THINGS TO DO & SEE IN FLORIDA’S BEACH
Florida’s Beach offers all the ingredients for a memorable Florida visit‑‑ ample amounts of sunshine and warm weather, 35 miles of picturesque beaches and an enchanting blend of art, culture, history, attractions and a lifestyle that will bring one back again and again. Following are some of the major sights and attractions:
BELLEAIR
Belleview Biltmore Resort & Spa - 25 Belleview Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33757. Built in 1897 by railroad magnate and West Central Florida pioneer Henry Plant, the 292-room Belleview Biltmore Resort & Spa holds an honored position on the National Register of Historic Places. Situated on a high coastal bluff near the Gulf of Mexico, the resort is reputed to be the largest continuously occupied wooden structure in the world. The Biltmore is also the oldest major resort in Florida. History tours are offered daily. 727-442-6171 www.belleviewbiltmore.com
BELLEAIR BLUFFS
Antique Alley – 580-596 Indian Rocks Road, Belleair Bluffs (two blocks north of West Bay Drive). This cluster of 18 specialty shops is the largest and oldest group of antique shops in the area. The Alley also hosts two annual antique shows with more than 50 additional dealers on hand. 727-585-7242
CLEARWATER AND CLEARWATER BEACH
Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise ‑ 25 Causeway Blvd. ‑Dock 3, Clearwater Beach, FL 34630. Two‑hour day cruises at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Champagne evening cruise at 4:30 and 7 p.m. Free beverages served on all cruises. Day cruises ‑ Adults $28, Seniors $22, Children $18. Evening cruises ‑ Adults $30, Seniors $22, Children $18. Open 7 days per week. Group rates and private charters available. 727‑446‑2587 www.pirateflorida.com
Celebration Station - 24546 US 19 North, Clearwater, FL 34623. Family oriented mini-theme park with go-karts, bumper boats, games, miniature golf, batting cages, shows and dining. Open Sunday - Thursday 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday 12 p.m. to midnight; Saturday 10 a.m. to midnight. Pricing options and group rates are available. 727-791-1799 www.celebrationstation.com
Clearwater Marine Aquarium ‑ 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 34615. Live and model displays of area marine life are on exhibit at this research and rehabilitation facility which frequently houses rehabilitating sea turtles and dolphin. Popular exhibits include tanks containing numerous varieties of fish, baby sea turtles and "Sam" the Bottlenose Dolphin. Daily tours available. The Aquarium also features Marine Life Adventures, Sea Life Safari programs and Trainer-for-a-day programs. Summer marine biology class available for children ages 8‑l6. Open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. & Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adults $7.75, Children $5.25, Under 3 free. 727‑447‑0980. www.cmaquarium.org
Clearwater (Beach) Marina - 25 Causeway Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33767. The municipal marina is home to the largest commercial fleet on the West Coast of Florida. Located on Clearwater Beach directly across from the Pier 60 parking area, it offers access to boating activities, fishing, dining and shopping. The Marina is open seven days a week. 727-462-6954 www.clearwater-fl.com/marine/marina.html
Clearwater Sailing Center - 1001 Gulf Boulevard, Clearwater, Florida 33767. This community sailing center offers a variety of instructional classes, boat storage and a community sailing club open to visitors. The program allows qualified sailors to use city-owned sailboats. 727-462-6368 www.clearwater-fl.com/marine/sailing.html
Clearwater’s Original Dolphin Encounter - P.O. Box 3563, Clearwater, FL 34630 (From Clearwater Beach Marina). A Clearwater tradition, the Dolphin Encounter offers a dolphin-sighting guarantee. Prices and hours of operation vary. Group rates available. 727-442-7433 www.dolphinencounter.org
Countryside Mall - 27001 U.S. 19 North, Clearwater, FL 33761. This modern mall features nearly 200 shops with more than 1 million square feet of space. Anchor shops include Burdines, Dillard’s, JCPenney and Sears. Countryside also includes an ice rink. 727-796-1079
Moccasin Lake Nature Park ‑ 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL 34619. (East of US 19, North of Gulf to Bay Blvd.) This 50‑acre park features an environmental and energy education center with a lake, upland forest, wetlands and lots of native plant and animal species. A one‑mile nature trail winds through the park and the Interpretive Center features wildlife exhibits, displays and information. The sun and wind provide the park’s power and water supply. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adults $2, Children (3-11) $1. 727‑462‑6024 www.clearwater-fl.com/parksrec/mlnp.html
Ruth Eckerd Hall ‑ 1111 McMullen‑Booth Road, Clearwater, FL 34619. (Located just north of Courtney Campbell Causeway, State Road 60) This performing arts center presents music, dance, and educational programs for all ages. Visual arts exhibits are regularly displayed in the spacious gallery. Ruth Eckerd Hall is home to the Florida Orchestra and offers performances by the Florida Opera. A year‑round schedule of cultural entertainment is provided. 727‑791‑7400 www.rutheckerdhall.com
Sand Key Park - 1060 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33767. This 90-acre county park features a ½-mile white-sand beach that has been rated among the top 20 beaches in the United States. The park offers two bathhouses, picnic shelters, lifeguard stations and ample parking. Sand Key Park is open every day from 7 a.m. to sunset. Lifeguards are on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 727-588-4852 www.pinellascounty.org/park/sand_key_park.htm
Sea Life Safari Cruises – P.O. Box 3335, Clearwater, FL 34630. The boat picks up passengers at the Clearwater Beach Marina and Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Guests touch sea creatures, visit bird sanctuaries and look for shells on a barrier island. The two-hour cruises are guided by a marine biologist from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and include an “up-close” look or touch of sea horses, crabs and sea urchins. Cruises depart at 12:45 and 3:30 p.m. Admission is $13.95 for adults, $9 children ages 3-12. 727‑462‑2628
Sea Screamer - Clearwater Municipal Marina, Slip #10, Clearwater Beach, FL 34630. Billed as the world’s largest speedboat, this 73-foot craft takes you on both a scenic nature cruise and a thrilling, fast ride in the Gulf of Mexico. $13.50 for adults; $9 for children 5-12; kids 4 and under are free. Daily rides are at noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Ticket booth is open daily 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. 727-447-7200 www.seascreamer.com
Show Queen - 25 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater, FL 34630. Located at the Clearwater Beach Marina, this boat offers narrated scenic cruises. Sightseeing and lunch cruises are $17.95 for adults and $7.95 for children. Dinner cruises are $26.95 for adults and $13.95 for children 4-10. Children under 4 are free. 727‑461‑3113 www.showqueen.com
Starlite Majesty Dinner Boat ‑ P.O. Box 3335 Clearwater, FL 34630. Docked at the Clearwater Beach Marina, this ship offers three‑hour (3 1/2 on Sat.) dinner/dance cruises Tuesday through Saturday at 7 p.m. Cruise admission is $13.80 Tuesday-Friday, $15.80 Saturday plus the price of dinner ($9.95 - $22.95). Two-hour sightseeing cruises are offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 12:30 p.m. Optional lunch is available Friday and Saturday. Group rates are also offered. 727‑462‑2628 www.starlitecruises.com
SunCruz Casino - Clearwater Bay Marina, 198 Seminole Street; Clearwater, FL 34615. SunCruz Casino features dining, dancing and a full casino featuring blackjack, Caribbean stud poker, roulette, craps and slots. Group rates available. 727-895-DEAL (3325) www.suncruzcasino.com
Sunshine Speedway ‑ 4500 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, FL 34620. Drag racing is featured on Friday nights March 1 - Nov. 29. Stock car racing is held Saturday nights from Feb. 27 through Nov. 26. Concession stands and gift shop provide refreshments and souvenirs. Gates open at 5 p.m. on race nights. Tickets are $10 for adults and $4 for children 6-12. Parking is free. 727‑573‑4598 www.sunshinespeedway.com
DUNEDIN
Caladesi Island State Park ‑ #1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, FL 34698. Accessible only by boat, this is one of the state’s few remaining undisturbed barrier islands. Caladesi is ideal for swimming, shelling, fishing, picnics, diving and nature study. A three‑mile nature trail winds through the interior. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. A ferry departs hourly from nearby Honeymoon Island. For ferry information, call 727-734‑1501. Docks are available on the island for private boats ($4 per boat for up to eight people). A snack bar and shelters are also available. Rated in 2001 as having the fifth finest beach in the United States. 727-469-5942 www8.myflorida.com/communities/learn/stateparks/district4/caladesi/index.html
Dunedin Fine Art Center & David L. Mason Children’s Art Museum - 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, FL 34698. The Center features a variety of exhibitions, workshops and demonstrations to foster the growth and development of visual arts. It is also home to the David L. Mason Children’s Art Museum. This museum presents interactive exhibits that help children, in partnership with adults, to be creative and get a new understanding of the arts. Call for the latest exhibition information. Open Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Saturday. 727-298-3322 www.dfac.org
Dunedin Historical Museum ‑ 349 Main Street, Dunedin, FL 34698. This facility was originally a railroad station for the Orange Belt Railroad system that dates to 1889. Drawings and relics from this Scottish community’s past are on exhibit as well as other features on regional history. Seasonal walking tours of historic areas are available. Open Tuesday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission $2, Children 12 & under free. Will open for group tours. 727‑736‑1176
Honeymoon Island State Recreation Area ‑ #1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, FL 34698. Located in the Gulf of Mexico on the Dunedin Causeway (Hwy. 586). A state recreation area suited for swimming, shelling, fishing, picnics and nature study. Like Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island is one of the state’s pristine barrier islands. Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. $2 for a person in a car; $4 for 2 or more people in a car. 727‑ 469-5942
www8.myflorida.com/communities/learn/stateparks/district4/honeymoonisland/index.html
Pinellas Trail – Located throughout the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area. This 37-mile long, 15-foot wide trail is part of the county park system and is one of the longest linear parks in the southeastern United States. It enables visitors and residents alike to bike, in-line skate, jog or walk ‑- all without the hassle and safety concern of being in automobile traffic. There are rental shops for bikes and skates at numerous points along the trail. The trail runs from the sponge docks at the north end of Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg in the south end of the county. The original rail track saw the first Orange Belt Railroad train in 1888. The first stretch of rail line opened for recreation in 1990. 727-462-4751 www.co.pinellas.fl.us/BCC/trailgd/trailgd.htm
