Tampa is a busy and thrilling vacation spot, however there are many superb sights simply exterior town limits too. Energetic theme parks, beautiful Gulf Coast seashores, and nature in abundance await. There are a lot of potential day journeys from Tampa, and it’s definitely price placing in your exploring boots to test them out.
Driving in and round Tampa isn’t troublesome and having your individual wheels offers you the liberty to go out and discover by yourself steam. Nevertheless, if that’s not for you, there are lots of Tampa day journeys you may take with a tour operator too.
I like Tampa, however I’ve additionally fallen in love with lots of the sights simply exterior of it. I’ll fortunately spend a day lounging on a tremendous seashore earlier than heading again to town for a meal within the night. In fact, the house of Mickey Mouse isn’t too distant both.
Finest Day Journeys From Tampa
When you keep on with town limits alone, you’ll miss out. That’s precisely what I discovered after heading to Tampa a number of instances, and by no means actually going wherever aside from the primary neighborhoods – the primary time I made a decision to leap in my automotive and discover, I used to be launched to a complete new world.
Tampa is house to a number of the finest pure sights, and so they’re all simple to succeed in inside an hour or so. Whether or not you’re visiting as a household, a gaggle, a pair, or touring solo, there are some superb day journey locations ready for you. Let’s discover them now.
1. Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando
Visiting the center of Disney magic is a must-do, and it’s someplace that by no means will get previous for me. The resort is made up of 4 predominant parks — Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot. Magic Kingdom is by far my favourite, however that is one one-day journey from Tampa that has one thing for everybody.
When you’re on the lookout for enjoyable day journeys from Tampa, this ticks each field, and also you don’t should be touring with kids to take pleasure in it. The meals here’s a novelty however actually scrumptious, and if you happen to love rides, I like to recommend you contemplate buying a Quick Move to your favourite points of interest. In addition to the rollercoasters, there are additionally exhibits that can go away you with goosebumps.
Reserving tickets forward of time is suggested as you may waste hours within the ticket queue in any other case. You’ll be able to select a set variety of days for one base worth, and also you merely scan your ticket and head straight inside. I dare you to not skip your method down Important Avenue USA! Click on right here for extra particulars on ticket choices.
Distance from Tampa: 1.5 hours, 75 miles/120km
Location: 1375 E Buena Vista Dr Orlando Florida 32830. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: The simplest method is to drive, following the I-4 E. Nevertheless, you may also take a practice from Tampa to Kissimmee and a bus to Disney. Click on right here for practice info.
Should-Do Actions: Try a parade, trip the Tower of Terror, and dare to discover Expedition Everest. For non-ride lovers, there are lots of eating places and retailers to take a look at, and you’ll eat your method all over the world at Epcot.
The place to Eat: There are eating places and road meals choices in abundance, however the Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom is a agency favourite of mine.
2. Honeymoon Island State Park
Probably the most well-liked day journeys from Tampa is to Honeymoon Island State Park, and even the identify itself makes you need to go. Positioned in Dunedin, round 45 minutes from Tampa, this stunningly stunning park is the best place to chill out. And no, you don’t should be in your honeymoon to go to.
Amassing shells is among the hottest actions, however merely absorbing the solar and swimming are actions that match the invoice. The seashores right here characteristic white sand and blinding blue sea, typical of the Gulf Coast, and so they’re additionally dog-friendly, so if you happen to do have a furry good friend with you, they’re very welcome.
Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes, 29 miles/46.5km
Location: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, Florida 34698. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: You’ll be able to drive by way of the E State Street 60 W, or take the bus. Strains 30 and 812 will take you to your vacation spot. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: Taking a personal boat tour across the park and Dunedin is a improbable strategy to spend your time. Shell accumulating on the seashore and easily admiring the view are my favourite actions right here.
The place to Eat: I had the very best meal at Bon Appetit in Dunedin. It sits on a jetty on the waterfront, and the seafood right here is scrumptious.
