate, they even have an ancient canoe on display. Really one wonder after the other at Circle B Bar Reserve. Even on a hot June afternoon, the trails were comfortable. Lots of wildlife, including alligators I'm the lake (luckily at a distance). Free, and plentiful parking

Uzi B — Google review

I tell my husband I’m going to the ‘bird show’, when I go here, because that’s what this place feels like to me. It’s incredible- there’s so much diversity here and it’s right on display as you walk down the trails. It’s like the birds are performing just for you. I love coming here after sunrise when the birds are most active. The wildlife photography opportunities abound. You’ll see lots of other wildlife, too- not just birds, but they are the main act for me. The marsh/swamp is beautiful and the live oak and cypress trees draped in Spanish moss give this place a very enchanting allure!

Carrie — Google review

This was an amazing place to visit if just being in town shortly and wanting to see wildlife.We saw around 20 plus alligators, Armadillos, raccoons, snakes, and countless birds.We visited here twice, first time in the p.m. around 5 to 6:30.We saw way more wildlife in the evening.When we visited in the a.m. around 8 to 9 we saw significantly less animals so I would suggest going in the p.m. if you have a choice.

Ryan B — Google review

We were blown away by the natural beauty of this park. So many trails offering stunning views of the marshes and hammocks. We even saw a couple of alligators in the distance. Highly recommend this park!

OurRetiredLife Y — Google review

Magical place for taking a stroll and enjoying wildlife 👍🏾A photographers dream location with dozens of bird species, alligators (all chilled and used to humans), armadillos and rare sightings of bobcats.Flat and easy trails, and a lot of friendly folk out and about loving nature. Get ready for gear envy if you like to take pictures, there are some big lenses out there 😍 but everyone I met was happy to share their knowledge and help identify birds.Real cool place 👍🏾

Ian H — Google review

Had a Fantastic experience touring the place. Our guides Barry and Jeff shared a wealth of information. Jeff, one of the original team members to help develop Circle B Ranch as a Reserve from an active cattle ranch. It was amazing to see how Circle B Ranch has transformed from a water deficient, overly grazed grasslands into current marsh and wetlands. There were pictures to show the amazing transformation!!! With educated transformation of the land, they've been able to bring water back! Which in turn brought birds, animals and vegetation. We were fortunate to see bald eagles nesting, an alligator, different birds including herons fishing with one having captured a long eel for lunch! There's a visitor center with numerous trails. Circle B Ranch Reserve is continuing its transformation into a beautiful natural environment for the current and future generations 🙏

Joy D — Google review

A good place to see a range of landscapes and wildlife. The alligators are the clear reason many go here. They are abundant.It is a large reserve and the walking trails have been in good shape each time we visit. There is a mix of surfaces from shell or dirt, paved and some boardwalks.Near the parking area there are a few buildings. An educational center, bathrooms, etc. There are a good many picnic pavilions and tables. We almost always take a lunch so we can hike some of the trails, eat, and go back out.There are no animals allowed in the park and if I had a young child, I would be very aware that there can often be large alligators along the trails. Yesterday we had no less than 10 around us at one point while walking one of the strips of land with water on each side. These large alligators cross these areas so you may come face to face to one. Yesterday we got to see a large female with her newly hatched little ones all along the shore.When visiting you can expect to see eagles, herons, osprey and other waterfowl. There are rabbits, racoons, turtles, wildflowers, butterflies. It is full of life.There is a central part of the boardwalk along Lake Hancock that has not been open on any visit we have had. They also close sections when it is not safe for pedestrians due to certain alligator activities. Check the website before you go to see what trails are open.All bathrooms are near the parking areas.Obvious things are needed if hiking, water, bug spray, etc.The fact that you can walk along the shore of a large lake, or through a swampy area, an upland, an area filled with large oaks, these things make a visit quite nice. It has a range of environments to enjoy.Again, be mindful of the alligators. We spotted two yesterday that were so well camouflaged that many didn't notice that they were passing within a very short distance of what were clearly large animals.

Rich D — Google review

This was our first visit and an absolutely spectacular time!! Naturally, a little scary considering you are so up close and personal with the gator families. However, they are so calm and respect you, as long as you show them the same respect. Just really a neat thing to see and experience! So much wildlife! We only walked 3 trails and will be back to walk more! Highly recommend!!

Jennifer G — Google review

This is the most lovely place! It is so peaceful and not a bad walk around the various trails around the park. This place definitely became our favorite place to go escape reality for the day.

Dixie T — Google review

Probably the best natural park I’ve ever visited 🥹 you’re just so close to the nature! Gators, raccoons, turtles, herons, cranes! Oaks, moss, grapefruit trees 💔 and the atmosphere is just so amazing!Restrooms and the entrance are not great… the ones at educational center are better, but it’s not on the way if you visit regularly and the center is not always opened.

An H — Google review

The reserve is full of rich history, efforts towards conservation of natural resources and a beautiful place to get in some extra steps or have family time on budget. Would definitely recommend the Circle B Bar Reserve for any nature lover, photographer, etc. There’s plenty of regular and accessible parking. They do have an accessible trolley tour so be sure to tell them when booking. Hat, sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes and your hypervigilence when walking paths. The wildlife lives here and we are guests. Follow rules and don’t harass the wildlife. It’s a beautiful spot and photographers can get a permit to take photos here. Staff is friendly and helpful. Volunteer opportunities are always available if you are looking for something to do. Put this on your list of “places to go”—definitely worth it.

Sandy N — Google review

It was very productive, especially capturing this American purple gallinule this past week.I added a few other captures that were fun, especially the stork.My last visit (from Indonesia two years ago) was also productive.Great conversation of wildlife! Thank you

STEVEN M — Google review

Cool park to hike. This park has a lot of Florida cattle history. Back in the 1800’s when calttlemen would herd cattle across the state, this was one of the places they could stop at to rest and pen the cattle so they could get a good nights sleep before the next days trek. There are wooded trails and boardwalk trails to hike. Lots of nature to see. I was welcomed by a beautiful young falcon as I started my hike. Rabbits and other ground wildlife to see and photograph. Lots of shade down the trails so you don’t have to worry about dying in the Florida heat. Very nice place.

Christine W — Google review

This place was magnificent! Wildlife all around! Seen so many gators and birds! Also a racoon came right up to us! Definitely coming back. We took alligator alley trail and it didn't disappoint 😀🐊

Brittany S — Google review

What a beautiful place for a short visit or a day trip. Trail signs are fantastic, most trails are 1-2.5 miles each. Lots of things to see prairie, marsh, lake environments. There is a discovery center (open on Saturday) tram tours, port o lets. Of course the highlight? Gators! Tons of them! Saw them sunning themselves right on the banks we walked by, in the lake, big splashes when one gets scared of YOU! Bald eagles, osprey, herons, egrets, ducks & more. Peaceful. Thank you people of Polk County!**Leave your pets & fishing poles home. Neither are allowed & that's exactly why the gators are still fearful. If you need to fish or bring Fido everywhere, please go somewhere else**

Celeste S — Google review

It is such a beautiful and magical place, one of my favorite parks in Florida. There are so many beautiful animals to see on the many trails. I've been here many times, and each visit is a different experience. The only downside is that if you don't go during office hours, you're stuck using a porta-potty, which really isn't cleaned out as often as it should be.

Grace — Google review

A beautiful trail. One can easily get lost in the beauty. Enough wild life to keep us interested, especially the crocodiles.

Maitreya M — Google review

It was odd at first to walk along the lake and to see so many alligators on your left and then to see all different size baby gators on your right. Raccoons walking and minding their own business. We took so long on this trail taking pictures and just hanging on the covered walkway on the lake watching so many alligators just floating along. There is more to the Reserve we just didn’t get to it. Many birds, and turtles.

Debbie — Google review

Great park for photography! In fact, I've never been to a park where there were more photographers than anyone else. There must have been 50 guys with telephoto lenses. Was great walking with others and watching what they watched (attached is a photo with faces removed for privacy). I include a sample of some photos I took from my trip this morning.

Jason — Google review

Wonderful place to hike and experience wildlife. Not to mention, it has no entry fee. Tons of wildlife to enjoy and photograph. Would recommend for any nature lover and photographers. Make sure you bring everything you need with you.

William ( — Google review

Amazing preserve/park. The live oaks are breathtaking. We took the Alligator Alley Trail. Lake Hancock on one side and the swamp on the other side of the trail. We saw all kinds of birds and a raccoon strolled across the path right in front of us. Saw many gators sunning. Coming back again. NO DOGS !

Connie M — Google review

Amazing Place for Unforgettable Hikes...You WILL see gators, all kinds of birds and tons of critters. Great paths that are well maintained and breathtakingly gorgeous habitats. Best Reserve in All of FL ❤️ Keep a little ones close and bring plenty of water.

Steel M — Google review

Great trails. Take an umbrella. That Florida sun is hot! Lots to see. Make sure your phone is charged so you can take photos. And bring water! We saw a lot of neat wildlife.

Dr S — Google review

Always a wonderful experience at Circle B. One of the best places in Florida to visit and it’s free to enter. Such a great place to take photos, there are always so many birds, alligators and more. Pets are not welcome and for a great reason, it would be too dangerous to bring them. There are picnic tables and quite a few trails. Some trails are closed in the summer months for alligator mating season.

Paula T — Google review

If you like nature walks. This is the place to be. From seeing all kinds of wildlife , eagles, gators, birds, humans near gators, all these photos were taken by me. Some old some new.

Elizabeth C — Google review

This is a nature preserve on the shores of Lake Hancock. Admission is free and parking is free.The visitor center serves as a hub to use the restroom, get maps, and cool off in the AC. But be warned, it closes at 4pm! We made a lap around the lake trail before returning through the marsh trail. It was about ~2 miles. We saw alligators, turtles, birds, racoons, and more.I thought it was slightly difficult to navigate the campus. It really needs a big map near the parking lot displaying all possible trails and locations.

Kevin M — Google review

4.8

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5.0

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4399 Winter Lake Rd, Lakeland, FL 33803, USA

(863) 668-4673

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11

Dinosaur World

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Theme park

Museums

Dinosaur World is an open-air museum situated in Plant City, Florida that boasts over 150 life-sized dinosaur models nestled amongst indigenous flora. The park is located between Tampa and Orlando and has an entry fee of $20 for adults and $15 for children under thirteen. With a Fossil Dig and Boneyard exhibit, Dinosaur World caters to visitors of all ages who are interested in exploring the prehistoric era.

WOW!! What an experience, the dinosaurs are amazing, the landscape is outstanding as well.The facilities are clean, the playgrounds are great! It was unfortunate that the fossil dig was closed. But the gem excavation was open which is a bonus! Make sure you get your tickets with excavation.There no food here but many clean picnic table, makes for a great family experience.

Roy M — Google review

Amazing setup and beautiful landscape!! We visited this place with our three children (9, 6 and 3 year old). And everyone loved every bit of it. Mind you it was 92F degrees outside when we went there to visit. However, due to the excellent landscape (lots of thick and tall trees and bushes) we could barely see the sun while it was pleasantly mild temperature all throughout the park. There are plenty of dinosaur and ice age animal exhibitions to see and take pictures of. They have gem finding and fossil finding mini section where children can have extra fun activities for additional fee. General admission prices we found to be adequate for the amount of fun we received during our visit. Don’t forget to ask for their military discount if you’re a veteran or active duty member. And even your spouse or significant other with a proper dependent ID can get a small discount, which I found it to be really nice (every bit helps 😊). All in all it was an amazing experience! Highly recommend visiting this place. Be sure to bring lots of fluids and a stroller or a cart if you got small children. You’re going to be walking a lot. 😁

SOBI's H — Google review

Went today for my son's birthday. He absolutely loved it. It is definitely a cute place. There were these ducks that followed us for a second patiently waiting for fish food. It was a great time with the family. Highly recommend

Stephanie S — Google review

If you're in the area, it's a must-see. It's definitely a family orrinted activity. Dress accordingly, most of the exhibits are located outside. The gift shop is very neat. The staff is very helpful. The ticket is very affordable.

Rolando S — Google review

So much fun! We were there on a rather hot day, but there are places to stay cool (buildings, shady areas), plus places to buy bottled water. Lots of cool dinosaurs to see, worth the admission price. The carnivore walk may be intense for little ones, but will be a delight for slightly older kids. Lots of great photo ops and educational without being boring. While the Lake George Expedition Dino park still holds the number one spot for me, this is definitely a five star outing. You could easily spend 2+ hours exploring.

Jennifer M — Google review

Military get in free!I’ve driven by this place for years and thought it would be a bunch of chipped-paint-cheap-small plastic dinosaurs around a lake.My three and one year old LOVED it. Perfect place to take children under 5. It’s divided up into two chunks—there is a playground as soon as you walk in (yes!!) followed by a walking trail of dinosaur species in the back. Dinosaurs are clearly well cared for (no chipped paint!) and they feature ones that I’ve never heard of…so that was kinda fun to learn new things.There is an option to “upgrade” your ticket and do a rock discovery activity in the middle of the park. We purchased that but it was SO busy with people and the kids wanted to hit the trail right away so I do regret doing that upgrade because we never did it. If you have kids over 5, it would be worth it to do that extra activity.Could you make a day out of this? Absolutely. It’s also a mile away from Keel & Curley winery which often has strawberries and u-pick options. I am surprisingly pleased and excited to go back.

Rachel H — Google review

Loved visiting this hidden gem! If you have a Dino obsessed little one, I’d definitely recommend taking them here. They have what seems like hundreds of different Dino sculptures with descriptions of each dinosaur. Some I’ve never even heard of! I was pleasantly surprised with how many different activities there is to do here. Seems like there is something to do or look at no matter where you looked, which we all enjoyed so much. Especially some of the more “hidden” dinosaurs. I love that there are multiple playgrounds for multiple age groups. Was really excited to see that they were adding a splash pad, but unfortunately it was not in working order when we visited. Overall, it’s a great little place to explore for a few hours with your littles! **Please call ahead if you plan on using military discount because their online and in person discount is very different**

Ctine D — Google review

Dinosaur World is a really amazing place. My kid loves it a lot. you can spend around 2 hours there. escavation pass doesn't mean much for adults. it would be better if you could provide some more interactive activities with dinos for kids.

Chamika S — Google review

Took my five yr old grandson, who is very knowledgeable about dinosaurs. We had a blast. Worth every penny. We only spent a few hours, but could easily have made it 5 hours.

Debbie K — Google review

It is best to think of this place as a nature park with dinosaur statues and a few activities for the kids. It is a good place to go when the weather is nice and you just want a relaxing few hours. You can bring a picnic basket, walk around the trails, read the placards about various dinosaurs, and enjoy your lunch. It has some activities for young children such as a kids train ride, playground, and mini golf.

Lee — Google review

We went a few years ago on a field trip and it was alright, my kids were 4 & 5 then. They had a good time. We just went again (they’re 8 & 9 now) and we had a blast! You can tell they’ve been revamping. They have new things to do, added dino skeletons to the museum (super cool btw) and now a splash pad which was perfect for this Florida heat. Lots of cool dinosaurs EVERYWHERE. Definitely bring bug spray, a couple cold waters and a lunch to enjoy at the picnic tables.

Darleen O — Google review

This out in the open dinosaur world of a gem was absolutely fantastic. Really a great place to take the kids they do need more drink and food options while there but all in all a really great facility. My daughter had a great time in the playgrounds and really enjoyed walking the yard looking at the full size dinosaurs this was a great family treat.

Oran A — Google review

This park is very nice and simple. My 3 year old had fun here. We did the fossil digging and gem panning. The playground is nice too. Just make sure to bring snacks and drinks especially during summer time as it tends to get really hot. But there are shaded areas where you can rest and have picnics. Interesting place for dinosaur lovers out there!

Maricris B — Google review

We have always wanted to stop at dinosaur world and finally had the chance. It was a really neat experience for everyone. I had doubts that the older kids wouldn’t like it but even the adults enjoyed everything. It wasn’t too crowded and it was nice being outdoors. The only complaint was they didn’t have any options for food or even snacks.

Melissa W — Google review

This is a big playground. Like any playground at any park. Its picnic style they do not sell food. A bit expensive for what it is. THE STAFF is really nice. I love the souvenir store. Its more for babies than big kids. Definitely not for teenagers

Wendy B — Google review

Took my son for his 3rd birthday (should have went a day early for a free ticket).Dinosaurs are cool to look at but a lot costs extra. I wish everything would be included in the price, since it's already pretty pricey.My son had a good time but was disappointed we didn't have a train ticket (we thought we purchased one at the front)Did enjoy it was dog friendly, so our pups got to join for the day.Pretty much a one and done deal, no desire to go back again.Bring your own water and bring plenty, NO water bottle filing stations at the restrooms.Was cool they had it decorated for Halloween.

Jessica D — Google review

Our 2 year old son and 4.5 year old daughter absolutely loved this place! Despite the rain and heat, they had a lot of fun seeing all of the different dinosaurs, walking through the indoor areas with museum displays and a few animatronics. There was a little play area and a few add-on attractions as well. We got through it pretty quickly since our kiddos weren’t as interested in us reading about each of the dinosaurs, but it was still worth the money.

Brittany R — Google review

Our visit to Dinosaur World in Tampa left us with mixed feelings. While the concept of seeing life-sized dinosaurs was exciting, the experience fell short of expectations.Firstly, the park boasted a variety of cool dinosaurs to observe, but disappointingly, some were missing or under maintenance during our visit, which detracted from the overall experience.Another downside was the relentless onslaught of mosquitoes throughout our time there, making it quite uncomfortable to explore the exhibits without constant distraction.Moreover, the lack of food and water for sale was a major drawback. It seemed like a missed opportunity for the park to enhance visitor satisfaction and generate additional revenue. Adding these amenities could potentially attract more visitors and encourage longer stays.On a positive note, the gift shop was a highlight. It offered a variety of dinosaur-themed souvenirs and memorabilia, which was enjoyable to browse through.One commendable aspect of Dinosaur World is their pet-friendly policy, allowing us to bring our furry companion along, which added a nice touch to our visit.In conclusion, while Dinosaur World has its charms, such as the impressive gift shop and pet-friendly environment, improvements in amenities like food and water availability, as well as better maintenance of exhibits, would greatly enhance the overall visitor experience.

Christina S — Google review

The past is a mysterious and exotic place. Dinosaur world took me to this place and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Me and my best buddy spent 2 hours journeying the park and observing these representations of beautiful beasts. All the reviews say it is for small kids but in reality it is for anyone who appreciates prehistoric animals. Would definitely recommend!

Aaron L — Google review

Definitely fun and must go if your little one is a fan of dinosaurs! We had a blast.BUT the activities (fossil dig, excavation) are HOT. There’s no fans, no air flow, no breeze and it’s probably 30+ degrees hotter than outside. There’s no water available on the trail and the vending machines are cash only.Be sure to bring fans, tons of water, and snacks otherwise you will not have a good time.

Karlie L — Google review

Very nice!! Mom, daughter and 4 grandchildren aged 9 years to 10 1/2 months!! Rode the train, played in the fossil dig, fun on the good sized playground, took a cooler with drinks, sandwiches, chips, snacks... you can take a stroller or wagon for kiddos, lots of entertainment for everyone, mini golf...... great gift shop nicely priced... a very good bargain! The store says 2 hours but we could easily stayed for 4 hours!

Deborah K — Google review

Really cute park to take the young dino enthusiasts. We were there for about 5 hours. Spent time with 2 Paleontologists, learned some interesting facts we didn't know. Prospected for gems (crystals and stones), dug for some little fossils (mostly little teeth and mini bone fragments). The dinosaurs throughout the park are very well done and maintained. They look fantastic in photos. There are real fossils in the museum and the Exhibition Cave. Plus real Dino skeletons in the Doom Exhibit. Fun Dino toys for purchase in the gift shop. Bring your own cooler and snacks. Lots of picnic areas to take a break and eat your food. The playground was a great spot for my 6 year old to finish using up his energy for the ride home.

Amy B — Google review

Surprisingly well laid out and clean. Great for families with smaller kids. Nice paths.... short and simple train ride.... reasonably price compared to others these days. Most of all, my children loved it. They have a dinosaur themed playground that the kids enjoyed thoroughly. How is this place not better known?

Snarffel M — Google review

Highly recommend if you enjoy walks outside and/or dinosaurs! We paid for the full experience, which includes a train ride, fossil dig, and gem sifting, along with admission to the park. The earlier you arrive the better. We went right when the doors opened and by the time we left, it was packed!This place is amazing. All kinds of shade and vegetation. Tons of dinosaurs spread all around. Cool eating scenes. A few animatronic dinosaurs at the beginning. Can feed tiny fish for $1. They have a huge gift shop full of rocks and fossils and all kinds of dinosaur related things. I wish it was closer as I would keep coming back, even if to just enjoy a nice walk!

C K — Google review

Great place to visit and take family. Love the winding paths that you can travel down at your own pace. Beautiful setting. They do not have a place to eat and while the large gift shop carries water, you are welcome to bring your own cooler and the local pizza place delivers here. They are more then happy to invite you to eat in the lovely picnic area with whatever food you bring in. Very helpful and nice staff. Easy to get to right off of I-4 and plenty of parking.

Mrs D — Google review

We had a great time at Dinosaur World! So many dinosaurs to see and a cute little train. They have a small splash pad area, two different playgrounds, and a little place to dig (extra $), and two little walk through museums. Its nice and shaded throughout the park but can get extremely hot and humid in the summer and a little buggy. I wish they had fans near the picnic tables at least for the kids to cool down and eat a snack.

Britney W — Google review

Very cool place! Well maintained, clean. Kids loved it! Bugs were a little annoying but expected. Have a nice splash pad, good sized playground, 2 actually. Highly recommend if your kids are into dinosaurs!

Lance E — Google review

This is the coolest place to visit with kids. Easy to spend a good 2-4 hours here taking in all the sights and Activities. The outdoor boardwalk of dinos is really cool, and there are two large playground areas for younger and older kids- including shade structures! Don’t skip the museums- both have really neat exhibits. You can easily check out the place without the extra paid activities (mining, train, fossil dig), but also worth it as the kids loved it! We came expecting to spend 1.5-2 hours, and ended up leaving after 3 hours- but could have stayed longer. Plenty of picnic areas throughout to bring a packed lunch. Only negative is summer time is HOT and lots of bugs, but that’s Florida! Pest control strategies might be a good investment to lessen the bugs just a bit! Would love to go again during winter when it’s cooler out!

Teresa H — Google review

This place is amazing! They are always adding new things to see and experience. My kids grew up in this park and always want to visit when we are in central Florida. Pay the extra for the dig and gem strike. The gift shop is pretty amazing too so expect to buy something there. They also have some cool vending machines. Their park equipment is on point. If you have kids under 12 take them here! As of 2024 spring you are allowed to leave and comeback same day with wrist band.

Magdalynn B — Google review

Thank you for being dog friendly! Gibson felt so welcome from start to finish. We love the shade and reading through all the education signs.We also couldn't help but notice how clean the dinosaurs were. This park is clearly loved by the on-site team and it shows!

Kim L — Google review

Fun and cool looking place, whole family had fun! Definitely another great option to bigger theme parks, as it's cheaper and less crowded. (I prefer this.) Beautiful plants as well, it really felt like we were in a jungle.

Lasha B — Google review

Have taken two of our grandsons to Dino World.Kids loved it. Train ride, fossil dig, and museums were well-liked. Small crowd on a Monday (30 cars). Bring a lunch. Kids should be into dinosaurs, and will learn a lot during your stay.

Keith R — Google review

We enjoyed the Cave City KY location and saw the Florida one was close to our Spring Break trip so we HAD to go! We had a blast! Everyone was nice, it was very clean, and we just had a blast. We enjoyed the quarter smasher and the automated cotton candy machine. We all need to support places like this. So, if you're in the area, check out this super fun place!

Jake K — Google review

4.5

(6213)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (63)

4.0

(708)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (64)

5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565, USA

(813) 717-9865

12

Parkesdale Farm Market

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Farmers' market

Shopping

Parkesdale Farm Market is a marketplace that specializes in strawberries, citrus fruits, and vegetables. They also offer seasonal shortcake and shakes that are quite popular with their customers. Duncan McClellan Gallery is another great spot to check out if you enjoy shopping, while Siesta Beach and Honeymoon Island State Park provide opportunities for some fun in the sun. If you're looking to explore beyond Clearwater, Ellenton Premium Outlets has plenty of options for shoppers, while St.

Plant City is the home of the Florida Strawberry Festival each year and is known far and wide for the best strawberries anywhere. The Parkesdale Market is a roadside open-air produce market that specializes in strawberries but also has a complete selection of fresh produce. Our visit today was in October, when newly planted strawberry plants can be seen up and down the local roads, meaning fresh strawberries are out of season. But, we did stop for strawberry milkshakes and some everyday produce. We are consistently happy with the quality of the fruit and veggies we buy and the prices can't be beat. The strawberry milkshakes are always available and a special treat we love. In the early months of the year, the fresh strawberry crop is picked and the special desserts from fresh berries are the reason Parkesdale has the reputation it has..

Joe G — Google review

The atmosphere is very cute and pleasant and it is so convenient having all of the produce, jams, jelly, plants and home decor all in one place , HOWEVER, I feel like if you are proclaiming yourselves to be “world famous” in the midst of the strawberry capitol, you should probably have amazing strawberry shortcake. The milkshakes are good, the berries and cream are good, the options for healthier drink alternatives in the cooler is amazing and I appreciate that but that cake in the strawberry shortcake is truly awkward. It has the weirdest taste and texture and we just did not cafe gif it , no one finished theirs. The test of the stuff is neat and tasty though. I feel like if you are in that area by all means stop by but you will want to get in early to beat the lines.

Neva M — Google review

What a local gem! Luckily, I was able to try their famous strawberry shortcake on the last day of the season. I'm not normally a fan of this type of dessert, but this place was amazing. The fresh strawberries are perfectly balanced. The shortcake didn't get soggy and had a nice texture. Surprisingly, the soft serve vanilla ice cream was smooth and very flavorful. Can't go wrong with a mountain of whip cream, either. I can't wait to try their strawberry shake. There was a long line which was expected on the last day , but service was so quick with plenty of seating. Cool weekend spot!

Jay N — Google review

My first time here and it won’t be my last night. We were out on a Tampa Bay Adventure and stumbled across here. I was wondering why everyone was coming out with a pink drink at 9am and now I see why. The best strawberry milkshake I ever had. It was nice to do some produce shopping and not spend $100 bucks. Also had a great mixed cup of boiled peanuts. Some salted and some spicy. It was a perfect pit stop to our next stop. Hoping to come back for the strawberry shortcake.

Leo — Google review

We visited last weekend and it is worth the visit even if not strawberry season. During strawberry season it is a must visit to eat their delicious shortcake with plenty of seating to dine in. There is always a large selection of produce and plants at good prices. There is a lot of cute gift items and planters but they tend to be unique but pricey. Always easy to park and can take your time shopping. nice and efficient staff.

Linda F — Google review

Parksdale Farm Market did not disappoint!! We got the strawberry shortcake topped with ice cream and oh man, we devoured them!! The line was long, however the turn over rate was insanely short so don't let the line scare you away! The workers were friendly and we absolutely loved being able to explore the plant section!

Paige M — Google review

Great place for fresh produce and strawberry sundae, shortcake and strawberry milkshakes. This place is packed at Saturdays, so parking is a bit tricky. The plant market has great sitting area with restrooms and goodies market right next. Check the pictures, the diversity of orchids and plants are astounding. Love to see all these kids fighting their parents for one more ice cream or sweet treats...lolz....bring your little ones, they are gonna love it .

Shahedul I — Google review

Highly recommend this place. A hidden gem! All the produce is super fresh and there is tons to look at. You have to try the strawberry shortcake it’s so delicious. Definitely will come back

Katie L — Google review

During our trip to Tampa we visited this farmer’s market based on a recommendation from a Youtube Video. One word: Awesome!After driving about 20 miles from Tampa Downtown, we were amazed to see so many people waiting in line on a weekday afternoon. Pretty much everyone got their Strawberry shortcake and it was magical. I would say go for the one with non dairy and vanilla ice cream toppings.Our son opted for milkshake and it was great as well. Strawberry shortcakes are only available till about first week of April.Boiled peanuts is another gem. We liked both salted and spicy varieties. Recommend visiting them if you are in Tampa.

Sagar B — Google review

I love buying produce here! The prices are good and depending on what’s in season very fresh. It’s a charming outdoor market. There’s strawberry shortcake, shakes and ice cream cones too. A large selection of plants for indoor and outdoor. Canned food items, kitchen towels with clever sayings, hats, Tshirts, Florida souvenirs just to mention a few other items. Enjoy!

Nancy C — Google review

Stopped here while visiting family in Tampa. What FUN place. A plant lovers dream. Famous strawberry shortcake with so many different options to order to your liking. Lots of fresh produce, jams, jellies and many unique gifts. Loved how it's laid out.. beautiful area to sit and take in the surroundings. If I lived in FL.. I'd want to work here 😊

JeMaZal — Google review

Great variety of fresh produce, plants and local items. The shortcake line moves fast so don’t let the line scare you away. Also, it is worth the wait.

Tiffany L — Google review

We visited here on a weekend. They were soo packed. They had all these fresh fruits and vegetables on the market side and the other side. They sell some of the best strawberry treats. Strawberry shortcake, strawberry shakes, and cookies as well as jams and other items. The side with the tables is in a garden. You don't even feel like you're outside. It was so cute. When you visit here make sure to take pics in the little strawberry chair in the garden.

The F — Google review

Visited today and it surely didn’t disappoint! The strawberry shortcake was absolutely delicious. The sweetness wasn’t overwhelming it was done just right. Love the market and the cute picnic area! Lines are long but it goes down quickly! Also parking is a little nuts but we parked fairly quickly even though it was full. Definitely recommend this place for all friends and families!