GULFPORT
Art Village - Beach Blvd. South, Gulfport, FL 33707. Enjoy more than 40 galleries, studios, boutiques and restaurants all within walking distance in this pedestrian-friendly historic district. Gallery Walks with free trolley service run from 6-10 p.m. the first Friday and third Saturday of the month. 727-321-7741
Gulfport Historical Museum - 5301 28th Ave. South, Gulfport, FL 33707. This museum documents the diversity and colorful history of one of Pinellas County’s oldest incorporated cities. Operating hours vary. Admission is free, donations are accepted. 727-327-0505
INDIAN SHORES
Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary ‑ 18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL 33785. A refuge and rehabilitation center for as many as 500 injured and permanently crippled birds. This non‑profit organization is known worldwide for its preservation of wild birds. Permanently injured brown pelicans, cormorants, white herons, birds of prey, song birds and other species may be seen daily. Open 9 a.m. until dusk seven days a week. There is no admission fee for the sanctuary. Group tours can be arranged. 727‑391‑6211 www.webcoast.com/SeaBird/
LARGO
Gulf Coast Museum of Art – 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo, FL 33778. Features classes, workshops, educational programs and a diverse exhibitions schedule. Galleries are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday noon until 4 p.m. Admission is $5 adults; $4 seniors and $3 for students; children (12 and under) are free. Free admission on Thursdays. Docent-led tours are available for groups. 727-518-6833 www.gulfcoastmuseum.org
Heritage Village ‑ 11909‑125th Street North, Largo, FL 34644. This living museum features a fascinating collection of restored homes and buildings on 21 wooded acres. The historical museum is the centerpiece of this park and depicts the county’s pioneer lifestyle. Spinning, weaving and other exhibitions are regularly held. On the fourth Saturday in October, the Country Jubilee is held at the park. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. No admission fee. 727‑582-2123 www.pinellascounty.org/heritag.htm
Pinewood Cultural Park and the Florida Botanical Gardens - 12175 125th St. North
Largo, FL 33774. Pinewood Cultural Park combines a cultural, historic and botanical experience at a single destination. The 190-acre park is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Florida Botanical Gardens features walking tours and workshops allowing visitors to learn about the environment as they experience it. When complete in 2002, the $16 million project will be Florida’s largest gardens and the centerpiece of the Pinewood Cultural Park. 727-582-2200 www.flbg.org
MADEIRA BEACH
John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk ‑ 12901 Gulf Blvd. East, Madeira Beach, FL 33708. (Located on Gulf Blvd. just north of Treasure Island at John’s Pass). A quaint shopping district which overlooks “fish famous” John’s Pass, the Village is home to a large commercial and charter fishing fleet. Art galleries, restaurants, boutiques are located in the area and the boardwalk provides a scenic view of the waterfront. It is the site of several festivals and special events. Open daily. No admission fee. 727-391-7373 www.johnspasstouristcenter.com
Star Dancer Casino ‑ Located at John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk. This cruise ship offers twice daily (luncheon and dinner) Gulf of Mexico cruises. Casino gambling is featured. All‑inclusive daytime ticket prices are offered as well as special group rates. 1‑800‑688‑PLAY (7529)
Palm Harbor Historical Museum - 2043 Curlew Road, Palm Harbor, Florida 34683. Opened in 1998, the museum features a variety of exhibits on the history of the Palm Harbor, Crystal Beach, Ozona and Curlew communities. The museum is located in the 1915 home of "Judge" Thomas William Hartley, a justice of the peace, Methodist lay minister and businessman. Hours of operation are Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. 727-781-4670 www.pinellascounty.org/village/Hartley.htm
PINELLAS PARK
Bill Jackson’s Shop For Adventure – 9501 U.S. 19 North, Pinellas Park, FL 33782. This one-of-a-kind adventure shop has been family owned for more than 50 years. More than just a store, Bill Jackson’s teaches what it sells with on-site pools for SCUBA, kayaking, canoeing and a 12-foot by 18-foot ski deck that moves underneath you to simulate the feel of the slopes – Imagine snow skiing in Florida. The shop specializes in backpacking, camping, canoeing, fishing, fly fishing, hunting, in-line skating, kayaking, metal detecting, SCUBA diving and snow skiing. 727‑576‑4169 www.billjacksons.com
Wagon Wheel Flea Market - 7801 74th St., Pinellas Park, FL 33781. This gigantic public market features more than 2,000 exhibitors offering deals and discounts on more than 125 acres in the middle of the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area. 727-544-5319
SAFETY HARBOR
Philippe Park ‑ 2525 Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor, FL 34695. (North of Safety Harbor off Hwy. 590). Philippe Park is a historical site that overlooks Old Tampa Bay. The park is named for Odet Philippe, who claimed to be a surgeon for Napoleon. Philippe settled there in the 1830s and introduced the New World’s first successful grapefruit trees. Before Philippe, the area was a significant Native American settlement. Listed as a National Historic Landmark, a sizable ancient ceremonial mound exists today. The park also features an excellent picnic area, playground and nature trail. 727‑669-1947 www.cyberfair.org/drexler/INDIAN.HTML
