Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Tampa, United States
1. Clearwater Beach
Relax on powdery white sand beaches and swim in the crystal-clear Gulf waters of this popular beach town just an hour from Tampa.
- Beach Experience: Offers a wide, uncrowded beach with calm waters
- Nearby Attractions: Close proximity to Marine Aquarium and Clearwater Marine Hospital
- Accessibility: Easy day trip from Tampa, with ample parking options
2. St. Petersburg
Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene in this seaside city, home to the famous Dali Museum.
- Arts Scene: Boasts numerous art galleries and museums like the Chihuly Collection
- Urban Atmosphere: A lively, walkable downtown area with a variety of dining and shopping options
- Beach Access: Direct access to beautiful waterfront parks like North Shore Park
3. Tarpon Springs
Discover the Greek heritage and sponge docks in this historic fishing village.
- Greek Culture: Authentic Greek food, festivals, and souvenirs
- Marine Life: Opportunities for snorkeling, fishing, and dolphin watching
- Souvenir Shopping: Unique sponge shops and art galleries
4. Ybor City
Step back in time to the cigar-rolling capital of the world in this lively Tampa neighborhood.
- History: Historic buildings and landmarks such as the Columbia Restaurant
- Entertainment: Vibrant nightlife, live music venues, and bars
- Cultural Diversity: A melting pot of cultures, offering diverse dining options
5. Sarasota
Enjoy the beautiful beaches and explore cultural attractions like The Ringling Museum in this charming city.
- Beautiful Beaches: Stunning white-sand beaches along Sarasota Bay
- Cultural Attractions: World-renowned art museum, circus museum, and historic sites
- Outdoor Activities: Excellent hiking and biking trails, as well as kayaking opportunities
6. Siesta Key
Relax on the beautiful beaches of this barrier island known for its fine sand and clear waters.
- Beach Quality: Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world
- Water Sports: Excellent for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding
- Accommodation Options: Variety of vacation rentals and hotels to suit all budgets
7. Dunedin
Relax in this quaint beach town with a charming downtown area and beautiful waterfront parks.
- Small-Town Charm: A peaceful, laid-back atmosphere
- Outdoor Activities: Biking trails, fishing pier, and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Craft Beer Scene: Home to several popular craft breweries like Dunedin Brewery
8. Lakeland
Explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of this charming city, including the Bok Tower Gardens.
- Nature Attractions: Beautiful gardens, lakes, and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Cultural Attractions: Museums, galleries, and historic sites like the Florida Southern College
- Affordability: Lower costs compared to other popular weekend getaways
9. St. Pete Beach
Relax on the pristine beaches of this picturesque beach town with a laid-back vibe.
- Beach Quality: Gentle surf, powdery white sand, and clear waters
- Waterfront Dining: Fantastic seafood restaurants with water views
- Affordable Accommodations: A variety of hotels and vacation rentals to fit most budgets
10. New Port Richey
Discover this historic riverfront town with its charming downtown area and outdoor attractions.
- Small-Town Charm: A peaceful, laid-back atmosphere
- Outdoor Activities: Boat tours, fishing, and hiking trails
- Affordable Accommodations: A variety of budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals
11. Anna Maria Island
Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and pristine beaches on this barrier island off the coast of Bradenton.
- Beach Quality: Gentle surf, powdery white sand, and clear waters
- Waterfront Dining: Fantastic seafood restaurants with water views
- Outdoor Activities: Excellent for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding
12. Bradenton
Discover the charm of this riverside city with its historic downtown area and cultural attractions.
- Small-Town Charm: A peaceful, laid-back atmosphere
- Cultural Attractions: Museums, galleries, and historic sites like the South Florida Museum
- Outdoor Activities: Boat tours, fishing, and hiking trails
13. Palm Harbor
Relax in this charming waterfront community with its beautiful parks and outdoor attractions.
- Small-Town Charm: A peaceful, laid-back atmosphere
- Outdoor Activities: Boat tours, fishing, and hiking trails
- Affordable Accommodations: A variety of budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals
14. Ocean Springs
Discover the charm of this coastal town in Mississippi with its beautiful parks and unique shops.
- Small-Town Charm: A peaceful, laid-back atmosphere
- Outdoor Activities: Beautiful parks and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing
- Unique Shops: Quaint boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops
15. Gulfport
Explore this vibrant coastal town in Mississippi with its unique shops, restaurants, and art scene.
- Arts Scene: Art galleries, murals, and events like the Gulfport Art Walk
- Unique Shops: Quaint boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores
- Cultural Diversity: A melting pot of cultures, offering diverse dining options