21 Gulf Coast Attractions
Florida’s Gulf Coast is packed with adventures for all ages, from warm sandy beaches and cool animal encounters to arts centers and performance venues. Wherever you’re visiting on the Gulf Coast, you’re sure to find some truly amazing attractions!
1. Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
Just north of St. Petersburg and Clearwater is Tarpon Springs, a beautiful waterfront community that magically transports you thousands of miles away to a coastal village in Greece. This Greek community began in the early 1900s, when the discovery of natural sponges brought Greek sponge divers to the area. You can witness living history at the famous Sponge Docks set along the Anclote River. In fact, you can still purchase magnificent natural sponges at the local shops. Wander around the town to visit other eclectic shops and see historic buildings, or perhaps stop into an authentic Greek restaurant for some delicious food. They say if you’re even remotely of Hellas heritage, you may well find a cousin in town! spongedocks.net
2. Indian Rocks Beach
One of Tampa Bay’s best-kept beach secrets, Indian Rocks Beach as initially developed in the 1920’s as a weekend getaway destination for wealthy inland Florida residents. Along its almost three miles of quiet beachfront you will find people of all ages enjoying the soft Gulf sand, gentle waves, and warm sunshine. There are more than 20 convenient beach access points between its array of motels and condominiums. Perfect for a family trip or quiet getaway, downtown St. Petersburg is only 20 minutes away.
indian-rocks-beach.com
3. Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Unlike any aquarium experience you’ve ever had, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to the film subject Winter the Dolphin and is a working marine hospital and exists to rescue marine animals (dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, and more) rehabilitate them from sickness or injury, and release them back into their natural habitats. A majority of the aquarium animals cannot be released for some reason, so you will see them in permanent habitats and learn their stories. You’ll also see a number of animals currently undergoing rehabilitation in the working animal hospital, and staff and volunteers give fun and educational presentations. The aquarium’s most famous resident, Winter the Dolphin, was rescued and given a prosthetic tail, which led to her being the star of the heartwarming Dolphin Tale films!
seewinter.com
4. Johns Pass Village and Boardwalk
This iconic shopping, dining, and entertainment center sits across from St. Petersburg’s beachfront, along the waterfront of Johns Pass. Named for the pirate, John Levique, who first made passage through the pass, this quaint turn-of-the-century fishing village has become a favorite place to spend the day. The Village features over one hundred merchants, and is also the jumping-off point for fishing tours, boat rentals, parasailing, and Jet Skiing. Saunter along the boardwalk and pop into original gift shops, dine at unique restaurants, or watch the pelicans wait for fish scraps from the fishermen cleaning their catch. Oftentimes at sunset, you can see dolphins swimming along the pass.
johnspass.com
5. Morean Arts Center
Encompassing several locations through metro St. Petersburg, the Morean Arts Center aims to connect visitors and the community with art through galleries, demonstrations, classes, and events. Their main building is located along St. Pete’s busy Central Avenue, and is home to a beautiful contemporary art gallery that is open year-round and FREE to the public. This is also where they offer many affordable art classes for those wanting to learn. Just down the street is the Chihuly Collection, an unforgettable permanent collection of the artist Dale Chihuly’s incredible glass sculptures all housed in a space specifically designed to showcase the pieces. Here they offer glassblowing demonstrations at the attached Morean Glass Studio. Across town is the Morean Center for Clay, the Southeast’s largest working pottery with classes, workshops, exhibitions, and more. It is also a unique event space that has hosted many a beautiful wedding in an unforgettable location.
moreanartscenter.org
6. Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens has been a St. Petersburg attraction since 1935, known for its unique settings and even as an amazing wedding venue. As St. Petersburg's oldest living museum, this 100-year-old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. Here you will find delightful little features like cascading waterfalls, colorful flamingo friends, and more amongst 50,000+ tropical plants, and flowers. It’s even more impressive when you realize that some of these plants and trees have been here for over a century! (So they’re not for climbing.) For more insight into this fantastic attraction, consider a docent-led tour of the gardens.
stpete.org
7. Straz Center for the Performing Arts
In the heart of downtown Tampa, gracing the riverfront, is the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. A complete experience to liven up your evening, you could begin with dinner in one of their premier restaurants, including a romantic location on the river. After dinner, attend one of their incredible shows like a drama, comedy show, opera, or music performance. Experience the magic of Aladdin (Dec 19 to Jan 5, 2020) or laugh along to Mean Girls (Feb 18 to 23, 2020). Tampa Opera offers life-changing performances with The Four Italian Tenors (Nov 30) and Georges Bizet’s Carmen (Feb 7 and 9, 2020).