Safety Harbor Museum of Regional History - 329 S. Bayshore Blvd., Safety Harbor FL 34695. This Florida history and archaeology museum features 10,000 years of history. The museum offers dioramas and displays of fossils, projectile points, shell tools, beads and pottery that tell the story of Florida’s first people and the arrival of Spanish explorers. Photographs and memorabilia illustrate Safety Harbor at the turn of the century when visitors were first drawn to the place “where healing waters flow.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $2 for adults, $1 children 12 and under. 727-726-1668 www.safety-harbor-museum.org
ST. PETE BEACH
Dolphin Landings – 4737 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL (Behind the Dolphin Village Shopping Center). This charter boat center offers dolphin watch sailing cruises, Shell Key Adventure trips and Sunset Sails. Dolphin watch cruises are two hours. The Shell Key Adventure takes visitors on a 3-4 hour trip to an undeveloped barrier island for beach relaxation. Two-hour sunset sails take visitors into the Gulf of Mexico for an unobstructed view of the sunset. Cruises are $25-35 and sailing times vary. Reservations are recommended and private charters are available. 727-367-4488 www.dolphinlandings.com
Don CeSar Beach Resort & Spa -3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706. A longtime point of reference on maritime navigation charts, this “pink palace” features Mediterranean and Moorish architecture and includes numerous balconies and terraces. Original owner Thomas Rowe named the 340-room property after a character in the opera Maritana. The “Don” was a favorite of high society including F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife, Zelda, attorney Clarence Darrow, baseball great Lou Gehrig and even gangster Al Capone. Originally opened in 1928, the property was appropriated by the Military during World War II and eventually abandoned. It was restored to its original glory and reopened in 1973. A member of the Historic Hotels of North America and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Don CeSar has also been named a historical monument by the National Archives. History tours are available by appointment. 727-363-1881 www.doncesar.com
Gulf Beaches History Museum - 115-10th Avenue, St. Pete Beach, Florida 33706. Located in Pass-A-Grille’s National Historic District, the museum is housed in what was the first church built on the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area’s barrier islands. Museum exhibits trace the history of the area’s barrier islands through photographs, news clippings and artifacts dating from the 1500s through modern times. Walking tours of the Pass-A-Grille historic district are offered weekly. 727-360-2491 www.co.pinellas.fl.us/bcc/village/beach.htm
Shell Key Preserve – Located south of St. Pete Beach. Named one of the state’s most important birding sites by Audubon of Florida, this undeveloped barrier island is known for excellent shelling, sunbathing and bird watching. Shell Key Preserve was established to protect the island as a nesting site and continue to allow its use as a recreational destination. Numerous boats offer sightseeing trips to Shell Key’s recreation area for sunbathing and dolphin watching. Efforts to manage this area resulted in the creation of the Florida Birding Festival every fall, the largest urban bird watching festival in the nation. 727-943-4000 www.pinellascounty.org/Environ/
Silas Bayside Market ‑ 5505 Gulf Blvd., St. Petersburg Beach, FL 33706. The market is a unique shopping village in a tropical setting featuring numerous specialty shops and a food court. 727‑367‑4485
Starlite Princess Cruises - 3400 Pasadena Ave. South, St. Petersburg, FL 33707. This cruise boat features a working paddlewheeler ship offering luncheon, dinner and sightseeing cruises. Reservations recommend. Group rates available. 727-462-2628 www.starlitecruises.com
ST. PETERSBURG
The Arts Center - 719 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. This fine arts gallery offers hands-on creative experiences to people wishing to express themselves artistically. The Arts Center features galleries with works of some of Florida’s best artists as well as studios and classes for visitors and children. The Center also organizes Art Talks, where artists discuss their work and the work of the artists who have influenced them. Gallery Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is free. 727-822-7872 www.theartscenter.org
Bayfront Center ‑ 400 First Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. St. Petersburg’s bayside jewel, the Bayfront Center is the site of celebrity entertainment, special exhibits, performances, athletic events and shows. The 231,000-sq. ft. center also is a popular spot for meetings and trade shows. Ticket/events line: 727‑892-5700 www.stpete.org/bayfront.htm
BayWalk Entertainment Center ‑ 153 2nd Ave. North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 The $40-million “BayWalk” entertainment complex has become a hot spot for shopping and nightlife. Adding momentum to a revitalization of downtown St. Petersburg, “BayWalk” opened in the fall of 2000. The 150,000 sq. ft. open-air themed plaza is anchored by a 4,200 seat, 20-screen Muvico Theater complex featuring stadium seating theaters, child care service and fresh cuisine. The Mediterranean Revival-themed complex known as the “Soul of St. Petersburg” includes bars and restaurants such as Wet Willy’s, dish and Dan Marino’s Town Tavern as well as a full-line Ann Taylor shop and other retail outlets. 727-895-9277 www.stpete.org/baywalk.htm
