Most Scenic Road Trips in Tampa, United States
1. Sunshine Skyway Bridge
A majestic cable-stayed bridge spanning Tampa Bay, offering breathtaking views of the bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Historic Significance: Originally built in the 1950s, it was rebuilt after a tragic incident.
- Scenic Sunset Views: Ideal spot for capturing sunsets over the water.
- Bird Watching Opportunities: Home to various bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watchers.
2. Tampa Bay Drive
A scenic coastal drive featuring pristine beaches, upscale neighborhoods, and lush parks.
- Beach Accessibility: Direct access to multiple Tampa Bay area beaches.
- Upscale Neighborhoods: Pass by stunning waterfront homes and yacht clubs.
- Lush Parks and Recreation Areas: Adjacent to numerous parks and conservation areas for picnics or nature walks.
3. Gulf-to-Bay Trail
A picturesque biking and walking trail that runs parallel to the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay.
- Eco-Friendly Transportation: Ideal for bikers, runners, or walkers seeking a green transportation option.
- Waterfront Scenery: Offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay.
- Nature Observation: Great for bird watching, spotting wildlife, and appreciating native flora.
4. Palmetto-Parrish Trail
A scenic rail trail that traverses through rural landscapes, forests, and wetlands.
- Rural Scenery: Provides a contrast to urban Tampa with its peaceful rural landscapes.
- Forest and Wetland Exploration: Offers opportunities for wildlife observation and bird watching.
- Historical Sites: Pass by several historic sites, including the site of the original Palmetto depot.
5. Courtney Campbell Causeway
A scenic drive with stunning views of Tampa Bay and multiple beach access points.
- Beach Accessibility: Provides convenient access to several popular Tampa Bay beaches.
- Sunset Viewing: Ideal location for capturing sunsets over the bay.
- Fishing Opportunities: Popular spot for fishing, with several fishing piers along the way.
6. Anclote Key Preserve State Park
A stunning island park offering pristine beaches, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a historic lighthouse.
- Pristine Beaches: Features untouched sandy beaches perfect for relaxation.
- Wildlife Observation: Home to various bird species, dolphins, and manatees.
- Historic Lighthouse: Visit the Anclote Key Lighthouse for a glimpse into Tampa's maritime history.
7. Honeymoon Island State Park
A beautiful island park offering pristine beaches, nature trails, and a historic fort.
- Pristine Beaches: Features idyllic sandy beaches perfect for swimming or sunbathing.
- Nature Trails: Explore the park's scenic nature trails for bird watching and wildlife observation.
- Historic Fort: Visit the abandoned fort on the island for a glimpse into Tampa's military history.
8. Fort De Soto Park
A massive park with multiple beaches, nature trails, and a historic fort.
- Multiple Beaches: Offers several distinct beaches for different preferences.
- Nature Trails: Provides miles of scenic trails for bird watching and wildlife observation.
- Historic Fort: Visit the historic fort to learn about Tampa's military past.
9. Pass-a-Grille Beach
A picturesque beach located at the southern tip of St. Pete Beach, offering stunning sunset views.
- Sunset Viewing: Ideal location for capturing sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
- Historic Architecture: Pass-a-Grille features colorful historic cottages and charming boutiques.
- Beachside Dining Options: Enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants while watching the waves.
10. Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
A unique waterfront district featuring sponge docks, Greek-inspired architecture, and a vibrant seafood scene.
- Sponge Buying Opportunities: Purchase authentic sponges from local vendors.
- Greek Architecture: Admire the colorful Greek-inspired buildings and churches.
- Seafood Delights: Indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants overlooking the water.
11. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
A scenic nature preserve offering walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and a botanical garden.
- Nature Trails: Explore the park's miles of scenic trails for wildlife observation.
- Botanical Garden: Visit the botanical garden to learn about native Florida flora.
- Bird Watching Opportunities: Home to numerous bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watchers.
12. Lettuce Lake Park
A scenic park featuring walking trails, wildlife observation areas, and canoe rentals.
- Nature Trails: Explore the park's miles of scenic trails for wildlife observation.
- Wildlife Observation: Home to various bird species, alligators, and other Florida wildlife.
- Canoe Rentals: Rent a canoe to explore the lake and spot wildlife from a different perspective.
13. Florida Aquarium
A world-class aquarium featuring thousands of marine animals, interactive exhibits, and conservation programs.
- Marine Animal Viewing: View a variety of marine animals, including sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.
- Interactive Exhibits: Participate in interactive exhibits to learn about marine conservation efforts.
- Conservation Programs: Support conservation efforts by learning about the aquarium's ongoing projects.
14. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
A world-class theme park featuring thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live shows.
- Thrilling Rides: Experience adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and other exciting rides.
- Animal Encounters: Get up close and personal with a variety of exotic animals, including lions, tigers, and giraffes.
- Live Shows: Enjoy live shows featuring music, dance, and acrobatics.
15. Ybor City
A historic district featuring colorful architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a rich Cuban heritage.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Tampa's rich Cuban heritage through food, music, and art.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Enjoy lively bars, clubs, and music venues into the night.
- Colorful Architecture: Admire the district's historic architecture, including buildings adorned with vibrant murals.