Tampa is a busy and thrilling vacation spot, however there are many superb sights simply outdoors the town limits too. Energetic theme parks, beautiful Gulf Coast seashores, and nature in abundance await. There are various attainable day journeys from Tampa, and it’s actually price placing in your exploring boots to verify them out.
Driving in and round Tampa isn’t tough and having your individual wheels provides you the liberty to move out and discover by yourself steam. Nonetheless, if that’s not for you, there are various Tampa day journeys you possibly can take with a tour operator too.
I like Tampa, however I’ve additionally fallen in love with lots of the sights simply outdoors of it. I’ll fortunately spend a day lounging on an incredible seashore earlier than heading again to the town for a meal within the night. In fact, the house of Mickey Mouse isn’t too far-off both.
Greatest Day Journeys From Tampa
In case you follow the town limits alone, you’ll miss out. That’s precisely what I discovered after heading to Tampa a number of occasions, and by no means actually going anyplace apart from the principle neighborhoods – the primary time I made a decision to leap in my automobile and discover, I used to be launched to a complete new world.
Tampa is residence to among the greatest pure sights, and so they’re all simple to achieve inside an hour or so. Whether or not you’re visiting as a household, a bunch, 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 guts 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 foremost 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.
In case you’re searching for enjoyable day journeys from Tampa, this ticks each field, and also you don’t have to be touring with youngsters to get pleasure from it. The meals here’s a novelty however actually scrumptious, and for those who love rides, I like to recommend you take into account buying a Quick Go to your favourite points of interest. In addition to the rollercoasters, there are additionally reveals that can go away you with goosebumps.
Reserving tickets forward of time is suggested as you possibly can 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 manner down Primary 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 best manner is to drive, following the I-4 E. Nonetheless, you can even 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 various eating places and outlets to take a look at, and you’ll eat your manner all over the world at Epcot.
The place to Eat: There are eating places and avenue meals choices in abundance, however the Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom is a agency favourite of mine.
2. Honeymoon Island State Park
One of the 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 calm down. And no, you don’t have to be in your honeymoon to go to.
Accumulating 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 for those who 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. Traces 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 incredible approach to spend your time. Shell gathering 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 one among my favourite locations to go to outdoors 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 totally different from bustling Downtown Tampa, however it’s a welcome change for those who’re eager to calm down. Sarasota can be a really charming city; residence to small espresso outlets and craft shops.
Yow will discover 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, one among my prime 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 highway, or take the bus or practice. The bus takes just below 2 hours, and extra info will be discovered right here. The practice takes 2 hours — extra info will be discovered right here.
Should-Do Actions: Purchasing is incredible in Sarasota and loads calmer than in Tampa. I extremely suggest 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 doubtless some of the well-liked total. You received’t be disenchanted while you see this seashore, actually, you’ll in all probability 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, however 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 possibly can 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 possibly can 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 incredible place to sip cocktails, watch the sundown, and luxuriate in a scrumptious meal.
5. Fort DeSoto County Park
One of the 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. Nonetheless, my favourite factor to do is to chill and take in the solar; the seashores listed here are so pristine, it’s laborious to imagine.
Fort DeSoto has a dog-friendly seashore, and it’s a great spot to take a picnic and easily get pleasure from being proper within the coronary heart of nature. There are some mountain climbing trails round, however it’s largely about unwinding and enjoyable 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 possibly can 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 incredible approach to actually see the world. If you wish to take your journey additional, e-book the Egmont Key Ferry which is able to take you to a distant island to identify manatees, dolphins, and turtles within the wild.
The place to Eat: There are just a few nice eating places in and across the park, however my go-to is The Island Grille. Their calypso pork chops are really scrumptious.
6. Common Studios, Orlando
One of the well-liked day journeys from Tampa is to move to Common Studios. Whether or not you’re eager to scream on large rollercoasters, study films, or snack your manner across the park, you are able to do all of it. Whereas I like Disney World, I actually have a tender 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 enables 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 shocked.
CityWalk is a vibrant a part of the park which is filled with bars, eating places, and outlets. You’ll be able to seize some souvenirs right here or simply take in 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: In case you’re driving, take the I-4 E direct, or you possibly can 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 Unbelievable Hulk Coaster. Try the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and discover ways 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 because of its large vary of eating places. Nonetheless, Three Broomsticks, a part of the Harry Potter part in Islands of Journey is a superb selection for one thing a little bit totally different.
7. Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
One of the distinctive day journeys close to Tampa is to spend the day having fun with nature at Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. In case you’re looking for some quiet, that is the place for you. I all the time discover it an exquisite spot to chill, calm down, and respect the surprise of Mom Nature.
In case you’re a manatee fan, you’re in luck right here too because it’s attainable 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 possibly can stroll round and take in the solar. I actually loved how chilled out the entire space felt and being so near wildlife was immediately enjoyable.
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 tough as you’ll have to cease a number of occasions and reconnect to different bus providers.
Should-Do Actions: The Manatee Snorkel Tour is a superb approach to stand up shut and private with these magical animals, and it nearly introduced me to tears. In case you want to remain above the waterline, try the Crystal River Kayak Tour as a substitute.
The place to Eat: For the freshest seafood round, it must be The Crab Plant. The recent snapper was good.
8. Boggy Creek, Kissimmee
I all the time needed to go on an airboat trip on the Everglades, however the principle park is extraordinarily far-off. So, think about my pleasure after I found Boggy Creek. Whereas it’s not the guts of the Everglades, it’s the headwaters, so that you’re mainly on the outskirts and may get pleasure from the identical expertise.
It’s among the best day journeys from Tampa by automobile, and also you’ll actually get to understand the pure habitat of birds and even alligators. Whilst you may not see one, you possibly can relaxation assured they’re there! The airboat trip itself is de facto enjoyable, however I’d suggest sporting a hat as it may well get actually chilly, even on a heat day.
As soon as the trip is over, you possibly can study 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 possibly can take the practice, which is able to 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. In case 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 is able to train you concerning the heritage, tradition, and cooking of the Native Individuals who used to dwell within the space.
The place to Eat: 3 Sisters Speakeasy is a incredible restaurant near Boggy Creek. It has a novel menu combining sushi with common fare reminiscent of large burgers and sandwiches.
9. Rainbow Springs State Park
The world round Tampa is teeming with wildlife, and Rainbow Springs State Park is one among my favourite locations to go. It is a protected space for manatees and different species, reminiscent of turtles and lots 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 hire a tube and head off at your individual tempo, however youngsters underneath 5 can’t participate on this exercise. There are additionally many strolling paths for those who want to remain on dry land. I didn’t attempt tubing, however I took a glass backside boat tour as a substitute 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 automobile 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 prime exercise, however the Glass Backside Kayak Eco Tour can be a fantastic 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 throughout the park, however you possibly can 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 type of locations that you would be able to’t probably be careworn in, and it’s a simple day journey from Tampa by automobile or bus.
Sanibel Island is near Fort Myers so you may additionally name in there on the way in which again when you have time. Nonetheless, merely sitting on this beautiful seashore and absorbing the solar is my favourite exercise. The ocean is calm and perfect 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 incredible eating places and quaint memento outlets to discover. For me, it is a complete day of R&R and a world away from the busy streets of Downtown Tampa. Be sure you keep for the sundown — you received’t be disenchanted.
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 highway, or you possibly can take the bus. The journey will take 3.5 hours and also you’ll have to 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 for those who do need some motion, the Sanibel Causeway Jet Ski Tour is a enjoyable expertise – maintain 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 incredible spot for Caribbean meals and serves great cocktails.
11. Weeki Wachee Spring State Park
Households ought to undoubtedly head over to Weeki Wachee Spring State Park, particularly if there are any Little Mermaid followers amongst you. Right here, you possibly can benefit from the residence of Mom Nature, however there are additionally periodic reveals 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 ready underwater, so that you head down right into a viewing space to look at the fascinating efficiency.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 56 miles/90km
Location: Click on right here for instructions
Getting There: The best choice is to drive, following the FL-589 N, however you can even take a bus and taxi mixture. The journey will take 2 hours and quarter-hour, and also you’ll have to take a taxi from Wiregrass. Click on right here for info.
Should-Do Actions: A guided kayak tour is a superb selection, and because the kayaks are glass-bottomed, you possibly can see all method of marine life under. The mermaid present is a must-do right here, whether or not you’re touring with youngsters or not. You may also take a sundown kayak tour with light-up kayaks.
The place to Eat: In case you’re a fan of Asian meals like me, you need to undoubtedly attempt Masa Asian Bistro & Bar. There’s an enormous collection of sushi on the menu, in addition to different Asian dishes, reminiscent of 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 occasions, and fossils courting again to the Pleistocene Age have been discovered right here. As you descend down into the cave, a wierd blue gentle encompasses you, providing you with shivers of pleasure. It’s like nothing I’ve skilled earlier than.
This is among the greatest day journeys from Tampa for many who get pleasure from diving or snorkeling as you possibly can dive down and discover the underwater world. Alternatively, there are strolling paths to observe, which present you the great thing about the native space.
Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 50 minutes, 120 miles/193km
Location: 5390 NE one hundred and eightieth Ave, Williston, Florida 32696. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting There: Probably the most wise manner is to drive, following the I-75 N. There are evening buses accessible, 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 can even take the Self-Guided Strolling Tour, which is able to take you round websites well-known from the Battle of Gettysburg. The character on this area is gorgeous, so be sure you take your time and discover.
The place to Eat: The Ivy Home Restaurant in Williston is a superb place for out of doors eating, and I actually loved the desserts right here – save room for the chocolate cake.
13. Punta Gorda
In case you’re searching for romantic day journeys from Tampa, a go to to Punta Gorda is a superb concept. This small city is filled with historic structure, small memento outlets, and delightful 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 offer you a welcome break from the solar. The vibe in Punta Gorda is gradual and leisurely, making it the proper 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. In case you can keep by means of the night, the Stargazing Tour is one among my favourite issues to do.
The place to Eat: In case you’re touring as a part of a bunch, the Captain’s Desk Restaurant is a incredible selection, with large sharing plates to fill everybody up. The seafood right here is as recent as will 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 wonderful spot the place you possibly can stroll, hike, kayak, wildlife spot, and easily relax within the limitless inexperienced of the bushes. The river itself leads proper into Tampa, and you’ll spot totally different species of fish.
There’s a really small entrance charge of $6 per automobile, however from there, you’re free to discover. It’s a fantastic concept 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 de facto about sporting snug sneakers and exploring at leisure. Comply with one of many strolling trails and see what number of species of wildlife you possibly can spot.
The place to Eat: Most individuals take picnics to this vacation spot, nonetheless, it’s totally attainable 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 youngsters 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 reveals across the park too, in addition to exhibitions all year long. Kids (and adults) will definitely be exhausted by the tip of the day!
A day tour from Tampa will take you just below two hours and setting off early is suggested. It’s additionally greatest 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 can even take the practice to Winter Haven, which is able to take just 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 films 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 maintain you full for some time.
Tampa Day Journeys: Transportation Choices
There are various day journeys round Tampa, and whereas public transport may be very dependable, it’s a lot simpler to easily rent a automobile and set off by yourself. You’ll be able to rent a automobile from varied shops within the metropolis and from the airport while you arrive.
You’ll require a passport and a sound driving license, and your license will have to be clear. You’ll additionally want to depart credit score or debit card particulars with the rent firm.
There are a number of bus providers and trains that run across the Tampa space, however they do have a tendency so as to add size to your journey. The perfect day journeys from Tampa require you to cram as a lot into your time as attainable, so for those who can drive, it’s a significantly better choice. Click on right here to seek for the very best offers on rental vehicles in Tampa.
Day Journeys Round Tampa: FAQs
Listed below 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 can be ample to scratch the floor, however to actually delve into the town, you want round one week.
In case you’re driving, you might have the liberty to go anyplace, however Clearwater and Sarasota are nice decisions and supply a complete change of tempo to life in Tampa.
The practice community round Tampa is de facto top quality, so most locations are accessible. Each Common Studios and Walt Disney World will be reached by practice.
There are such a lot of superb locations simply outdoors of Tampa, however Clearwater Seashore must be some of the stunning.
Sure, very simply. You’ll be able to drive or take the practice on to Orlando and luxuriate in all of the sights.
Walt Disney World Florida is undoubtedly some of the well-known spots in the entire state, and it’s simple to achieve from Tampa.
St Petersburg is simply half an hour’s drive away and among the best day journeys from Tampa
Tampa Bay is residence to some beautiful seashores, and Ben T. Davis Seashore is among the closest. It is a actually quiet and chilled-out house, perfect for kicking again and enjoyable.
A small island known as Fantasy Bay may be very near Tampa, and it’s a calming spot for absorbing the solar and swimming.
Fort Myers is simply 2 hours away from Tampa by automobile and is a incredible seashore vacation spot.
Walt Disney World is among the hottest day journeys from Tampa by automobile, and it solely takes simply over an hour to get there.
In Conclusion
I used to be shocked on the sheer variety of day journeys from Tampa on supply, however it actually opened my eyes to surprise of the world. I like to recommend heading out on no less than two excursions when you have the time; whereas the 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.