Vanessa C — Google review

My wife went specifically for the strawberry shortcake which is talked about all over the state of Florida and it lived up to the hype. The strawberries are beautiful and perfect. They almost look like the fake plastic fruit that you see on table centerpieces. We bought the honey gold pineapple which was so delicious. It literally had a honey flavor in addition to the ripe pineapple. It was so good. The grapes were large and crisp on the outside and full of flavor. This is a must for fruit lovers. This is a wonderful time of year for good fruit and Parksdale farm market is the place to get it. Try the milkshakes too while you’re there.

Steve C — Google review

I *LOVE* the quirky charm of roadside stands/produce stands. There’s something so fulfilling walking through and purchasing items from these places when we are seeing more and more chains and more and more modernization (anyone else miss 80’s/90’s restaurant decor?) This is why I was immediately drawn to Parkesdale Farms upon moving to Plant City 7 years ago. We can’t lose places like this. We will just end up with soulless grey fast food boxes. I feel honored to work with Parkesdale to put on Flower Power Garden Fest, filled with local and passionate business owners selling handmade and hand-grown things. I hope more people feel this way and treasure small businesses like Parkesdale. A lot goes into running them. A serotonin boost, a new plant, AND a delicious milkshake? Yess please!

The G — Google review

Do you love Strawberries 🍓? If so, the next time you’re driving through Florida, carve out some extra time to stop in Plant City, FL. This is a great family stop. My kids loved the milkshakes, strawberry shortcake and strawberry sundae…the best part is this place gives you huge portions! As a bonus you can pickup some fresh fruits & veggies.

Terry S — Google review

Pretty great place to visit. Little out of the way, but a perfect afternoon. The plants are absolutely spectacular & the Strawberries are obviously amazing!

Tracy K — Google review

I visited on a weekend, it was definitely busy but not to the point that you would wait for long. Just about 3-4 min and you’re good to go with your order.Fresh produce around, you can buy plants, herbs and such a simple but colourful place. I think especially this season when it’s not hot out here in Florida. You would just feel like sitting there for a while having the shortcake or a milkshake or both !

A A — Google review

Saw that it was the best strawberry shortcake in the world. My favorite, so we stopped in. The line was massive but went very quickly. I ordered the 1 strawberry shortcake. I was a bit disappointed. The cake was nothing but mush and the whipping cream was ok. Strawberries were good. Great little farm market with fresh produce. The atmosphere was great!

Nina B — Google review

4.7

(5105)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (69)

4.5

(534)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (70)

3702 W Baker St, Plant City, FL 33563, USA

(813) 752-0502

13

Big Cat Rescue

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (71)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (72)

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (73)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (74)

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Permanently closed

Wildlife rescue service

Zoos & Aquariums

The Big Cat Rescue is a non-profit organization that provides care for large cats who have been abused or abandoned. The sanctuary is home to more than eighty animals, including lions, tigers, lynxes and leopards. Visitors can take tours of the facility to see these animals up close. There are also night safaris and photo tours available. The organization relies on donations from the public to keep it running.

Visited long before the Netflix show came out and I am glad we did. Such a great place and we loved it. The animals looked very well taken care of. It’s a shame they closed due to the absurdity of people and honestly the safety of the owners. Once they reopen I will be bringing my other daughter so she can experience it as well.Note: the photo is from years ago when BCR had an exhibit in the mall. Been supporters for years!!

Angel R — Google review

It's closed to the public now. All the signs are down. Pretty area a walk / bike path goes along one of the sides of the property but all you can see is what I posted in these pics.

Sue C — Google review

Glad to hear they are closed. I hope it stays that way. I wouldn't recommend taking your kids to a place like this. Cedar Point kings island Disneyland and any of the above would be a much better idea. After watching a movie series This place put a bad taste in my mouth And I would never take my children anywhere near this place. You know Carol knows best for the whole United States. Lmfao what a joke..... Don't Waste your hard earn money or your time.

Brandon K — Google review

The closing of this park is good. Even if they were rescuing animals, they are living in way too small enclosures, from what I've seen on photos and videos. I hope the animals have a better place in the future.

Cornelia B — Google review

We had Kristen, Bridget, and Jeff as our guides. They were very friendly and made the experience educational yet enjoyable. They answered questions honestly and if they did not know the answer they did not pretend. As a whole Big Cat Rescue is so worth the money. You get a guided tour where you have a device and a fresh ear phone. When you pass by a rescue cat the guide will play a story through your ear phone so you understand what happened to and why the cat is now in a sanctuary. All of the habitats are large and truly enjoyable for the cats. This truly was an amazing experience that will touch your heart. They had said at the very end that if you call and read off the script (pictured) it is worth 100 signatures on a petition.

Chelsea B — Google review

never been, but the fact they made the decision to close in order to protect their big cats is remarkable. it genuinely angers me seeing people get frustrated with such a decision, knowing they only care for the amusement park type aspect to it. probably the same people who didn’t wear masks or spread Covid due to no precautions. thank you for protecting lovable and deserving creatures, everybody on the team is definitely selfless and hard working people :,) <3

Mateo B — Google review

Here me out, I have never been to Big Cat Rescue for a lot of good reasons, I will list my top three...1. Their donations aren't for the cats. It's about the money, if they were spending it on the cats, the enclosures would look bigger and there would be more foliage and possibly more land. The sanctuary looks like it hasn't been redone in about 20/30 years.2. They promote cub petting. Which is a cruel act against the cubs especially the mother. I understand if it's a smaller species of cat like a lynx or a caracal. But not cubs, especially tiger cubs who depend on their for at least a year or two.3. For the people that have visited this sanctuary, if you want the better for the animals, stop visiting Big Cat Rescue and go to an actual zoo that takes care of their animals or visit one of the wolf sanctuaries in California, who are struggling financially and the state trying to take away their land. Visit Clearwater aquarium or Jacksonville zoo who rehabilitate animals and properly release them in the wildThat's all for my review

Lacey K — Google review

Extremely disrespectful people! Responses to bad reviews such as "I fear for your children" and "reconsider your life choices" are outrageous! Not everybody is going to enjoy visiting your establishment.. Learn some manners and common decency.Edit.. in response to your reply; I think you have proven my point beautifully!You have no guest list, if you did you'd see that I am on it.

Rachel M — Google review

Went on the keeper tour. We loved it and the work they have put into the rescue center is amazing. Staff are great and very knowledgeable. The 2 hour tour may have been a little long on my 10 year old, but the 12 year old loved it. For 2 hours it may be a little expensive but I think it's well worth it.

Eric W — Google review

This is a great place for wild cats sanctuary. They really do take care of their wild cats that have been abused. Whether they were former circus performers, from people who think they can raise tigers, lions in their home then have gotten too wild or people breeding them illegally for private sales. These cats are well take care of here and can live out their lives in peace without abuse.

Hanh N — Google review

Shout out to CB. Passing thru your area, was hoping to meet you but looks like you’re closed. Can you recommend a good cut of meat at the Smokey Bones BBQ joint next door to your establishment? Smells really good.

Kelli A — Google review

From research and experience, very bad place. Replies to these reviews are repetitive and down right ignorant. I do not need to visit this place when I have interent access that gives me photos and proof on the life of these animals.Animals are in small spaces and need a bigger enviroment as well as different indoor and outdoor enclosures in order to give them their proper needs. The small cages for feeding are not acceptable and do not give the animals proper enrichment, they need to have dead animal body parts scattered round and possibly even different animal scents in order to give them the proper wild experience they lack.The cages as I said before need to be larger and they need an indoor enclosure as well that can keep them out of the rain and harsh weathers, America suffers from tornadoes and earthquakes so assuring there safety during those times building a shelter that can protect them would be helpful as well as give them another place to hide away from the people that visit your "rescue".You can be hands off with them and still go into their cages to give them everything they need and even if i was to watch your own spin off of tiger king on netflix i ensure i could point out so many wrongs in it. If you want to give them the best life up to death than please do it properly.And if the big cat that has seizures from loud sounds like helicopters is still alive, i would highly suggest building a sound proof indoor enclosure for them so if you hear a helicopter approaching it has a place to go to that will avoid this issue.And also please pay the people that work for you, they take time out of their day to do a job and get no pay for it and needs to be sorted out, if you was doing that in the UK you would be shut down for abusing employees.If your gonna copy paste your response like you did with everyone elses, dont bother responding. Just take what i say in consideration.

Axel H — Google review

Do take your self, friends, family to this wonderful Rescue. You will learn so much about how these cats got there, through no fault of their own and cannot be returned to the wild. Most came from horrible places.Take the feeding tour..much value here and your money goes to help sustain these magnificent creatures who need our support.No where can you get so close and the cats are happy and healthy, they even have a vacation area to run and enjoy. Tigers have a portion of the lake to enjoy safely. Much thought went into this habitat for the cats. Become a supporter. This is a wonderful experience.

Susan K — Google review

I loved visiting this place and I love going back when I'm in Tampa. This is not a zoo but a place for felines who can no longer live in the wild. You will meet cats that used to be mistreated or were rejected by zoos because of their age/health. The only way to visit is with a guided tour where they will tell you the story of every feline living in the rescue. I loved how they have big areas to play and run. The volunteers do an amazing job here, they're very informative, and the cats look very happy. At the end of the tour, you can go visit the store. There is also an area where you can adopt one of the cats.

Claudia C — Google review

Big Cat Rescue is really great! They do amazing work there caring for big cats that would otherwise not have a safe place to live out their days. They are not a zoo, but an actual rescue. The cats always come first. Highly recommend a visit. You'll learn a lot.

Don C — Google review

Absolutely wonderful place that rescues big cats from bad situations and gives them a safe habitat and care. Such an amazing experience!!!! I would highly recomend visiting Big Cat Rescue. It was very clean. The cats looked and acted very well cared for. The guide Jennie was very informative and really sweet. Elizabeth the volunteer was a total sweet heart too. Everyone was great. Such an amazing experience!

Donna P — Google review

I don't know if I have the words for how much I love this place and what they do for these cats' lives who have (with a few exceptions) been rescued from horrible conditions. These cats have huge enclosures and the cats who choose to do so take turns going on "vacation" in even larger enclosures. The bigger cats vacation enclosure is 2.5 acres! You can watch the big cats' vacation enclosure 24/7 on explore dot org. Some people only see a small part of a cat's enclosure and think the enclosure is small. If it looks small, they went through a door or tunnel from a much larger area. The cats get enrichment (different sprays or spices on toys and treats) to help keep them from getting bored since they should be living in the wild instead of in cages. Because of the amazing care they receive, many of these cats live into their 20's when they would only live to be 10-12 in the wild. The cats couldn't be more spoiled or loved by the staff, keepers, and interns who go through very extensive training and are all really knowledgeable. The tours are awesome and given by volunteers so every bit of the money goes towards the care of the cats. BCR does so much to fight for big cats' rights, end the abuse, and would actually love to go out of business! They know big cats should not be in captivity and provide the best possible care and the most love for their cats who were born into captivity and therefore can never go free.

Jen S — Google review

Truly amazing rescue. when the guides talk about each cat you can hear the sympathy in their voices and see the passion in their eyes. As happy as it was to see these animals happy, safe and VERY well fed, its still emotional hearing about where they came from and how many cats are still out there not receiving the care they need. We had a great guide named Tonya. She was very knowledgeable, very personable and cool as hell. She volunteers there most days out of the week. Shes there to make a difference, not for a paycheck. Everyone there is a special type of person. Also. They are working to get a big cat public safety act hr 1380 passed. You should call your local rep and tell them you support the act!

Brian G — Google review

Big Cat Rescue is a huge favorite of mine. I went once eight years ago and returned this year for my birthday. They take such great care of all of the cats and the tour guides know every single one's story. Their mission is noble and the education they provide is top notch. Being able to see these cats relaxed and peaceful is an amazing experience that everyone should get to have.

Harleigh C — Google review

4.7

(1526)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (75)

4.5

(2225)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (76)

12802 Easy St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA

(813) 920-4130

14

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (77)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (78)

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (79)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (80)

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Theme park

Water & Amusement Parks

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an African themed amusement park with thrilling rides, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. It is one of the top attractions in Tampa for guests all year round.

A really nice park to visit for a day. Some of the rides are a little rough, but all in all a lot of fun.The Sesame Street kids area was wonderfully themed and had some great things for my son to do.Security took a little while to get through but I think that is my biggest complaint. The food and beverages around the park were delicious.

Corey A — Google review

Our visit was on Groundhog Day, lucky us, six more weeks of cooler weather. Great day to stroll this amazing theme park. Animals appeared to be more active today than in the heat of summer.Wonderful wildlife (caged or fenced in) viewing areas throughout the park. Many thrill rides and children areas. A very nice train ride where you can see many different animals. Train has wheelchair access on board. A variety of dining options; somewhat pricey. Lunch for two, Chicken Tenders / Fries / two drinks can set you back over $30. There is 10% off food, 20% off merchandise with annual pass. Check web site as prices and offers may change.Many of the attraction and shows were closed due to maintenance or health concerns. Just the same, a very enjoyable day out with family.Park is clean and staff are polite and pleasant.Recommended checking website for prices, events, and times before showing up in the parking lot.

El K — Google review

Overall wasn’t the best experience, some rides are really fun, train ride was good as well, however most animals on the train ride can’t be seen. Lines are fast moving and organized. Layout is cute. Some misters around the park to cool off was much needed, more would have been perfect. Customer service is basically non existent in the restaurant and cafe we went in. Would we go again not sure 🤔

Rima A — Google review

We arrived shortly before 9am and there were cars already waiting in line. The park opens at 10am, however, they opened the lines for parking at 930am. You can either walk to the gates or take the tram. If you have purchased tickets online, you can go directly to the self-ticketing kiosk, and scan your printout and you will receive your tickets. The park is nice, loved being able to see the animals. It was cold, so going on the roller coasters was interesting 🥶 the best ride for me was Cobra's Curse. Loved going backwards and spinning in the coater cart 💯 but it was a short ride! The longest waiting ride, is Cheetah Hunt. You will want to ride this one as soon as you get in! Definitely lots to see and do. I suggest more spots for purchasing coffee, tea and hot chocolate. Too cold for ice cold beer! LOL!

C R — Google review

Great rides staff is rude and acts like they hate their job . Don't get me started on the waste of money on the highest season passes we paid for . No preferred parking we are always told and there is always plenty of spots open , extremely rude parking people at the pay booths saying they have security and I'm not allowed to even look to see if they have any spots open when that was a lie . Aside from that the park is dirty and they choose to do yearly maintenance on rides when it gets warm outside and not in off season . Now keep in mind aside from that they have a lot of nice rides and it's beautiful and peaceful there at night time so don't not go cause of a few issues . If you like coasters then it's a great place

Chris D — Google review

Great place for kids. We loved Elmo's show, the kids area, the zoo. You need a few hours to see the whole park. They do have food areas, a very nice restaurant, many rides for kids 5-7 years old. Also many places where you can be inside to cool off. Very nice experience. My 5 years old son had a blast. He loved the hippo, giraffes and cheetah. Mamma Kangaroo had a baby and my kid was very happy to see that.

Simona C — Google review

Visited on an extremely hot day! This may have benefited us as wait time for rides and attractions were very short. Purchased the food pass, we thought this worked best for us, as we planned on a long day at the park. We ended up being there for 7 hours. So it was a perfect pick for us. The food is good, don't expect fine dining but our family of 4 enjoyed it the options provided to us!Our kids loved the Sesame Street area, thats where they could have most of their fun! Splash pad, kids roller coasters, and animal exhibits were great! With it being so hot out, some of the animals were interested in getting their pictures taken.

Zachary L — Google review

We went to Busch Gardens for a day when it got a bit chilly for beach fun. It was Monday, December, 3rd, the last day of Christmas break and it wasn’t very crowded. Quick queue passes and all day dining made our day really easy and stress free. These triple the cost of your ticket but are well worth it, if don’t want to spend all the time in lines and have several teenagers in the family who eat a lot like we do. All day dining includes an entrée, a side or desert and a fountain drink in any of 5 main restaurants every hour. It doesn’t include any snacks or other food vendors. Mind: you still have to wait in lines to get food in restaurants, so we didn’t even go to a BBQ place that smelled so good, the line was probably more than an hour long there and we didn’t want to waste time. We also went on Serengeti safari tour and loved it: got to feed the giraffes and see all the animals up close. The rides are awesome, me and our youngest kid 9y.o. did some family friendly rides, which were too much for me anyways (I just can’t do any roller coasters). My husband with older kids had a blast on all the crazy rides. Everyone loved our day in Busch Gardens, we’ll definitely be back.

Eva V — Google review

Went on a Tuesday mid July. Park was fairly busy but literally everything was shut down. It rained for a bit but other than that it was just cloudy but they kept the rides and games closed anyways. I was there for 4 hours and got to ride 1 ride and play 1 game, the rest of the time was us walking around the park trying to find something to do. The animal exhibits were cool though, animals were very active. Don’t get the all day dining. It only works for certain restaurants and their food is sub par at best since it seems it’s not very organized in terms of making it and getting it out. I got chicken tenders and fries and it made me almost puke (I hate saying this because I know it’s an amusement park, but this was just bad). The one ride I rode was fun though, it was the new iron coaster and was a lot of fun. Line went by at a decent pace and the ride itself was fun. Staff were friendly and helpful whenever we needed it. Honestly, just save your money and go to universal or somewhere else. $300 to waste that I can’t get a refund on!

Bre C — Google review

A great place for families with children. We spent three days there - that's all you need to see and do all the attractions. great option to travel by train around the complex - safari wonderful! Sesame Street and attractions around it - very well thought out, for children of all ages and more. We had a great time here! We'll be back someday :)

Emilia R — Google review

The fun card pass works best because we had rain for several days and you may not always qualify for a rain pass refund. We can also use this particular pass for the rest of the year, in case we decide to go back. The all day meal pass works best for large groups. Several restaurants provide a good portion size, so kids could probably share a meal together from one pass. The train ride is perfect for getting to different areas of the park, while getting photos of the wildlife. Make sure to check out the shows, they had an ice skating show that was a quality event, plus it is cool inside, if you need a break from the heat. The vehicle parking is across the street from the park. They have a tunnel that allows you to access the preferred parking area, which gets you really close to the entrance (it's a $15 premium over regular parking). If you download the app, the map feature will actually help guide you through the park. The location function must be active on the phone. The app will also store all your passes if you buy online, so you will not need to keep up with tickets. If it is raining, some of the walking paths can be slick. We saw one kid running and tried stopping quickly and ended up on their behind.

Richard N — Google review

I've been here a bunch of times over the years, ever since I was a kid, back with the original owners of the theme park. I most recently visited in Feb 2023. It was fun. It wasn't as fun compared to ten or twenty years ago. I feel like the park has lost some of its luster. Not run down per se, but just not as much upkeep as I remember compared to previous visits. But, the roller coasters were a lot of fun. And if that's why you're coming to Busch Gardens, and it probably is, then it's a decent place to visit.

David P — Google review

Fantastic, you get to experience the best of both worlds a zoo and a theme park. My son and I could not explore much because it was raining, and the park had to close for weather safety. We Will go back. The rides are cool and exciting. Many restaurants, and the ambiance is exciting. The scenery is different than other theme parks. That is what makes it unique.

Buffet D — Google review

I recently visited Busch Gardens in Tampa, and it was an incredible experience! The park is a perfect blend of thrilling rides and amazing animal encounters. The roller coasters like SheiKra and Cheetah Hunt were a blast, and the animal exhibits were both educational and entertaining.The staff were friendly and helpful, and the park was clean and well-maintained. The food options were diverse, and I particularly enjoyed the dining experience at Serengeti Overlook Restaurant. The landscaping and scenery throughout the park are stunning, making it a great place to enjoy a day outdoors.Whether you're a thrill-seeker or looking for a fun family day out, Busch Gardens has something for everyone. I can't wait to return for more adventures and excitement. Highly recommended!

Jennifer R — Google review

Amazing park in Tampa. Lot ofRides and fun activities inside along with animals. Loved this place. Enjoyed till last moment. DON’T miss any rides. Has good amount of rides for toddlers as well.. Sure I am gonna visit this place again..

Sam K — Google review

This place is a hidden gem. Not too crowded. Get here early and the lines for rides are not bad at all. The later you stay, the longer the lines get for the rides.The staff are helpful and friendly. The animals are worth the trip. So many to see. Gorgeous representation of their species. The park is clean. They do an outstanding job of keeping it presentable.Cost of food here is like you would expect at an amusement park. Quality of food is subpar at the locations we did try.Overall, my visit was amazing. It was well worth the visit. One FULL day is all that's needed to do everything you need to do here. Two FULL days will allow you to get your complete fill of the amusement park.

Jonathan W — Google review

Great park with a mix of big coasters and smaller rides. A fair number of rides and restaurants were closed. We were definitely there on a slow day, barely a wait for anything except lunch. The Sesame area is really fun for the little kids. The tree house was a favorite.

Suzanne A — Google review

Fantastic day out with the family.Easily accessible parking (albeit a little expensive) with a short connecting land train to the park. We had purchased tickets via an agent and they were really easy to collect from the self service machines.The food options were great. We took advantage of the all day dining option and despite reading some pretty damning reviews, I felt it offered excellent value for money - we each had five drinks throughout the day and two meals which were great portions and very tasty. The food at Zambia Smokehouse in particular was really nice.The rides are brilliant and there are a great selection for all ages. We visited on a weekday and in general the lines for all rides were short and I think the longest wait was around 30 minutes.The animal element of the park is great and our kids loved seeing Flamingos, Giraffes, a Rhino, Gators and Elephants as well as loads more. The staff all really seem to genuinely care about the animals too and it was lovely to see them caring for them throughout the day. The environments in which they are kept seem to be as close to natural as they can be and none of the animals at any point looked like they were sad to be 'on show'.In summary, a great day. A completely different experience to the other theme parks in Florida and well with a visit if you haven't been before.

David H — Google review

Just AMAZING.I payed for the safari tour, Sloth tour and Penguin tour and it was amazing ❤️ such a wonderful experience! I honestly love the fact that they explain to you so many things about how to help the conservation, how to save the wildlife and how their bodies work and such. I learned so much and I was just amazed by the greatness of every single animal I saw. ❤️The park is great, clean and had wonderful workers.

Luisa S — Google review

Had a blast here. Went on a Thursday and lines were fairly short was able to ride most the rides multiple times and even getting front seats. I would suggest the food and drink day pass and share it. You can get food and a drink every 90 minutes. We really enjoyed the safari ride and feeding the Giraffes. It was an awesome experience. I also enjoyed the amount of animals to see mixed in to the amusement park and rides. The Iron Gwazi was awesome and would absolutely suggest the front seat for the 91 degree drop.

Bradford L — Google review

Amazing day at Busch Gardens (June 10 2024). Quiet day, most we waited for any ride was 30 minutes, most wait times were under 15 minutes. Iron Gwazi is insane, and all the coaster there are amazing fun. A great day out for everyone. Combines the best of a zoo and a theme park.

Simon C — Google review

This place was great. There is plenty to do for kids and adults. The kids rode the rides, and we looked at the animals. The kids loved it. It is a big park and it does have plenty of places to eat. We bought the dining pass, and it was worth it. General parking was fine with the trams running.

Chad M — Google review

I love this park. The coaster section is great. The shows are pretty good for amusement parks. The animal tours are outstanding. We love to take people to the safari to feed the giraffes.The cost of admission is a great value with the fun card. Pay once and go the whole year. The memberships have great perks, free tickets , free money to eat in the park, discount tickets etc

Matthew K — Google review

This is my first time at this location. I was very surprised to find that not only does the park have rides and attractions but it also has a grief focus on wild animals. There is an Animal Care Center that you can enter and at times there will be a veterinarian taking care of an animal. There are exam rooms that have clear glass in front of them so that you can observe what the doctor does with the animals. The park seems to be well-designed for families. I would recommend this place if you want thrill rides animals and family fun!

Michael S — Google review

I love Busch gardens. I used to go to the one in Virginia. I felt it was much better in the terms of maintenance. May be the Tampa bay park isn’t that well maintained probably due to they just opening to public after Covid. I had gone to this park in the late summer of last year.This location also has a small zoo. The roller coasters are pretty good, the park has something for everyone. They also have shows.Would definitely come back here.

Sindu — Google review

Been a Florida resident my whole life and Busch Gardens never disappoints. It is a fantastic park! The animals, the rides, the attractions... they even have up close animal encounters which are amazing. I would definitely recommend everyone go spend the day. As the rides are exciting, the park itself is relaxing and caters to everyone... whether you are a ride enthusiast, park lover, admirer of animals... everyone will have a great day.

Ashley H — Google review

We always have a great time at Busch Gardens! Lots of exciting roller coasters, beautiful animals with amazing conservation efforts, and fun shows. We liked the new Summer shows. Open late for Summer Nights. Closed a few times for Summer thunder storms, but that's to be expected in the Florida Summer. They do a great job keeping everyone safe. Wonderful staff! Very accommodating for my child with autism. Oasis Pizza was yummy! Our favorite is always the pretzels at Twisted Tail though. That's a must try! The price of the drink refills have gone up again, but the cups are still a good deal, especially when you want to stay hydrated in this heat. You'll wish you got a refillable cup. Love having a pass and we will definitely be back!

Jennielle P — Google review

First time at Busch Gardens, and it was great overall. My wife and I went on Friday, and it was surprisingly quit empty for a Friday, so it meant super quick lines. We never had to wait much for any of the rides. The ride "Kumba" was closed along with one of the water rides, which was a bummer. Also, some of the animal attraction places were empty with no signs, so that was a waste of time. Parking was $30 for the day ($45 for preferred parking), but you can take the mini tram that drives you to the front entrance of the park. The rides were definitely fun. Food options are okay over there, and the markups on beverages/water are insane (we paid close to $6 for a water bottle there...). The park felt like it was missing more rides as we got done pretty quick with no lines, and it also felt like workers were just waiting around. All in all, I'd definitely recommend paying a visit if you are in town as the rides are fun and thrilling.

Mohammed A — Google review

This place is awesome!! It has a lot of roller coasters for adults and young people and there is a special area for kids that is pretty big! You can find food, beverages, souvenirs and more! You can also enjoy the different attractions and shows, you can spend the whole day here without being bored. I really recommend it. I had a really great time here.

Becca L — Google review

We had a lot of fun here. I grew up going to Six Flags in Georgia and the rides and everything here were so much better. My favorite was the cheetah coaster. I love how everything in the park is themed and decorated and all the foliage everywhere helped keep it cooler along with all the fans. They had some Halloween decorations up as well, that was cool to see. We already want to come back again.

Jennifer S — Google review

Had an amazing time. Best theme park. Roller coasters are awesome. Safari experience is a one of a kind. Food is amazing and the atmosphere is full of fun! Glad I'm a newly season ticket holder!

Erik N — Google review

Love this place and the events they throw throughout the year. Definitely the type of amusement park where you get the best of both worlds: thrilling rollercoasters and viewing animals!Definitely being a local, it’s worth it to get an annual pass for the perks and discounts. My friends and I love coming for the special events each month and seeing new shows and performances that come in or eat during their food-festival events. We are big fans of the regular foods available all-year, too, where this park definitely is above other theme parks in the state for food quality and cost.The animals look well cared for. The staff in the animal’s spaces can answer a lot of questions about them. You can also see that they have buildings dedicated to animal rehabilitation (like surgeries) and conservation efforts.Of course this is Florida and the weather can be nasty at times, they will close down rides due to weather issues in the area. This is when my friends and I would catch a show or go walk by the animal areas if it’s lightly drizzling. All the rides are outdoors, so it’s likely when the weather reports say it’s raining that all of the rides are down for that time.Parking is $30, if you are a silver or gold annual pass member, it’s free.

Ana — Google review

Busch Gardens Tampa is an amazing place! This place doesn't really have as many roller coasters as other major parks do. but I think that all of the other rides makeup for that. The coaster collection is very strong and has some of the best in the world. The flat rides in the park are also very good. The quality of the park is in very good shape after over 50 years of operation. The one complaint that I have is how there are too little kid rides and family oriented attractions. The food here in my opinion is like any other theme park food. Overall, this place is worth visiting for anyone.

Jonathan C — Google review

I love Bush Gardens! They have a wide variety of coasters plus lots of other rides for all ages and thrill seeking levels. The shows I have seen are fantastic, especially Turn it Up Remix (ice skating show). They have many animals there, including the Serengeti Savannah which you can do a safari or take the train through. There is so much to do and it is a beautiful park!It can get crowded with long lines, so you might want to pay for the quick queue.

Will G — Google review

This place offers the best of both worlds, a zoo and a theme park. We started off with a train ride which brought us on a safari like tour across the plains. Being a parent with two young kids, we were definitely pleased to see the large playground with rides suited kids below the age of six. We ended the day with the ice skating show at the theatre which showcases exceptional ice skating talent. Definitely a day well spent.

Henry L — Google review

There is something for everyone aged. There is so much to see and do. The tickets with eat all day are great value. You get to eat every 90 minutes if you want. This includes a main meal, desert, and a drink. There's a wide range of animals and wide choice of rides and amusements.

Chris T — Google review

This is one of my favorite parks. This park has something for everyone. They have adrenaline roller-coasters, they have a zoo, they have shows, and kids areas.We got there early and were able to leave no wait in the first couple of rides.SheiKra, with the 90-degree drop is my favorite ride in the park. They also have Cheetah Hunt with a high speed which I love too.We went on the train around the park. The kagoroo encounter was very nice.Overall, everyone will find something to have fun.

Steven Z — Google review

Definitely had a blast here! We were fortunate to catch it on a less busy day, so ride times moved decently! Park was kept clean which was nice to see. Be prepared to spend $$$ on food, drinks and souvenirs. (But, thats no surprise at a theme park!) I'd most certainly enjoy another trip back! The coasters are pretty next level! And, as a side note... the app is pretty unreliable for ride times/ride closures, so better to just head to the ride of choice and check it out!