Boyd Hill Nature Trail ‑ 1101 Country Club Way South, St. Petersburg, FL 33705. This area features 216 acres of natural beauty with six trails that lead visitors through Florida’s various ecosystems. Wildlife abounds in this park and excellent photo opportunities exist on every trail. Guided tours available. Special programs include educational shows, day camps, nature photography classes, bird walks and more. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Adults $1, Children $.50. 727‑893‑7326 www.stpete.org/nature.htm
Caribbean Queen Dolphin Watch Cruise – 800 2nd Ave. NE, 3rd Floor, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (The Pier). The Caribbean Queen is a 60-foot wooden boat offering daily 1 hour sightseeing excursions on Tampa Bay 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. The boat features seating for 30 on the open upper deck and shaded main deck. Adults $12.84, Seniors $10.70, Juniors (12-17) $10.70, Children (3-11) $6.42. 727-895-2628 www.cqdolphincruises.com
Coliseum Ballroom ‑ 535 Fourth Ave. North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Featured in the popular motion picture “Cocoon,” this landmark opened in 1924. An all‑star list of Big Band musicians have performed there and hundreds of thousands have danced on the 13,000 sq. ft. maple dance floor ‑‑ one of the nation’s largest. Call for dance and events schedule. 727‑892‑5202 www.stpete.org/coliseum.htm
Salvador Dali Museum ‑ 1000 Third Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The Dali features the world’s most comprehensive collection of work by the famous Spanish master. Valued at more than $125 million, the collection includes 95 oil paintings, 200 watercolors and drawings and 1,000 graphics, sculptures and objects d’art. Open Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (open Thursday until 8 p.m.); Sunday noon - 5:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for Seniors, $5 for students and free for children 10 and under. Group rates available. 727‑823‑3767 www.salvadordalimuseum.org
Derby Lane ‑ 10490 Gandy Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33702. Derby Lane features greyhound racing and pari-mutual wagering January through June with 14 races daily, Monday through Saturday. Matinee races are held at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Evening races at 7:30 p.m. $1 general admission. Information/ticket line: 727-576-1361; dinner reservation line 727-576‑1359 www.derbylane.com
Egmont Key ‑ Located at the mouth of Tampa Bay, southwest of Fort De Soto Park. This 440-acre island is the home to one of the last government-operated lighthouses (built in 1858) in the nation. It is still an active navigational aide to all ships entering Tampa Bay. Now a wildlife refuge, Egmont Key was a camp for captured Seminoles during the Third Seminole War and was a Union Navy base during the Civil War. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection cooperatively manages Egmont Key with the U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service and the U.S. Coast Guard. Several boats offer snorkeling excursions to this island which is accessible only by boat. Egmont Key also has a variety of significant natural resources, including a large population of gopher tortoises, and its beach is used as a nesting area by loggerhead sea turtles. 727-893-2627 www8.myflorida.com/communities/learn/stateparks/district4/egmontkey/index.html
Florida Holocaust Museum - 55 5th Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The facility is the third largest of its kind in the United States containing photographs, memorabilia, books, films, videos and other material from and about the era. The only Holocaust Museum to feature continual Holocaust art exhibits, the museum’s centerpiece permanent exhibit is a boxcar used to transport people to concentration camps. Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Adults $6; Senior $5; Student free. Special evening tours can be arranged. 727-820-0100 www.flholocaustmuseum.org
Florida International Museum - 261 Second Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The museum hosts a walk-through exhibit on John F. Kennedy, an interactive walkthrough exhibit on the Cuban Missile Crisis and special annual exhibits in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution. The museum features the world’s largest private collection of the late President’s personal items. Among the 50,000 items are Kennedy’s rocking chair, bearing the imprint of his back brace; the flags that flew on his car in the Dallas motorcade; and the red, white and blue White House hotline telephone. Also in the collection are letters written by Kennedy and a threatening telegram from then Soviet President Nikita Khrushchev. Hours are 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. with final admission at 5 p.m. 727-822-3693 or 800-777-9882 www.floridamuseum.org
Florida Orange Groves Inc. & Winery - 1500 Pasadena Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33707. Florida Orange Groves is the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area’s first and only award-winning winery. This family-owned facility produces “citrus-based” fruit wines that are unique in their fermenting process allowing them to stay fresh for years. The facility includes a tasting bar with free wine tasting by appointment. Tours of the small factory where citrus is packaged and the wines are bottled are available year-round. Groups should call in advance. 727-347-4025 or 800-338-7923 www.fogw.com.
