Miami is my hometown. It is quite amazing. But it is in constant motion with the hustle and bustle that is typical of large cities. At times, my family and I simply need a change of pace. So, we oftentimes take road trips to south and central west Florida, mostly to Tampa and Sarasota. It is far away enough to feel like an escape, yet close enough for a quick getaway. Best of all, the west coast sand is softer, waves gentler, people friendlier — and they have rollercoasters.
The Tampa and Sarasota areas are particularly full of fantastic sites and destinations. It is fun for everyone in the family of all ages. Check out two itineraries to enjoy the west coast of Florida.
Four Days in Tampa
Day 1
Start the morning with a delicious breakfast at the historic Seahorse Restaurant. First opened in 1938, this small-town restaurant with its vintage wood clad interior, brick paved flooring and rectangular windows with views to the ocean gives visitors a charming place to enjoy a meal.
After breakfast, drive out to Fort de Soto Park, and hop on the Hubbard Marina‘s ferry to Egmont Key State Park. The remote island is preserved and uninhabited. Take in the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.
TIP: There are no restrooms, shops or water available on the island. Make sure to pack a lovely lunch for a picnic on the beach. Coolers with snacks and water, and a bottle of sunscreen are a good idea.
Upon the return to Fort de Soto, spend time walking the pier and exploring the site listed as a National Register of Historic Places due to its ties to the Civil War and the historic battery which was also used in World War II.
Day 2
Located in the city of St. Petersburg, merely 20 minutes from Tampa, is the Dali Museum filled with a beautiful collection of Salvador Dali’s artwork. The museum offers both group and private guided tours. A couple of hours is recommended for the visit.
While in St. Petersburg, enjoy the city’s downtown for the afternoon. Here you will find several shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. You can also walk down the pier.
Day 3
Make it a fun filled day at Tampa’s Busch Gardens. Though known mostly for their exciting rollercoasters, the theme park has rides for visitors of all ages, including toddlers. The shows are fantastic and the animal exhibits include a wide array of animals.
TIP: Eat a hearty breakfast before going to the park. No outside food is permitted, and the park options are limited and pricey.
Busch Gardens offers a special event for every season and festivity of the year. Be sure to check their website for the listed events at the time of your visit.
TIP: Have an itinerary ready for your park day, and download the park’s app. This will help you make the most of your time, and to help you see and do what interests you.
An alternate to the Busch Gardens is a day trip to Captiva Island, where you can spend your time by the ocean admiring the abundant seashells. It will surely keep the kids entertained for hours! The island also offers about 25 miles of bicycle trails.
Day 4
On your last day, spend it exploring the unique sites of Ybor City and Tarpon Springs.
Start your day in historic Ybor City’s La Segunda Bakery. In operation since 1915, this local bakery is known for its authentic Cuban bread.
TIP: Parking is limited, and the bakery can get full. Be there early!
Follow up with a stroll through the Ybor City Saturday Market. Here you will find crafts from local artisans, and tasty treats.
For lunch, head over to Columbia Restaurant, open since 1905. The Spanish cuisine menu is truly satisfying. After lunch, take time to stop in some of the local businesses.
In the afternoon, drive up less than an hour away to experience the culturally rich Greek city, Tarpon Springs. The city is known for its Greek heritage dating back to the 1800s, and for its sponge industry. Today, you can walk by the dock and still see sponges hanging off the boats left to dry. These locally sourced sponges are sold in the small shops, along with aromatic hand-crafted soaps.
If you are hungry, enjoy the Greek cuisine of Hella’s Restaurant and Bakery. The family-owned restaurant has been around since the 1970s.
Sarasota Weekend Escape
Day 1
The Sarasota area is known for its pristine beaches. So, don’t delay and start your escape to the renowned Siesta Key, recognized as one of the best beaches in the United States. My family and I love to visit Siesta Beach. The sand is powder soft and the ocean a beguiling emerald green. This is a family friendly beach with warm waters and soft waves, pleasant for visitors of all ages.
For a casual dinner with live music, you may enjoy Spearfish Grill. If you prefer a more formal atmosphere, head to Ophelia’s on the Bay.
Day 2
A mere 10 miles north of Sarasota, is the city Bradenton. Take an early morning walk along the Riverwalk. A pedestrian pathway overlooking the water with areas of shade and benches for respite. Then walk over to the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. The museum offers visitors exhibitions that display a plethora of local archeological artifacts, animal fossils and information about Florida’s natural environment. It also includes a nifty planetarium with riveting shows. My three children, husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the galactic imagery projected onto the dome ceiling. Very cool!
Once you have taken in all of the museum, charge up with lunch at Mattinson’s Riverwalk Grille, only four minutes away.
In the evening, get your fill of oysters and more at a local favorite, Siesta Key Oyster Bar, or SKOB as it is frequently called. Located in the Siesta Key Village, this spot has live music and a casual island life vibe you are sure to love.
Day 3
The Ringling. This grand estate is a favorite. My family and I spent nearly the entire day captivated by the spectacular Ca’ d’Zan with its mesmerizing views and beautiful windows, the exquisite art collection in the Museum of Art, the fantastical model and artifacts within the Circus Museum, and of course the lovely gardens. Not to mention, the best slide ever, located in the David F. Bolger Playspace. My kids enjoyed the slide so much they did not want to leave!
You can easily lose track of time at this phenomenal estate. Luckily, the Ringling grounds has options to find a bite to eat.
If these options seem too busy for your liking, simply pass the time taking in the fresh ocean air relaxing on the shores of our beautiful west Florida coast. Enjoy!