H L — Google review

Great number of animals to see on the train tour. Roller coasters are awesome, but be careful if you are 6 foot or taller. You won't be able to fit on a few of them. Had a great time.

Edward W — Google review

The Food and Wine Festival had great options! We purchased the stamp card and it was perfect. They do have a few vegan and vegetarian options at a few of the stands. The rides had short lines today, but we also purchased the fast pass. We waited maybe 2 minutes for one of the rides. All the rollercoasters were awesome! We had a great experience today and will be back in the future. Also, they actually had a decent amount of stuff for kids to do.

Chris — Google review

It is a great location but needs complete renovation on some parts of the park. The entrance looks old, and the paving needs to be painted or renovated. Some buildings also look old. BBQ is a best place to get a lunch. Very tasty brisket, salads.

Yuriy K — Google review

Busch Gardens was the most amazing attraction park I’ve ever been to. I love that the gardens have roller coasters and the zoo filled with something for everyone. You can ride the roller coasters, take a train ride to see the animals, taste some delicious food and have lots of fun.Be prepared for the waiting lines. Getting here early in the morning is the best, you’ll likely skip long lines.

Irina — Google review

Had a great time!! The Safari was SO amazing!! We got to see many different endangered animals and the giraffes came up to our open truck and they gave us big lettuce leaves to feed them! We got amazing pics and memories!The roller coasters are next level! Great fireworks display at the end of the night!

Kyra M — Google review

My first time and it was fantastic.Was in the park from about 11-9 and saw pretty much everything it has to offer and could even enjoy the Goo Goo Dolls doing a show while we walked around that side of the park. Wonderful views from the restaurant/bar overlooking their safari.Ashley and Taylor were wonderful as our Safari guides and I can't think of a place you can get closer to the giraffes.Multiple shuttles to & from the parking lot, easy access and a nice friendly layout.Highly recommend it and can't wait to return.

Joshua T — Google review

My first time going and we had a blast! Plenty to do, we were there for 8 hours. There are animals, kids park and shows, great restaurants. I recommend you buy the all you can eat bracelet for $50. You can eat and drink all day every 90 minutes. There's a BBQ smoke house that's amazing. I had an amazing time!! Can't wait to go again 😍

Ginger C — Google review

Fun amusement park with lots of animals.Lots of fun for children (sesame street themed kids area with rope course. And lots of rides for older kids and adults.If you are going with a child you are allowed to bring outside food and drinks which is amazing.Highly recommend getting the fun pass or annual pass (with parking).

Laura D — Google review

My trip to BGT was phenomenal other than the food. The rides and cleanliness were easily 5-star worthy. Sadly 3 rides were out of service and the customer service we received and the quality of the food was sub-par for Busch Gardens. The only food that was actually decent was at the smoke house.

Tyler R — Google review

I had an amazing time at Busch Gardens! The park is packed with exciting attractions, but Sheikra stole the show for me—it’s hands down the best ride there. The thrill of the 90-degree drop is unbeatable, and I couldn’t get enough of it. The rest of the park is a blast too, with a great mix of roller coasters, animal exhibits, and beautiful landscapes. Even just walking around and taking in the atmosphere was fun. Busch Gardens really knows how to deliver a fantastic day out, and I’m already looking forward to going back!

Luis G — Google review

We had so much fun. I visited 25 years ago as a kid, it was very nostalgic to ride the roller coasters I enjoyed then all these years later. The new additions were great, we will definitely be coming back.

Scott C — Google review

My family had annual passes so we go to Busch Gardens often. It is worth looking at the website and planning if it will be your first time. The park is very big and you will not have time to do everything in one single visit, but by planning you are able to make the most of your time there.The train is one of the best rides there if you want to see the animals, and it is better to do it in the morning.The sesame street area is very cute for children, my nephew enjoys it a lot and we get to do a lot of rides with him there.The food and drinks are great, but there are some not great options. So research and consider what you like before buying anything. I would recommend Dragon Fire Grill where there is a lot of choices to maybe please the entire family.The shows are amazing, especially the ice skating shows. Definitely worth the time and you do get to sit in the AC for a while which is great for the hot summer months.This is one of our favorite parks in FL, and will definitely continue to visit!

Cristina T — Google review

Absolutely awesome! There is something for everyone. There’s a great Sesame Street play area for kids, there are cheers and elephants and other animals. Also flamingoes. There are insanely wild rides and great shows. They have such fabulous shops not crazy prices for gifts and souvenirs. The workers are so friendly and helpful and there are plenty of bathrooms and lockers. The best place ever!!!!

Naomi S — Google review

Good combination between a zoo and amusement park. To enjoy the most of the park, get to it as early as possible. Getting to park takes some time but it’s well organized. My recommendation here is to enjoy the rollercoasters and outside attractions in the morning since in the afternoon it’s most likely to rain and those attractions get canceled. A lot of shows to enjoy. The all-day-dining option is a good deal, we paid $30 per person, and could eat a meal every 90 minutes. The chicken at the Dragon Fire Grill & Pub was awful. If you can, avoid it.

Paola ( — Google review

This place is so fun. The cheetah ride is a blast and so fast! My daughter loved the river ride.The food was really good and I loved that all the animals had nice enclosure and they were very clean and wide open. We will definitely go back. Perfect place for people of all ages. Lots of fun things to do for very small children as well. I appreciate all the shade they provide as Florida heat can be miserable at times.

Jessica V — Google review

Definitely not how I remember it. I went years ago with family and we had the best time. This time around, we purchased 2-day tickets and after the first day we did not want to return. I realize it’s an amusement park and everything is expensive, but charging $5 per person to ride the SkyRide after getting overpriced tickets seems a little ridiculous. There were also numerous rides closed down which was disappointing, and we found the park catered to the safari/wildlife scene more than rollercoaster attractions. The rides we did go on were great, but again, we had to purchase lockers every single time we got on a ride. Overall, it was a disappointing experience and we will most-likely not be returning.

Cam — Google review

The rides were great. The place has a combination of zoo and roller coasters rides. Must try Iron Gwazi. You should take it as the first ride when you enter the park . The only complaint is that they had the people with the water mister to spray water to cool down the temperature, but only saw them when the park opens and no one since then till the end of day.

Nha P — Google review

My wife and I attended the Food and Wine Festival on Saturday May 11th. We had a great date day, it's is Veterans appreciation month at Busch gardens so active and Veterans military and up 3 family members get FREE TICKETS FOR ADMISSION FOR THIS EVENT THAT'S A SAVINGS OF $280.00.We still had to pay separate for the Food and Wine Festival but it was still great 👍 👌 🙃 🙂 😅 value for your money 💰 🤑 💸. Caution be careful purchasing the VIP Parking Access it's on a first come ,first serve basis , you are not guaranteed a VIP parking. Other the event for the Food and Wine sampling Festival was good and Busch Gardens is beautiful a must visit.

Jimmy N — Google review

Great roller-coasters and good food. No shows during the week, so plan on walking around seeing animals, which is nice until it gets hot they tend to hide in the shade. Definitely get the meal package, worth it! Waits are not bad during the week.

D. — Google review

Busch Gardens in Tampa is always a go to for me. Hell Tampa Bay in my opinion is the best, and the most relaxing city in Florida. The west coast seems more laid back, and off the beaten path. I prefer this over the slam packed tourist drivers in Orlando.Busch Gardens is all you need in an amusement park, and to go with it is a beautiful Safari tour. The guide was super friendly. This park is not overbearing, and you will have plenty of attractions to appeal your own appetite.I would recommend this to anyone who is in the Tampa area. Thanks Busch Gardens till next time.

Kevin ( — Google review

Be prepared for outrageous amusement park prices. Bottled water was $5 and soda $7.5. The parking was outrageous as well and waiting for the tram in the heat just adds to the annoyance of the high pricing. They definitely need to add some more rides to get the wait lines down unless you want to pay crazy money for quick pass. In addition, need more covered waiting areas for rides as the heat drains you fast. Glad they had buy one get one tickets otherwise would've been really big ripoff.

Brian G — Google review

4.5

(87809)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (83)

4.0

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10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA

(813) 884-4386

15

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

Located in Tampa, ZooTampa features exhibits like the Asian Gardens, Safari Africa and the Primate World. Educational programs are also offered, including opportunities to feed a giraffe and learn about other animals. There is also a water play area for kids.

Such a fun place, my kids love it every-time we go. You buy a ticket once and it’s good for as many times back in the year that you want to come. It’s the perfect size park for kids to be able to do everything and see everything there without being too much. A nice fun day trip. There’s also two splash pads for when it gets hot, which is perfect ! Easy to navigate and the staff is always helpful when you need assistance. They have several rides. Some for little kids and some for bigger, as well as face painting & jungle gyms for the kids to play on as well. My family loves it.

Kira D — Google review

It was a hot summer day, so we took the kids to the zoo! Everything went well, but one observation was that some of the animals were not out, and the kids did not get to see them and experience them. The water activities kept the kids cool and refreshed as we walked around, and the rides were easily accessible (no major lines or wait times). We got the yearly pass for less than the day pass, so we will be going more often for sure!

Yara G — Google review

Loved this zoo!! Well kept/ maintained/ organized! Such a large assortment of animals. Bought the one day ticket that is good for free entry for the rest of the year, so I will be back! Highly recommend. Skip the restaurant, though, high prices, not the best food, and they overcharged us for 3 drinks/ sodas when we only ordered 2. Didn't realize until we got home, and they were $6 each.Great gift shop!

Janette B — Google review

It was a well maintained place. We came when most kids went back to school so it was pretty empty so we could see everything pretty fast. I highly recommend coming to visit. It has a nice water fountain for anyone to cool off so I recommend wearing a swimsuit or fast drying clothing. Overall my experience was awesome. One thing I kind of was sad was most of the animals couldn’t be seen. Maybe they were hiding from the heat or something else. The Zoo was nice, and clean. Would totally recommend!!

David G — Google review

This place was a lot of fun. They have a lot of neat exhibits in there are very interesting animals there. I also really like the Safari ride. It's not as big as a Busch gardens, but it's still very nice suit to visit. It is also very family friendly for young kids.

Scott — Google review

Great zoo! Fun for the kiddos! They have a big Mary go round with authentic animals to ride, a solid playground and even a splash park 👍. We always enjoy taking a family day trip here. The yearly passes are super easy and absolutely worth it if you have kids and plan to go more than a few times per year. This last trip was Halloween nights. All the characters were on point, very fun and family friendly. We had a great time!

Elliott L — Google review

We love this zoo. My daughter started watching their show on Disney and became obsessed with the African "Panda" dog, aka African painted dog. We did a road trip just to visit the dogs. Now, we have been back multiple times. The park has a perfect combination of animals and extra fun kid activities. The Manatee exhibit is my personal favorite. There are so many cool ways to see them up close and realize how much personality those manatees have. Seeing a Florida Panther up close was also neat. The carousel, safari ride, face painting, and log flume ride all break up the day to add an extra layer of fun. My daughter got one of their junior zookeeper vests and wears it constantly. Overall, we had a really good experience at this zoo and have already come back and plan to go more. My only negative is that the lunch options are not very healthy. We ended up doing pizza the first visit, and it was very greasy. That is where I could see room for improvement.

Laura R — Google review

Engaging zoo with clever placement of spray pads to keep you cool. Was hoping for more animals in a zoo of this size, and a better flow of traffic.Appreciated all the different flora and fauna. Everyone was so helpful and friendly. Strongly recommend the reusable beverage cups! We really enjoyed our trip

Laura W — Google review

We had a blast at this place. My boys were mesmerized by the the range of animals. Mommy, Daddy, and Auntie enjoyed the numerous beverages carts around the zoo. I give this place 5 stars but many of the animals were inside due to the chilly weather. Not the Zoo's fault but we didn't see the whole park. It's still deserves 5 stars based off what we saw.

Mike P — Google review

Absolutely loved it here. Great experience and was well worth the money. You can spend many hours here. We spent about 3 hours here. Tons of different animals here and you can tell the zookeepers love their jobs and the animals. They have many backstage experiences as well for an additional cost. Tons of different shows to go see as well in the different regions of the world. Tons of food and beverage spots around the park so if you are in need of something they have it. Parking is free and overall we had a great time here!

Nick G — Google review

The entrance fee was quite pricey - right around $45. The grounds were nicely maintained, and the staff were extremely helpful and pleasant. Had wonderful service from Ryan at the gift shop where we picked up our electric carts for the day. They were also prepared to store our walkers for us in a secure area and were very quick to retrieve them when we arrived back. Food prices were more reasonable than I anticipated, I suggest purchasing their refillable beverage cups when you get there - you can skip the lines and refill the cup as often as you like with soda or icees.

Lisa B — Google review

We got a membership a few months ago and have been four times. It is small enough to see everything, but big enough to have some very cool animals. I love the talks they give about being good stewards of our incredible animals and their efforts towards conservation. When we lived here 25 years ago, my little ones loved going, and now taking them as adults is just as much fun.

Melinda G — Google review

Visited a few times in different years, and it's always a great experience. The animals are well cared for, and their conservation is very extensive and impressionable. My son loves seeing the animals, the staff are always on hand for questions and the food on site is really good 👍 will be going here again for years to come no doubt.

Victoria D — Google review

Super expensive, but all of the attractions are included with the price of admission (carousel, safari tour, ect). We went on a Tuesday in October so most kids were in school, and it was much more enjoyable since it wasn't packed! The zoo was much larger than expected! We were there for about 4 hours and still missed the Africa section. Also, the food and beer selection across the park was fantastic!

Stefanie W — Google review

The personnel were very nice and ready to assist if needed. They do offer strollers, wheelchairs and scooters for rent. The animals there appear healthy and it was clean. They have a lot of food, snack and drink booths throughout the park. There's a carousel, but adults aren't permitted to ride the animals on it. There's a small flume ride and a 30 minute "safari" in a comfortable vehicle. Unfortunately, a lot of animals were unavailable due to either construction or ??? No hyenas, no gorillas, no chimps, no camels, no tigers, no lions. The habitats appear small, but they're clean. Things are expensive. All animal encounters are only available for separate payments. I'm bummed that there wasn't more to do. I will say that for the price of two tickets, we now get to come and go until the end of 2024, yes 2024, for no extra cost, so that's nice and hopefully they'll improve. Also, word has it that they're talkin about destroying the clam shell that's been there forever to make way for more parking...I really hope they don't.

Monarch S — Google review

Such a nice zoo with so many interesting animals! My boys just loved the zoo and all it had to offer. The whole family really enjoyed the Macaw exhibition as soon as we entered the main entrance. The fly overs were amazing to watch! The manatee viewing areas were amazing and were the highlight of our trip to the zoo!!! Tampa City Pass made for an easy entry into the park with no wait lines at all! Highly recommend for a fun family day out.

Sarah B — Google review

We had so much fun at this zoo. Checking in I didn't buy tickets ahead of time and I am thankful I didn't. The assistant was friendly and helped me understand that it was cheaper to get a zoo membership than it was to pay for 2 adults and a 4 year old. Now I have a membership that gets me into select zoos and aquariums all over the US at a discount price, plus a discount when buying stuff inside the zoos and aquariums like the gift shop and pictures. We took other reviewers recommendations and went straight to the safari ride so we wouldn't wait in long lines. Definitely a good idea we had to wait two rotations, the vehicle seats quite a lot of people. I always visit zoos when on vacation, so I didn't do much research about this one. I was pleasantly surprised that there is a water ride, which is included in your ticket to get into the zoo. We where racing a storm on our visit. There is a large splash pad area that my 4 year old didn't get to play in. If there is a storm in the area FL shuts down water rides and splash areas. All the animals look well cared for and have nice enclosures with plenty of enrichment. I kept commenting how thought out the zoo was, there is plenty of shade built over the paths and trees for shady areas. We where there early in the morning and most animals where visable, your always going to have some hiding. Which is good that they have the choice to hide from the heat and hustle and bustle of human chaos. I definitely recommend taking this adventure, it took us about 3 hours and its a beautiful zoo. More time could of been spent if the storm wasn't approaching.

Jess L — Google review

This Zoo has some of the best natural habitats for their animals that we've seen. The staff is also great. The safari is worth the wait as well. We spent most of the day here and still didn't make all of the exhibits. The manatees are great to see up close. The water ride was such a blast for the kids that they went twice! We can't wait to come back again soon.

R S — Google review

Great zoo experienceUserCreate a 25-line review, talking about the excellent experience at the Tampa Zoo, variety of animals, attractions, quality, affordable price, environment, family program, great experience, parking, security and recommend it to everyone.ChatGPTTampa Zoo Review: A Great Experience for the Whole FamilyI recently had the pleasure of visiting the Tampa Zoo and was blown away by my experience. This zoo offers an incredible variety of animals and attractions that captivate people of all ages.Upon entry, I was greeted by friendly and helpful staff who gave me information about the different areas of the zoo. The variety of animals present is impressive - from the majestic African elephants to the adorable meerkats, there is something for everyone.One of the things that most impressed me was the quality of the facilities. The animal enclosures are spacious and well maintained, providing a natural environment for the animals to live. In addition, the zoo offers regular lectures and demonstrations, where you can learn more about the animals' habits and behaviors.A positive point that I must highlight is the affordable price of the ticket. Compared to other zoos, the amount charged is very reasonable, especially considering the quality of the experience offered. The zoo also offers discount options for families and groups, which makes visiting even more affordable.The zoo environment is very pleasant. There are shaded areas to rest and many food options, from quick snacks to full meals. The well-signposted trails and lush vegetation make the ride even more enjoyable, providing a sense of immersion in nature.Another highlight is the program for families. The zoo offers interactive activities, such as feeding animals and encounters with caretakers, which make a visit even more memorable for children. There is also a children's play area with games and toys to keep the little ones entertained.The parking issue was also resolved. There is ample space available, with many vacancies, which makes it very easy for visitors. In addition, security is taken seriously, with staff and surveillance cameras ensuring a safe environment for everyone.In summary, my visit to the Tampa Zoo was an excellent experience. The variety of animals, the interactive attractions, the quality of the facilities, the affordable price, the pleasant environment, the program for families, parking and security were aspects that impressed me positively. I recommend this zoo to anyone looking for an educational and fun experience for the whole family.

Jairo J — Google review

I visited ZooTampa at Lowry Park back in 2021. The place is very big, so I suggest you give yourself some time to explore. I really enjoyed their selection of birds. The monkey exhibit is really cute. You can watch them swing around on ropes and climb towers. If you like hands on experiences- there is an area where the birds are very friendly and sometimes they come so close that they touch you, for myself it was a very pleasant experience. I definitely recommend this Zoo.

Katelyn G — Google review

This zoo is so good we originally went for the day but decided to get a yearly membership. Definitely worth joining, plus 50% of other zoos and aquariums that take part in it. Animals are in habitats that resemble their natural habitat. What an awesome experience to say the least. Go online and plan out your day by feeding the giraffes, or doing one of the other activities with an animal. A kid area with rides, and games for them to play for an additional cost. Also don't forget to ride the safari truck that explains about the different African animals in that area of the zoo. I highly recommend stopping by and checking out what it has to offer.

Jeffrey S — Google review

Went for creatures of the night. Great experience for our 3 yr old great granddaughter. Not to scary. Actors were very considerate to the little ones and did not scare or chase them, but they did the older kids.

Sandra H — Google review

My son had such an amazing time here. He was able to see his favorite animals and more. We had a really good time. The pictures they take of the family are a really fun memory to have.

Xiomara L — Google review

Beautiful, well-kept zoo with happy, healthy animals. You could easily come back every day in a week and see something different. When I visited in January their special exhibit was animatronic dinosaurs. I am a Dino freak so this made me very happy! That was just an added bonus, but a good one.I'm also a birder so seeing all the lorikeets, flamingos, pelicans and more up close was a real treat.

Ellen B — Google review

I quite liked this zoo. It was very busy but the crowds seemed to flow nicely. Parking was free but took a while to find a spot. More food options inside the park would be nice, even snack carts here and there could work out. Most of the animals seemed happy and well looked after. The tiger seemed quite stressed out, pacing back and forth in a habitat far too small for it so thay was kind of sad. The special limited dinosaur exhibit was neat, had a small wait to get in as to keep people sort of spaced out once inside.

Etch250 — Google review

Really really fun and educational. It's been a long time since I've been to "the zoo" and I'm so happy I went to ZooTampa at Lowry Park recently. This place is a full-blown theme park with an incredible amount of animals, activities and education if you're looking for it. We saw some amazing things and I am very content with our day long trip. That said, I got us annual passes and can't wait to go back!

Josh H — Google review

Me and my family had a blast here. Loved being able to see all the different types of animals. The prehistoric predators exhibit was amazing too. Great price for everything that’s included. Only thing that I didn’t like was the adults who were drunk and being loud and saying stuff that shouldn’t be said in front of children.

Dianna W — Google review

Had a great day at the zoo with my wife and 22 month old. There were lots of cool animals to see. It's a nice zoo as well. Very well kept up with. The splash pad was a big hit with my son as well. Great way to cool off in the Florida heat. I recommend going.

Thomas J — Google review

We had a great day at the zoo today! They've added so many new things since the last time I went. The new water ride is really fun. Aunt a great reprieve from the heat. This Zoo just keeps getting better. The kids think it's great and so do we.

Courtney F — Google review

A fantastic zoo. Went without researching (on purpose). I Wasn't expecting a water ride or all the water fountain places to get wet and cool off. Recommend wearing a bathing suit and bringing towels to enjoy it all. Also, most of the feedings were already booked up by an hour of being at the park after opening, so I also recommend booking any animal interactions (feedings, etc) prior to visiting! Overall, a great zoo and we will plan accordingly next time, to enjoy all they have to offer.

Richard B — Google review

You know it’s a great zoo when all the animals were thriving and active throughout our entire time at the zoo. It was quite empty when we went, but it was perfect, not too crowded great visibility on all the animals. Got to see a Macaw training session too!Highly recommend! The ticket was also quite affordable, we bought it at the gate and they had a deal for returning to the zoo throughout 2024.

LeDan P — Google review

Very impressed. Great layout. All the animals were active. Love the new addition of Australia.This zoo has it all. Animals, shows, and rides! Rides are geared mainly for the littles, but we had a blast watching them have so much fun. It's definitely a must do when visiting Tampa. There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat and bars scattered across the zoo.

S G — Google review

My kids and I had a great time visiting here. We enjoyed seeing the different animals that we haven’t seen before and learning about the manatee rescue.Whoever decided to put rides and water features in the zoo is a genius!! I felt like there was a lot of shade as we were going through and the fans helped cool us down as well.I docked a star bc there seemed to be a lot closed…rides, restaurants, stores, etc. It also smelled really bad by the orangutans…not sure if there was something going on or if that is normal.

Megan L — Google review

Really enjoyed this Park, the animals looked well cared for with nice areas built to enclose them more naturally for many. The elephants were easily viewed on a little free safari included with admission. The rides were a nice plus especially the water ride. Splash pads and misters really helped with the heat, we lasted all day with a 7 yr old in late June around 87 out. Wendy’s Frosty stand was refreshing. Water was a bit pricey but other than that all perfect experiences, including interaction with staff.

Karen W — Google review

A very nice zoo with lots of species. Areas are well-marked and the exhibits are laid out so that you do no wandering and searching like I've done at other zoos. Only 4 stars because a number of enclosures are needing work. (No water in hippo, enclosure, water features in other enclosures no running.) Feb 20 and there were lots of elementary school children swarming from enclosure to enclosure but otherwise, it was surprisingly uncrowded. A few food spots were closed making me suspect this is the slow season. I thought the food was reasonably-priced. Entry fee was on par with other zoos.Is it better than that other Tampa place that has roller coasters and animals? I depends on what you want. I am not big on thrill rides and love animals so I would choose Zoo Tampa. The other place is more of a walk along the back of the park safari path and is cool too. If I had to choose one I would choose Zoo Tampa. If my family had to choose one it would go with the thrill ride park.

Scott L — Google review

This is a nice zoo. I’ve never seen koalas up close like that before. There are a few rides that are free. A carousel and a small kid friendly roller coaster. It’s manageable to see the zoo in 2.5-3.5 hours depending on the age of kids you have. The Asia area and Africa area have nice details that make it feel authentic. Staff were very nice.

Kelly T — Google review

So many animals to see! Definitely so worth it but do pick a good day, it can get hot. They do have water mist stations throughout the zoo where you can cool down though. Desserts and food there as well, ofc just be ready to pay a little more than you would outside. Reg drink or bottle of water is what $4-5. Inside you’ll pay double that. Otherwise everything else is amazing. We even got our pictures printed out and shared to us.

Carmen G — Google review

We had a blast here. Being able to walk into a place where you can join the birds was an experience. Please do not pass up the chance to see the flying macaw birds. The animals were all out!If you can make it before April, they have a great dinosaur exhibit.Brace yourself, it is expensive. The food, however, was very good. The portions were generous.The cost for a family of 4 was just shy of $200 for tickets, so for a bit more, we went ahead and grabbed season tickets.

Adela U — Google review

We had a really nice day at the zoo today. They have a lot of nice exhibits, experiences and even rides! The tickets were approximately $49 per adult, which seemed reasonable. It took us a little over 4 hours to get through everything and that included waiting 30 minutes for the safari ride. I recommend getting there when they open because parking is limited.

Will G — Google review

My daughter had a blast there. We went on a field trip. The workers done seem the nicest. But it didn't stop us from having fun. My daughter got her face painted. The lady that painted her face was pretty friendly. And she did a wonderful job. There's even a little splash pad for the kids.

Kimberly D — Google review

Such a great zoo! My 1st time coming, we will definitely be back with our 1 yr old son.I attached a couple pictures of the line we waited in. How long it went so fast...we were probably only in line for about 5 minutes.🙂 There were approximately 40 people ahead of us when we 1st got in line.(*In The Giftshop*) Motorized-buggies available to rent $40, regular wheelchair $14All the workers were great and the bathrooms were THE CLEANEST I'VE EVER SEEN, clearly That is a High Priority at this zoo! I Love That!!

SchoolToEmbassyProject P — Google review

This is a lovely zoo!We were able to leave our luggage at the front desk. The safari ride, for no extra cost, was a fun experience. Everyone who works here was super friendly and helpful. They had a good variety of animals. The zoo is quite shaded with misting stations, too. They also have dietary restriction friendly options. While the price is high, they're running a promotion so you can get in as many times as you'd like through 2024 for the price of one ticket.

Dana H — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous zoo. Most of the animal exhibits are very large and well created for the animals. Great layout. Lots of unique animals with great descriptions at the exhibit. I would highly recommend. The only issue we faced was finding parking. We arrived late on a Thursday morning and it took more than 20 minutes to find a parking space

Scott J — Google review

Was a fun day trip. We have been talking about going for awhile, and now we are talking about heading back. The Zoo is clean, enjoyable, well laid out and the amenities are perfect. Fans and misters for hot days, lots of beverage and food options, and of course fun gift shops.The staff were friendly, knowledgeable and seemed to actually enjoy their time there. Great family trip or just two adults like us looking for something fun to do.

Chris J — Google review

The safari adventure is a must do part of the zoo, I recommend going straight to it when you get into the park to avoid a long line, you get to see some animals you can't see from anywhere else in the zoo, and different angles and occasionally closer views of the African animals. During the summer I would definitely get there early to beat the heat but there are plenty of fans, misters, and even a water ride to help cool you off. Overall really great experience with plenty of animals and if you have kids there's lots of activities and rides for them to enjoy besides just the animals

Nathan F — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604, USA

(813) 935-8552

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16

Ybor City

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Sights & Landmarks

Historic Sites

Ybor City, located northeast of downtown Tampa, is a lively and historic Cuban district known for its boutiques, vintage shops and Latin American eateries. The area was founded in the 1880s by cigar manufacturers and drew many immigrants from Cuba, Spain, Germany and Italy. The Ybor City State Museum showcases exhibits on the cigar industry and immigrant communities while the GaYBOR district attracts a diverse crowd to its bars and clubs.

4.0

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Tampa, FL, USA

17

The Florida Aquarium

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Aquarium

Zoos & Aquariums

The Florida Aquarium is a large aquarium with exhibits about the wetland habitats of Florida. There are sections dedicated to shoreline ecosystems and collections detailing the character of the deep ocean. The aquarium also has a coral garden and shark dives.

REALLY enjoyed our morning at the Aquarium. It all depends on your family's attention level. Some reviews complain that it's not much for the price. If you're expecting an all day experience, this is not it....but, for a morning (about 2.5 he's, my teenager and I really enjoyed it. The exhibits are close together and flow well - everything is kept up well and looks nice. There is plenty of interpretation and technology at each spot. The staff were friendly and helpful and the hands on exhibits were great. We loved touching stingrays, jellyfish, urchins, the sea slug, stars and anemones. The FREE luggage check is GREAT for travelers and plenty of facilities (bathrooms, benches, food opps, etc) for all. The art exhibit based on recycled trash was a great showcase. NOTE** Be honest with your family's patience level. If your family rushes and kids have no interest in nature/aquatic life, this won't "wow" them necessarily for hours and $30 may be more than you'll care to spend. But for many families, there is PLENTY to do, stress free touring, great exhibits, and an overall great experience

Dan K — Google review

The Tampa Aquarium has really upped their game, having been many years since we last visited.Great galleries covering just about every kind of fish and living creature in and around the Gulf.Never have seen so many people there at once, plenty of room and did not feel crowded. Bathrooms were clean, as was the entire building.Parking can be a bit difficult, best to park in the ramp across the street and walk a few 100 feet.We had a wonderful time and will visit again soon.