Fort De Soto Park‑ Accessible by Pinellas Bayway off I‑275 and 54th Ave. South. A historic fort built during the Spanish-American War is located on Mullet Key, the largest of the five islands which make up this unique area. The park consists of 900 unspoiled acres, seven miles of beaches, two fishing piers, picnic and camping areas, a small history museum and a 2,000-foot barrier-free nature trail for guests with disabilities. A concession stand, bathrooms and covered picnic shelters are available. Toll on bridges to the park is 85 cents. Fort De Soto recently rated as the sixth best beach in the United States in a national study. 727‑866‑2662 www.fortdesoto.com
Friendship Trail – Located at the western end of Gandy Blvd. The “Old” Gandy Bridge spanning Tampa Bay north of St. Petersburg underwent a $7 million transformation into a recreational park called the Friendship TrailBridge. The 13,770.5-foot (2.6-mile) trail is the longest over-the-water recreation trail in the United States. The Friendship Trail is an operational trail for all types of non-motorized activities including biking, walking, running, roller-blading and fishing. 813-289-4400 www.ij.net/friendship
Great Explorations The Hands-On Museum – 800 2nd Ave. NE, 3rd Floor, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (The Pier). A “hands on” museum where visitors touch, move and interact with exhibits that educate and entertain. Exhibition areas include Phenomenal Arts. Explore Galore, Exchange, Think Tank, Touch Tunnel and Body Shop. A gift shop is also included. Open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Children under 3 are admitted free. Adults $4, Seniors (56 and above) $2. Group rates available. 727‑821‑8992 www.webcoast.com/HandsOn
Home Shopping Network Studio Tours – 12000 25th Court N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Tour an American cultural phenomenon, the worldwide headquarters and studio of the Home Shopping Network. HSN offers tours Tuesday through Friday starting at 2 p.m. The 45-minute tours are free, but reservations must be made in advance. 727-872-1000 or 877-HSN-TOURS (476-8687)
Museum of Fine Arts ‑ 255 Beach Drive, NE. St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The Museum has the only comprehensive art collection, from antiquity to the present day, on Florida’s west coast. The collection of 4,000 objects includes significant works by Cezanne, Monet, Gauguin, Renoir, Rodin, Henri, Bellows and O’Keeffe. Special exhibits feature works on loan from other metropolitan museums. Period rooms feature antiques and historical furnishing. The museum has a collection of photos by American master photographers and a Steuben glass gallery. Guided tours available. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. Admission is $6 adults, $5 seniors and $2 students. Free admission on Sunday except during special exhibits. 727‑896‑2667 www.fine-arts.org
The Pier ‑ 800 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The landmark Pier in the heart of St. Petersburg is a unique piece of Florida architecture that offers visitors a chance to experience the waterfront along Tampa Bay. Located at the end of a mile-long approach, this five story inverted pyramid features shops, restaurants, its own aquarium, live music and even boat docks. The top floor of The Pier combines both the tropical dining of Cha Cha Coconuts with a huge observation deck, giving the visitor a truly unique observation point on Tampa Bay. The Pier features plenty of parking, complete with trolley service linking the Pier to the rest of downtown. No admission fee charged. Open daily, most shops open 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. 727‑821-6164 www.stpete-pier.com
Post Office (Open Air) – 76 4th St. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The city has a historic open-air post office that opened in 1917. The Mediterranean Revival structure is on the National Register of Historic Places and features a small postal museum. 727‑823-7558
Planetarium ‑ St. Petersburg Junior College, Science Building, 6605 Fifth Ave. North, St. Petersburg, FL 33703. Showings are held September through May and special presentations are regularly scheduled. The planetarium is a sky theater under a 7.3 meter domed ceiling projection screen. 727‑341‑4320
Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club - Built by Pennsylvania oilman Aymer Vinoy Laughner in 1925, the $3.5 million Vinoy Park Hotel was the largest construction project in Florida’s history. In its heyday, the Mediterranean Revival-style hotel was frequented by Calvin Coolidge, Babe Ruth, Herbert Hoover and numerous celebrities and entertainers. In the early 1940s the property was converted to a military facility, reopening as a hotel in 1945 and continuing operations until it fell into a state of disrepair and was closed in 1974. The Vinoy re-opened in 1992 after a $93 million restoration and expansion that added a guest tower and complete recreational facilities, including an 18-hole golf course designed by Ron Garl. The property is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of the Historic Hotels of America. History tours are offered daily. 727-894-1000 www.renaissancehotels.com/TPASR