strazcenter.org
8. Bradenton Riverwalk
Showcasing the peaceful Manatee River in Bradenton, the Bradenton Riverwalk is an unexpected delight. Following the river in downtown Bradenton, this 1.5 mile, ADA-accessible is more than just a walk along the river; indeed, it features many spots to play and enjoy, like a butterfly garden, amphitheater, skate park, sand volleyball, and children’s playground. Comfortable lounge chairs and swings are dotted along the path for opportunities to rest. Oftentimes around sunset, you could spot dolphins swimming in the warm river waters.
bradentongulfislands.com
9. Bridge Street
Upon driving onto Anna Maria Island, you are immediately switched to “Island Time” and enter a mode of fun and relaxation. This beautiful, family-friendly island features cute cottages and hotels secluded amongst the towering pines and other natural features. On the island’s southern end is Bridge Street, where island explorers and beach lovers gather to dine, shop, and play. If you’re wanting a sweet treat, Joe’s Eats & Sweets has everything from ice cream sundaes to frozen key lime pie! For some refreshing beverages, the Island Time Bar and Grill has plenty of brews on tap as well as a delicious food menu. A local favorite for dinner is the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier, a casual seafood spot that overlooks the bay. Take a stroll on the Bridge Street Pier for great views or perhaps set up with a fishing pole and catch your own dinner! Want to work on your short game? Head over to The Fish Hole Miniature Golf, a kid-friendly setup that the whole family can enjoy.
joeseatsandsweets.com
islandtimebarandgrill.com
oysterbar.net
thefishhole.com
10. The Ringling
Spread across 66 acres of the most beautiful waterfront property in Sarasota, The Ringling offers thrills and relaxation - whichever you choose - as you’re surrounded by art, architecture, and sculptures. The Ringling was once the estate of John and Mable Ringling (of circus fame) and has been dedicated to the community and visitors as a playground for the arts. In one building you will find the State Art Museum of Florida, in which you could spend a whole day if you wanted. There are two buildings dedicated to the circus and telling the story of the famous Ringling Brothers. The grounds themselves are an attraction to behold: a beautiful children’s playground beneath the trees, a fragrant rose garden first planted by Mable Ringling and still thriving, huge banyans and a secret garden, and an expansive view of the Sarasota Bay. On the bay sits the magnificent Ca’d’Zan, the opulent home of the Ringlings with guided tours available. There are also eateries and a coffee shop available to keep you energized.
ringling.org
11. Selby Botanical Gardens
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is an iconic Sarasota attraction located directly on the Sarasota Bayfront, and offers some of the most spectacular and visually stunning garden sections and vistas, which has also made it a popular wedding venue. Selby expertly blends lush botanical blooms with historical charm, and is perfectly landscaped with native foliage including live oaks, banyans, and palms, and featuring foliage-framed glimpses of the bay in the background - so be sure to bring your camera! Especially created for young ones is the Children’s Rainforest Garden, offering a connection to nature through interaction and play. Be sure to visit the garden’s gift shop and plant store to take home a part of this magical experience!
selby.org
12. St. Armands Circle
A quick scenic drive over the Ringling Bridge from downtown Sarasota, Lido Key is always bustling with beachgoers and village activities. Its shopping and dining attractions are anchored in St. Armands Circle, a rotunda of boutiques, specialty stores, cafes, restaurants, bars, and more whose walkways are interspersed with statues and tropical foliage. In the Circle’s center is a park area, which hosts many events throughout the year like art festivals and classic car shows.
starmandscircleassoc.com
13. Siesta Key Beach
There are several beaches for you to enjoy in Sarasota, but our top recommendation is Siesta Key Beach. Consistently voted as the #1 beach in America, you will certainly understand its appeal when you see its expanse of crystalline white sands that lead to shallow waters perfect for wading. While you could probably spend your trip sitting on the soft sand and soaking in the sunshine, you shouldn’t miss out on the chance to get out on the water and have fun. Siesta Key Watersports, located south of the main public beach, has just about every kind of adrenaline-pumping watersport rentals you could think of, from roaring Jet Skis to high-flying parasailing! They also offer tours and cruises. Take things nice and easy with a paddleboard rental from Gulfside Paddleboards. You can rent a board from a couple hours to a whole week! They also offer delivery, and newer paddlers can take advantage of lessons.
siestakeywatersports.com
gulfsidepaddleboards.com
14. Venice Beach
When visiting the beaches of Venice, you’ll understand why many people choose to make this their forever home. Soft sand rolls down in sloping shores to the gentle Gulf waves, and the quiet, relaxed environment makes for perfect beach days. This is also the “Shark Tooth Capitol of the World,” thanks to currents carrying countless shark teeth onto the shores along with colorful shells for you to discover and take home. The calm waters also make for excellent boating conditions. Venice Boat Rentals are conveniently based at the Fisherman's Wharf Marina, and allow you to easily set out on the Intercoastal Waterway or out into the Gulf on your choice of boat, from big pontoons with loungers to smaller speedboats. Authentic Fusion is a unique paddleboard rental service that combines stand-up paddleboarding with yoga and wellness. Enjoy private paddle and yoga classes, as well as guided eco tours and even outing during the full moon.
veniceboatrental.com
supvenicefl.com
15. Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum
In Southwest Florida, you’ll find one of the most classic island getaways on the Gulf Coast: Gasparilla Island. Its primary community, Boca Grande, gained popularity around the turn of the 20th century, and still offers Old Florida charm. At the tip of the island, within the Gasparilla Island State Park, you’ll find the Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum, a circa-1890 lighthouse that also offers an insight into regional history. The lighthouse has been recently restored to allow for climb tours! Imagine experiencing this piece of Florida history as you ascend the staircase of the lighthouse to look out over the Gulf waters and the island. (You must RSVP for a climb tour!)
barrierislandparkssociety.org
16. Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Encompassing 20 acres of tropical gardens, historic homes, a laboratory, and museum, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates are a wonderful place to spend a day filled with whimsy. The inventor Thomas Edison and the auto magnate Henry Ford where close friends and shared estate grounds for their winter vacation homes, which now make up the museum property. Walk beneath the tall oaks and swaying palms, or amongst the fragrant blooms of the botanical gardens, tour the historic buildings that include Edison’s Botanic Research Laboratory, and visit the Edison Ford Museum to view an impressive collection of inventions, artifacts and special exhibit galleries. If you work up an appetite from walking, visit the Banyan Café or an onsite food truck.
edisonfordwinterestates.org
17. Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum
Located on one of the most iconic places to go shelling in Florida, Sanibel Island, The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum sports over 30 exhibits of mollusks from around the world. Visit the unique round building to learn about shells in art and history, shell habitats, see rare specimens, and more. Children will enjoy the learning lab that features a hands-on play area, games and displays, and a live tank. You must visit the museum store, which features beautiful shell jewelry, home decor, books, art, and more. Throughout the year, the museum hosts beach walks guided by a scientist who will teach you all about shells, mollusks, and other marine life.
shellmuseum.org
18. Naples Botanical Gardens
Naples Botanical Garden spans an astonishing 170 acres, offering collections and habitats representative of the flora and cultures between the 26th latitudes featuring plants from around the world. See Brazilian, Caribbean, Florida, Asian, Water, and Children’s Gardens plus beautifully restored natural habitats, a birding tower, an Orchid Garden, a Butterfly House, and a fantastic new welcome center. Visit the Fogg Café to enjoy chef-prepared dishes and a seasonal menu. The garden hosts events throughout the year, and one of their most popular are the “Dogs in the Garden” days when pet owners and their pooches can walk the grounds together. The garden is also proud to collaborate with the Center For Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of South Florida to offer pre-visit tools for individuals with autism spectrum disorder to enjoy the gardens to the fullest.
naplesgarden.org
19. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is one of the most beautiful tropical attractions on the Gulf Coast, featuring breathtaking blooms that showcase Florida’s natural beauty. This nationally-accredited zoo features a full day of wildlife experiences to delight guests, including presentations like the Meet the Keeper Series, Jungle Larry & Safari Jane's Snakes Alive, hand-feeding of giant reptiles at Alligator Bay, along with two premiere presentations in the Safari Canyon theater.
napleszoo.org
20. 5th Avenue South
Shoppers come in from all corners of the world to find retail therapy in Naples. Join with other retail aficionados to peruse the retail delights of 5th Avenue South, which combines popular shops and eateries with the charming historic architecture of the city’s downtown that was established in the glamorous 1920s. Find golf and resort wear, designer labels, high-end jewelry and specialty gifts, home furnishing, decor, and pet supplies. In fact, you should certainly bring your (leashed) furry friend with you, because this whole area is pet-friendly!
21. Everglades National Park
Undoubtedly one of the most impressive natural preserves that you will ever visit, the Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., spanning 1.5 million (yes, you read that right: million) acres. This is one of the best times of year to visit the park, during its dryer season, when hiking in particular is at its most popular. You simply cannot pass up the chance to see Florida in its most raw and undeveloped state. You can see the most in the least amount of time with a thrilling airboat tour - the most popular way to get around the park. Captain Jack’s Airboat Tours will take you on a heart-pounding trip across the Everglades waters, putting you on the lookout for unique plants and animals, including the infamous alligator. In fact, in addition to their airboat tours, Captain Jack’s also offers a hair-raising animals and alligators show!
nps.gov/ever
captainjacksairboattours.com