Jason O — Google review

Probably one of the most organized aquariums I’ve been too! A few hours is all you need. There is a splash pad for kids, a touch tank and many cool and unique are pieces though the exhibits. Not overly crowded, but maneuvered my way around the people

B C — Google review

Was blown away! Traveling from Seattle we had a lot of kill time after ending our cruise and, what’s more convenient than a aquarium right next door?! We took the opportunity to visit this aquarium with a huge chance to kill many hours before our flight and we had a good 3-4 hours of picture taking, and walking around to cover. They even had a full food court to enjoy lunch. We arrived at opening with 5 pieces of luggage and they even have a system to leave your belongings (at no cost)for those who have that concern of being stuck with luggage like we were. The place is nice cooled for us non-Florida folk, good gracious you people got it hot!From sharks to rays, and eels to 🐧 penguins this place had it. I saw various species of fish and mammals and even got to feel jellyfish and sting rays!Seattle is known to have a nice aquarium, but it doesn’t even scratch the surface of the Florida aquarium! This is a great opportunity for anyone to go and visit. It’s a gem!

Jeff A — Google review

What a lovely experience! We enjoyed a nice lunch at the Cafe with a cool craft beer. Then off to visit the exhibits, which were filled with a wonderful variety of species. We thoroughly enjoyed the natural Florida mangrove section.We finished the day by checking out the gift shop and getting some souvenirs.All in all a nice way to spend an afternoon.Parking is a bit of a walk, but safe sidewalk access to and from.

Jeff D — Google review

Clean, not too busy but we were there Tuesday at 1:00. Didn’t know there was a parking garage as we visited on a whim and paid valet - it was only $20 for 3 hours. Clean facilities, fun interactive features for all ages. The cafe was reasonable priced and good food! We spent about 3 hours total and would definitely go again!

Kristy H — Google review

Wow what an aquarium. We spent 3 hours there and really enjoyed all the exhibits they have. I enjoyed seeing the Lemurs and learning about the many varieties of Jellyfish. My husband enjoyed the Otters and we both enjoyed seeing the sharks and the schools of fish swimming in a circle. There is a water feature for kids to play in as well as a place to catch lunch along with a well stocked gift shop. It's a bit pricey but young kids will love the exhibits and the hands on stations throughout the aquarium.

Carol M — Google review

Awesome experience at the aquarium! Great for young children. I would recommend that you purchase the annual pass if your a local. After paying for parking and tickets it’s only 20 dollars more to become an annual member. With the annual membership you get free parking. You have to purchase your membership before you come and register your car so you can take advantage of the free parking. Facility is very well maintained with a splash zone for kids and lots of hands on exhibits.

Justin P — Google review

I was blown away by this aquarium! We spent about 4 hours here, which was so unexpected. I’ve been to the Georgia Aquarium (which has huge exhibits and shows) more times than I could count and I loved this one just as much. It’s very unique and there is just so much to see! We were also really impressed with the people who worked there. If you have small kids, be sure to pack a bathing suit and/or a change of clothes. There is a nice outdoor splash pad that we had no idea about!

Erin M — Google review

Awesome day spent at the Florida Aquarium. There are lots of different things to see and look at. I definitely recommend getting the membership if you have small kiddos. They offer military discount. They have a great outdoor splash pad area. There is also a bar outdoors that offers lemonades, water and alcohol. There is an indoor restaurant area that you can order food at.

Gloria F — Google review

One of the best aquarium experiences I have ever had. So many exhibits and species to see! The Madagascar exhibit is amazing with the open air birds and fish all together in one dome! I was blown away by the reef tank as well 500'000 gallons! Definitely a must see when in or near Tampa! Use the website to buy tickets it's cheaper!

Andrew C — Google review

I've never been so jealous of not being a fish or porpoise. The entire establishment is expertly clean and meticulous on presentation. The care for the animals is paramount, and it shows. My family and I enjoyed every moment of the day at the aquarium. The pictures we took came out incredible. This aquarium is a shining example of how to care and run a successful and sustainable business, equally beneficial to its inhabitants and patrons.

Luis M — Google review

Planned a trip up to Tampa to check out this aquarium and it was absolutely wonderful.We entered the lobby and there was a staff member by the map who answered all our questions.While we were in the lobby, they brought four African penguins through the lobby on a little show and tell. It was delightful. The waddled through and were so curious! One of the days many highlights.I really enjoyed the pace of the exhibits; they were spaced perfectly for us to leisurely stroll through and stop when we wanted to investigate something further. Another thing I really appreciated was how the exhibits flowed into one another. I never had to look at a map and we saw everything. It took us about 4 hours (2 adults, no kids). We finished with lunch from the cafe, which was also great!Something I noticed - there were always lots of staff around, helping with just about everything and answering questions, which was great.Overall it was a wonderful experience. Definitely recommend.

Elle T — Google review

The Florida Aquarium is beautiful. There is such a wide variety of wildlife that we don't get to see at a lot of other aquariums. Make sure you see the otters while you're there, they like to do backflips under water and propel themselves across the water... it's so adorable. The atmosphere is relaxing and the interior is very modern. The staff is extraordinarily nice. The only downside is parking, you need to walk about 5 minutes from the car but all-in-all it's really not that bad. Wait times to get inside aren't longer than 10 minutes either. This is a great place for kids, family, and friends. I highly recommend you take a visit and enjoy your day!

Christian C — Google review

We had a great time. Plenty to see and do. From touching jellyfish to the other interactive exhibits, it was definitely worth the price. It was quite crowded, but spacious enough that we didn't feel squeezed in. Lots of different species of animals and something for everyone. Parking can be difficult but ample paid parking in a garage across the street.

Ryan S — Google review

Such a great aquarium. Lots to look at. My only gripe was there was such a build up for the African penguins and I went to see them and there were 3 in a small, very small room outside. So sad and disappointing. So I would wait until 2025 they are building a big structure for penguins, seals and one other exhibit.They do have great displays especially the wetlands area. The birds are right next to you! I am an avid aquarium goer and this would be my number 2 it's close to my number one which is the Atlanta one.This aquarium does have a water play area for little kids plus a playground.Tickets were expensive $37Parking wasn't bad $10 for the day

Melissa W — Google review

There were a lot of people, so like any other aquarium, museum or zoo, you kinda feel pushed out of the way but I'm sure if you go on a week day it'll be extremely calming. It was really cool to walk through and fun to learn about new aquatic creatures. Lol I didn't know puffer fish got that big. But it looks like a wonderful place to bring kids or go out on a date or a fun family day.It does look bigger than it is but nonetheless there's still a lot to see and the animals look like they are very well taken care of!

Lindsey W — Google review

My husband and I got done with a cruise for our honeymoon and we don’t fly home until tomorrow morning, so we wanted to check this place out before we leave Tampa. There are a TON of great exhibits to enjoy! We really liked walking around and seeing the all of the different animals! Although it’s mostly aquarium-based, there are several exhibits with animals that aren’t aquatic, such as tortoises, frogs, geckos, lemurs, and snakes. We really liked the digital information signs for the exhibits. We also really liked the interactive touch exhibits, which are the stingrays, anemones/sea stars, and the moon jellyfish!I think the only downside of this place is the crowds of people. It’s summer and we went on a Saturday, so we understand that it was busy. But there were a LOT of people who were constantly bumping into us, cutting us off, or stepping in front of us after we had been patiently waiting for our turn to see an exhibit up close. We had several children run and cut in front of us or bump into us and the parent would say something like “no” or “wait your turn” but then wouldn’t stop them or do anything to stop them from cutting in front of us. People either had TERRIBLE spatial awareness and/or didn’t care AT ALL that they were being rude.If we’re ever down in Tampa again, we’ll definitely go back to visit this aquarium, but we will absolutely not be going on the weekend!

Mira E — Google review

I really love this aquarium!! I have been there twice now. They have such a great variety of animals. I would highly recommend it for all ages. There is construction in the parking lot but it wasn’t to bad. U just have to walk a little farther.The first time I went here there were not very many people but the second time an elementary school was visiting. I’m happy for them that they could go in sure it’s very fun and educational for the kids but it was SO loud and packed with kids running around. I liked it a lot better the first time without all the noise.

Meghan — Google review

This is one of the best aquariums I've ever seen! We had a phenomenal experience seeing and interacting with the different animals.The birds were in a bigger room so we could get pretty close to them. It was very interesting seeing them eating and how they move around.There are three expositions where you can touch the animals: the stingray, the jellyfish and the starfish.They had a nice eating dinner with and inside and an outside area. As well as a kids splash area outside.

Steven Z — Google review

A Wonderful Experience for All AgesI had the opportunity to visit the Tampa Aquarium in Florida and I must say it was a truly enchanting experience. The aquarium offers an incredible variety of marine animals and attractions that captivate visitors of all ages.Upon entering, I was immediately taken aback by the beauty and diversity of the aquatic animals. From colorful tropical fish to majestic sharks, there's a vast array of species to explore. The tanks are designed in such a way as to provide a clear and close view of the animals, which makes the experience even more exciting.The quality of the facilities is simply exceptional. The tanks are well maintained and clean, providing a healthy environment for the animals. Additionally, staff are always available to answer questions and provide information about the animals and their habitats.One of the things that impressed me the most was the affordable price of the ticket. Considering the size of the aquarium and the quality of the experience offered, the amount charged is very reasonable. The aquarium also offers discounts for families and groups, making it even more affordable for everyone.The environment inside the aquarium is peaceful and relaxing. The soft lighting and background music create a calm and immersive atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the beauty of marine animals. There are also comfortable rest areas where you can sit and gaze at the surrounding marine life.The aquarium offers a complete program for families, with interactive activities that delight children and adults alike. There are educational presentations, animal feeding and even the opportunity to touch some species. Children are sure to love this unique experience.Parking at the Tampa Aquarium is convenient and spacious. There is ample space available, which facilitates the arrival and departure of visitors. In addition, safety is a priority, with staff present throughout the area to ensure visitors' peace of mind.In summary, my visit to the Tampa Aquarium was simply wonderful. The variety of marine animals, the interactive attractions, the quality of the facilities, the affordable price, the relaxing environment, the family program, the convenient parking and the security are aspects that make this aquarium highly recommended for everyone. If you're looking for a fascinating and educational experience, don't miss the Tampa Aquarium.

Jairo J — Google review

Amazing!!! Best aquarium I’ve been to. I loved seeing its wide variety of fish, birds, and other animals. I especially loved watching the sharks! I spent quite a few minutes just watching the shark tank—I loved watching the sharks, stingrays, and moray eels! I visited once last summer and again this summer. I loved it both times!

Olivia S — Google review

Excellent aquarium but very crowded. They could definitely use more sharks. There's only two big sharks and one little bonnet head. Kind of pricey and parking is expensive but otherwise a good time. They also have a playground if you have the kids.

Blindman4 — Google review

This aquarium a MUST! It was wonderful from start to finish and is SO much more than an aquarium. We enjoyed not only the aquatic life but also many birds, lemurs, penguins and more. There is also a playground and splash pad right next to a bar/ restaurant for the adults to enjoy a beverage. The staff was extremely informative and answered so many questions! I would recommend this to anyone of any age. Amazing !!!!

C F — Google review

I love this place. Each tank has a gorgeous display of sea creatures. Very clean. Fish look very healthy. I loved the penguin add on experience. I will never forget how adorable they are. The women who taught us about the penguins were fantastic. You can tell they really love their animals. The boat ride is a little pricey and mostly you see the industrial canal. We did see dolphins riding the bow waves of a big ship coming in which was cool. Watching the sharks get fed was really interesting. The food at the cafe was really good. Definitely try the Korean steak and noodle bowl. I also thought the soak pad for the kids was a great idea. The garden eels are my favorite to watch. This place is expensive but I do feel it is worth it.

Michelle W — Google review

We stopped in to the The Florida Aquarium while visiting the downtown Tampa area. Definitely recommend purchasing your tickets in advance, the line to purchase tickets was very long and we were able to walk right in since we had purchased our tickets online. The Aquarium was huge, it didn't seem that big from the outside. They had several areas where you can touch sea creatures like jelly fish, star fish, sea urchins and sting rays. The aquarium was very informative. My family really enjoyed it and we would recommend for people of all ages.

Tracey N — Google review

I’ve been to many different aquariums. This is not my favorite, but it’s still a nice aquarium that took us 2 hours to go through. I loved that we could see more than just the aquatic life as they had several snakes, water fowl, frogs and more. I do wish they had a dolphin or sea lion show. I enjoy aquariums who have that. However I was very excited and impressed with all the sea life we were able to feel. We touched jelly fish, sea stars and sting rays. They really have some beautiful electronic information displays too. It was nice to pinpoint where the fish was located in its natural habitat. Every worker was super friendly and customer oriented which is almost rare to find a business with that many great friendly staff! The facility was decently laid out. Just when we thought we had seen everything we’d find more to look at. It was nice to see such a variety of sea life as well. If you enjoy aquariums I do think this one is worth checking out despite it being a little pricey. However keep in mind that price helps feed and care for all their animals along with many other factors. Glad we went as my 3 kids had a great time!

Melissa R — Google review

I LOVE this aquarium. We actually got the membership and we reserved tickets online for a scheduled time.The staff are always so incredible. They’re kind, professional, knowledgeable and passionate about the animals, and they’re always so friendly. BIIIGG “Thank you!” to The Florida Aquarium’s janitors- the bathrooms are always clean, the floors always look so great! 🤗 We’ve even witnessed people diving to clean the inside of the glass! 🤩Just in the last 6 days my family and I have been 3 times! Thank you, membership! 🫡😂 This aquarium is spacious and you don’t feel like everyone is stacked up against one another which is awesome!Enjoy the photos I’ve shared from our visits! 🤗

Delilah D — Google review

This place was amazing! There's plenty to do, and it's very kid/family friendly. The food at the cafe was great and the prices weren't too bad. Definitely recommend a visit if you're in the area, but I'd also recommend buying your tickets in advance.

Busty C — Google review

Came here on a day off with my boyfriend for a date and honestly so glad we came!! I felt like a big kid in awe over all the exhibits. We came on a weekday, and they do require purchasing tickets in advance, so we made it in pretty quickly. There were a lot of kids on school trips, which made some areas a little hectic. But it was also nice to see the children learning and enjoying everything. We will definitely be on the lookout for the penguin and seal exhibit to be arriving in the years to come!

Anthi M — Google review

We had such a great time here! Lovely time with the family. We spent about 4 hours here, which includes eating lunch and playing in the spray park. The spray park was a nice touch for the kids, and they have shade areas for parents to sit. There was a lot of interactive things for the kids, such as touching sting rays and jelly fish, and the morphd section. There is also water fill stations everywhere so bring a reusable bottle!

Megan D — Google review

An absolutely breathtaking aquarium, I can never recommend coming to an aquarium more. This is the best aquarium in this part of Florida, in my opinion. So many exhibits, and it seems they have great funding and management enough that they continue to have new ones made. There was so much to see, so make sure you plan accordingly. My only thing is that it is a bit crowded, and the paths seem like they don't quite manage larger amounts of guests well. Other than that, all of the fish and other aquatic animals seem so well cared for, and they have a rehabilitation program it seems for certain animals. I love coming here, and it is so worth the price for how much there is to do and see in here.

Tiffany L — Google review

I took my Granddaughter for her birthday to the Aquarium . It was half outdoors and half indoors. It was fascinating to see so many different species of fish. There were other things like frogs snakes alligators.. I didn’t get tickets ahead of time so when I got there I had to buy them over my phone I had to make a reservation time so i would highly suggest purchasing tickets before you would leave to the park. Also you have to pay for parking with credit card . Location is right where the cruise ships depart .

Linda M — Google review

This place was really fun. We parked close by and parking was $10. We used a City Pass here which was quick and simple with the City Pass app. We spent roughly 2 hours at the aquarium. It had a really neat layout with a lot to explore. There lots more here than just fish, there are reptiles, birds and penguins. Would be cool to see a better, more permanent display for the penguins but they seemed fairly happy.

Etch250 — Google review

50% changed to new fishes, corals, etc👍👍👍 compared with 2023. In the cafe very delicious fries and pizza pie!! Very convenient food ordering system. The staff is super friendly! Highly recommend it to everyone! Minus only one- parking is not free for members anymore :-(

Ana В — Google review

Fun place to spend a couple of hours. The splash pad was nice but definitely needs to be updated a bit. One of the fountains was off, and our daughter got her foot caught in it. Other than that, the animals were very cute and looked well taken care of food, and gift shop items were reasonably priced for tourist souvenirs.

Deanna K — Google review

Huge place, very well appointed. Good food and great dinning room. It's a place full of details and directed to people of all ages. It has numerous species in exhibition, in nice enclosures.The boat ride is subject to weather so check it before buying tickets. This is a good place to visit.

Para G — Google review

It’s a nice aquarium and small, prices for tickets are quite high for the experience. Went there on a weekday and it was a lot of people. Only lasted there for an hour, wish there was more to see. I recommend buying tickets online in advance since it’s a little cheaper than paying in person on day of visit.

Airika — Google review

Great place to visit, with many unique and exciting exhibits. Fun place for the young and old alike. There are lots of things to do and explore. There are plenty of interactive experiences to entertain people of all ages. Just like anything in Tampa, try to avoid peak times for a more enjoyable experience.

William ( — Google review

A must do when in town. A very nice place to spend a few hours but know that it can be pretty crowded on the weekends and during special events. Wonderful displays of marine life, helpful guides and great hands on learning exhibits for kids and adults. Fairly expansive facility and a worthwhile stop in Tampa.

C L — Google review

Pretty cool aquarium. My favorite part was the Florida Wetlands area where it was all open for the birds (spoonbills, Ibises) to fly around. The lemurs and alligators are in this area too. The other areas were cool also. We saw reef sharks, yellow fin tuna, an octopus, jellyfish, and others. They had the "no bone zone" where you could touch starfish and sea anemones. My 22 month-old loved it Didn't get to the splash pad or get to try any food.

Thomas J — Google review

Visited this place on Father’s Day after stumbling upon it while exploring Water Street. They had a buy-one-get-one offer on tickets, and if you have a Tampa Zoo membership, tickets are 50% off.This is one of the best aquariums I've seen, and we've visited many around the 🌎. The ecosystem setups are pretty amazing.

Madu R — Google review

Purchase your tickets ahead online and then parking is $5 an hour. We spent about 2 hrs but it was a rainy day so no splash pad or outdoors but we still had a great time! Was very informative! Loved all the natural Florida exhibits! Fish and exhibits are very well cared for! Touching the jellyfish was one of my highlights of the trip! Definitely recommend!

Fiona K — Google review

I've visited 20+ aquariums across the country and this was by far the most chaotic. You must get tickets ahead of time, so we purchased 2:30 on a Friday afternoon. They had a queue line and didn't use it. Instead the line stretched down the sidewalk as far as the eye could see. It was 1:40 and we had 2:30 tickets and confirmed with the employee we should get in line. By the time we worked our way to the front the other employee was removing all the 2:30 people from the line and saying we shouldn't have been told to get in line. At 2:15 then they told the 2:30 group to get in line. There were masses of people everywhere. Why not use the empty queue lines?? My review doesn't really describe how confusing and chaotic it was. The employees weren't unfriendly, but definitely we're not friendly or helpful. Once we were inside it was a mass of people, crowded exhibits, super noisy and chaotic. We also got bad info from another employee inside, but that is another story.To be fair, if I only rated the exhibits I would give 4 stars. But the overall experience I would give 2 stars. This is the first time I've ever left an aquarium stressed. I personally would not go back. Maybe we went on a bad day, but basing my review off of the day we went.

Will G — Google review

Fun little Aquarium, right down town. Not the greatest parking but excellent exhibits and interactive areas. The kids had a great time on the splash pad, and lunch was amazingly good, not what you'd expect at a 'captive audience' park.

Mark L — Google review

This aquarium really is top notch, the only critique I would give is the prices. For a family of 4 it was $175 just to get in $23 for 4 hrs of parking, lunch was $90, pretty expensive day, so to cut cost eat before you come, lol. Other than that great aquarium, the boys really liked it!

Adventures T — Google review

The staff here was so unimaginably friendly and passionate. Everything was clean and all the animals were cute and interesting! Thursday afternoon there wasn't much of a crowd at all. The gift shop was nice and not too expensive.

Savannah P — Google review

Florida Aquarium: A Quick and Clean EscapeThe Florida Aquarium offers a clean and enjoyable respite from the Florida heat. With a variety of well-maintained exhibits, it's a great option for families with kids.However, the aquarium's relatively small size means you can explore most of it within an hour. While the food options were decent, the 4D duck theater being closed was a disappointment.Overall, it's a good place to visit, but don't expect a full day's worth of activities.

Chris P — Google review

Tickets are priceyMust buy ahead of timeWe were able to make a day out of it.Splash Pad and Playground was a great mid day treat, then lunch. Be prepared to pay alot for beverages. Chocolate milk was $5 my yummy salad was $14 which was worth it. I'm not sure why drinks are so pricey.Then we walked back around aquarium.

Kym S — Google review

I'm not quite sure how or why it took me so long to learn about the existence of this place but let me tell you, this is hands down the best Aquarium I've ever been to! Took me daughter and granddaughter yesterday for Mother's Day, and we had such a blast! The Splash pad was absolutely awesome! The exhibits were so clever and really gave you a chance to be up close and personal with the wildlife!Only downside in my opinion, was the cost of parking, but, I paid $20 for valet service which included 3 hours of parking time.Other than that, it was so much fun and we can't wait to go back!! Highly recommend!! Also, buy your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line for them.

Bonnie O — Google review

Such a great place to go with toddlers especially right when it opens as it's not too crowded. Loved the small splash pad and playground in the back. Cafeteria food can be pricey but it's easy to spend two to three hours here as there so much to see.

Monique B — Google review

This aquarium was a great getaway from the thunderstorm we encountered on our vacation! Very unique experience and beautiful sea creatures to enjoy. Very family friendly and included a cafe and playground. The employees were very helpful and informative.The only disappointment was having to pay $20 to park after paying $42 admission.

Lisa P — Google review

A wonderful aquarium that is a must-visit if you're in Tampa! They have so many unique tanks with a vast array of species. It's very interactive for both adults and children. The staff are incredibly helpful and well-educated about the wildlife. Make it a point to stop here and plan for 4 to 6 hours to see the entire place. Prices for food, gifts, drinks, and more are reasonable and relative to the experience. FAIR WARNING: BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE AS THEY REQUIRE IT IF PAYING WITH CREDIT CARD.

Austin R — Google review

Great experience once we got in the aquarium. It must’ve been a lot of people on Spring Break. We went on a Wednesday. It took about 35 minutes to find parking. There was a line out to the street to get in the aquarium. Once we were in, we loved every minute. The exhibits were very nice. The animals were so cool and neat to watch. We got caught in the rain going outside to visit the penguins and had to run back inside. To me it was worth the money. We spent about 3 1/2 hours there. Very crowded and people were bumping into other people. The souvenir shop line was so long, we didn’t even waste our time trying to buy anything. Food and beverage very expensive. We purchased 2 churros and that’s it. We waited until we left to eat.

Valencia T — Google review

We had a great time. Aquarium was clean and well managed. All staff was very friendly and pleasant to talk to. Food was good and well priced. We had a great experience we will be back again.

Jorge G — Google review

Visited the Florida Aquarium while we vacationed in Florida. Our kids ( ages 3.5 years and 15 months) loved this place! There is plenty to keep them busy and entertained. The building was very clean and the staff were very informative!

Zachary L — Google review

4.5

(18749)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (113)

4.0

(5818)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (114)

701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA

(813) 273-4000

18

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (115)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (116)

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (117)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (118)

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Aquarium

Zoos & Aquariums

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a place where people can see marine mammals and sea turtles up close. The aquarium has been involved in rescue and conservation work for many years, and is a favorite tourist attraction in Clearwater, Florida.

Beautiful place to visit! Up Close and Personal with all the animals. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable! It is obvious they love it there and work hard to see that everyone who visits also loves it!I took the behind the scenes tour it was 100% worth it! Loved that our guide is a scientist who actually works in the aquatic hospital there. They truly take you BEHIND the scenes and into the ICU area where the severely injured and ill animals are recovering. Seeing the water treatment plants was amazing! Its not something aquarium goers think about much - How much effort it takes to just keep the water clean and balanced!The tour really demonstrated what a positive place this is for the animals (and people) who are there.I loved the small and intimate feel of the aquarium and being able to get up close with the animals. The hourly demonstrations-talks at each station in the aquarium were perfect!I spent over 4 hours there and could have easily spent another 2 hours if my schedule had allowed! Just a delightful place!

Maria V — Google review

We haven't been since the updating construction. This is such a beautiful space now, and wonderful that the integrated the old facility into the new. Added some outdoor spaces and beverage areas. The animals appear healthy, and happy. Love the new pelican area. Lots of parking, and currently they had a dinosaur 🦖🦕 exhibit that was really cute.

CMB C — Google review

This is an awesome Aquarium. Remember it is a rescue aquarium. We took the behind the scenes tour. Olivia our guide was very informative. So much of what we saw was open to the public. But areas like the quarantine area and water treatment plant were off limits. The surgery room was being used while we were there. All the staff were great. There is a cafe there but we did not eat there. It was well worth the time to visit. The new addition is great.

Scott R — Google review

I loved every minute of it. The dolphins were so cute and it was very informative. Make sure to attend the dolphin show. We went to the 2 o'clock dolphin show. Rudy did wonderful. I also pet stingrays and a dolphin came up to me so it was worth the money. I also love that all of the animals are rescued. I will definitely be back.

Alex — Google review

This is a small but cute aquarium. Lots of rehab going on which is awesome. There is a lot of outside area it's a little warm in summer. I also didn't realize Tampa aquarium and Clearwater are two different entities so I was a little disappointed in the size.The staff is very nice and helpful.You have to pay for parking.They offer different kinds of boat tours for additional fees which I will partake in at my next visit.

Karen C — Google review

I was happy with what I saw at the aquarium. The Boat Ride was worth the money for the trip. I did expect it to be bigger, but while you are there, you learn it is a rescue location, so being smaller is a good thing! All the staff were friendly and helpful.

Carl I — Google review

This aquarium is very well taken care of, especially the dolphins and otters, staff seems to take care of the animals, and they seem genuine and are very knowledgeable. They few activities for children.Helpful staff. It is definitely a great place to teach children how to take care of Mother Nature and learn a lot. Adult ticket $36 dlls per person.

Bella — Google review

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located in Clearwater, FL. What I liked about this place was, they take in injured and sick wildlife to rehabilitate them. Some of the animals were too injured to be released back into the wild. A famous dolphin named Winter lived there; her tail was damaged from a crab trap and they gave her a prosthetic tail. There were movies based on her story. Aside from dolphins, there were otters, sharks, stingrays, tortoises, and various others. There were exhibits indoors and outdoors. They had a dolphin show with a host telling us all about the dolphins; the dolphins were also performing tricks. There was an outdoor patio on the upper level. Parking was plentiful in the parking garage.We were staying at a local hotel and they were offering discounts to the aquarium because they were affiliated. When you first walk in, they had professional photographers taking your photos; you have the option to purchase it later with all the graphics on it. There was a food court and multiple levels of exhibits. We got to see the dolphins up close and personal at the lower level. They are looking to expand the aquarium and add a manatee exhibit. Overall, we had a fun day there and would go back.

Kim V — Google review

Really cool place to see and pet rays and other aquatic life. A massive aquarium in the center to see marine life and smaller rooms around the rest of the place to see other exhibits.Shows throughout the day every 15-30 minutes.And feedings can be entertaining as wellBuy tickets online at other discounted sites and save 25%Food court. Food smells amazingGreat place to spend some time and admire the marine life around the area. Informative workers and volunteers. Also very nice and some are super cute

Al C — Google review

It is such a great way to spend the afternoon differently when you're on vacation with kids.We got the photo op with the dolphins, which means you can touch and feed the dolphins and take a picture with them. We were able to take ours with dolphin Nicholas.We also did the Dolphin Boat tour, we weren't able to see that many dolphins, but we saw about 4/5. They just hid immediately and we weren't able to take pictures. We also saw sting rays and a pelican during the boat tour.Some other cool animals are in the establishment, like sea turtles and sea otters.The food is also pretty good. I was expecting more fast food type, but it was actually decent.I highly recommend it!

Patricia G — Google review

Incredible incredible incredible!!! This location is absolutely outstanding, between the history here, the dolphins, otters and my absolute favorite sea turtles!!! This place was outstanding!!! Totally worth bringing the family, an incredible time can be spent here educating your family about all the wildlife. Just a great location here in Clearwater Florida, absolutely beautiful spot. And don’t forget to sign up for the dolphin tours. They took us out and we got to see dolphins out in the wild, this was incredible. When we got back we had some snacks, grab something cold to drink and viewed some more of the dolphin exhibit. The turtles in my opinion were the best thing they had to offer, of course I’m a little biased because I love sea turtles!!! This was also the home of Winter, the dolphin with the prosthetic fin. So the history here is absolutely Rich, the staff is absolutely incredible and just an amazing location to experience Clearwater !!! Bring the family and learn learn learn !!!

Raffy M — Google review

Very nice place to talk the kids and family. Dolphin show was spectacular. They have ample indoor parking and sell food inside. I enjoyed my time this aquarium however, i feel that the prices are too much for what they have to offer. Aquarium is a bit small, parking is not free and prices could be a bit cheaper.

G — Google review

Provided a fun couple of hours for our toddlers. I had been to CMA in 2012. The new additions to the facility are great, and I appreciated the educational opportunities provided. However, prices were a little high for the number of animals we were able to see/the amount of time we spent there. Most activities were additional costs on top of admission. We paid for stingray feeding, which was neat, but didn’t experience everything due to the cost. (I would recommend checking for coupon codes online and buying tickets in advance, as we were able to save some money doing this!) Some of the smaller educational activities were worn down/broken, but most were functional in some capacity. The CMA mission is great, and the volunteers and staff were friendly and knowledgeable. The layout of the facility was a little difficult to navigate with a stroller (lots of switching around on elevators), but do-able. Overall, we had a good time (two adults and two toddlers)!

Lexie E — Google review

We enjoyed seeing the sea turtles and the dolphins, but the aquarium is very small with limited exhibits. We toured it in less than an hour. It is a bit expensive, but I'm happy they are there to rehab the marine life.

Tawnua T — Google review

Wow stopped by this place after 20 years and what a change. Much larger facility and has much more employees. Compared to other forms of entertainment the prices are not bad. The restaurant was pretty good. Clearwater Marine Aquarium, located in Clearwater, Florida, is a renowned marine life rescue and rehabilitation facility. Focused on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine animals, particularly dolphins, sea turtles, and otters, the aquarium provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about marine conservation. It gained international recognition through the story of Winter, a bottlenose dolphin with a prosthetic tail, inspiring the movie "Dolphin Tale." Beyond exhibits, the aquarium emphasizes education and conservation efforts to promote awareness of marine life and their habitats

Rod M — Google review

Such a wonderful way to spend a morning!! Very educational while being super fun!! The animals all seem so happy... Nice to see that! The dolphins come RIGHT up to the glass and visit you!!

Suzi W — Google review

Amazing place to see and learn about marine life. They also act as a rescue/rehab and you can get some up close and hands on experience at some of the exhibits. They give talks every half hour at various exhibits so it's super educational. I've never seen a place quite like this.

Amy Z — Google review

Very educational and amazing to be able to see all the rehab available to our wildlife. Was a little sad at the same time. Everyone was super nice and knowledgeable. Please keep up the wonderful work. Worth every penny paid and donated. Thank u.

Narissa L — Google review

Touching experience to see the dedication of rescuing marine life! Dolphin watching in the aquarium, reading about their evolution and seeing the friendly dolphin interacting with children was a joy to watch.Loved the boat expedition to watch dolphins in their habitat!Loved the whole experience !

Nausheen K — Google review

WOW! What an amazing experience!!!! Very educational for us all as well! We went on Father's Day also and were grateful for the discount!! Easy parking...and totally worth the money!!! Izzy was so funny! She played with the kiddos and made us all laugh! We even got to pet stingrays!!!

Moria K — Google review

I honestly thought this aquarium was just a 6.5/10. The staff was friendly, the dolphin show was mediocre, the beer selection was great but the food was just okay, the gift shop was huge, but the aquarium lacked all of the huge fish tanks with something other than dolphins. It seemed there was a lot of unused space under construction. It was worth the money since I got all of my tickets half off, but couldn't imagine paying full price and being fully satisfied.

Stefanie W — Google review

I'm so glad my son and I finally got to go here. I've been wanting to go ever since I saw the movies Dolphin Tale 1 and 2. The narrated tour was worth paying for. Our guide was very informative and funny. I wish I could remember his name.

Christine S — Google review

Overall, this was a pretty interesting experience for us going for the very first time it’s definitely more of a rescue rather than an aquarium just so you can properly prepare financially to go to the park. It’s $15 to park $39 for an adult ticket $34 for a child ticket and $37 for a senior ticket. There’s no clear explanation of the floors and what’s actually on the floors, but there is a massive tank where you can see the dolphins that are there and the ones that they’re working with on rehabbing them back to health. The show primarily consist of them discussing how to rehab them back to health which again is pretty cool. They do have an awesome little spot to where you can draw picture and then it Becomes real on the screen so that’s pretty cool especially for the Littles. Would I come here again for the price that it was probably not in full transparency because I don’t feel like I was able to get my “money is worth” but I am glad that I was able to support the rescue efforts to the best of its ability right now.I think it is definitely worth it if you purchase the behind-the-scenes or the boat tour or the extra stuff but a lot of the stuff I’m seeing in other peoples reviews. We didn’t even see that particular thing there whatsoever and then I’m reading the reviews and see that they paid for the behind-the-scenes and the boat tour.

Kayla M — Google review

Love supporting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium at their special events. They do such wonderful work taking care of the animals that need rehabilitation to go back out into their homes. The people who work there and the volunteers are all so passionate and caring and have great energy both in working with the animals and working with the guests who visit. We are blessed to have this wonderful place.

Susan S — Google review

Let me start by saying, the animals they did have were beautiful. The kids loved seeing them! But..... they had advertised a splash pad for the kids, a manatee exhibit, sharks and we were under the assumptionthere was also a walk-thru aquarium tunnel. One nurse shark was there, nothing else. We were literally finished in an hour. And for $35 a head, I would have to say we were very disappointed. Not to mention, it wasn't very clean. Be prepared, most of it is outside. So very steamy.I believe the reason they became popular was because of the dolphin "Winter" that received a prosthetic tail. Unfortunately, he passed a few years ago.So in my opinion, it is not worth the money. At least right now. I hate writing a bad review, but this was for a child's birthday. I just wouldn't recommend going right now.

Leigh D — Google review

Small enough to allow visitor to see all the exhibits available and get to interact with some of the exhibits as well! Also highly recommend the 90 min. Boat ride to get an idea of how Clearwater is monitoring their bays for healthy incoming and outgoing waters.

Leighnae H — Google review

We live locally and went to the Aquarium on a Saturday for the Capybara meet and greet which my kids just loved! We became annual members and were excited to see the new manatee exhibit they are building.The people working at this facility couldn’t be nicer or more enthusiastic about their jobs. It was an amazing family experience.

Danielle A — Google review

We did the dolphin tour and aquarium visit. I am a bit disappointed in the cost and no discount if you’re doing more than one thing, but I also understand the money is going towards helping and saving animals. Also do not push the 3rd floor button, it is not level three! My suggestion would be to completely remove the three as someone in our elevator pushed it and it opened to the dolphin tanks.This place would be 5 stars aside from the cost and from Fernando in the touch aquarium. We were standing in line and he was explaining things in Spanish to this couple ahead of us about what everything was. We waited a few minutes and finally got to the touch zones once the couple left. As we were reaching to touch a crab, he rudely said we have to move along and go fast, even though he let the couple ahead of us stay there for a few minutes. We did not get to touch most things because he pushed us and the two groups behind us out as fast as he could.On the brighter side, we loved the dolphin tour! I forgot all three of the ladies names but they tried their best to show us wild dolphins and it was awesome!I loved the 360 dolphin tank and how the dolphins could freely go to any pool they wanted. Learning about the shark and why it was there was interesting as well! We saw a few turtles in rehab tanks too! Sadly the otter was sleeping when we came, but that’s okay!They have a food court area and a couple gift shops sprinkled around. For some reason we couldn’t find a map, so we got lost a few times but that was probably my fault.Definitely recommend coming as long as you understand the cost and why it is expensive!

C K — Google review

This place is amazing, very informative and great views. Loved all the giant tanks to watch the dolphins swim around. Walking through the animal hospital was really cool.

Bjm3299 — Google review

Enjoyed our visit to the aquarium. They have several interesting fish and other ocean animals. The pelican and otters were my favorite. This is a great place to visit while in Clearwater.

Melissa N — Google review

Went for the first time today, it was AMAZING the workers going around are very informative and this lovely lady named Kelly showed my daughter and us all the different animals while we were waiting on the capybara exhibit. The older gentleman working the stingray exhibit was very informative. Loved it! Wanting to visit again very soon <3

Erin O — Google review

It was fine. We got cheaper tickets through the MWR so it felt like a reasonable return on our investment. Nicely spaced exhibits allowed us to see each animal without having to be in a certain spot. The layout of the facility is a maze, making it feel disorganized and choppy. We weren’t given any guidance when we arrived but there are maps available if you know where to find them! The dolphin and turtle exhibits were the nicest, and the artwork was cool.

Melissa H — Google review

This was a cute place that let you see dolphins up close and learn about them. They offer special backstage passes if your into that.They also have a theater that you can watch short mini movies about dolphins and seaside.There is also a cafe located inside that one of the best burgers I’ve had in a long time. The portion size was large and it fit the priceA definite must see if you love wildlife.

Heather O — Google review

Out of all the aquariums that I have ever been to this one is probably one of the most unique that we have seen. I will start up with saying that if you have a Florida Aquarium reciprocal pass the tickets are way cheaper and more affordable. Overall the aquarium was really nice and it was very interesting to hear all of the backstories of all of the different animals. They had tons of presentations going on throughout the day that we're very educational and informative. We especially liked all the sculptures that were made of recyclable materials. This Aquarium definitely is on the smaller side compared to ones like the Georgia Aquarium but I will say the fact that they do have a boat Safari tour that is really unique. The tour was 90 minutes and we really did enjoy the overall experience of it. We will say that when we got off at the little island that they take you to there really is not much to see there so we really did not see the point of that within the tour but it was nice to be able to stretch your legs. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and wants to answer all of your questions and we definitely appreciated that.

Laura H — Google review

Excellent excellent!! I had an amazing time with my daughter. Saw dolphins, turtles, sea otters, sting rays, nurse shark, fish, it was so much fun especially feeding the dolphins and getting our picture on our special selection of the photo with a dolphin, wonderful choices at the gift shop and even had an amazing place to eat. Spent hours here just walking around a couple laps. Even got to pet the sting rays.There were many other adventures we just didn’t have time to do them all

Delilah — Google review

You definitely want to plan your visit around shows and exhibits. It was very empty when we visited towards the end of the day. The concession stands all closed about an hour before the aquarium closed—which was rough with hungry kids. We also got turned around and had a very hard time navigating the aquarium. There was not much staff to be found. We did have wonderful interactions with staff when they were around. It was petty expensive for what WE got out of the visit but we just equated it to helping with marine life conversation. However, between paying for parking and admission you will definitely want to get there early and have activities timed out to ensure you get a full experience.

Elizabeth — Google review

This was the best experience ever Elizabeth and Evan were so nice to us and our entire family of five had such an amazing time we spent the entire day there and plan to spend the many more. We did the VIP dolphin experience and this was our first time here. We enjoyed the day so much it made our vacation. We were able to get up close and personal with Nicolas, Izzy, and Hope. They were so good with my kids and spraying Hope with water was a blast.

Ben S — Google review

If you or your children love dolphins, this is the place for you. They are a non profit organization and have a live hospital too. Their mission is to rescue, rehab, and release. The dolphins are amazing. I HIGHLY recommend this place. It’s worth it. For my parents and I to go it as close to $100 dollars but I say it was 100% worth it. They also have dolphin presentations. It was educational and fun to watch. We arrived at 1:50 pm and left around 3:50. Overall the experience was amazing! Thank you Clearwater Marine Aquarium!

Valē W — Google review

So we decided to go visit the park it’s ok but it definitely isn’t worth 39.95 to get in the place before you have to pay another 15 bucks just to park your car. Yes I get it the famous dolphin lived there for over 16 yrs but still there definitely isn’t a lot to see or do and can be completed in about a half hr or so. They are definitely making a lot of money off people that’s for sure there is no doubt about it.

Steven W — Google review

Nice aquarium to visit. The artwork and the exhibits are great quality. You get a great view of the sea life that they in the rehabilitation tanks.

Duane J — Google review

An amazing place to visit! My third time here and each visit never fails to make a lasting impression. Getting up close to so many wonderful animals is a humbling experience.Highly recommended.

Mark C — Google review

My family and I love this aquarium. It’s set up nicely and it’s super cool that it’s a rehabilitation center for marine animals. 🥰 I don’t have any recent photos, but I’m sharing some from when we visited back in 2021!

Delilah D — Google review

Cma is an amazing facility that’s worth the money and time! Went there in October and stayed the whole day.People who complain about not a lot of attractions don’t fully enjoy the aquariumIf you just sit there and admire all the animals it’s amazing. Highly recommend visiting! staff and volunteers are amazing! It’s quite pricey but very worth visiting! :D

Venti B — Google review

Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers an unforgettable experience filled with educational opportunities and heartwarming encounters with marine life. From their dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating injured animals to their engaging exhibits and informative staff, every visit is both enjoyable and enriching. The interactive experiences, such as dolphin encounters, allow visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for marine conservation efforts while creating lasting memories. Overall, Clearwater Marine Aquarium provides a fantastic blend of entertainment and education for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit destination.

Chuck L — Google review

This is a must while visiting Clearwater. Great for the kids or a nice day date. The staff is very friendly and helpful. They offer experiences that you won't find often. You can play with the dolphins or feed the stingrays. We had a wonderful time!

Regina P — Google review

Kids enjoyed the seeing the animals. I think for the admission price I would have liked to see some more exhibits. Overall good experience.

Matthew L — Google review

4.2

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4.0

(8050)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (120)

249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA

(727) 441-1790

19

Pier 60

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Sights & Landmarks

Piers & Boardwalks

Pier 60 is a large fishing pier that provides pavilions, telescopes and a bait house offering snacks to visitors. The attraction is famous for its stunning sunset views. In the late afternoon, guests can explore the Beach Walk promenade designed for pedestrians, skaters and bicyclists. The pier also features concessions and shopping options nearby as well as outdoor activities such as parasailing, aqua bikes, jet skiing and paddle boating adventures.

4.5

(4793)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (125)

Clearwater, FL 33767, USA

20

Clearwater Beach

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Nature & Parks

Beaches

Clearwater Beach is a popular tourist destination with its soft, white sandy beaches that attract visitors year-round. The calm waters offer activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Along the beachfront promenade are casual seafood restaurants and cafes for hungry travelers to indulge in. Pier 60 hosts nightly festivals with street performers and craft vendors at sunset.

4.5

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Clearwater, FL, USA

I'll never travel to Bradenton without this trip planner again

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21

Sand Key Park

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Park

Nature & Parks

Public beach

Located on the beautiful north end of Sand Key Island, Sand Key Park offers visitors a long stretch of white sand beach and clear water. The park combines the beauty of the beach with amenities such as a dog park and cabanas, making it an ideal place to spend a day in Clearwater. Despite its beautiful surroundings, Sand Key Park is often overlooked by locals making it less busy than Clearwater Beach.

Went here to watch the sunset! Absolutely gorgeous. Plenty of parking and beautiful views.Was a gorgeous evening and wow the sunset was amazing!Loved watching the sunset with the one I love!

Diane B — Google review

Lovely beach! Handicap accessible!!! It's a bit of a walk, and the bathrooms weren't super clean, but they were spacious, and staff was on-site to assist. Parking was easy and affordable!

Jordona J — Google review

I enoyed this beach area very much.There is plenty of parking. $5 for all day parking. There is dog beach. Yes, lifeguards on duty. Handicap ramps to the bathrooms and to the beach. There are outside showers, bathrooms and changing rooms. There is a food truck but I have yet to see it open. You can also rent chairs and an umbrella for $35. They don't take cash so make sure to bring your card onto the beach.

Crystal S — Google review

Super nice beach! There’s not too many people here and it’s for the most part a very quiet beach! There were still lots of families so it is family friendly and there is a food truck as well. There’s bathrooms and showers as well which was nice. We were even lucky enough to see some dolphins while being out there and you can see AND feel fish swimming around you sometimes too! I highly recommend! I was also able to find tons of cool seashells and watch the beautiful sunset.

Sara A — Google review

This is a great area for a family beach day. They have a place to buy food and drinks and plenty of chairs and umbrellas for rent. The bathrooms are also close to the beach with outdoor showers at each location. They were clean and pretty well maintained. The sand was well taken care of, but the water was a little dirty when we were there. I don't know if the water normally looks like that or if it was weather related. While we were there, a sailboat got washed up on the shore. It was wild and happened early on the day. I attached a picture of it. I would definitely recommend this part of Clearwater Beach to anyone looking for a fun day at the beach with some amenities provided.

Jeremy C — Google review

This park is the perfect spot for capturing stunning beach photos at sunset. It offers so much, from beautiful beaches and countless shells for the kids to collect, to gorgeous views of large boats entering and exiting the canal. The amenities, including bathrooms and food trucks, add to the convenience. At just $5 for parking, it's well worth it. Highly recommend!

Chris E — Google review

$5 to park and easy to navigate the parking machine where you'll put the printed ticket on your dashboard. Restroom facilities are on site. The beach area itself is kept nice, but is very very busy - meaning if you're looking for a quiet/peaceful beach experience this isn't going to be it. Perfect for families with kids though. Would recommend another lowkey beach for locals.

Quentin ( — Google review

Sand Key Park is one of our favorite local beaches in Clearwater. Wide open spaces, clear teal blue waters, conveniently located to shops, and relatively clean bathrooms. On a good day it's beautiful, on a great day it's spectacular. Nothing comparative to my home in Hawaii, but it's certainly close enough.

Katbrat — Google review

That park has all you need for your family and pet/pets. Dog park is well maintained and clean. Lots of areas with shadows from trees and covered benches. Located next to the beach where early in the morning and later in a day your pet can enjoy the ocean.

Nata R — Google review

There are many pavilions with restrooms in them. The only real drawback is that there aren't any vending machines at least at pavilion 7 where I was for lunch. Parking seems ample and can be done electronically with Park Mobile. Vehicles do not sit in shade on the beach side as the majority of the parking lot only contains palm trees. This park is pretty darn huge! It would probably be a very good spot for coming to the beach. The beach is exceptionally wide in this location. The water seemed to be very fluid with no stagnant areas.If you bring everything with you snacks and drinks and such then you should be okay otherwise you may want to find a different location.

R I — Google review

Beautiful beach, clean and easy access. Parking is $5/day til 6pm. The park closes at Sun down. It has play ground as well for kiddos to enjoy. You'll see basket in the main entrance going to the beach, to help the beach clean pick up trash. Food truck in vicinity, clean bathrooms. Plenty of parking spaces. The beach has many cracked shells so just pick the right area to hang out. It is very calm and at the end of the Key you can see Clearwater Beach (key).

GrimzFamilyTravel — Google review

Nice clean beach with very warm water. Too warm for me to stay on long. Outdoor showers over by the restrooms is refreshing and nice to cool off with and remove the salt. Quiet place with small rolling waves and plenty of parking. 5 dollars per vehicle Monday-Friday, 8am to sunset or closing.

Tom S — Google review

Beautiful beach with outdoor showers, bathroom, and changing room. There is also baskets so you can pick up trash. Parking was $5 for the day. You can pay with card at the machine or online. The sand is not as soft as clearwater, it has more crunched up shells. We arrived at 10:30 on a saturday and there was plenty of parking. When we left at 1:30pm it was filled. There is also a playground, but it is not close to the water. The one downside is that the parking lot is a far walk to the water. It doesn't seem far at first, but when you are carrying all your stuff and it's hot or need to go back to the restroom, then you will notice. Overall, a nice beach with beautiful water.

Jasmine E — Google review

I loved all the available parking after driving around the pier 60 area searching for a parking. And I paid $5 for parking. Watching the sunset was priceless!

Melissa H — Google review

Amazing! We had a little extra time and decided to check out this scenic park. After spending only $5.50 on parking for the day, we walked along the beautiful uncrowded beach. The sun was shining with the perfect breeze. Couldn’t have picked a better place or a better day. Watched a variety of birds enjoying the beach and ocean and there were many intact seashells for collectors. Restrooms were clean and we were able to hose off our sandy feet outside before returning to parking lot. Will definitely return. In fact, we noticed a nice hotel among the lovely condos where we may stay on our next visit.

Lisa Z — Google review

Beautiful beach! Clean and great for families. Parking meter provided in the parking lot or you can pay via Park Mobile. There are picnic tables with trees for shade. Along the jetties side, there are more private spots with an open entrance and slightly covered with trees where you can fish and enjoy the scenery. There was a wedding when we went, that’s how beautiful the area is. Able to fish the jetties on the side. Caught pompano, blue runners, ladyfish, and Spanish mackerel. There were sheepsheads as well but we didn’t catch any. Just saw them by the jetties.

Chardenai V — Google review

This 95 acre park is at the northern most part of the Sand Key barrier island, a short hop through Sand Key Bridge up to Clearwater Beach, and 21 miles west of Tampa airport TPA.The parking at the park is $5 for the day. The amenity (list) includes outdoor showers @ Boardwalk #3, and #4 which is behind the bathroom and changing room.I only used the beach because I'm here for the 1.2 mile open water swim: it was fantastic!!! Our event has 167 swimmers. I car pooled with my friend. At 7am on this Saturday, the parking lot looks vacant. But by the time we leave, at 11am, there are still many parking spots. Not sure it has anything to do with the water temp hovering around 69°F.Some swimmers say they saw dolphins. I see plenty pelicans, and a few other water birds: Willets, Laughing Gull in breeding plumage, and American Oyster Catcher.

Irene E — Google review

I came here with my family today. The park was nice. Entrance is free, parking is $5 and is paid with card at the kiosk. You just need to know your license plate number.There is a good amount of parking, but does get filled up on the weekends. There is a charging station for EVs.There is a food truck, restrooms and showers. Overall, it was a nice place. The water was fairly clear, and we did get to see some dolphins! There is also a ton of shells. The bathrooms were however, wrecked by the time we got there at 10:30.There is mat that is rolled out to help ease the rolling of coolers/beach wagons. We will be back again to hopefully get some fishing in!

Tasha O — Google review

Beautiful! You can rent chairs and umbrellas, there’s a food shack (truck) lifeguard (not sure hours) baskets to carry with you to collect your trash, (newest idea ever!) bathrooms, pavilion/cabanas for parties/get togethers, does cost to park and I believe dogs aren’t allowed in the beach but elsewhere in the park is ok.

Kimberly F — Google review

Love this park. The access to the beach is phenomenal. Parking is plentiful and only $5 all day. Best beach in Clearwater and you can avoid the headaches of the main beach.

Ross M — Google review

I love Sand Key Park. It's a great beach. Less crowded. They have clean restrooms and outside shower. There is a snack truck there also. Lots of sand dollars at this beach.

Tamara K — Google review

Semi clear water, early in the morning, very soft sand. Saw manatees, dolphin, plenty of varying size of fish. Decent place to snorkel. Bathrooms readily available. You can rent umbrellas and chairs but recommend you bring your own so you can be closer to the water. $5 to park all day, need a credit or debit card. I would definitely recommend it.

D N — Google review

I love this place. The beach is amazing, the water is clear and during the summer is warm, perfect to spend a whole day with family and friends. The park has a good playground, restrooms, showers, dog park and picnics and events areas. Great access to the beach and affordable parking price ($5 per day)

Deborah M — Google review

I work about 15 minutes from sand key park. When the work at the office gets overwhelming, I head over for a half hour salt air, wave washing reboot. It is such a great beach. So peaceful and beautiful.

Lee B — Google review

I love coming here. $5 for parking until 8pm. Been here twice so far. Lots of cool shells. Decent bathhouses. Showers are okay.

Gia K — Google review

I always enjoy coming to this park. It is a favorite of mine. Clearwater beach is beautiful, but I am not a big food or alcohol person. I also don't care for the crowds or NYC priced parking and hotels. A local told me about Sand Key a few years back, and I rarely go to Clearwater anymore. This beach is roomier, has multiple easily accessible multi-stalled clean bathrooms, changing stalls, and outdoor showers. There is a food truck. You can also Uber food to you in the parking lot. I have done it.AND ALL DAY PARKING for $5... come and go as you please for that $5.And the beach is only a quarter of the beauty...There are playgrounds for the kids in shaded grassy areas. Dog parks available for those with furry friends. Walking paths that wind all around the 90ish acres. Let's see... picnic areas, tables, benches, on occasion a hammock, birds, shells, (you get the idea)All this and just a hop south of Clearwater.

Tr1sh — Google review

We have gone to this gem a few times. The water has always been clear, the back drop scene is lovely.Clearwater beach is your typical hotel tourist type of beach so when you find your way to Sand Key Park it’s like you escape the tourist vibe and get to enjoy “nature”.The whole park is rather large, a few playgrounds, tables and benches, some covered areas to have a nice gathering at with friends. Then there is the beach. It’s not the biggest area so plan for that as far as parking goes.It is also nice as it’s only $5.35 for the day to park! (As of July 2024).The beach has two bathhouses (bathrooms with changing rooms) and a few outside showers near the parking lot.I will mention the bathrooms are close to the parking lot so it is a hike when you’re on the beach to head up to use potty. But the bathrooms are clean. That’s a plus!It’s truly a beautiful place when you want to get away from the tourists on Clearwater beach.As with any outdoors activities there do come dangers lol. One time we visited and my son was stung by jelly fish. The lifeguards helped him with some vinegar water and later we rubbed witch hazel on his chest. He was fine thankfully. We haven’t encountered jelly fish since that time, so maybe it’s just a season thing… and I’m sorry I don’t remember what season it was when that happened.We were just there in July 2024 and a lovely typical summer Florida afternoon storm was heading our way - was beautiful! The lifeguards kicked everyone out of the water / was happy to see that!All in all it’s a great place! Enjoy!

Sunshine S — Google review

4.7

(9414)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (145)

4.5

(1711)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (146)

1060 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767, USA

(727) 582-2100

22

Manatee Viewing Center

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Nature preserve

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Manatee Viewing Center features a 50-foot observation tower, trails, a boardwalk and butterfly gardens. This nature preserve is perfect for viewing manatees in their natural environment. The center also offers educational opportunities about manatees and their ecology.

This was a really cool (free!) place to visit on a Saturday. The close parking lot was full so we parked in the overflow which ended being great because there is a little center over there with energy games and activities. Bathrooms as well. Then we took a leisurely stroll to the center. There were several manatees in the water and a stingray petting area. Lots of boardwalks and it's kind of cool to see the power plant up close. Lots of activities for young kids scattered about as well as informational signs. Staff were friendly and we had a great visit!

Justine V — Google review

Shout out to the lady who said there was another boardwalk, or I would have completely missed my chance to see the manatees. Great place, very friendly staff. Observator, stingray center, food, manatees, trails. What could you not like about this place.

ZRinaldi — Google review

Lovely place. Great for the kids. Nice nature trails, boardwalks, and observation tower. Come in the winter to see the manatees but there is plenty of other wildlife to see year round. Staff were very friendly and helpful.

Theodore R — Google review

This place is amazing, and free!! Parking filled up fast, but they have an overflow parking lot. There were at least thirty manatees in the area when we came, and it’s still pretty warm right now. The observation tower was worth the walk, lots of schools of fish to see and watch them jump. The learning area is geared towards smaller children but was still interesting. Cute gift shop. We didn’t eat onsite, but they did have a place for food and the prices seemed very reasonable.

Lisa M — Google review

During my visit to the Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach, FL, I was truly impressed by the exceptional level of maintenance and care evident throughout the facility. The staff's extensive knowledge of marine life, particularly their expertise on manatees, greatly enriched my visit. Furthermore, I was delighted to see the commitment to sustainable energy, with a notable emphasis on solar and wind power. The fact that the majority of the facility operates on solar energy is a commendable feat, reflecting a dedication to environmental responsibility.The day of my visit was particularly memorable as I had the opportunity to witness a remarkable number of manatees, as well as encountering some sharks and tarpon. This diverse marine life added an extra layer of fascination to the experience. Overall, the Manatee Viewing Center left a lasting impression on me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Florida's marine ecosystems.

Jace K — Google review

This place is huge. Lots of walking. Unfortunately we came the day a.big storm was coming in and a few days before the viewing area closes for the summer.The water was very muddy. Still got to see a couple sharks and tarpons. We could tell where the manatees were. Still we enjoyed the area. The butterfly area was very nice. We will comeback this winter

Scott R — Google review

Yesterday was the second time that I got to experience and enjoy the Manatee Viewing center. The first time in February I got to see tons of manatees because they were kind of wintering there. Yesterday in April 2020 we took the time to walk the many nature trails there and go to the 50 foot high look-out observation tower! It was beautiful and worth the walk. I would suggest though taking a trail map if there is one because there are multiple trails and things to see. Well worth the trip! Highly recommend seeing this. Especially in the winter months, but really anytime. The educational center was really nice and great for children also the butterfly garden and other exhibits there as well!

Rebecca J — Google review

We went on a very warm day so we saw 3 manatee and many fish. Touch tank open but educational center closed. Arrive early due to parking

Joann G — Google review

The Manatee viewing center is a great place to visit. Many things are outstanding here and the fact in the day and age is it's free, yes I said free. Colder days are better to visit as your chances of seeing manatees increases greatly. We did see 7 when we went on a 80 degree day though. Find a park representative and ask them about the park all of them are more than happy to educate anyone willing to lessen. They also have a tank with several stingrays in them that anybody can touch. I would visit this place again when we are in Florida and I would recommend others to do so.

Michael M — Google review

Well kept center that brings you closer to nature. Great walking areas and tons of wildlife. The touch pool for the rays was amazing. Wish the center was opened all the time instead of seasonally.

Brenda B — Google review

This place was amazing. I'm so glad that they give back to the community like they do as it is free. There is a gift shop, two peirs to walk out onto. They had a petting area for sting rays. They had several beautifully landscaped gardens. These are all just extra perks as far as I'm concerned. The manatees were so very cool!!!

Kayla B — Google review

What an awesome experience for people of all ages, and at no cost!!! Everything is set up perfectly. The gift shop was amazing and prices were great! Employees/volunteers were phenomenal. We definitely will be back. Visit on a cooler day to increase your chances of seeing more manatees. Also, consider adopting a manatee to help save these gentle giants!!

Sunshine M — Google review

A fun, unique, and free experience! It was cool to see the manatees, but also the variety of fish and birds, as well as the occasional shark! There was a neat educational area in the basement with stingrays. We visited in the middle of March so there weren't as many manatees visible, but it was still a great experience.

Anne G — Google review

A must visit in the area! Beautiful and one of a kind experience. Manatees and Sting Ray up close for photos and experiencing. Great bird watching and plant life viewing also. The staff were amazing and very knowledgeable about the animals and plants. The parking lot was crowded but easy to find. Handicap accessible throughout the center. We did not visit the gift shop due to the very long line to enter. Restrooms are available on site. Highly recommend for guests of all ages and interests!