3. Sarasota
Sarasota is certainly one of my favourite locations to go to exterior Tampa, and it’s so chilled out, you’ll really feel such as you’re floating. The tempo of life right here may be very completely different from bustling Downtown Tampa, nevertheless it’s a welcome change if you happen to’re eager to chill out. Sarasota can be a really charming city; house to small espresso retailers and craft shops.
You’ll find the unique Columbia Restaurant right here, well-known for the Cuban sandwich. The department in Ybor Metropolis is among the oldest, however that is the place the craze all began in 1905. And if you wish to laze on the seashore in spite of everything that consuming, certainly one of my high coastal spots is Siesta Key Seashore — the sunsets are breathtaking.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 10 minutes, 60 miles/96.5km
Location: Click on right here for instructions
Getting There: You’ll be able to drive by way of the I-75 S street, or take the bus or practice. The bus takes slightly below 2 hours, and extra info may be discovered right here. The practice takes 2 hours — extra info may be discovered right here.
Should-Do Actions: Buying is improbable in Sarasota and rather a lot calmer than in Tampa. I extremely advocate the Downtown Strolling Meals Tour and some hours on Siesta Key Seashore.
The place to Eat: There are some superb seafood eating places in Sarasota, however I like Selva Downtown Sarasota for its freshly caught fish and completely cooked steak.
4. Clearwater
Clearwater is a simple day journey from Tampa and possibly one of the crucial well-liked total. You received’t be disillusioned if you see this seashore, in actual fact, you’ll most likely be slack-jawed in shock. It’s merely stunning, and phrases simply don’t do it justice.
This seashore does get very busy, particularly at weekends, nevertheless it’s so massive that it by no means feels crowded. You’ll be able to rent solar beds and parasols for a small charge, and there are many bars and eating places alongside the seashore, together with a favourite of mine — Clear Sky Cafe.
A stroll down the promenade with an ice cream is all the time a good suggestion, and the city itself has loads of boutique shops to browse.
Distance from Tampa: 40 minutes, 22 miles/35km
Location: Click on right here for instructions
Getting There: Take the E State Rd 60 W, or you may take a bus in round 2 hours. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: I actually loved the kayaking journey and it’s a good way to see the pure fantastic thing about the world. The sundown right here is to not be missed, however you must also try Little Toot Dolphin Journey, the place you may spot these creatures within the wild. Adrenaline junkies can’t miss taking a spin on the ocean screamer trip.
The place to Eat: Vantage Rooftop Bar is a improbable place to sip cocktails, watch the sundown, and revel in a scrumptious meal.
5. Fort DeSoto County Park
Probably the most stunning and pure locations to go to close to Tampa is Fort DeSoto County Park. It’s additionally a spot for historical past lovers, with an unique fort constructed again in 1898. Nevertheless, my favourite factor to do is to relax and absorb the solar; the seashores listed here are so pristine, it’s laborious to consider.
Fort DeSoto has a dog-friendly seashore, and it’s a great place to take a picnic and easily take pleasure in being proper within the coronary heart of nature. There are some climbing trails round, nevertheless it’s largely about unwinding and stress-free in pure pleasure.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 38 miles/61km
Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S. Tierra Verde, Florida, 33715. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Take the I-275 S out of Tampa after which swap to Freeway 679. Alternatively, you may take the ferry to St. Petersburg after which a taxi to the park; the journey takes 1 hour 40 minutes. Click on right here for ferry info.
Should-Do Actions: I took the Guided E-Bike Nature Tour and beloved each second – it was a improbable strategy to actually see the world. If you wish to take your journey additional, e-book the Egmont Key Ferry which can take you to a distant island to identify manatees, dolphins, and turtles within the wild.
The place to Eat: There are a couple of nice eating places in and across the park, however my go-to is The Island Grille. Their calypso pork chops are actually scrumptious.