St. Petersburg Municipal Marina - 300 Second Avenue S.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (Long 82º 38.00' W Lat 27º 46.15'N). Located on the west side of Tampa Bay, the marina is in the heart of St. Petersburg's downtown waterfront. It features a 500-foot dock for daily or weekly mooring for boats up to 110 feet long, and 610 wet slips for monthly rentals. 727-893-7329 or 800-782-8350 www.stpete.org/marina.htm
St. Petersburg Museum of History - 335 Second Avenue NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The museum features a permanent interactive exhibition of the chronology of St. Petersburg’s history filled with priceless artifacts, documents and photographs. The Benoist Pavilion houses a replica of the world’s first commercial airliner which made the first scheduled commercial flight from St. Petersburg to Tampa on January 1, 1914. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2 for children under seven. Group rates/tours are available. 727-894-1052 www.museumofhistoryonline.org
Steve & Doris Colgate’s Offshore Sailing School 1110 3rd St. South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 The School offers three-day learn-to-sail and six-day live-aboard sailing classes from the Harborage Marina in St. Petersburg. Classes are available for everyone from beginners to experts. 904-381-1400 or 800-221-4326 www.offshore-sailing.com
Sawgrass Lake Park ‑ 7400 25th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33702. Open daily 7 a.m. until sunset. This 360‑acre park provides a unique learning opportunity for school and community groups. A mile of elevated boardwalk winds through a maple swamp, and an observation tower provides a panoramic view of Sawgrass Lake. The Environmental Education Center houses a laboratory, classroom and display facilities. A self-guide booklet is available for nature trails. The park has no admission fee. 727‑217‑7256 www.pinellascounty.org/park/sawgrass_lake_park.htm
Science Center of Pinellas County - 7701 22nd Avenue N., St. Petersburg, FL; 33710. The Science Center facilities include the Laser Odyssey Theater, a 30-seat planetarium, several exhibits (including the Discoveries by African-American Scientists and Inventors and Florida Archaeology), the Carol Samuels Observatory with a Meade 16-inch telescope, 12 classrooms/labs, a Xeriscape Learning Center garden area and a wetlands outdoor exhibit area. Center hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. 727-384-0027 http://home1.gte.net/scicen/indexb.htm
Sunken Gardens ‑ 1825 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. An exotic collection of more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers including more than 200 species bloom year‑round at the six-acre garden. One of the most popular roadside attractions in Florida in the 1930s, Sunken Gardens was bought by the city of St. Petersburg in 1999. The city restored the property and added more than 6,000 plants and a butterfly garden. A walk‑through aviary features tropical birds of all types, and thousands of rare, fragrant orchids are found in the Orchid Arbor. Open Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adults $5, Seniors $3, Children (3-12) $2. 727-551-3100 www.stpete.org/sunken.htm
Sunshine Skyway Bridge ‑ Located South of St. Petersburg it spans Tampa Bay and connects Pinellas and Manatee counties. The bridge was modeled after the Brotonne Bridge over the Seine River in France and is Florida’s first suspension bridge. It is 4.1 miles long and the roadway soars 183 feet above Tampa Bay. It is the third in the lineage of bridges which have connected St. Petersburg and Bradenton. The old bridge has been dismantled, but its approaches have been converted into the state’s longest fishing piers. The new bridge’s cables, resembling an inverted fan, are painted yellow and illuminated at night. The toll for the bridge is $1. www.pbs.org/wgbh/buildingbig/wonder/structure/sunshine_skyway.html
Tropicana Field ‑ One Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg, Fl 33705. Florida’s first domed stadium and only the seventh in the United States is home to Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Devil Rays, other athletic events, conventions, trade shows, concerts and other entertainment. Seating configurations range from 12,000 to 60,000. Information Line: 727‑825‑3120; Ticket Line: 727‑898‑2100 www.stpete.org/dome.htm or www.devilrays.com
Tyrone Square Mall - 6901 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710. Anchored by Burdines, Dillard’s, J. C. Penney, and Sears this major mall features more than 155 specialty shops and more than 1 million square feet of space. 727-343-7601
Weedon Island Preserve - 1500 Weedon Island Drive, St. Petersburg, FL 33702. This preserve combines a nature experience with a soon-to-be-completed Native American Cultural Center. The preserve features a 4-mile canoe trail and 9-mile hiking trail along with a fishing pier and waterfront picnic sites. Pinellas County government is working with the Smithsonian Institution and a national advisory board of Native American and other historical experts to build a Native American Cultural Center which will showcase the Timucuan Indian civilization which once inhabited these islands. The cultural center will combine a look at some of the artifacts excavated from the site, as well as the chance to experience aspects of Native American culture including dance, cooking, art, crafts and more. 727-217-7208 www.pinellascounty.org/Environ/#Weedon