ArtsyPhotos P — Google review

Love free adventures! Entry is free and plenty of parking is free. The manatee viewing is always a thrill. Touch tanks are fun as well. You can walk out to a tower or walk the decking along the water. Restrooms are clean. There is a small gift shop and a snack area. I would check their live cam to be sure the manatees are there before you head over. We've seen them in Jan, Feb and March. Excellent place for kids!

Dr. G — Google review

We had an amazing experience at the Manatee Viewing Center! Be prepared to do a lot of walking as there are many beautiful walking trails. We pretty much walked the entire property (about 5 miles). There is a shuttle on site if needed. I recommend getting there at opening as the place tends to get crowded and the parking area closest to the entrance fills up fast (there is over flow parking in the back). Definitely put on your walking shoes as the roads are paved with seashells throughout the trails. Maybe even pack some snack if you have toddlers/infants and definitely stay hydrated! Sunscreen is a good idea too.This is a well maintained property with lots to offer. The viewing pier gets a bit crowded but luckily manatees gather on all sides so everyone has a chance to see them. There is also a fishing pier as you get further into the property. We also visited the Aquarium where they have rescued turtles. There is also an education building that offers lots of FREE brochures/booklets on wildlife and sea life as well as interactive things for the kiddos while in there!Staff at the gift shop was very helpful and friendly. Restrooms are kept clean and stocked. You have the option to donate and support via CHECK only. I wish this was something I knew ahead of time but I will definitely be ready on the next visit. And get this, the Manatee Viewing Center is FREE to the public!! Overall, I think this is a great place to check out and we will definitely be visiting again at the end of the year.

Grlenamored — Google review

Went here on December 26, 2022. This is a Nature Preserve where manatees in Tampa Bay are attracted to the warm waters of industrial canals. There was a wait time for cars to park at the Manatee Viewing Center, but we got patient and decided to wait. It was a busy day, but was still enjoyable. This experience is free!All the boardwalks and gravel paths are clean and maintained, but bathroom cleanliness can be improved. All the staff were volunteers and were very friendly. During our experience, we saw hundreds of manatees! It was a delight to see these manatees huddle together in a man made habitat. There are various signs educating people about the behavior of manatees and clean energy on the walking trails to the Observation Tower and Overflow Parking. Overall, is definitely worth the wait. Is great to see an organization that sincerely cares about our local wildlife and not looking for our money!

Landon B — Google review

The Manatee Viewing Center was wonderful! I definitely didn't expect to see so many manatees but boy was I wrong. We saw black-tipped sharks, Atlantic Tarpon, Redfin Needlefish, and stingrays! What a wonderful and free experience available to the public! The gift shop has so many cute and affordable keepsakes or gifts to choose from. There is a stingray pool where you can watch and touch the rays as they swim by. So much fun! We can't wait to return!

Monica M — Google review

Super nice place. They have a few trails to walk, a viewing tower, manatee viewing, a stingray pool, and a gift shop. The trails went to places that talked about solar energy and other sustainable energy sources. They had some interactive activities at the stops. They had a little pool with stingrays you could touch where the volunteers were really kind. The manatee viewing spot was perfect. There were so many! Overall great experience considering all the activities were free!

Samantha B — Google review

Love this place. A nice bit of walking, since we had to park in the overflow parking lot. Thankfully they have a trolley service which we took after getting our steps in🤣. Plenty of manatee huddle up trying to keep warm. The souvenir shop is small, but we managed to get the perfect pin we were looking for. The turtle hospital was worth the trolley ride. Totally recommend going, it's very educational. It's totally free to get in.

Javier O — Google review

So fun, clean, and it's FREE!!! This place is great! Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. First time touching a sting ray! The walkways are large, everything was clean (even the bathrooms). While the manatee weren't close, you can definitely see them there. It's amazing the entire facility is free. It needs to be on your bucket list!

Cindy S — Google review

I absolutely love visiting here, its my 3rd time and I never tire of seeing these beautiful creatures. Parking was easy... and if there is not space in the main parking lot, there is remote parking with a shuttle, free. I always enjoy walking on the boardwalks and there is plenty of railing space to get a good view in. The signs are helpful to identify the birds and fish. The gift shop is very reasonable priced.

Sarah T — Google review

I have to rate this place 5 stars not least because it’s totally free! It’s a fabulous way to see these gorgeous creatures and enjoy watching all their cute habits. Plus there are so many other exhibits and fun things for adults and kids to watch and take part in. The little cafe has good food and drink options at really reasonable prices. It was well worth the trip and we will most likely go again when we have friends and family in town. We went over the weekend and did not have to wait even though it was popular. We did not have to buy tickets in advance.

Mari-Ann K — Google review

The best free experience! Very clean, no crowds, educational, love watching manatees enjoying the warmer waters! Fun and playful stingrays! Beautiful boardwalk. Definitely will be returning to learn about the birds, gardens, and check out the gift shop.Wheelchair accessible. They have Wheelchairs as well. Very friendly staff. We felt very welcome.

Mermaids C — Google review

This is a really nice facility and fits nicely into the surrounding environment. There is no guarantee that you will see any manatees, although we did see several, and they were impressive. There is plenty of parking and includes many for handicapped as well. For those with electric vehicles, there are charging stations available. There is no cost for parking or to enter the facility, which is fantastic.If you found this review helpful, please tap the thumbs up. Thanks!

Pmw — Google review

Best time to go is during colder weather months as Manatees hang out here due to the warm water. Mostly gone by March. But they do have an interactive ray tank and you can take a free tram to the turtle conservation center any time and both are wonderful.

Dawn H — Google review

Great facility! It's free and free parking. There is a gift shop, you can also get food and drinks there. They have a touch tank with stingrays. We got to see so many manatees and sharks. If you park in the overflow lot the walk to the area is not bad it's pretty. They do have a golf cart shuttle. I will go here again.

Melissa W — Google review

Great place to see lots of manatees! There are viewing platforms above the water, so visitors can look down into the water to see the adorable manatees. They gather near the power plant to take advantage of the warmer water in the winter months. There are hundreds of them swimming about! There is a cute gift shop ( an employee told me some of the proceeds go to support manatees) , snack bar, restrooms & an area to see & interact with stingrays.

Kim — Google review

Einen Stopp wert!Es hat genügend Parkplätze und ab dem Eingang bekommt man viele Informationen zu den Manatees und anderen Tieren, die hier leben. Es ist gut ausgebaut. Man kann auf diversen Stegen hinaus ins Wasser laufen und von oben das Wasser beobachten. Wir haben mehrere Haie, grosse Fische und ein Manatee gesehen. Sehr toll gemacht.Der Eintritt ist kostenlos. Wir waren hier für ca. 1 Stunde.(Translated by Google)Worth a stop!There is enough parking space and from the entrance you can get a lot of information about the manatees and other animals that live here. It is well developed. You can walk out into the water on various footbridges and watch the water from above. We saw several sharks, large fish and a manatee. Very well done.Entry is free. We were here for about 1 hour.

Tatjana C — Google review

4.7

(8771)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (153)

4.5

(2993)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (154)

6990 Dickman Rd, Apollo Beach, FL 33572, USA

(813) 228-4289

23

Sunken Gardens

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Botanical garden

Nature & Parks

The Sunken Gardens is a century-old attraction in St. Petersburg, FL that features thousands of plants, a butterfly aviary and wildlife shows. The garden is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful botanical gardens. It is perfect for visitors who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

I loved it here! There is a wide variety of plants from all over the world. Madagascar palms, bamboos, large traveler palms and they even have Chilean flamingos! My favorite was the Azaleas, they are in full bloom at the moment. I will come back in the spring to see the flowers bloom.The paths are paved and the scene is beautiful for pictures so do wear a cute outfit and cute shoes. It takes about 20-30 minutes to walk through but take your time there is so much to see and don’t forget to look up!Plenty of benches and sitting areas. Very shaded walk and clean paths. There is a gift shop with plenty of items! Bring water, I don’t remember seeing a water fountain or snacks.Also, I got 2 adult passes on Groupon for the price of one adult gate pass.View pictures, but it’s 100x better in person. You’ll love it.

Vivian ( — Google review

This is a smaller garden but a very Zen place. I enjoyed my time here. It doesn't take very long to walk around the entire garden. I recommend bringing water. I love the tropical feel and seeing the butterflies. The staff were very warm and friendly. I appreciate that. I love the flamingos I do wish they had a bigger area for them. As well as the birds I wish there was a huge atrium for them to fly around in. However the animals were well taken care of and looked healthy. They do have an option to get married here for those who are looking. Great place to take photos. It isn't very expensive and parking is free which is always a bonus. They have food for the koi fish for about $2 which isn't too bad. Great place for families and those who are solo looking for something to do. I do like the gift shop they have a mixture of various garden eclectic items.

Nesha — Google review

This is a great place to see nature and it also has some history to it. It's nice the city bought this place to keep it open. They have all sorts of trees plants and flowers. They also have flamingos and different bird species as well.

Nick N — Google review

Whimsical..indescribable..simply zen..oh my goodness 🥰🫶🏽💜 I could've stayed here all DAY!! So relaxing..IF I had to give a downside..I'd hope that the maps were laid out a bit better to match up with the layout..I mean it's SORTA close..but if you're not careful,you'll either miss something,or go in circles..but honestly its so beautiful to where you may not care too much..small kids may get a bit antsy with getting lost though..but not too bad. There's a beautiful layout of a gift shop as well🥳👏🏼

JUSNATURAL. — Google review

We had so much fun at Sunken Gardens! My husband and I went on a day where it had just rained and it was sunny, but not hot outside. The plants here are gorgeous, and the venue is well arranged. We really enjoyed going through the winding paths and identifying plants we were familiar with and being amazed by new ones we had never seen. Some of the trees here are enormous. We were especially impressed by the rainbow eucalyptus tree. It is out of a storybook. And by the way, there are real flamingos here! We also really enjoyed the gift shop. It is great place to find gifts for anyone who loves plants. I would love to come here again next time we are in St. Petersburg. Highly recommend making this part of your visit to the area. Don’t miss it!!

Michelle M — Google review

What an absolute gem! From the cute retro sign out front, to the incredible plant life inside the garden, it was a lovely experience. We got tickets on Groupon and it was such an easy experience. We went on a Saturday, and it definitely gets busier after about 2 pm. Coming back for sure!

Elyza W — Google review

Sunken Gardens in St. Pete is a delightful and affordable destination perfect for a family outing or a romantic date. This historic botanical garden is not only beautiful but also full of fascinating wildlife and vibrant plant life.As we strolled through the gardens, we were charmed by the playful flamingos, the speaking parrots, and the cool tortoises. The flamingos entertained us with their antics, and the parrots added an extra layer of fun with their chatter. Butterflies fluttered around, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.We spent about an hour and a half exploring the entire garden, soaking in its beauty and learning about its history. It's a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, and the well-maintained pathways make it easy to navigate.Overall, Sunken Gardens offers a wonderful experience that's both educational and enjoyable. Great customer service may I add, the very nice workers walk around with the parrots and give them treats when they talk! I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting St. Pete!

B — Google review

We visited during a recent family trip to St.Pete’s beaches. I had seen this listed as one of the things to do while in the area. I enjoyed walking through the beautifully laid out grounds and seeing all the magnificent plants and trees. The size of some of the trees is incredible. I am an amateur gardener and houseplant lover but given that I live in NY we aren’t able to grow most of these varieties, so this was really interesting to me. There is also a great history here and learning opportunities if you’re interested. My husband and 6 year old son got bored somewhat quickly so there’s that. But I could have spent much more time there. It is truly very tranquil and zen being surrounded by all that plant life. It is a little small but reasonably priced. My family did all love the flamingos and koi pond and waterfalls. We were a little disappointed that the birds were not available at the time that we went due to caution over the bird flu outbreak, but I totally understand that health is priority. Hopefully we will get to visit another time. It was April so not very buggy yet as some other reviews had mentioned. A very nice experience overall and would love to visit again if in the area.

Allison B — Google review

If you are anywhere near this beautiful garden, It is worth every bit of your effort to visit it. There are amazing specimens from all over the world. They have taken a great amount of time to make sure that these beautiful plants have survived over 100 years. Great gift shop, as well. I highly recommend this lovely garden and the history that it brings to St Pete.

Pam L — Google review

Taking time off from work for a little "staycation" this week for some decompression time. There;s is no better place to find some Zen time than this place. Wow.Peaceful and educational at the same time. We arrived just before 11am and there was no wait, no crowds. I could see where this would be pretty busy on a weekend; and that could diminish the peacefulness slightly.Walkways are decently marked and there are plenty of spots to just sit and take in the beauty.Grounds are very well maintained and the staff was very friendly.This is a place that one cold easily visit often, just to unwind and getaway from the hustle of the world.

Timmy S — Google review

Beautiful with lots of water features.Well maintained. Lots of varieties of flora with description plaques.Landscaped from a sinkhole back in the early 1900's.This is a gem in St Pete.I especially enjoyed the hundred years old royal Palms and live oaks, the koi and loads of blooming plants with sweet scents in the air.Well worth the admission price of $15

Jeffrey L — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous place to visit. So many different plants to see. Gorgeous landscapes, bridges, flamingos and fish. Very well taken care of. Bonus - a fun gift shop that offers many different souvenirs!Only costs $15 to get in and it is well worth the money.

Ashley L — Google review

Beautiful botanical gardens and home to rescued birds. Great variety of flora native to the area and other similar climates. I could have spent much more time there than I was able to. Great place to just explore or even grab a seat in a chair or on a bench and relax for a little bit. I did go on a Saturday and the parking lot filled up super fast. So I recommend getting there when they open or soon after.

Rachel W — Google review

Took my mother here for her birthday and she loved it. It was a perfect day for being outside. Most of the park is in the shade which is very nice in Florida.Tons of butterflies, plants, and flowers.The place has been around forever but visiting it yearly is always nice because they do change things up and of course plants are different throughout the year.It’s a beautiful place just outside of buddy St Petersburg where you can forget about everything.

James F — Google review

Plant lover dream! We walked through this beautiful garden and enjoyed all the gorgeous plants and wildlife! If you love houseplants, it’s really amazing to see these plants in the wild, growing huge! My kids loved seeing the “retirement parrots” and all the little geckos.$6/kids, for adults, we got a Groupon!Nice gift shop too, with lots of plant-lovers gifts!

Laura { — Google review

Everything about this place is incredible. The plants are all very well taken care of, and the inside staff are nothing but helpful. The various and winding paths always led to something interesting. There are plenty of sights and picture opportunities. If you're anywhere close to the area, I highly recommend a stop inside! It took us about an hour and a half to walk and gawk the whole trail.

Keven C — Google review

This garden is absolutely amazing!! Extremely well maintained and HUGE. You could spend hours walking around, taking photos or just looking at all of the beautiful palm trees, flowers, fountains, waterfalls, they even have flamingos and turtles. Lots of shady places to sit and rest too. My friend Anna took me (I am from out of state) and I was blown away by it. I hope to go back again for my next trip. Thank you to the staff and volunteers who clearly work hard on such a unique attraction.

Catherine L — Google review

Absolutely worth going! I am a total plant person and loved the experience! They have flamingos and several other types of birds. 100% recommend.

Zoe G — Google review

Absolutely beautiful tropical oasis in the middle of an urban area! The shade makes for a slight reprieve from the FL heat. The plants are gorgeous, mixed in with water features and birds! It's very relaxing to walk around and take in all the natural beauty of the place. The entire place is stroller and wheelchair friendly. There is even a water bottle refill station!

Alyssa S — Google review

It has been on my places to visit and finally made it! It was busy on a Saturday morning and since it was cold, we did not get to see the birds!There is plenty of parking and people go in and out constantly, so you will find a spot. We did not have to wait long to get our tickets and the entrance is right next to the check in.It is a small garden with plenty of plants, fountains, small history section, flamingos, birds (during cold weather they are not on display) and a small gift shop.They are sunken because you go from the street level down to the gardens. If I remember correctly, this was a sinkhole but don't take my word for it.A good visit to get a nature fix away from the city or the beach.

Mel Z — Google review

What a beautiful little place! My husband and I brought our two year old son and it was the perfect size for him to wake around and explore while we also enjoyed the views. Lots of gorgeous flowers and other plants as well as little hidden waterfalls. There's also several different birds. Very peaceful place

Leslie H — Google review

If you want to spend the day walking through a lush garden with lots of different flora, this is it. There was plenty of shade in most areas, but it was still warm. They had well kept clearings where you can enjoy a picnic (which I did). They also have flamingos and I really enjoyed watching them. They also have a cute gift shop! We got our tickets through Groupon for a cheaper price, so highly recommend to take advantage of the deal when it's up.

Ryder M — Google review

I have not been here in 20 years and I plan to visit here more frequently going forward. Not just a wonderful offer with year passes, but even the daily fee is well worth it. The garden remains as majestic as I remember, but the improvements around the gardens are just as beautiful. Parking can be tight on busy days, but no cost involved. Well worth my time and already looking forward to my next visit.

Scott R — Google review

My family and I wanted to check out this place - my daughter loves nature. We were looking to do something low-key and relaxing. The Sunken Garden was tranquil and peaceful and just the right place we needed. It literally is an oasis in the middle of the concrete desert.Even though it was drizzling a little, the weather made it feel even immersive.Sure, one could take a brisk walk through the garden in maybe under an hour, but to really enjoy the experience, one needs to take their time, explore, take pictures, and just chill.

Molloni M — Google review

This place winds and twists into so many neat nooks and separate landscapes that all are so beautiful! I couldn't stop myself from taking photos every few moments it was hard to combat that feeling and just drink it all in

Corey H — Google review

This place is a local treasure and a must see! Absolutely beautiful botanical gardens with an amazing collection of plants including a rainbow eucalyptus which is magnificent. Rich with local history, and easy to navigate and a most beautiful wedding venue too. We are members here and come as often as we can for a relaxing walk, to have a picnic in nature or to see the birds. We bring all our guest here.

Sara W — Google review

Last Visit 1/14/23. From KY visiting family and we all went here. Had a blast walking around and seeing all of the (mostly) native plants. There were six of us and they let me in with my camera, bag, and tripod with no problems. All of the pix were for personal use and the attached eight were among them. I took 84 images that day.

John F — Google review

This fantastic place has been in operation since 1940's. It remains a jewel of retro Florida's roadside attractions. Get a docent-led tour. Kudos to Steve V, our leader today. We spent 3 hours enjoying this living museum which includes a great pictorial history of its origins and founding owners. We are grateful to the city of St Petersburg (the current owners) for their foresight to save this icon of Florida history and life.

PDK — Google review

Very nice place. Easy to walk through and appreciate all the different plants. Turtles and flamingos were a cool little tough too. Glad to see an older place still around and busy.

David S — Google review

We were in town to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. Among the destinations we wanted to visit were Sunken Gardens since we are intrigued with "Old "Florida" which is rapidly disappearing. It was officially opened as "Turner's Sunken Gardens" in 1903 when George Turner, a plumber and gardener, "drained a shallow lake which had filled an ancient sinkhole and dropped 15 feet below street level to provide a rich soil to grow fruits and vegetables from all over the world."One of Florida's oldest family-owned roadside attractions is now a restored botanical garden. After three days of being downtown and "museumed-out," we spent our last day in this quiet, shaded oasis not far from the noise of downtown. We had a B1G1F coupon from the Discover Downtown Guide and Map which when combined with a senior discount we paid $12 for both of us. After three museum days, this was the most reasonably priced attraction we visited. In 1924, visitors paid $.25 for a stroll through the lush gardens.Check-in is efficient; you are given a map of the gardens with the number of stickers attached to the back of the guide indicating how many are in each party. I would suggest using the restrooms at check-in before heading out. No restrooms are available in the 24-stop self-guided tour.Educational programs, workshops, special events, and tours are available. The gardens are also a favorite setting for weddings and receptions.The map shows shaded ADA accessible paths and picnic tables. Some of the meandering walkways are uneven; good walking shoes are recommended. Lots of benches are available for sitting.Plants and trees from around the world grace the gardens. Madagascar, Philippines, Indonesia, Brazil, Africa, New Guinea, South America, Australia and other countries are represented. Geriatric exotic birds have a safe haven at Sunken Gardens when their owners can no longer care for them. Among them are macaws and an endangered Umbrella Cockatoo. The Chilean Flamingos were having a grand time finding morsels in the water while squawking at each other; they are identified by their pink joints and unusual, black-tipped bills. We waited for a few minutes for the Laughing Kookaburra from Australia to call but he wasn't having it.Hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. and Sunday Noon-4:30 p.m. Parking is free in the large lot also shared with Carrabba's Italian Grill. We got takeout after our visit. Win-win!

Marnette S — Google review

Very large diversity of plants. Took about 2 hours to see everything. Please just be respectful and stay on the path and do not vandalize any of the plants! Nobody came to see your initials carved in to the bamboo...

Claudia G — Google review

Beautiful place! We went early in the day and it wasn't very crowded. The tropical birds were a bonus. It would be a great wedding venue. I wouldn't bring kids because it is a little spendy and they would probably race through it and want to leave.

Joanna G — Google review

We happened to have visited on a rainy day. If there is any lightning at all they close the garden. They post a sign outside saying it’s closed and unfortunately they don’t know when they will open. We decided to wait it out and we finally got in. They have a beautiful verity of plants and a few birds. It’s a winding sidewalk that guides you through the garden.

Ayla R — Google review

Beautiful place, I would recommend it to everyone to go and see it. We spent almost 2 hours slowly walking around and learning about the plants, flowers and animals. Make sure to take some water with you and just enjoy the scenery.

Gabriella Z — Google review

4.7

(4734)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (160)

4.5

(2125)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (161)

1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704, USA

(727) 551-3102

24

Chihuly Collection

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Art gallery

Museums

Art Museums

The Dale Chihuly Collection is a prestigious glass art gallery located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. The collection includes some of the most iconic glass pieces in history, such as the Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier and Macchia. There are also glass-blowing demonstrations available on site, so visitors can learn more about this fascinating art form.

Dale Chihuly is a legend. Some artists are just elite in their own rights. Chihuly is one of these when it comes to glass art, holy cow. I absolutely love seeing Chihuly art in museums, so there being a whole collection of just his art in St. Pete is fated destiny (double duty, I know).It’s pretty much as awesome as you’d imagine, though it’s definitely a smaller exhibit which is the only disappointing part. You’d really have to drag out the better part of an hour to make it a long visit. But the pieces that are included here are still well worth seeing, and the admission is cheaper than a lot of the museums nearby. Plus, you don’t usually have to reserve a time slot really ahead of time.There’s also another fun addition to admission to the collection: you can go across the street to the Morean Arts Center and watch a free glass glowing demo!! Tom, who was working the collection when we went told us all about it and was so awesome. Watching glass blowers craft their work right in front of your eyes is such a neat and unusual experience.The Chihuly exhibit is a magical, colorful walk of brilliance. It makes for such a fun mini afternoon!

R L — Google review

You’ll be glad you went. The glass pieces take over the space with beauty! It’s a manageable little venue with restrooms and gift shop. Best feature might just be the opportunity to watch a live glass blowing demo (50 min) in a nearby glass studio. Great place to purchase artist made glass pieces with zero pressure.

Deborah B — Google review

This was a great experience! The art exhibits were stunning. And I loved the movie room, where you get to learn about the artist himself and his story, as well as seeing all of the installations that he's done around the world.This was definitely worth the price of admission and I would even consider going back on occasion.

Michael E — Google review

The collection is not huge but, what's there is really cool. We got thru the gallery well-within an hour. Stuff you don't always see at your typical art gallery. What makes this a ☆☆☆☆☆ is the glass-blowing demonstration which runs at the top of each hour - it's a really interesting and fun. Again, something different and worth the ticket. Don't miss it. And, there is a "tip-bucket" - make sure to help out these artisans - I'm not talking just a buck or two. Throw a $20 in the bucket (I did)!!!

Charles M — Google review

Loved all the color and designs. Really enjoyed the glass blowing demonstration. The pieces here are amazing. I only wish there were more! Price is a little steep, but if you love Chihuly you will be happy.

Lora K — Google review

This is a really beautiful exhibit. I enjoyed a quiet hour wandering through Chihuly's works. There is a neat video at the end featuring Chihuly speaking about his process and artistic vision.

Rachel K — Google review

This is my third visit. Beautiful large glass sculptures. Entrance fee includes a glass blowing exhibit.Museum will require an hour and the film about Chihuly and the glass blowing about another hour. Worth the time.Highly recommend.

Mike Z — Google review

Super mesmerizing!! The teens enjoyed it as much if not more than I did. Such precision and attention to details..omg!! I hoped to see a demonstration, but no one was available on the weekend..it was still beautiful! The store was a bit pricey,but had a great selection of items..

JUSNATURAL. — Google review

The pieces were set up beautifully and with the perfect lighting for each specific item. At the end of the collection is a small display showcasing other artists' pieces and then the store.Included with the collection was a live demonstration through a glass studio across the street, I do not know if that was a special event or a usual occurrence.I'm a huge Chihuly fan, and I am excited to be able to check this impressive collection off my bucket list!

Selena N — Google review

A very nice collection of Chihuly's work. In some ways I expected more, but the works that were there were great. A guide was eager to tell the story behind the works, and there was a nice glass blowing demonstration across the street. A gift shop had works from other gifted local glass blowers for sale.

Billschomer — Google review

This pkace was quite small but still beautiful. I had my 2 kids plus a friend and her nephew ages from 9 to 15 and they enjoyed it as well. Art is such a beautiful thing!! We absolutely love everything about museum's. They had a gift shop at the entrance and some displays were very interesting!!

Kai P — Google review

It's a gorgeous location. It had cost me 20$ per person to go in.The price is reduced if you are a senior or a student, though.Im not sure if you get a discount for being a veteranIt has amazing sculptures and a good few paintings from the main artist but no others.It must be said that the venue is very small, and you'll be in and out in less than 60 minutes, and if you're not big into photography, you'll be out in 30 minutes.But it must be said that the sculptures are spectacular

Lerone Y — Google review

Interesting but small. It does not take long to walk through the museum but it allows for some great photo ops. A ticket includes a free entry to the glass making demonstration across the street making the whole price worth it (with possible discounts as well)

Cherubic C — Google review

I wouldn't call it a "good deal" but I guess for the area, and being a Chihuly enthusiast, it was worth it. We went through the display in less than half an hour, then went to the glass blowing demonstration afterwards. The demonstration was extremely informative. They do have several displays, and an excellent gift shop.

Amy W — Google review

Lovely place to visit. The works were beautiful and we were able to take our time and admire everything. And the ticket purchase included an art gallery, clay gallery and a glass blowing demo. We visited 4 places for the price of 1 ticket. What a great way to spend a day!

Rose P — Google review

There's not a lot of glass sculptures and it took me and my family about 10 minutes to finish. They look pretty good though, and the amount of work it takes to make some of these in incredible. A bit expensive but if you like art it's a good place to go 👍👍👍.

ALE T — Google review

The Chihuly Collection in Saint Petersburg, Florida, is a fantastic indoor activity, especially on those scorching hot days! The art pieces are absolutely stunning, and I even ended up buying a beautiful vase. The staff is friendly and welcoming. My only wish is that the exhibit were a bit larger to enjoy even more of the incredible artwork. Highly recommend visiting!

Elizabeth W — Google review

If you are an admirer of Glass Art, especially works done by Dale Chihuly this is a must visit exhibit.Paid Parking is available on the street and also in lots.Plenty of Beautiful works are on display and a gift shop is also on premise.Besides the Collection Building there is a Glass Works building across the street.*Check for days and times*

P O — Google review

Very good collection of Chihuly works. Nice presentation of pieces and a decent variety. Worthy visit when in the area.

C L — Google review

We arrived a little over an hour before closing and were greeted by a friendly and helpful man at the front. We were assured that we could see the collection and watch glassblowing in the time we had. He was not wrong. He even walked around letting everyone know it was time to head over to watch the glassblowing so no one missed it.We took in some of the pieces with some fun photo ops before heading over to catch the last glass blowing demonstration. The demonstration was great to watch and took about 20 minutes. It was a couple minute walk across the street. It gives you a real life demonstration of the work that goes into creating the pieces. My teens had a greater appreciation for the collection after seeing this.We returned to finish seeing the Chihuly collection and watched to video there. The video really puts the work into perspective. We even had a few minutes to walk the gift shop before closing.Great experience, enjoyed by teens. Fun family activity that does not need a full day to do.

Tracy F — Google review

I'm not a huge museum fan, but this place is a great addition for a fun and interesting day in St. Pete's. The museum itself is pretty small and the average person could browse through it in an hour or less. Add another hour for the glass making demo and gift shopping! The glass work is amazing and gorgeous, the glass making demonstration is interesting, and of course, the gift shop has a lot of beautiful goodies. We took the time to sit through the short video about Chihuly and that helped make the experience feel more interesting and personal. Two hour street parking was convenient in front of the museum when we went mid-week, but I'm not sure how much availability would be there on weekends. The surrounding neighborhood is perfect for a stroll, dining, shopping, or a drink in one of the sidewalk eateries.

Shirley A — Google review

Beautiful glass collection in Downtown St. Petersburg. Chihuly is brilliant artist. 💯% recommend this location wherever you're in the area. 20 minutes to walk around the exhibit. Enjoy!

Ronald R — Google review

Stopped at this exhibit on our way out of Petersburg and I am so glad we did. Chihuly’s works are possibly the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen! I only wish we had stayed for the glassblowing demonstration

Ava G — Google review

The Chihuly Collection is located in the Morean Arts Center, which houses a permanent collection of Chihuly artwork. It features 18 large-scale installations, including the "Florida Rose Crystal Tower." The collection is relatively small and can usually be covered in no more than an hour. It is also a smaller version of the Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle, Washington. So, if you have already visited the one in Seattle, I would not recommend visiting this one; you would not find anything new.