6. Common Studios, Orlando
Probably the most well-liked day journeys from Tampa is to go to Common Studios. Whether or not you’re eager to scream on enormous rollercoasters, find out about motion pictures, or snack your method across the park, you are able to do all of it. Whereas I like Disney World, I actually have a mushy spot for Common Studios too.
Common has two parks in a single: Common Studios and Islands of Journey. I like to recommend buying a ticket that permits you limitless entry to each. You may also go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and take a look at some genuine butter beer — I used to be pleasantly stunned.
CityWalk is a vibrant a part of the park which is filled with bars, eating places, and retailers. You’ll be able to seize some souvenirs right here or simply absorb the environment. A go to to Planet Hollywood can be a should.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 50 minutes, 77 miles/124km
Location: 6000 Common Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32819. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: When you’re driving, take the I-4 E direct, or you may take the practice in simply over 2 hours. Click on right here for info.
Should-Do Actions: Seize a milkshake at Planet Hollywood and trip on the Unimaginable Hulk Coaster. Try the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and learn to do film make-up at Common’s Horror Make-up Present. Click on right here for park ticket particulars.
The place to Eat: There’s one thing to eat for everybody in Common Studios due to its enormous vary of eating places. Nevertheless, Three Broomsticks, a part of the Harry Potter part in Islands of Journey is a good selection for one thing a little bit completely different.
7. Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
Probably the most distinctive day journeys close to Tampa is to spend the day having fun with nature at Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. When you’re looking for some quiet, that is the place for you. I all the time discover it an exquisite spot to relax, chill out, and admire the marvel of Mom Nature.
When you’re a manatee fan, you’re in luck right here too because it’s potential to swim alongside these beauties of their pure habitat. There are such a lot of manatees right here that you simply’re nearly assured to see one, and easily having fun with the view from dry land is sufficient to open your eyes as to how beautiful this space is.
There are plentiful boat excursions, or you may stroll round and absorb the solar. I actually loved how chilled out the entire space felt and being so near wildlife was immediately stress-free.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 20 minutes, 80 miles/129km
Location: 1502 SE Kings Bay Drive, Crystal River, Florida 34429. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Comply with the FL-589 N instantly. Taking public transport is extraordinarily troublesome as you’ll must cease a number of instances and reconnect to different bus companies.
Should-Do Actions: The Manatee Snorkel Tour is a superb strategy to stand up shut and private with these magical animals, and it nearly introduced me to tears. When you desire to remain above the waterline, try the Crystal River Kayak Tour as an alternative.
The place to Eat: For the freshest seafood round, it needs to be The Crab Plant. The contemporary snapper was good.
8. Boggy Creek, Kissimmee
I all the time needed to go on an airboat trip on the Everglades, however the primary park is extraordinarily distant. So, think about my pleasure after I found Boggy Creek. Whereas it’s not the center of the Everglades, it’s the headwaters, so that you’re mainly on the outskirts and may take pleasure in the identical expertise.
It’s probably the greatest day journeys from Tampa by automotive, and also you’ll actually get to understand the pure habitat of birds and even alligators. When you may not see one, you may relaxation assured they’re there! The airboat trip itself is actually enjoyable, however I’d advocate carrying a hat as it might probably get actually chilly, even on a heat day.
As soon as the trip is over, you may find out about conservation efforts within the space and even seize some refreshments within the cafe.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour quarter-hour, 82 miles/132 km
Location: 2001 E Southport Street, Kissimmee, Florida 34746. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: You’ll be able to drive by following the I-4 E, or you may take the practice, which can take 1 hour 20 minutes, with a fast taxi trip of quarter-hour to take you instantly there. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: An airboat trip is a ceremony of passage right here. When you actually need to have your thoughts blown, attempt the Sundown Airboat Tour and have your digicam prepared. The park additionally has a Native American Expertise which can educate you concerning the heritage, tradition, and cooking of the Native Individuals who used to reside within the space.
The place to Eat: 3 Sisters Speakeasy is a improbable restaurant near Boggy Creek. It has a novel menu combining sushi with common fare resembling enormous burgers and sandwiches.