Tampa – Located on the north and west side of Tampa Bay. Tampa features a vibrant blend of urban excitement and attractions adjacent to the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area. From the Latin roots and nighttime thrills of historic Ybor City to the animals and roller coasters of Busch Gardens and the wonders of the Museum of Science and Industry, Tampa is a popular day-trip for visitors. Tampa area attractions include: Busch Gardens, Canoe Escape, the Florida Aquarium, the Henry B. Plant Museum, Lowery Park Zoo, Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), Wildlife on Easy Street and Ybor City. For more information, contact the Tampa CVB. 813-223-1111 www.thcva.com Weedon Island is assessable by car on a causeway from St. Petersburg. Weedon Island features a 4-mile canoe trail, boardwalk and observation towers. Nearby shops offer canoe and kayak rentals.
TARPON SPRINGS
Anclote Key ‑ Located three miles off Tarpon Springs. This park and preserve features four miles of open beach directly on the Gulf of Mexico. A picturesque 1887 federal lighthouse stands sentinel on the southern end of the island while ospreys nest in the tall pines found throughout the island. Anclote Key is accessible only by boat. Primitive camping is available with more than 75 campsites on a pine ridge in the center of the 698-acre park. Modern facilities and a dump station are on the premises. Five picnic areas with shelters are available along the shore of Big Lagoon and the Intracoastal Waterway on the back side of the island. 727-469-5918 www8.myflorida.com/communities/learn/stateparks/district4/anclote/index.html
Inness Paintings ‑ Universalist Church ‑ 57 Read Street, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. Features the largest collection of works by George Inness, Jr. the American landscape artist whose most notable paintings were done in this area. Open November through May, Tuesday through Sunday 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Final tour begins at 4:30 p.m.) 727‑937‑4682
Island Wind Tours - 600 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. This 60-foot, restroom-equipped catamaran offers one-hour sightseeing cruises around Anclote Key, a pristine Gulf of Mexico island, and its historic lighthouse. Sightseeing is $5 for adults and $2 for children. Group rates available. 727-934-0606
St. Nicholas Boat Line - 693 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, Fl 34689. This 30-minute boat cruise passes through the historic sponge docks and includes a narration on the history of sponge diving, the different types of sponges and a sponge-diving demonstration. Rates are $5 for adults, $2 for children 6-12 and free for kids under six. Specialty cruises are also offered. 727-942-6425
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church ‑ 36 North Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. Patterned after St. Sofia’s in Constantinople, this church is an excellent example of New Byzantine architecture with an interior of sculptured Grecian marble, elaborate icons and stained glass. The Cathedral was built in 1943, replacing a smaller structure built in 1907 by the community’s early Greek settlers. Open daily. 727‑937‑3540 www.epiphanycity.com
Spongeorama ‑ 510 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. This exhibit captures the history of the sponge industry and Greek settlers who created America’s “sponge capital.” A museum, movie and gift shop are included. Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 727‑942‑3771
Tarpon Springs Aquarium - 850 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. The aquarium features a 100,000-gallon main tank with a variety of fish that are indigenous to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. Three smaller tanks showcase other colorful marine life. Hours are from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $4.75 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2.75 for children, with kids under three free. 727-938-5378
Tarpon Springs Cultural Center - 101 South Pinellas Avenue, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. This facility identifies, preserves and promotes the city’s heritage, culture and natural resources by offering programs, performances and exhibits of statewide, national and international interest. 727-942-5605 www.tarponsprings.com
TREASURE ISLAND
SunCruz Casino - Kingfish Wharf, John’s Pass, Treasure Island. Dining, dancing and a full casino are featured on this ship including blackjack, Caribbean stud poker, roulette, craps and slot machines. Group rates are available. 727-895- DEAL (3325) www.suncruzcasino.com
*Prices and hours of operation of attractions are subject to change. Please confirm specifics directly with the individual attractions.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Wit Tuttell at 800-822-6461
or 727-464-7200