Vlad B — Google review

It is a small museum but has beautiful glass work. It's easy to get to and there's public parking available. Starting at noon there is a glass blowing exhibition every hour Monday to Friday. I love art and this fits the bill.

Jim R — Google review

The museum is not the biggest Chihuly collection I've seen but it is a beautiful and varied collection. I enjoyed watching the movie as much as anything. The chandeliers, as always, are amazing. The best part hands down is watching the demonstration. Two artists demonstrate how they create an amazing piece of art. One narrates and explains what's going on, then she assists with the main artist. Just so you know, It's warm in there, despite the largest ceiling fan I've ever seen. haha. But what an incredible opportunity to watch amazing artists! Love it!

Tia P — Google review

What a great experience. Bring your ear bubs as there is an audio guide with your admission. Fantastic exhibits. Be sure to see the glass blowing demo included with your admission and located a block away. Plenty of 2 hour parking on street. Hard to find longer parking. Nice area to walk, shop and have a bite to eat.

Debra L — Google review

Unbelievable!! Stunning pieces beautifully displayed. There's a self-guided audio tour provided as part of the $20 USD admission. Also includes a 30 min glass blowing demonstration which was amazing. A video profile of the artist, provides significant insights into how he creates the pieces. There's a shop to purchase stunning pieces. Definitely worth the price of admission!!

J M — Google review

The Chihuly Collection is a great spot to check out in St Petersburg and the work is awe-inspiringly beautiful. You can take your time walking through the gallery and are free to move at your own pace and take as many photos as you’d like photos. Definitely a must-see, especially if you’re a fan of glass art.

Niesa L — Google review

It's hard to come up with fresh new things to say about chihuly glass collection.Innovative, avant-garde, pushing the limits, imaginative cutting edge.Never mind my ramblings.Just go to the museum and experience this fabulous art for yourself.This will be the $18 dollars you have spent in many a year.

Stephen G — Google review

This is not a museum... It is a gallery! ( A small one at that). And I think it's crazy for a gallery to charge admission. They try to justify the price because there is a 20 min "movie" to watch about Chihuly and there is a glass blowing demonstration. So.... if I opted out of those things, could I walk through the gallery for free? (Which only takes about 5 or so minutes). I doubt they would allow that.Also, the pricing of items in the glass blowing gift shop is ridiculous. Hundreds of dollars for crooked, messed up pieces?

Diane B — Google review

Charming ChihulyBucket list. We were in St. Petersburg for four days to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. I have been fascinated with Dale Chihuly for some time and since we will not get to Seattle to see his premier work, I was excited to learn about the first installation of his work in a building designed for that purpose. Chihuly is a pioneer in the studio glass movement and leads in the development of complex structures and environmental art.While the display is smaller, the pieces are nonetheless impressive. Several chandeliers grace the ceiling of the building and range in size from 3-30 feet in length and are made up to 1,000 elements of glass including one of the most famous, "Iconic Ruby Red Icicle." One walkway features many pieces in the ceiling making you want to lie down and gaze up at the beauty. Glass-related gifts, books and other items are available in the gift shop.We did not find any discounts or coupons for entry and paid $18 each for the senior rate. However, admission covers entry to the Morean Arts Center directly across the street for glass blowing demonstrations on the hour. This is a must to see how a hot, sweaty, tricky trade that requires intense concentration and timing results in beautiful glass art. Viewers sit on bleachers in a covered area at the back of the center. The glass blower and his fellow colleague have been blowing glass for 10 years. One of the glass blowers lived in Venice for a few years and studied in Murano.The furnace temperatures range from 1,000 to 2,000 degrees F. Many steps are required to create one of the scalloped pieces similar to those we saw in the collection. It takes 24 hours for the final pieces to cool in the coolers in the demo area. One of the trickiest parts is separating the glass from the rod which the pair did with finesse and success. We watched as the piece was widened and color added to the rim.Friends have mentioned seeing his work in Milwaukee and Madison, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Columbus, OH, Nashville and at the Biltmore in Asheville, NC.

Marnette S — Google review

It's not just a collection of glass. It's an entire experience! You must visit Chihuly Collection in person to experience the magic of these glass masterpieces. Come with curiosity. Leave with a memorable positive experience!

Michelle G — Google review

4.7

(2430)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (167)

4.5

(2416)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (168)

720 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA

(727) 896-4527

25

The Dalí Museum

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$$$$affordable

Art museum

The Salvador Dali Museum is a renowned museum housing extensive surrealist art by the Spanish artist. It has a unique theatrical exterior and is a must-see for fans of Dalí's work.

This Museum is spectacular. The architecture is well-suited to display an artist like Salvador Dali. The design suggests ideas of things rather than actual things. Dali was Spanish, a Surrealist and a big believer in Freud's theories about dominance of dreams & subconscious.Dali was very popular in the 1950s through 70s. He was a master technician in his craft. His works are evocative and in-your-face simultaneously, full of wild, uncomfortable images. For me, it feels like he's trying too hard. I did, however, appreciate seeing his works in this magnificent collection.Picasso works were also on special display. His series on Bull Fighting is extraordinary-- gruesome subject but his culture, his passion. Photos of Picasso give you a look at his intensity.If you like either artist. GO!

Sher O — Google review

I visited when there was no temp exhibit, so at this time it was a one-gallery museum, which felt more than a little underwhelming. An impressive collection of Dali's work, to be sure, but hard to call it a *museum* when there is only one room of artwork.Just feels like a lot more could be done with this space to make it feel more whole. For example, the gift shop is nearly larger than the gallery. And for gods sake would it kill you guys to have more than one shirt with some cotton content? Almost every shirt in the store was 100% polyester, which is worse for our oceans than single-user water bottles. I do realize it's the "Dali museum" and not the "surrealist museum", but I do think bringing in the work of other surrealists to inform what was going on in the genre at the time would give more context to his work.The architecture of the building is lovely and the skylights positioned to illuminate the Masterworks (Dali's largest paintings) is a great use of the space. Bring some headphones because the audio tour app is valuable to get a deeper understanding of some of the pieces. I wish they had a recording for every piece, especially given that the whole museum is just one room.Be warned that parking is $10 extra, separate from your admission fees.I am glad I went, there were some works I was thrilled to see in person, but now that I've been, probably won't be back.

Luke S — Google review

If you like Dali art, this place is amazing! Thursdays after 5 pm is half price, but I would recommend a membership. Parking is free for members! Plus, you could easily come back multiple times so it will pay for itself. Also take a few minutes at the drawing exhibit and draw like Dali!!

Mike K — Google review

I went here over on a weekend. Parking was $10. The place has a great selection of Dali’s work and there are also voluntary docents at certain hours of the day that will help answer your questions regarding Dali’s works! The whole trip took less than 2 hours and it’s great to be able to see Dali’s life, art style changes, and some of his most notable works in one go. If you can download the museum’s app, be sure to do so as well because they used quite a few technologies to complement the viewing experience of some artworks.

XRM — Google review

We went at 5 so we had to speed through the whole place ! Really great art work on display. Wasn’t familiar with Dali’s work but now I’m a fan. We didn’t do the Dali Experience since it was a $15 add on. We spent $30 a pop for me and my wife. Cool museum though and prime location near everything in DT St Pete walking distance from the pier !

Realtor S — Google review

The museum itself was wonderful and a beautiful experience. The paintings are amazing. The outside garden was also beautiful. We did the Dalí Alive 360 which is well worth it!! The food was a bit expensive 😞 and pay for parking 10$ but glad there was parking . There were quite a-lot of people and loud in the museum so kinda had to rush then go back to read the ones we missed. Over all it was a great experience. Also, every worker we had contact with was so friendly!!

L J — Google review

We had a great experience at the exhibits. We happened to go on Thursday evening which is a opportunity for a reduced entrance cost and we reserved the tickets online. By the way make sure to have a credit or debit card for everything they don't accept cash.If you are a Dali fan or not, maybe even just like art you would enjoy this museum.The tour we joined with Janice was really good. She knew the owner and friend of Salvador Dali and had lots of personal information to share.Her tour was very well done. So good in fact and we wished we could have asked her if we could tip her.There is lots of pieces to see in a one of a kind site. Great views and a artistic building itself.They have very modern features where it is possible to interact with the exhibit. My favorite was the AI exhibit where you can describe a dream and with your phone create a piece of art that you can had to take with you. This was amazing.There is a Cafe and a 3D exhibit on the grounds that looked interesting but we would like to go back for that.The gift shop has lots of offerings at many price levels.

Tony C — Google review

This was my second visit; my first visit was before COVID and I feel things have changed a lot. When we went, there was a Picasso exhibit which was pretty cool since Dali was inspired by his work. Picasso was fascinating to see. Once we got over to the Dali side, I feel like a lot of the pieces that used to be shown have been pulled down and not replaced with new paintings. There were several things that I think should be addressed. First, the fact that you cannot bring large purses into the museum is bizarre to me. My friend brought her backpack and was let inside but then when we went to go upstairs the security dude said she couldn't take it upstairs. Just weird. Second, the theater movie wasn't working when we went in so we missed whatever that was supposed to be. We didn't stay to go around the grounds since it was pretty crowded and honestly we felt like we were being followed around. This sucks because I really enjoyed the art work by both Picasso and Dali. Third, I never received a custom painting that was done virtually even though I put in my phone number into the system - that was pretty disappointing when I got the text but only asked me to sign up for the newsletter :-/ Can't speak for the deli or gift shop since we just left as soon as we were done checking the artwork. Took us about 2 hrs to see it all.

Natalie A — Google review

Amazing museum, definitely need to see it while in St. Pete! The permanent collection of Dali's work is immaculate with some readily recognizable pieces, and others that you really have to look closely at to see all of the amazing detail placed into his work. The building itself is gorgeous, and outside there are Dali references sprinkled around, even as you're walking up the front steps. The rotating exhibit on the third floor was cool to see, and they had another Dali piece stashed away in there! You also absolutely have to walk through the garden outside, lots of fun photo opportunities! Lastly, don't forget to attach your wristband to the wish tree! You can do it yourself, or you can leave it in a box up front for museum staff to put on the tree for you (but it's more fun and personal to do it yourself).

Bryn B — Google review

One of the best small museums in the country. I often take family and friends when they visit and it’s always a highlight of their trip. Even those that aren’t necessarily “art lovers” enjoy the history of Salvadore Dali and especially the wonderful gift shop. Worth every penny! But plan ahead and make reservations as they do book up!

Jennifer H — Google review

Great collection. Pricey admission, but look out for discounts for locals and various FB events. I particularly enjoyed seeing his earlier work and insights into his evolution as an artist. I'd like to return with more time for the full audio/app tour. Plan for 4-6 hours.

Rebecca S — Google review

This is a bucket list museum for art lovers and I’m thrilled to say I saw it! There is a playful essence to the museum that is lovable. The views and architecture are gorgeous and the galleries are quick to walk through. It was quite crowded though on a Saturday around lunch time in August, this is the reason I took one star off. Ideally I would’ve liked to have time to see each piece however it was so crowded I could only glance at pieces and had to wait for crowds to disperse so I could take longer looks and read labels. I had pre purchased tickets so my party did not have to wait in the line that wrapped outside of the building. The gift shop was great too. Again, I highly recommend going to this museum. It is truly one of a kind and iconic for St Pete.

Arifa A — Google review

I always wanted to visit this museum as it houses the 2nd largest collection of Dali works— the largest collection being being in Spain— so, once I knew I’d be in the area, I decided to go. Luckily, it was a Thursday, so it was half-price after 5p. I was staying in the hotel just a block or so away, so I walked. I did purchase my ticket online in advance, and there was a short wait to get in. There is a little cafe, and I ate my evening meal there— it was good food, and there is a bar and a number of tables both inside and outside. It’s by the water so it’s a nice view, and the architecture is beautiful. Dali art, like all art, is subjective, and it’s not really my style. I find most of it too abstract for my tastes, though he does have a few paintings that are beautiful. But, as I said, I always wanted to visit this museum so it was a must-see for me. I joined a free museum tour, and it was very informative. No regrets!

Karen G — Google review

Extraordinary experience. Was fully immersed in the works of art, the museum has an excellent combination of physical and digital art, with virtual reality and AR headset experiences. Would recommend the Dali Alive 360 experience! It’s inside the sphere outside the museum and is totally worth the 30-ish minutes of showtime. Is one of my favorite museums ever. A must-go!

Catalina D — Google review

The Dali is an amazing collection of his works. We went the weekend before the Grand Prix so it added a slight difficulty in finishing the museum. You do have a 10$ parking fee if you park in the Dali parking lot. The museum has a very strict bag rule, if it looks anything like a backpack, of any size ( small sling pack ) even if they could clearly see it is being used as a purse. You are required to wear a mask while inside the building. ( covid ) even with all that just seeing Dali's pieces was well worth it. You are able to take pictures, ONLY FOR YOUR OWN PERSONAL USE.

Wes B — Google review

The Dali Museum is a real masterpiece of art in itself. Perfectly placed for lunch or dinner after your visit. The collection is outstanding. The layout takes you through Dali's life and work. The lighting is just right. The staff is very helpful. There's an app you can connect to that gives you the history of each painting. I will go again the next time I'm near.

Hank S — Google review

It is a wonderful place for both education and creativity. I enjoyed walking into the different galleries that were informative and visually beautiful. Make sure to check if the virtual experience is up and running. You won't want to miss it.

Tash B — Google review

My husband and I visited the museum for our anniversary and loved the whole experience. It was the perfect amount of art with the exhibition included. We started off with a sangria in the garden area, the video in the theater, then upstairs to look at the art. Parking was easy also! Overall, a great experience.

Casandra B — Google review

Beautiful place to experience art. Highly recommended doing the 3D art show. It was definitely worth it. Gift shop and the staff were very nice.

Jasmine R — Google review

I love this place. It is always organized when it comes to exhibits or special events. The staff do a great job with instruction, security, and answering your questions. The grounds are beautiful and a nice way to spend some time having a Cafe or snack after the exhibit. The gift shop is well stocked with books, shirts, magnets, post cards and other gifts. I will definitely visit again for future exhibits.

Michelle — Google review

This was my first time visiting The Dali Museum, and I was very happy with my visit! There is a dedicated parking lot available for visitors, and they charge a small fee for it. Once you are inside the museum, there is much to see on Salvador Dali and other artists before and during his time! Dali’s paintings and other art along with paintings from many well known artists are displayed in the museum. After you pass the gift shop, there is an entrance to the museum, which is on multiple floors. A staircase will lead you to the upper levels, and elevators are also there. On the upper floor, there are some beautiful views of waters surrounding St. Petersburg, and it is an excellent place for taking pictures! Also, the Dali Alive 360 degree experience is not to be missed because it showcases his life from humble beginnings to his visits to the United States. In the gift shop, there are two large screens where Dali gives you his advice, and where you can also get your pictures taken with Dali! In summary, I highly recommend visiting the Dali Museum to everyone on your next trip to Tampa, Florida!

Kaushal P — Google review

Fantastic all around! Dali 360 was 100%worth the extra admission- my 7 yr old loved it! Emotional experience getting up close to many of the paintings especially being an art student who studied them extensively... Dali's soul and legacy in a museum- Viewer can most certainly feel his embodiment!

Cristin F — Google review

Really enjoyed this museum. The outside is just as beautiful as inside. This was our first time, so we were caught off-guard by a staff member at the front door asking to look in my purse. After that, we were allowed to enter where we paid for tickets. The person at the counter never asked if we had coupons. It would have been nice to know we could use what we had. With that being said, the museum was just gorgeous, and we loved it. If you're an art lover, you'll enjoy this museum.

Shera C — Google review

*World Traveler ReviewAmazing architecture, easy to find, interactive and informative w/ gift shop!Definitely recommend the guided tour… They shared unique information about the artist and the individual works that I didn’t know before. Be aware that guided tours only leave on a periodic basis. Call ahead to learn more.They also have audio tours available. QR codes are provided near the individual works of art to provide additional information as you tour the museum. Super smart!The grounds near the building are immaculately, clean, and easy to walk. The views are amazing and allow several photo opportunities!Plenty of parking and easy to access via wheelchair. Definitely recommend!

Randy N — Google review

Amazing. We have committed as a family to every vacation to add culture. A museum, art gallery, historical site, anything o open our minds and hearts. We loved this as Dali fans already and the surrealist approach to life. He is amazing! What an amazing collection and St Pete’s is so lucky to have this!!

Tara M — Google review

I really enjoyed this. I liked Dali's work prior to going here, but had never actually seen any of it in person. I have a whole new appreciation for it now. Also, friendly staff, very clean restrooms, and easy parking. There's a shop area where you can purchase all kinds of items (clothing, books, prints, posters, jewelry...a broad range of items) that are all reasonably priced. My son did some activity with a 3D headset that he thoroughly enjoyed. Theres also a Dream Tapestry where you input a description of your dream and AI will generate an artistic interpretation of it that's pretty cool. I would definitely recommend this if you're an art lover, and even if not, try it...you may become one. I would definitely go back here again, enjoyable for the whole family.

Shelly H — Google review

We had a fantastic long half day at the Dali. It exceeded our high expectations! Very extensive collection and highly experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic docents and guides. On top of that an excellent restaurant. We look forward to another visit. We recommend planning to stay at least 3 hours.

Nancy R — Google review

Pleasant museum. It's not all entirely about Salvador Dali, some of it is about the Surrealist Movement. About 30 at pieces that are very interesting. We couldn't find everything we wanted at the gift shop so it was suggested to us that we shop online for souvenirs.

Kevin M — Google review

Visited the exhibit Nature Reimagined at the Dali. It was a nice exhibit and a different contrast with Dalis most famous pieces. The garden is nice to walk through but if you want to see the dome , make sure to pay the additional $15.00 fee on addition to the standard ticket. The museum itself is not large and will take about an hour to get through but still worth it if you want to see his original pieces.

Natalie P — Google review

My first visit to the Dali Museum was incredible—it truly did not disappoint! The museum itself is a masterpiece, both inside and out. The exhibits are fascinating, and the architecture is stunning. The café added to the experience with its fun drinks and tasty treats. However, the highlight for me was the beautiful gardens in the lovely St. Pete setting. The combination of art, nature, and scenery was truly impressive.

Marline D — Google review

Such a great and interactive museum which kept adults and kids engaged. It has an activity that uses AI to make your image into a piece of art and interactive app that animates different parts of the paintings and tells you about each. The Cafe at the museum was stellar. My whole family enjoyed Spanish food on the patio. Lovely!

Michelle A — Google review

We were in town for several days for our 50th wedding anniversary. Our last visit was 30 years ago so there were new attractions we wanted to see along with those we had already experienced. The Dali Museum was among the latter. We don't remember much about the old museum except that it had many more master works. Not a big deal when you enter this amazing space and begin to understand and remember Dali’s talent.Teagen, at the front desk, accepted our $3 off coupons (up to 4 adults or seniors) for discounted gallery admission which I found in the Discover Downtown Map and Guide. We combined those with the senior admission price. The coupons are also available on the Discover Downtown mobile app. We visited on the last weekend of the "Dali and the Impressionists" exhibit. Dali was influenced by the impressionists but didn't feel their style would last long.There were several knowledgeable guides available to answer questions. We especially appreciated being able to take (non-flash) pictures. One guide overheard me lamenting that the 'melting clocks' masterwork was not in the museum. It is in another museum but he directed us to the Dali Alive 360, "an immersive experience bringing Dali's work to life like never before." There, on the outside of the dome, is a sample of the melting clocks which can also be seen at the Dali Alive 360 for an admission add-on.Restrooms are clean and plentiful. People rave about the cafe. We met a woman who had the gazpacho and pronounced it excellent. It does great business but we didn't want to spend our limited time waiting in line. If you do have the time, be sure to eat outside and enjoy the view. We visited the gift shop for souvenirs. Pricey, yes, but I found a cool shirt on sale.The museum has a strict policy about backpacks and liquids in the museum; an attendant checks all bags. We used the free lockers available at the entrance. Simply select a four-digit code from the keypad, take a picture of the code and locker number, scramble the code and walk away. Easy and secure.We walked to the museum from the Pier; our car was parked in the Sundial Garage. I saw that the free Downtown Looper had a pickup at the Dali which we boarded. The Looper only stops at the museum when it is open. We enjoyed a city tour while en route back to the garage. If you ride the free Looper, be certain to tip your driver who is committed to getting you safely to and from your destinations.

Marnette S — Google review

It was such an amazing experience visiting this museum. We did both the full 360 and the general admission exhibits, and they’re well worth the price. We went during the floral special exhibition, and I really enjoyed the florals there in signature Dali style. I would also heavily recommend the poached pear dessert - it was super unique and well priced! Overall I would recommend!

Essence W — Google review

I am biased because I love Dali's work. Being among it was enough, but getting to see some of his larger scale paintings was amazing. Getting to see sibling pieces to the ones I have seen in the Tate Modern and the Reina Sofia was great. The special exhibit was something I had not engaged with before. And they do have a banging gift shop.

Trisha W — Google review

The Dali365 experience was neat to see but the museum and the additional exhibit they had on impressionists was a bit underwhelming. I love Dali's work. He was a brilliant painter for his era but I was expecting more on exhibition to see. The impressionist exhibit was fairly sparse as well. Even with stopping at every piece, reading the plaque and examining the work, I was done in probably 45 minutes.

Rebecca S — Google review

Parking was $10, (all day parking), however parking is limited. There was a graduation at the theater next door and a boat show, we got lucky and got one of the last spots. They were asking folks to park just two blocks away.There are docent tours every hour 12:30, 130… check before you go and do go, fascinating! So knowledgeable and polite.There is a Dalí Cafe, delicious (limited indoor seating but worth the wait). I don’t normally enjoy museum cafes but this one had very tasty food (we had the cheese plate, bread plate and carrot hummus, plus coffee and tea.The is a decent selection of Dali photos, paintings and information and you can go online to learn more. I would go back again since our friend is not much of a reader and is more of a quick browser. I would like to spend a bit more time and perhaps go on another docent tour.Go, enjoy and try the cafe, too!

Holly K — Google review

Well worth price of admission. The building is amazing work of art. Dali was an eccentric person and a very different artist with an amazing mind. Not the type of art you may put on your walls, however I can appreciate his genius as an artist and his flamboyant personality. I visited a number of years ago and remembered some things, but enjoyed talking in more of Dali. Especially liked the 360 movie, very well done.

Rick S — Google review

First time at this location, hadn't been since the 90's. I love Salvador Dali, my favorite artist for decades. We spent a little extra for the 360 experience, totally worth it. The coolest part was the AR app that made the paintings come to life. Staff were great, prices reasonable.

Vici G — Google review

Spent 4.5 hours totally absorbed with Salvador Dali's life and surreal art. The museum is beautifully arranged with great attention to detail andarchitecture, in line with the artist's style.

Barbara V — Google review

I hadn't planned on visiting the Dali museum, but I'm really glad I did. His drawings are fascinating, with a lot of details. Definitely worth checking out! The museum itself is quite stunning as well. The commute wasn't the most convenient, but they do have a cute shuttle from the parking lot to the museum.

Li R — Google review

Yaakov is so entertaining at the Cafe Gala (has a big, fancy, & affordable menu). This museum is beautiful. The technology is so advanced. Definitely pay $15 for the 36 minute Dome show

Hunter-Marie A — Google review

The Dali is such a wonderful museum. The permanent collection is always worth visiting and they have amazing special collections several times a year. Membership is the way to go if you're local, the Dual and Family memberships are very affordable. If visiting St Pete, the Dali is a must-see!

Rachel K — Google review

Do not dilly dally. Check out the Dali Museum. So many cool things and deep historical contexts in his paintings. Good food/coffee/ treats and artistic treasures to buy.

Patricia G — Google review

Absolutely loved it. Be sure to take a guided tour. On my own, I never would have seen all of the details the guide pointed out. What an amazing talent Dali is. ENJOY.

George D — Google review

Great museum that features Salvador Dalí’s art. The price to get in is very affordable and there is a large collection of art to see. I went during the week so it wasn’t busy and I had plenty of space to see the art without having to fight any crowds. However, this museum is not for everyone. If you’re not interested surrealist art, then this museum is not for you. I also would not say this museum is child friendly. To a child this would probably be pretty boring, and a lot of the art includes shock value (nudity).

Jenna B — Google review

The Dali Museum is quite the experience and absolutely worth making a trip to the area. The parking is $10 for all day and can be limited but we found it no issue.No backpack type bags are allowed and only disposable water bottles are allowed (first floor only). Luckily they have free lockers just outside the museum to stow your stuff, especially if you like to carry your own water bottle like me and want to go upstairs to see Dali’s works. So bring a small purse/bag and disposable water bottles.I suggest you purchase the tickets ahead of time because it can get crowded/busy and you want to ensure your entry. It got packed by the time we headed upstairs.The outing will be pricey, especially if you add on the “360 experience”, some snacks, drinks at the cafe and of course…the souvenir shop.At first we weren’t going to do the “360 experience” but decided on it last minute since we already made the trip out there. I have to say it was worth it! We absolutely loved it and found it inspiring and moving. We’d do it again.Plan a trip to The Dali Museum and give yourself time to enjoy all it has to offer.The art pieces themselves are incredible and I could’ve easily spent all day here, there’s truly a lot to see, especially if you read about each piece.There’s a small theater that plays Dali’s life story on repeat, which we enjoyed. The building itself is gorgeous and something Dali would’ve loved!

Cecile A — Google review

I'v been to the Dali museum a handful of times because he's one of my favorite artists.For the entrance cost, this is a very very small museum. With the first floor being the cafe, the second floor being offices, that just leaves the third floor for art and exploration, and the outdoor 'garden' for a photo op with his infamous curled mustache.Nonetheless, this is a beautiful building, but you can easily knock out this museum in about an hour.

Rae R — Google review

4.7

(16598)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (173)

4.5

(8546)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (174)

1 Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA

(727) 823-3767

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26

CLUBHOUSE AT STREAMSONG RED AND BLUE

Golf course

Outdoor Activities

Resort hotel

Upscale, contemporary golf resort offering chic rooms, plus 2 golf courses, a spa & stylish dining.

An amazing place out on its own in the middle of nowhere. Very peaceful and amazing golf and facilities. A great place to go for a golf getaway. Prices drop a lot in May so if you can take the heat take advantage

Dave M — Google review

Sorry to say this was a disappointment playing this course during a week's worth of golf with buddies in February. The service staff was excellent, the facilities were excellent, the caddies (Mark an Tito) were great. However, at about $400 greens fees on the Red course and another $125 for a caddie, this course was in poor shape - the worst of 5 that I played over a week in February. No grass on the fairways, no grass on the greens. There must have been a freeze. There was no evidence of attempted overseeding. For the condition the course was in, this was an $85 green fee course. No warnings, no apologies for the course condition, just $400 paid at the counter. Interesting little 7 hole par three "course" we played afterward for fee. Hard to find the fairways but it was free and in better condition than the Red Course.

Mark V — Google review

Played the Island and Copperhead. The locals say that the Island course is harder/better. This was not our experience, Copperhead was much harder and much nicer.

Simon — Google review

One of the best golf resorts i've ever been to clean.Very nice people top notch golf service

Kyle T — Google review

Great golf experience! Our caddie was spot on with his recommendations. Beautiful course with plenty of hazards, but the fairways are typically open and forgiving.

Slayton S — Google review

Great atmozphere and fiod. Service was outstanding. Golf course was immaculte. Fantastic menu.

Mark H — Google review

Great place but I hate getting into it. My GOS took me down a dirt road for several miles.

David R — Google review

This is a first class operation. The rooms, staff, amenities, restaurants, courses, etc..all excellent..only drawback is that is fairly expensive.

William B — Google review

Didn't do anything here, but really nice looking place. We were just checking it out for an up coming trip for our cousin.

Mike P — Google review

Lovely club house. Great golf shop and clean lockers.Not really ideal to get the pro shop staff to open the locker all the time.Also, bar and restaurant is really really loud.Aside that, great sport to have a bite after golf.

Michele D — Google review

The lodging was OFF the chart! It took me a couple of days, just to take it in. But teamed up with world class golf.... Hold on. Red or Blue? Both have one of a kind greatness. Special holes that take your breath away. Black? I can't say. Equally spectacular, but to me Red or Blue. Period. I walked, with a caddie. In the future I would walk with a cart. On a personal note I don't like those old English buggy 2 wheeler. I wish they had the modern 3 wheel push carts. ( Red, Blue, black are the golf course names )

David R — Google review

Lovely experience! Service was polite and attending. Foods were amazingly delicious. And the setting was out of this world.

Sina K — Google review

We played all 3 courses. Indeed, these courses look and play differently than other typical FL courses. They have a lot of similarities: wide fairways, rolling hills, crowned design greens, elevated greens, fast tiering greens, very undulated greens, etc. The Red is a must-play with much more green surroundings, scenic layouts, and more challenging holes. The Black comes with huge greens with huge undulations. It's more deserted in its surroundings than the Red and Blue. With football-field wide fairways, the approach shots and putting are more challenging than anything else. It's very easy to get a 3-putt given its fast speed and huge undulated greens. My favorites would be Red, Black, and then Blue. All bunkers are considered waste areas. It's easily around $215 to play a round here with cart, caddie, and gratuity. I feel that there are excessive restrictions to play here with a hefty fee. You can't go to the range without a shuttle (for Red and Blue). The rangers will clock you frequently. I play relatively fast but still feel the pressure of being monitored every second. They try to make you feel attentive by breaking into several stations: bag drop, bag loading on cart, shuttle to range, starter, caddie, etc. All these so-called services make you feel that tipping on every station is necessary. Again, when everything adds up, it's kind of expensive to play a round even during the summer times.