9. Rainbow Springs State Park
The realm round Tampa is teeming with wildlife, and Rainbow Springs State Park is certainly one of my favourite locations to go. It is a protected space for manatees and different species, resembling turtles and plenty of species of birds. Simply strolling round makes you are feeling completely blissed out, however tubing is the very best exercise right here.
You’ll be able to lease a tube and head off at your individual tempo, however kids below 5 can not participate on this exercise. There are additionally many strolling paths if you happen to desire to remain on dry land. I didn’t attempt tubing, however I took a glass backside boat tour as an alternative and noticed so many manatees and species of fish.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 45 minutes, 95 miles/152km
Location: 19158 SW 81st Pl Street, Dunnellon, Florida 34432. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Comply with the FL-589 N by automotive or take the bus to Ocala (1 hour 50 minutes) after which a brief taxi trip lasting half-hour. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: Tubing down the lazy river is a high exercise, however the Glass Backside Kayak Eco Tour can be an important selection. This tour is guided so that you’ll get to be taught extra about what you’re seeing. There are additionally strolling alternatives.
The place to Eat: There aren’t many eating places inside the park, however you may dine very simply on the outskirts. I loved a meal at Black Prong Bar & Grill, which additionally has a enjoyable tiki bar.
10. Sanibel Island
I all the time make a journey to Sanibel Island just because it reconnects me with nature and helps me swap off. It’s a kind of locations you could’t presumably be burdened in, and it’s a simple day journey from Tampa by automotive or bus.
Sanibel Island is near Fort Myers so you can additionally name in there on the best way again when you’ve got time. Nevertheless, merely sitting on this beautiful seashore and absorbing the solar is my favourite exercise. The ocean is calm and ideally suited for swimming, and whereas it’s well-liked right here, it by no means feels overly crowded.
The city is small, however there are some improbable eating places and quaint memento retailers to discover. For me, this can be a whole day of R&R and a world away from the busy streets of Downtown Tampa. You should definitely keep for the sundown — you received’t be disillusioned.
Distance from Tampa: 2 hours half-hour, 157 miles/252km
Location: Click on right here for instructions
Getting There: You’ll be able to drive by following the I-75 S street, or you may take the bus. The journey will take 3.5 hours and also you’ll must take a taxi from Fort Myers. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: Chilling out is the order of the day right here, however if you happen to do need some motion, the Sanibel Causeway Jet Ski Tour is a enjoyable expertise – preserve your eyes peeled for dolphins. Alternatively, seashore time and exploring the city are my favourite issues to do.
The place to Eat: For me, the very best restaurant on Sanibel Island is Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille. It is a improbable spot for Caribbean meals and serves great cocktails.
11. Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
Households ought to positively head over to Weeki Wachee Spring State Park, particularly if there are any Little Mermaid followers amongst you. Right here, you may benefit from the house of Mom Nature, however there are additionally periodic exhibits that includes dancing “mermaids”.
It is a distinctive place to go to from Tampa however one which’s extraordinarily well-liked. You’ll be able to spot manatees, dolphins, and turtles of their pure habitat, and kayaking down the river is nice enjoyable. The mermaid present itself is about underwater, so that you head down right into a viewing space to observe the charming efficiency.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 56 miles/90km
Location: Click on right here for instructions
Getting There: The simplest possibility is to drive, following the FL-589 N, however you may also take a bus and taxi mixture. The journey will take 2 hours and quarter-hour, and also you’ll must take a taxi from Wiregrass. Click on right here for info.
Should-Do Actions: A guided kayak tour is a good selection, and because the kayaks are glass-bottomed, you may see all method of marine life under. The mermaid present is a must-do right here, whether or not you’re touring with kids or not. You may also take a sundown kayak tour with light-up kayaks.
