Map Of Western Florida Travel Guide
Introduction
Western Florida is a beautiful region that offers visitors a diverse range of attractions and experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, this area has something to suit everyone’s interests. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Walt Disney World
No trip to Western Florida is complete without a visit to Walt Disney World. This world-renowned theme park features dozens of rides and attractions, as well as live shows, character meet-and-greets, and delicious dining options. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just looking for a fun day out, Walt Disney World is sure to deliver a memorable experience.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If you’re a thrill-seeker, be sure to check out Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This theme park is home to some of the fastest, tallest, and most heart-pumping roller coasters in the world. In addition to the rides, Busch Gardens also boasts an impressive collection of exotic animals, live shows, and delicious dining options.
Clearwater Beach
For a more relaxing day out, head to Clearwater Beach. This pristine stretch of white sand and turquoise water is the perfect place to soak up the sun, go for a swim, or take a leisurely stroll. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making Clearwater Beach a great spot for a day trip.
Hidden Gems
St. George Island
If you’re looking for a quieter, less touristy beach experience, consider visiting St. George Island. This secluded barrier island is home to miles of untouched beaches, as well as hiking trails, fishing spots, and quaint shops and restaurants.
The Dali Museum
The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg is a must-visit for art lovers. This stunning museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s works outside of Europe, as well as rotating exhibits featuring other renowned artists. The building itself is also a work of art, with a striking glass exterior and a helical staircase that seems to defy gravity.
The Ringling Museum
Another great museum to check out is The Ringling Museum in Sarasota. This sprawling complex features a variety of exhibits, including an impressive collection of Baroque art, a circus museum, and a beautiful rose garden. There are also live performances and events held throughout the year.
Food Scene
Columbia Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City is a beloved institution that has been serving up delicious Spanish and Cuban cuisine since 1905. Be sure to try the famous 1905 Salad, which features iceberg lettuce, julienne ham and Swiss cheese, olives, tomatoes, and garlic dressing.
The Donut Experiment
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss The Donut Experiment in Anna Maria Island. This fun and quirky donut shop allows you to customize your own donut with a variety of toppings and glazes. They also serve delicious coffee and espresso drinks.
Publix Subs
For a quick and budget-friendly meal, grab a Publix sub. This Florida-based grocery chain makes some of the best subs around, with a variety of fresh bread, meats, cheeses, and toppings to choose from. Don’t forget to add a bag of Publix-brand chips and a sweet tea to complete the meal.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit State Parks
Western Florida is home to many beautiful state parks, which offer a variety of outdoor activities for a low cost. Some popular parks include Honeymoon Island State Park, Myakka River State Park, and O’Leno State Park.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour
Many restaurants and bars in Western Florida offer great deals during happy hour, which typically runs from 4-6pm. This is a great way to sample some of the local cuisine and drinks without breaking the bank.
Use Public Transportation
If you’re staying in a city like Tampa or St. Petersburg, consider using public transportation instead of renting a car. This can save you money on parking and gas, and also allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking the Weeki Wachee River
The Weeki Wachee River is a beautiful spot for kayaking, with crystal-clear water and an abundance of wildlife. You can rent kayaks and canoes from several local outfitters, or take a guided tour to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.
Biking the Pinellas Trail
The Pinellas Trail is a 47-mile paved trail that runs from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. This scenic route takes you through a variety of landscapes, including parks, beaches, and charming downtowns. You can rent bikes from several local shops, or bring your own.
Hiking the Florida Trail
The Florida Trail is a 1,400-mile hiking trail that runs from the panhandle to the Everglades. While tackling the entire trail may be a bit ambitious for most visitors, there are several shorter sections that offer beautiful scenery and a taste of Florida’s natural beauty. Some popular sections include the Blackwater River State Forest and the Ocala National Forest.
Historical Landmarks
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West is a must-visit for literature fans. This beautiful property was the author’s home for over a decade, and is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. You can take a guided tour of the house and gardens, and even meet some of the six-toed cats that roam the property.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of two of America’s most famous inventors. The property includes the homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, as well as beautiful gardens, a museum, and a laboratory. You can take a guided tour to learn more about their inventions and legacies.
The Ringling Circus Museum
Another great historical landmark to check out is The Ringling Circus Museum in Sarasota. This museum celebrates the history of the circus in America, with exhibits featuring costumes, wagons, and other memorabilia. There are also live performances and events held throughout the year.
Family-Friendly Activities
Lowry Park Zoo
The Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa is a great spot for families with young children. This zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, as well as interactive exhibits and rides. There are also plenty of dining options and picnic areas for a full day of fun.
Legoland Florida Resort
If you have LEGO-loving kids, be sure to check out Legoland Florida Resort. This theme park features dozens of rides and attractions, all with a LEGO twist. There are also several water rides and a water park area for hot Florida days.
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota offers a unique learning experience for families. This aquarium focuses on marine research and conservation, and features a variety of exhibits and interactive displays. There are also daily animal encounters and shows.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Skunk Ape Research Headquarters
The Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in Ochopee is a quirky and fun stop for those interested in cryptozoology. This small museum features exhibits about the elusive Skunk Ape, a Bigfoot-like creature said to roam the swamps of Florida. You can also take a guided tour of the surrounding swamp to look for footprints and other evidence.
The Coral Castle
The Coral Castle in Homestead is a mysterious and fascinating attraction that is sure to leave you with more questions than answers. This castle-like structure was built by a single man, Edward Leedskalnin, using massive blocks of coral rock. The methods he used to move and shape the rocks remain a mystery to this day.
The Skyspace
The Skyspace in Sarasota is a unique and immersive art experience. This installation features a large, mirrored room with a circular opening in the ceiling. Visitors can lie down on the floor and watch the changing colors of the sky above, creating a serene and meditative experience.
Natural Wonders
The Everglades
The Everglades is a vast and unique ecosystem that is unlike anything else in the world. This wetland area is home to a variety