Jimmy L — Google review

Nice place to visit, with mostly very good reviews on key aspects of the "Streamsong experience" yet some downers too.Wonderful hospitality from the valet parking to the baggage assistance to the front desk. Good food with a variety of restaurant options. Nice rooms and good views all around.Today, our caddie called us "bud," "bub," and "buddy," out the flag on the green to point out our putting line, and didn't really stress himself to fix divots or ball marks. No real training in evidence here. Your caddie experience is important. The other downer is that they don't care if it takes you 5 and 1/2 hours to play around. Took us 20 minutes to play our first hole and I express concern and everyone said relax and enjoy the experience. Part of the experience is getting done in a reasonable amount of time rather than canceling dinner reservations.Love the courses and layout. Just need some fine tuning on the balance between laissez-faire and gettin' r done.

Tom C — Google review

Beautiful setting, impeccable customer service. The courses were beautiful, fair yet demanding and the caddies were very helpful. Stayed 3 nights, could have stayed 5 to take it all in!

Michael D — Google review

Such a great experience every time I come here. Course is in excellent condition. Love the taco stand @ the turn. "Big Country" was our caddy and he did a great job. Highly recommend every golfer comes and plays here.

Cody P — Google review

4.8

(441)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (182)

4.5

(129)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (183)

3000 Dunes Pass, Bowling Green, FL 33834, USA

(863) 428-1000

27

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

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Bridge

Sights & Landmarks

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a famous bridge located in Tampa Bay, Florida. It is one of the most impressive bridges in the world, and it's definitely worth visiting if you're ever in the area. The views from the bridge are absolutely stunning, and it's a great way to spend a morning or afternoon.

The new bridge is so much better than the old bridge that collapsed several years before I was born. the new bridge: has lights, is stronger, is safer, and has a 180 ft navigational clearance while the old bridge had a 155 foot clearance.

N D — Google review

This is the most spectacular and the tallest Bridge I have ever seen. To enjoy this view you need to take an exit to either North or South Fishing Pier for a 8$ access permit for 1 hour.You can enjoy fishing too at this pier, might get lucky with a great catch 😉

Sherly J — Google review

We went night fishing and we caught a good amount of cat fish. It wasn't too windy and it was actually nice out side. Also I caught my 1st fish in 25 years!

Dixie T — Google review

This stunning bridge offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.In addition to the incredible views, there are fishing piers on both the north and south ends of the bridge, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.BE CAREFUL WITH LIGHTING😱😱

Lu C — Google review

First time going to Tampa/St. Petersburg -- and I insisted in going on this bridge. This bridge is an engineering marvel! I love the design, the imagery and it is really beautiful. I am definitely coming back in April! :-)

Branden O — Google review

Great view from the fishing dock, it is located after you cross the bridge to your right coming from the North. You a small fee to enter for pictures etc. Recommended , you can park out of the fishing dock and enjoy the view, have snacks etc. They have restrooms at the fishing dock .

Nelson R — Google review

Lights up in different colored lights at night. It’s very pretty and a cool bridge to take pics. Better to see it from the ground than driving over it. Night times the best

Jen J — Google review

Boating under this massive bridge is a surreal experience. Over 50' deep water around the channel!

Seth G — Google review

Love driving over the Skyway Bridge!Awesome views!Fishing piers belowSometimes windsurfing taking placeHave also cruised underneath this bridgeRead about the History of the BridgeInteresting!

Lorraine J — Google review

It is a gorgeous place. If you are visiting Sarasota or Tampa, you have to go see this bridge. It is an amazing experience. I totally recommend it.

Leticia P — Google review

Sweet kitesurfing sport on the opposite side of the rest area. Do bring your kiting boots though, it’s rocky and there are plenty of sea urchins. Beautiful sport and great community make up for it!

Lina S — Google review

The new Skyway Bridge is an engineering marvel! 🌉 It's a major upgrade from the old one, and here's why it's better in every way:1. **Strength**: The new bridge is built like a tank! 💪 With advanced materials and construction techniques, it can handle heavier loads and is more resistant to wear and tear.2. **Height**: It reaches new heights, quite literally! 🌟 The increased height not only allows for larger vessels to pass underneath but also provides an even more stunning panoramic view for travelers.3. **Durability**: It's built to withstand the test of time. The improved design and materials ensure a longer lifespan, reducing maintenance and repair costs.4. **Safety**: Modern safety standards were a top priority in the new design. It's equipped with state-of-the-art safety features and technology, giving travelers peace of mind.5. **Efficiency**: The new Skyway Bridge is all about efficiency. It reduces traffic congestion, thanks to wider lanes and improved traffic management systems.Overall, it's a shining example of how innovation and engineering can create a bridge that's stronger, higher, and better built in every sense. 🌆🛣️ #NewSkywayBridge #EngineeringMarvel #UpgradedTravel

Bertha P — Google review

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is an iconic cable-stayed bridge located in the state of Florida, USA. Here are key features of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge:Location: Spanning Tampa Bay, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge connects St. Petersburg in Pinellas County with Terra Ceia in Manatee County, providing a vital transportation link in the region.Design and Architecture: The bridge is a cable-stayed design, characterized by its towering support towers and cables that fan out to support the roadway. The aesthetic design has made it a distinctive landmark.Original and Current Bridges: The current Sunshine Skyway Bridge is the second iteration, as the original bridge partially collapsed in 1980 due to a collision with a cargo ship during a storm. The new bridge was completed in 1987.Length and Height: The bridge spans approximately 4.1 miles (6.6 kilometers) and reaches a height of 430 feet (131 meters) above the water, allowing for the passage of large vessels beneath.Travel Route: Serving as a crucial part of Interstate 275, the bridge facilitates travel between the cities of St. Petersburg and Sarasota, as well as providing a scenic route for motorists.Scenic Views: The Sunshine Skyway Bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas, making it a popular route for both locals and tourists.Fishing Piers: The bridge is flanked by fishing piers on both sides, providing opportunities for recreational fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the bay.Suicide Prevention Measures: Recognizing its height and location, the bridge incorporates suicide prevention measures, including crisis hotline phones and fencing to deter such incidents.Hurricane Evacuation Route: The bridge serves as a designated hurricane evacuation route, allowing residents to quickly move inland during severe weather events.Recognition and Awards: The Sunshine Skyway Bridge has received recognition for its engineering and design excellence, contributing to its status as a notable landmark in Florida.The Sunshine Skyway Bridge stands as both an engineering marvel and a scenic attraction, playing a vital role in regional transportation and offering a visually striking connection across Tampa Bay.

Charlie — Google review

Amazing times. Clean facilities and Amazing employees tending and maintaining the locations. Some of the best night fishing I have ever had. Your bridge pass includes saltwater fishing licenses while present. The Fish And Game Agents were nice and informative, when you have questions about unknown fish and size limits. They were so helpful with keeping me out of trouble. LOL!

Mr. W — Google review

Beautiful bridge! Tolls are only a few dollars and people are frequently paying it forward! Traffic is busy at rush hour but the view is always amazing. Boating underneath is easy to navigate and views are equally impressive! Dont miss this one;)

A T — Google review

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Florida, and for good reason. This stunning bridge offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.Paying the toll to cross the bridge is well worth it, as the views are simply spectacular. The best time to drive across is at sunset, when the sky turns shades of pink, orange, and purple, creating a truly magical experience. You'll feel as if you're driving into a painting!In addition to the incredible views, there are fishing piers on both the north and south ends of the bridge, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. For those who just want to relax and take in the scenery, there are rest areas at both ends of the bridge with nice facilities.One of the coolest things about the Sunshine Skyway Bridge is the lighting at night. The bridge is illuminated with colorful lights that change throughout the night, creating a beautiful and mesmerizing display.If you're lucky, you may even spot some pelicans using the draft from the cars driving by to glide up alongside the bridge and then dive down into the water to catch a fish. It's a truly amazing sight to see!

Alan R — Google review

I love everything about fishing on the skyway bridge. Sleep overnight on the bridge, bathrooms and bait shop.

Janette G — Google review

4.7

(1461)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (189)

4.5

(3717)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (190)

7508-7534 Sunshine Skyway Ln S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711, USA

28

Ellenton Premium Outlets

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Outlet mall

Shopping

Factory Outlets

When in Clearwater, consider a day trip to Ellenton Premium Outlets for a fantastic shopping experience. The variety of stores and brands offers something for everyone, and the layout is easy to navigate. The friendly staff and great deals on quality products make it a perfect destination for savvy shoppers. The well-maintained facilities add to the positive atmosphere, making it an enjoyable shopping destination. While parking can be challenging on weekends, the overall flow of people in and out is smooth.

Was in the area visiting so didn’t expect much from this mall, but was pleasantly surprised. This is a quality outlet! Made it to aerie, Nike, Ralph Lauren, and crocs with some good deals. Regret not stopping by Jcrew. Definitely worth a visit.

Ciji G — Google review

A very nice place to visit for some good deals for just about anything you can think of. The food court is well below average but there are many stand alone restaurants nearby. Grounds all well kept and parking is better than most outlets in florida.

Arvin S — Google review

We shopped here while on vacation. I didn't initially like layout of the outlet mall but it was not as bad as I thought. The food court could use a upgrade but we were able to find a few good sales.

Deron S — Google review

Many options for shopping. Huge parking lot. Not big discounts right now on all brands. Food court is not good, better to avoid. Worth to visit if you are looking to buy premium brands.

Uarora — Google review

We go here to black Friday shop every year. This year will be our last. The "deals" at these outlets aren't deals at all. And the whole place is dirty. All garbage cans overflowing, bathrooms were disgusting. They don't make an attempt anymore to clean anything. Sad.

Krystan H — Google review

This is more of a WARNING than a review. The boba tea stand GREEN TEA SPOT at the ellenton outlets 🚫🧋🚫 sells disgusting tea!!! The pictures that are on display do not reflect what they give you. They show a lot of fruit in the drinks but what I got tasted like dirty water with low quality boba, and Nora single piece of fruit in it!!! 🤮 😠 😡The Asian woman told me with a big smile on her face that "people don't like the fruit"They don't have a Website and not even show on Google maps! So there's no way to leave a review for them. I forgot to take a pic of my drink sorry 😔 but you can test them for yourself.

Roxi — Google review

Excellent! You can find the major stores with good prices and variety.

Kenya — Google review

Nice outlet mall to walk around and find good deals

David L — Google review

We expended a lot of time here. We arrived when they opened, and we left around 3 pm.In some brands, you can find good deals like Gap, Columbia, and Sweet Victorian.The best prices were in Wrangler and Lee; I bought three pairs of jeans for $7.99 each.

Antonela R — Google review

Very pleasant place to shop. Clean. Lots of options. I didn’t get a chance to visit the food court as it was close to closing time, but the men’s bathroom was very clean. I would go again.

Mike A — Google review

My fellow Canadians!! Please take note in this sincere review! I have been shopping here for over 10 years! Of late; the prices are the same if not HIGHER than any regular shopping experience in Florida! Especially in the Tommy Hilfiger and Polo Store. (Keeping in mind the 35%+ exchange rate). Have fun, but be mindful and careful of this so called “outlet mall”.

Ken G — Google review

This outlet mall has a lot of different options for shopping. The stores are well maintained. Every store I visited I had a good experience with the staff members in each location. They have restrooms in a few locations and are well maintained. There is a food court, but it has limited restaurants. The prices and deals in the stores are worth the drive. Parking can be difficult on the weekends, but it does flow well with people in and out.

Chris M — Google review

Went down there with my wife. She shopped around a little bit. We were in and out of there and no time. She had a great time. Found everything she needed in a couple of the stores. Prices are good. Usually the place is pretty crowded though. You can spend an hour in the Bose store sitting in there sample room. Very tourist oriented.

Stanley S — Google review

Tons of good deals and a store for EVERYONE! I can’t leave without going into aerie and pacsun. Cute clothes and definitely affordable. also auntie Ann’s and Starbucks are musts 😊

Sophie G — Google review

Love this place!!! To start it has great stores, the prices and deals are great, the design of the place is beautiful, open and modern, plenty of space to seat and rest, food court, huge parking all around the stores. It’s definitely worth the driving!!!

Erika R — Google review

Been going for years, seems less is more for higher cost. Manatee statues are gone. Bathroom smelt like raw sewage the day we were there.

Sam B — Google review

Énorme complexe de magasins outlets. Grand choix de marques, offres très intéressantes. Le parking est bien surveillé.(Translated by Google)Huge complex of outlet stores. Large selection of brands, very interesting offers. The parking lot is well monitored.

Tatida G — Google review

They had some good stores, but overall, I felt the selection was definitely catered to an older audience. However, if you like the stores they have listed, I'm sure you'll enjoy the large selection they do have. There is plenty of parking, but if it is a lot of walking around, weaving through the stores.

Allison H — Google review

Decent factory outlets. Traffic is just a bit of a pain right now with all the construction going on at the I-75 interchange and on/off ramps. This is all going on as of 2/17/2024 and has been going on for a while. Still may be at least a year before completion so just something to note in your trip there.

Al U — Google review

I recently visited the outlet mall in Englewood, Florida, and it exceeded my expectations! The variety of stores and brands offered a fantastic shopping experience. The layout was easy to navigate, and the staff was friendly and helpful. I found great deals on quality products, making it a perfect destination for savvy shoppers. The cleanliness and well-maintained facilities added to the overall positive atmosphere. I'll definitely be returning for more enjoyable shopping trips!

Dylan S — Google review

Had a great time wished we had more time to spend here. Great sales! Aerie the entire store was less than $20! Nike was having great sales. Converse had 40% off anything marked down.

Billie Y — Google review

I only live six miles away from the mall.Nice shopping area also has a atHome store a TJmaxx & Bealls. All in the same parking lot so it's very convenient. Along with the chipotle's gas station and starbucks! Right off Interstate 75. Friendly Area. Quite a few restaurants! Hotel. Woodys on Manatee River has good food, music!

StreetJeans P — Google review

Nice spacious shopping mall with great deals on clothing items. It’s spread across multiple directions and has shaded walkways . There are restrooms in each wing of mall.Only thing we noticed is the food court not many food options and the shops sometimes close early. There are eating places within 0.5 miles. We enjoyed the Hershey icecream 🍦 shop it has a lot variety of ice cream .

Vikas K — Google review

Disclaimer: I visited the outlets 2 days after a hurricane.The outlets felt lifeless. No one was really there and half the stores were closed. The few stores I walked into had very poor customer service and showed no interest of being there.I'd be hard pressed to justify another visit to these outlets.

George K — Google review

Not worth a visit. Dated, lack of stores and selection. One and done. Total waste of time. Better off going to UTC or Tampa Premium Outlets. Ellenton needs to take the “premium” out of its name. This is not premium in no way shape or form.

Lin G — Google review

On 3/29 ordered the new lavender-matcha drink. The cashier rang me up for the wrong drink. The wrong drink was made after 10 minutes of ignoring my order while 5 other customers were getting their order after me. The drink was incorrect, they had to fix it and the young man that was making my drink was super slow, there was no customer service experience. He definitely didn’t want to be there. It took 18 minutes to get my drink. The worse service I’ve ever gotten at Starbucks…. The manager needs to do better on training her employees.

Scarlett R — Google review

Ein schönes Outlet mit vielen bekannten Marken. Adidas, Puma, Nike, Asics, oder Sketchers. Um nur einmal ein paar Sport Marken zu nennen.Viele Parkplätze sind vorhanden.Es gibt einen Food Court, bei dem würde ich allerdings einen Stern abziehen.Es ist eher eine große ungemütliche Halle.Keine bekannten Restaurants drinnen sondern kleine Unternehmen. Diese öffnen alle etwas zeitlich versetzt. Wir waren kurz vor 12 Uhr dort, da waren 2-3 noch geschlossen. Diese öffneten während wir gegessen haben.Ansonsten ist das Outlet sehr schön angelegt. An jedem Gang sind wenn Wegweiser zu den Geschäften in diesem Gang. Auf Google Maps ist ein Lageplan einsehbar, ist gibt diesen auch auf Papier vor Ort.Waren jetzt schon öfters hier und sind immer fündig geworden.(Translated by Google)A nice outlet with many well-known brands. Adidas, Puma, Nike, Asics, or Sketchers. Just to name a few sports brands.Lots of parking spaces are available.There is a food court, but I would deduct a star from that.It's more of a big, uncomfortable hall.No well-known restaurants inside but small businesses. These all open at a slightly different time. We were there shortly before 12 p.m. and 2-3 were still closed. These opened while we were eating.Otherwise the outlet is very nicely laid out. On each aisle there are signs pointing to the shops in that aisle. A map can be viewed on Google Maps and is also available on paper on site.Have been here several times and have always found something.

Frank W — Google review

So many stores to see!I bet they will have more than what you were looking for

D P — Google review

4.4

(10139)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (195)

4.0

(895)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (196)

5461 Factory Shops Blvd, Ellenton, FL 34222, USA

(941) 723-1150

29

Bean Point Beach

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (197)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (198)

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (199)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (200)

Mentioned on

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Beach

Outdoor Activities

Bean Point Beach is a serene and beautiful location in Florida with a wide sandy beach, calm waters, and stunning sunset views. It is less crowded than the main beach on the island and offers a great view of the Skyway Bridge in the distance. However, street parking can result in a $50 fine if tires touch pavement. Bean Point is considered to be Anna Maria Island's hidden gem, offering breathtaking vistas where Gulf waters meet the bay.

The most gorgeous beach I’ve been to in Florida. Gorgeous white sand than never gets hot, well compacted and easy to walk on, calm waters. The sunset is like no other.

Ilya L — Google review

My favorite spot in FL. In the north corner of Annamaria Island, Bean Point Beach is a beautiful beach with private house for rent, fishing area, pier, restaurants and much more to do. I love the water colors from light blue to green and the breathtaking sunsets. A magical place.

Gio M — Google review

Amazing beach. Northern point of AMI, lets you easily walk from Gulf side waves around the point to Bay side calm. Water is clear and beautiful shades of blue and green. Swam with both dolphins and manatee. Found starfish, conch shells, live scallops, and sand dollars. This place has jaded the Jersey shore for me with clear water, cool, white sand beaches, warm water, and uncrowned beaches.

Kendrick S — Google review

Breathtaking hidden little piece of natural Florida. Not as crowded as the main beach on the island and has a great view of the Skyway Bridge in the distance. Water is very calm and perfect for a nice beach day away from tourists! Be VERY careful with street parking here as you will get a $50 parking ticket if your tires touch the pavement.

Melissa P — Google review

Most beautiful beach I’ve seen in my life. So peaceful and tranquil. Manatees swim by right up by the shore. Sunset brings tears to your eyes….

Molly D — Google review

Bean point is such a gorgeous beach! The sands are almost pure white and the water is so clear. We saw tons of dolphins too! We went early morning to look for shells and sand dollars and didn’t find anything so that was a little disappointing BUT I know a lot of people do find stuff there so I am sure I’ll have better luck next time

Ayla R — Google review

Bean point is Anna Maria Islands most hidden gem! Very hard to find parking but we'll worth it. If you go to the northern most point of the beach you can literally see where the gulf waters meet the bay, as well as the sunshine skyway bridge in the distance. Use Google maps to locate bean point. Good luck and enjoy!

Scott J — Google review

What a gorgeous beach on the north tip of Anna Marie Island. There aren’t many access points and parking, but we found a spot on the street a block away and it was a nice walk out to a powdery sand beach with turquoise water and the occasional family of dolphins. The water is warm, calm, and it’s a very peaceful setting to enjoy an afternoon in the sun.

Jeff M — Google review

Sunsets are an event in this area.Parking can be tricky, but make sure to park between sings and be considerate with homeowners and pedestrians.The area is very clean, and theres various points of entry.

Elena C — Google review

Water was so clear it was almost transparent, love that you can see the bay (and the skyway) on the other side.

Riyaadh A — Google review

It was a bit of a trek for me since I took the trolley which took 40 minutes than walked up North Shore for another 16 minutes. You’ll see the signs for the beach access. I suggest renting a car, golf cart, or scooter to conserve energy. Parking is an issue also marked by signs pointing if u can park there. It was a beautiful spot. I trekked up to the northern tip. There’s no amenities here like bathrooms or getting something to drink etc. Glad I visited it though.

John V — Google review

Absolutely beautiful beach and water ( be careful of current and riptide).LOTS of various shells to search for. Parking can be difficult to find so go early.

Frederick S — Google review

If you don't stop here while on the island, you will regret it!!! Sugar white sand, shells, sunsets, the marine life. Beautiful 😍

Angie K — Google review

I absolutely loved this beach!! Gorgeous water, friendly faces and not over crowded what so ever. We had a blast snorkeling and saw many crabs, bigger fish by the skools and sea shells. The parking is a bit harder to find but it's manageable. We will come back until we can't!! Lol gorgeous!!!!

May N — Google review

Beautiful. The sand was like powder- the sunset was amazing.This far down the island you just park on the side streets- after Coquina Beach there was no public parking that I noticed- I could have missed it, though.Make sure to watch that you are on a street with a sign stating parking is allowed.Bring your wagon if you’re carrying much- but it was worth it.

Keli Y — Google review

One of the best beaches I have ever been to. Family and I spent the whole day there; we enjoyed every minute. We saw like 6 dolphins, sand dollars and shells were everywhere. Totally worth the trip.

Pat R — Google review

It is a beautiful beach. It was a bit populated when we were there, but it really didn’t take away from the phenomenal scenes. Incredible sunsets. Love this beach. It is a bit tricky to find, but that’s part of its charm. One of my favorites.

Katie C — Google review

Anna Maria Island's northern tip is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. The beach is gorgeous, with powdery white sand and turquoise blue water. There are often families of dolphins swimming nearby. The water is warm and calm, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.There are a few things to keep in mind, however. First, there are few access points and parking is limited. Second, there are no bathrooms close by. Third, the west side of the island has nice waves, but if you walk over to the east side there are almost no waves. This makes the east side perfect for smaller kids.Overall, Anna Maria Island's northern tip is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach. Just be sure to plan accordingly and bring everything you need with you.

Travis F — Google review

Prettiest beach that I’ve ever been to.

James S — Google review

This location you have to check out. Now it takes a bit of walking because you can't park right there but it is well worth it. You can actually get away from people out here because it is not as busy as other location on the island. The beach is very wide here and can be hot in summer so wear something on your feet. It is far away from things so bring food and drink with you. great place to surf fish also.

CJS — Google review

This beach is more like a residential beach and trying to find public parking is impossible. Due to how it’s inside a neighborhood if you park anywhere expect the allowed areas you’ll get fined. Along the intersection of North Shore Rd and Fern Rd are two signs that say “parking is permitted between these two signs” you can park there for free but the one catch is your tires cannot touch the pavement or you’ll pay a 40 dollar fine. Right in front of this allowed area is beach access, and there are not public amenities such as restrooms. The beach is gorgeous with striking white sand, a mellow surf, and emerald green water!

Ragu N — Google review

Fantastic place to watch the sunset. Yet it can be extremely hard to find parking. Weekends are very crowded at sunset. If you're looking for a romantic, secluded beach, this is not it. Found it interesting that some were swimming in the water whileonly a few yards down the beach. You had others fishing for sharks. 🦈

Erik — Google review

This is the best beach in Anna maria Island in the Tampa area, And a beautiful sunset

Benjamin L — Google review

We’ve been coming to Bean point Beach me and my family for the last nine years. This is our home away from home.

Yuliya M — Google review

I mean, how could you give this place less than five stars?! Gorgeous. Breath taking. Perfection.

Amy B — Google review

4.8

(1479)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (201)

4.5

(989)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (202)

793 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216, USA

30

Herrmanns' Royal Lipizzan Stallions

Horse riding school

Outdoor Activities

Horse boarding stable

Horseback Riding Tours

What an amazing way to spend a Saturday morning. We were blown away by everything about our time there. The horses were amazing, you were able to go into the barn and visit with the horses before and after the show. Myakka was our daughters favorite. He was stunning. The people there were friendly and knowledgeable about the horses and their history. Being able to watch these horses and their training up close and personal was a treat. We drove 2 hours each way and it was well worth the trip. Lots of things to do nearby. Will definitely be going back.

Amber M — Google review

These people abuse their horses. If you watch the video demos of these people riding especially the owner, they beat their horses and always use direct contact with the whips. This is not how classical dressage works. The horses always look confused because the riders including the owner are not giving them correct cues. This place needs to be shut down for the horses welfare. It is incredibly sad how these beautiful animals are being treated by these horrible individuals. I fear seeing these horses in person because seeing the fear in their eyes in the videos was just disgusting. As a horse lover and owner I am disappointed you guys even call yourselves horseman. Real horsemen do not act or treat their horses like this. A whip is a tool to give shown cues it is never supposed to make contact with the horse under any circumstance!

Haley H — Google review

I went to the Lipizzan show for the first time last year on a vacation from Chicago. I was Uber impressed by the performances and learning opportunity that I purposely made a trip back this year before the show ends for the season.The thing I love most about this show is that it’s so interactive. Rebecca, Sydney, and Julie clearly care for the horses. Each horse has a unique personality and they show it! I also love that they’re constantly changing/updating performances. This years show had a ton of new moves than last year!I highly encourage you to take the family and attend the show!

Bradley B — Google review

It was a wonderful experiance: 1st visiting with the horses in the stables, then watching them perform 🌞

RamieDawn W — Google review

What a nice treasure and interesting history to have in our community! Everyone was so friendly and nice and my 1.5 year old loved seeing and even getting to pet the horses in the barn.

JK C — Google review

This family really loves these endangered horses and seem to work tirelessly to care for them, train them, and provide opportunities for the public to see these beautiful stallions (and mares) perform their routines.Go see them. Support the Herrmann family who for four generations have shared their love of the Lipizzans with many thousands of visitors.

Robert L — Google review

Outstanding! Lovely afternoon for all ages. Lots of great information about the Lipizzan horses, how they came to America, and maintaining the bred. We attend every couple years to support their hard work. Make sure to visit the stables before or after the show!

Laurie C — Google review

A previous reviewer said that whips were used and the horses were confused. That is untrue and far from what I witnessed today. From what I can tell, this is a hardworkig family who are doing their part in getting the Lippizaner horse breed off the endangered list and honor their heritage. The grounds are not in pristine conditions, but that wasn't surprising since Hurricane Ian pummeled the area. All those in attendance today seemed to enjoy the show . Kudos to the family, and may you continue to have success in your endeavors.

LK B — Google review

Great experience great show.Beautiful horses and wonderful horse women

Kathy D — Google review

A lovely way to spend an afternoon. The horses are beautiful and the family clearly cares about them. For $5, which helps offset the cost of their care, you can watch them rehearse and bleacher seats are provided (just get there early if you want seats in the shade). Remember that this doesn't mean you're getting to see one of their shows, but it's truly charming to see the interaction and what goes on behind the scenes.

Sheri T — Google review

Fabulous demonstration of the stallions strength and agility and wisdom. Take exceptionally good care of the horses and are thankful to the people for supporting their hard work of helping the horses. They teach about the fascinating history of the horses and show how the horses were used in battle. They encourage and say kind words to each other as they perform. They also speak kind words to the horses and tell the horses they are a good boy. They reward the horses with sugar cubes when the stallion does a good job. Their hard work and gratitude is evident in how they share the royal lipizzan Stallions with others. Thank you, Thank you for sharing yourself and the horses.

Ralph L — Google review

This place was a great experience. We went right after Christmas so it would probably be 5 stars when all the riders are on-site. (Many were on vacation.) The horses are beautiful! The family/staff/volunteers take good care of the horses, let us tour the barn, and answered questions. Very nice people. The cost is $5 per person but they appreciate donations. They have grandstands for seating. A lady sold us an information booklet for $5 that was helpful. Parking was free. Show was at 3 pm on a Friday and gates opened at 2 pm. We learned about the history of the horses too.

Shannon B — Google review

We were lucky to have a tour of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna last fall. The stallions there are so chubby it's a wonder they can perform the manoeuvres at all 😀. They look just the horse the Colonel is riding in the photo in the barn and, unfortunately, nothing like the real horses in the barn. If you are a horse lover, please consider visiting as a donation to help support these beautiful animals.

Carrie S — Google review

We thought we were going to see a dress rehearsal - with all the flowing costumes that accompanies a horse show- but we were pretty disappointed. The lady who owned the horse farm was pretty much the show- demonstrating her different Lippizan horses and their talents. She spoke quite a bit about the history of the Lippizans which was quite interesting but not enough of a horse show. Since the hirses no longer perform shows, I didn’t consider these shows to be dress rehearsals. I felt there was a lot more that could have been added.

Pat W — Google review

Terribly disappointed yesterday after returning twelve years after first seeing the Herrmann's family rendition of what they called a show.When first observed all those years ago, the spectacular involved at minimum eight female riders that put the Lipizzans through the full repertoire of their capable dressage movements.The levade is a position wherein the horse raises up both front legs, standing at a 30° angle entirely on its hind legs in a controlled form that requires a great deal of hindquarter strength. A less difficult but related movement is the pesade, where the horse rises up to a 45° angle.The courbette is a movement where the horse balances on its hind legs and then essentially "hops", jumping with the front legs off the ground and hind legs together.The capriole is a jump in place where the stallion leaps into the air, tucking his forelegs under himself, and kicks out with his hind legs at the top of the jump.None of these took place between the only remaining family member and her 15 year old daughter. The show was slightly more interesting then a petting zoo.If you go, consider the admission cost as a donation to keep their farm running and not much more than that.

Laurence R — Google review

Previous visit several years ago was excellent & a great show. Today (Friday) was very disappointing. 3 gals, maybe 5 horses. Drawn out event with not much action. History information was good. Not much of a program really. Won't come agaIn. Even the horses didn't have a spirit to perform.

Joyce B — Google review

4.4

(164)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (203)

4.5

(138)40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (204)

32755 Singletary Rd, Myakka City, FL 34251, USA

(941) 322-1501

40 Best Stops Between Gainesville and Bradenton (2025)
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