The place to Eat: When you’re a fan of Asian meals like me, you need to positively attempt Masa Asian Bistro & Bar. There’s an enormous collection of sushi on the menu, in addition to different Asian dishes, resembling teriyaki and tempura.
12. Satan’s Den, Williston
One specific day, I used to be feeling fairly courageous, and I heard about a spot known as Satan’s Den in Gettysburg. The identify alone piqued my curiosity, so I made a decision to drive over there and test it out for myself – I’m so glad I did.
This place is like stepping again into prehistoric instances, and fossils courting again to the Pleistocene Age have been discovered right here. As you descend down into the cave, a wierd blue mild encompasses you, providing you with shivers of pleasure. It’s like nothing I’ve skilled earlier than.
This is among the finest day journeys from Tampa for individuals who take pleasure in diving or snorkeling as you may dive down and discover the underwater world. Alternatively, there are strolling paths to comply with, which present you the great thing about the native space.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 50 minutes, 120 miles/193km
Location: 5390 NE a hundred and eightieth Ave, Williston, Florida 32696. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Essentially the most wise method is to drive, following the I-75 N. There are night time buses obtainable, however the journey is in extra of 5 hours.
Should-Do Actions: Snorkeling or diving within the cave is the highest exercise right here, however you may also take the Self-Guided Strolling Tour, which can take you round websites well-known from the Battle of Gettysburg. The character on this area is gorgeous, so make sure to take your time and discover.
The place to Eat: The Ivy Home Restaurant in Williston is a good place for outside eating, and I actually loved the desserts right here – save room for the chocolate cake.
13. Punta Gorda
When you’re on the lookout for romantic day journeys from Tampa, a go to to Punta Gorda is a good thought. This small city is filled with historic structure, small memento retailers, and exquisite waterfront eating places. The seashores listed here are sometimes beautiful, lapped by delightfully heat waters.
You’ll additionally discover small artwork galleries and museums, which provide you with a welcome break from the solar. The vibe in Punta Gorda is sluggish and leisurely, making it the right place to stroll hand in hand. On the finish of the day, admire the sundown and replenish your digicam reel.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour half-hour, 104 miles/167km
Location: Click on right here for instructions
Getting There: You’ll be able to drive by following the I-75 S. You may also take the Amtrak Thruway from Tampa to Port Charlotte after which a brief taxi drive to Punta Gorda. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: Stroll across the historic district and admire the structure earlier than doing a little bit retail remedy. When you can keep via the night, the Stargazing Tour is certainly one of my favourite issues to do.
The place to Eat: When you’re touring as a part of a gaggle, the Captain’s Desk Restaurant is a improbable selection, with enormous sharing plates to fill everybody up. The seafood right here is as contemporary as may be.
14. Hillsborough River State Park
One of many best day journeys from Tampa is to Hillsborough River State Park, simply half an hour away from Downtown Tampa. It’s a ravishing spot the place you may stroll, hike, kayak, wildlife spot, and easily relax within the countless inexperienced of the timber. The river itself leads proper into Tampa, and you’ll spot completely different species of fish.
There’s a really small entrance charge of $6 per automotive, however from there, you’re free to discover. It’s an important thought to have a picnic as there aren’t any cafes or eating places contained in the park. Right here, it’s about chilling out in Mom Nature’s arms and never about tourism.
Distance from Tampa: half-hour, 21 miles/34km
Location: 15402US-301, Thonotosassa, Florida 33592. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: You’ll be able to drive by following the I-4 E and US-301 N, or take the bus to Pebble Creek after which a brief taxi onward. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: Hillsborough River State Park is actually about carrying snug footwear and exploring at leisure. Comply with one of many strolling trails and see what number of species of wildlife you may spot.
The place to Eat: Most individuals take picnics to this vacation spot, nonetheless, it’s fully potential to drive again to Channelside and eat a scrumptious meal. I like to recommend The C Home for its superb cheese boards and sharing platters.
15. Legoland Florida
Households can’t miss out on heading to Legoland Florida for the day. It is a nice park for smaller kids who could also be overwhelmed by the large rollercoasters and noise of Disney or Common. Regardless of that, it’s a fun-filled day.
Little ones will love Misplaced Kingdom Journey and Coastersaurus. There are different points of interest and exhibits across the park too, in addition to exhibitions all year long. Youngsters (and adults) will definitely be exhausted by the top of the day!
A day tour from Tampa will take you slightly below two hours and setting off early is suggested. It’s additionally finest to e-book your tickets earlier than you go, so that you don’t waste time within the admission queue. Click on right here for ticket info.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 52 miles/86km
Location: 1 Legoland Approach, Winter Haven, Florida 33884. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Self-drive is the quickest and easiest method, however you may also take the practice to Winter Haven, which can take slightly below an hour. From there you are taking a fast taxi to Legoland. Click on right here for extra info.
Should-Do Actions: Go to Lego Film World to be taught extra about how motion pictures are created, try Miniland USA, and stroll across the Cypress Gardens to relax on the finish of the day.
The place to Eat: Dragon’s Den is a enjoyable eatery within the coronary heart of Legoland. Their smoked turkey leg will certainly preserve you full for some time.
Tampa Day Journeys: Transportation Choices
There are a lot of day journeys round Tampa, and whereas public transport may be very dependable, it’s a lot simpler to merely rent a automotive and set off by yourself. You’ll be able to rent a automotive from varied shops within the metropolis and from the airport if you arrive.
You’ll require a passport and a sound driving license, and your license will should be clear. You’ll additionally want to depart credit score or debit card particulars with the rent firm.
There are a number of bus companies and trains that run across the Tampa space, however they do have a tendency so as to add size to your journey. The most effective day journeys from Tampa require you to cram as a lot into your time as potential, so if you happen to can drive, it’s a significantly better possibility. Click on right here to seek for the very best offers on rental vehicles in Tampa.
Day Journeys Round Tampa: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to essentially the most generally requested questions on day journeys round Tampa:
A go to to Orlando’s fun-packed Walt Disney World might be the most well-liked day journey from Tampa.
Three days could be enough to scratch the floor, however to actually delve into town, you want round one week.
When you’re driving, you have got the liberty to go wherever, however Clearwater and Sarasota are nice selections and provide a complete change of tempo to life in Tampa.
The practice community round Tampa is actually top quality, so most locations are accessible. Each Common Studios and Walt Disney World may be reached by practice.
There are such a lot of superb locations simply exterior of Tampa, however Clearwater Seashore needs to be one of the crucial stunning.
Sure, very simply. You’ll be able to drive or take the practice on to Orlando and revel in all of the sights.
Walt Disney World Florida is undoubtedly one of the crucial well-known spots in the entire state, and it’s simple to succeed in from Tampa.
St Petersburg is simply half an hour’s drive away and probably the greatest day journeys from Tampa
Tampa Bay is house to some beautiful seashores, and Ben T. Davis Seashore is among the closest. It is a actually quiet and chilled-out area, ideally suited for kicking again and stress-free.
A small island known as Fantasy Bay may be very near Tampa, and it’s a soothing spot for absorbing the solar and swimming.
Fort Myers is simply 2 hours away from Tampa by automotive and is a improbable seashore vacation spot.
Walt Disney World is among the hottest day journeys from Tampa by automotive, and it solely takes simply over an hour to get there.
In Conclusion
I used to be stunned on the sheer variety of day journeys from Tampa on provide, nevertheless it actually opened my eyes to marvel of the world. I like to recommend heading out on at the very least two excursions when you’ve got the time; whereas town is superb, there’s a lot nature to take a look at, and enjoyable to have simply an hour or two away.
Whereas Common Studios and Walt Disney World will all the time be two of my absolute favorites, I actually beloved my time at Clearwater and Sarasota. There’s one thing so refreshing about heading out for a day, experiencing one thing new, after which heading again to Tampa on the finish of the day.
