Map Of Florida West Side
Discover the Top Attractions and Hidden Gems
Map of Florida’s West Side is a traveler’s paradise, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and exciting adventures. The region is home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the state, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Sarasota. But there’s more to this area than just the famous beaches and theme parks. Here are some of the top attractions and hidden gems that you should add to your itinerary:
Top Attractions:
- Walt Disney World Resort
- Universal Studios Florida
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
- Clearwater Beach
- St. Pete Beach
- Ringling Museum of Art
- Salvador Dali Museum
- John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Hidden Gems:
- Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
- Fort De Soto Park
- Anna Maria Island
- Caladesi Island State Park
- Myakka River State Park
- Ybor City Historic District
- St. Armands Circle
- Historic Spanish Point
Experience the Food Scene and Budget-Friendly Tips
Florida’s West Side is a melting pot of flavors, with a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. From fresh seafood and Cuban sandwiches to farm-to-table cuisine and craft beer, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best foodie experiences and budget-friendly tips:
Foodie Experiences:
- Visit the Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant, for traditional Spanish cuisine.
- Try the grouper sandwich at Frenchy’s, a local favorite in Clearwater Beach.
- Explore the food halls and markets in Tampa, such as Armature Works and the Tampa Riverwalk.
- Take a food tour of St. Petersburg, Sarasota, or Bradenton to discover the local specialties.
Budget-Friendly Tips:
- Visit the beaches and parks in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
- Take advantage of the happy hour specials at the bars and restaurants.
- Use public transportation or ride-sharing services instead of renting a car.
- Stay in a vacation rental or Airbnb instead of a hotel to save money on accommodation.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures and Historical Landmarks
Florida’s West Side is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of beaches, parks, and waterways to explore. The region is also rich in history and culture, with many landmarks and museums that tell the story of its past. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures and historical landmarks:
Outdoor Adventures:
- Go fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the Gulf of Mexico or Tampa Bay.
- Hike or bike the Pinellas Trail, a 38-mile rail-trail that connects St. Petersburg and Tarpon Springs.
- Take a sunset cruise or dolphin watching tour to see the wildlife and the scenery.
- Visit the Florida Aquarium or the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to learn about the marine life.
Historical Landmarks:
- Explore the Fort De Soto Park, a former military fort that dates back to the Spanish-American War.
- Visit the Gamble Plantation Historic State Park, a preserved antebellum mansion that tells the story of the Civil War-era Florida.
- Learn about the Seminole Wars and the Native American history at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum in Clewiston.
- Take a tour of the Sarasota Opera House, a restored 1926 theater that is now a cultural landmark.
Discover Family-Friendly Activities and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Florida’s West Side is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that appeal to all ages. The region also has some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities and off-the-beaten-path experiences:
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Visit the Lowry Park Zoo or the ZooTampa at Lowry Park, two of the best zoos in the country.
- Take the kids to the Glazer Children’s Museum, a hands-on museum that promotes learning and creativity.
- Go mini-golfing or bowling at the Topgolf or Main Event entertainment centers.
- Visit the LEGOLAND Florida Resort, a theme park that is geared towards families with young children.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
- Visit the Big Cat Rescue, a sanctuary for rescued exotic cats that offers guided tours and educational programs.
- Explore the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, a historic Greek fishing village that is known for its sponge diving and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Take a guided tour of the Tampa Bay Estuary or the Weedon Island Preserve to learn about the local ecosystems and wildlife.
- Visit the Sarasota National Cemetery, a peaceful and solemn memorial that honors the veterans and their families.
Witness the Natural Wonders and Vibrant Nightlife
Florida’s West Side is blessed with natural beauty, from the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the lush vegetation of its parks and preserves. The region also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to all tastes. Here are some of the best natural wonders and nightlife experiences:
Natural Wonders:
- Visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, a natural wonderland that is home to manatees, alligators, and other wildlife.
- Go birdwatching or hiking at the Celery Fields, a restored wetland that is now a popular nature preserve.
- Take a scenic drive or hike at the Myakka River State Park, one of the largest and most diverse parks in the state.
- Explore the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area that is famous for its crystal-clear springs and the wintering manatees.
Vibrant Nightlife:
- Visit the SoHo or Ybor City neighborhoods in Tampa, two of the hottest nightlife destinations in the region.
- Listen to live music at the Jannus Live or the State Theatre in St. Petersburg.
- Try the craft cocktails at the Cask Social Kitchen or the Mandarin Hide in downtown St. Petersburg.
- Go bar-hopping in the St. Armands Circle or the Siesta Key Village, two of the best beach towns for nightlife.
Experience the Local Markets, Beaches, and Mountains
Florida’s West Side is known for its beaches, but it also has some amazing mountains and local markets that are worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, handmade crafts, or scenic vistas, you’ll find it all in this region. Here are some of the best local markets, beaches, and mountains:
Local Markets:
- Visit the St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market, a weekly farmers market that offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and live music.
- Explore the Bradenton Farmers Market or the Sarasota Farmers Market, two of the best markets in the area for local crafts and goods.
- Shop for antiques and collectibles at the Red Barn Flea Market in Bradenton or the Wagon Wheel Flea Market in Pinellas Park.
- Visit the Mazzaro’s Italian Market in St. Petersburg, a gourmet market that offers imported cheeses, meats, and wines.
Beaches:
- Visit the Siesta Key Beach, one of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world.
- Explore the Honeymoon Island State Park, a pristine beach that is perfect for swimming, shelling, and birdwatching.
- Go surfing or kiteboarding at the Fort De Soto Park or the St. Pete Beach.
- Take a sunset stroll or a picnic at the Anna Maria Island Beach, a quiet and charming beach town.
Mountains: