15 Finest Day Journeys From Tampa in 2023

Tampa is a busy and thrilling vacation spot, however there are many wonderful sights simply exterior the town limits too. Energetic theme parks, beautiful Gulf Coast seashores, and nature in abundance await. There are numerous potential day journeys from Tampa, and it’s definitely value placing in your exploring boots to test them out.

Driving in and round Tampa isn’t tough and having your personal 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’ll be able to take with a tour operator too.

I am keen on Tampa, however I’ve additionally fallen in love with lots of the sights simply exterior of it. I’ll fortunately spend a day lounging on a tremendous seaside earlier than heading again to the town for a meal within the night. In fact, the house of Mickey Mouse isn’t too distant both.

Finest Day Journeys From Tampa

In the event you persist with the town limits alone, you’ll miss out. That’s precisely what I discovered after heading to Tampa a number of instances, and by no means actually going anyplace apart from the primary neighborhoods – the primary time I made a decision to leap in my automotive and discover, I used to be launched to a complete new world.

Tampa is dwelling to a number of the greatest pure sights, and so they’re all straightforward to achieve inside an hour or so. Whether or not you’re visiting as a household, a gaggle, a pair, or touring solo, there are some wonderful 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Visiting the guts of Disney magic is a must-do, and it’s someplace that by no means will get outdated for me. The resort is made up of 4 most important 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 the event you’re on the lookout for enjoyable day journeys from Tampa, this ticks each field, and also you don’t have to be touring with kids to take pleasure in it. The meals here’s a novelty however actually scrumptious, and if you happen to love rides, I like to recommend you take into account buying a Quick Go in your favourite sights. 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’ll be able to waste hours within the ticket queue in any other case. You may select a set variety of days for one base value, and also you merely scan your ticket and head straight inside. I dare you to not skip your means down Foremost 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 simplest means 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, journey the Tower of Terror, and dare to discover Expedition Everest. For non-ride lovers, there are various eating places and retailers to take a look at, and you may eat your means world wide at Epcot. The place to Eat: There are eating places and road meals choices in abundance, however the Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom is a agency favourite of mine.

2. Honeymoon Island State Park

Probably the most widespread day journeys from Tampa is to Honeymoon Island State Park, and even the title itself makes you need to go. Positioned in Dunedin, round 45 minutes from Tampa, this stunningly stunning park is the perfect place to calm down. And no, you don’t have to be in your honeymoon to go to.

Accumulating shells is likely one of the hottest actions, however merely absorbing the solar and swimming are actions that match the invoice. The seashores right here function white sand and blinding blue sea, typical of the Gulf Coast, and so they’re additionally dog-friendly, so if you happen to do have a furry buddy with you, they’re very welcome.

Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes, 29 miles/46.5kmLocation: 1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, Florida 34698. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: You may drive through the E State Highway 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 non-public boat tour across the park and Dunedin is a improbable method to spend your time. Shell gathering on the seaside 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 certainly one of my favourite locations to go to exterior Tampa, and it’s so chilled out, you’ll really feel such as you’re floating. The tempo of life right here could be very totally different from bustling Downtown Tampa, however it’s a welcome change if you happen to’re eager to calm down. Sarasota can be a really charming city; dwelling to small espresso retailers and craft shops.

You’ll find the unique Columbia Restaurant right here, well-known for the Cuban sandwich. The department in Ybor Metropolis is likely one of the oldest, however that is the place the craze all began in 1905. And if you wish to laze on the seaside in any case that consuming, certainly one of my high coastal spots is Siesta Key Seashore — the sunsets are breathtaking.

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 10 minutes, 60 miles/96.5kmLocation: Click on right here for directionsGetting There: You may drive through the I-75 S highway, or take the bus or practice. The bus takes slightly 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: Buying is improbable in Sarasota and quite a bit calmer than in Tampa. I extremely advocate the Downtown Strolling Meals Tour and some hours on Siesta Key Seashore. The place to Eat: There are some wonderful 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 widespread total. You received’t be dissatisfied once you see this seaside, in truth, you’ll in all probability be slack-jawed in shock. It’s merely stunning, and phrases simply don’t do it justice.

This seaside does get very busy, particularly at weekends, however it’s so massive that it by no means feels crowded. You may rent solar beds and parasols for a small charge, and there are many bars and eating places alongside the seaside, together with a favourite of mine — Clear Sky Cafe.

A stroll down the promenade with an ice cream is at all times a good suggestion, and the city itself has loads of boutique shops to browse.

Distance from Tampa: 40 minutes, 22 miles/35kmLocation: Click on right here for directionsGetting There: Take the E State Rd 60 W, or you’ll be able to 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 an effective 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’ll be able to spot these creatures within the wild. Adrenaline junkies can’t miss taking a spin on the ocean screamer journey. The place to Eat: Vantage Rooftop Bar is a improbable place to sip cocktails, watch the sundown, and revel in a scrumptious meal.

5. Fort DeSoto County Park

Probably the most 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 authentic fort constructed again in 1898. Nonetheless, my favourite factor to do is to chill and absorb the solar; the seashores listed here are so pristine, it’s laborious to imagine.

Fort DeSoto has a dog-friendly seaside, and it’s a great place to take a picnic and easily take pleasure in 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/61kmLocation: 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 change to Freeway 679. Alternatively, you’ll be able to 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 cherished each second – it was a improbable method to actually see the world. If you wish to take your journey additional, guide the Egmont Key Ferry which can take you to a distant island to identify manatees, dolphins, and turtles within the wild. The place to Eat: There are a number of 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

Probably the most widespread day journeys from Tampa is to move to Common Studios. Whether or not you’re eager to scream on large rollercoasters, find out about films, or snack your means across the park, you are able to do all of it. Whereas I am keen on Disney World, I actually have a smooth 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 permits you limitless entry to each. You can even go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and take a look at some genuine butter beer — I used to be pleasantly stunned.

CityWalk is a vibrant a part of the park which is filled with bars, eating places, and retailers. You may seize some souvenirs right here or simply absorb the ambiance. A go to to Planet Hollywood can be a should.

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 50 minutes, 77 miles/124kmLocation: 6000 Common Blvd, Orlando, Florida 32819. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: In the event you’re driving, take the I-4 E direct, or you’ll be able to take the practice in simply over 2 hours. Click on right here for info. Should-Do Actions: Seize a milkshake at Planet Hollywood and journey 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 good alternative for one thing just a little totally different.

7. Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge

Probably the most distinctive day journeys close to Tampa is to spend the day having fun with nature at Crystal River Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. In the event you’re in search of some quiet, that is the place for you. I at all times discover it an exquisite spot to chill, calm down, and admire the marvel of Mom Nature.

In the event you’re a manatee fan, you’re in luck right here too because it’s potential to swim alongside these beauties of their pure habitat. There are such a lot of manatees right here that you simply’re virtually 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’ll be able to stroll round and absorb 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/129kmLocation: 1502 SE Kings Bay Drive, Crystal River, Florida 34429. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: Observe the FL-589 N straight. Taking public transport is extraordinarily tough as you’ll have to cease a number of instances and reconnect to different bus providers. Should-Do Actions: The Manatee Snorkel Tour is a superb method to stand up shut and private with these magical animals, and it virtually introduced me to tears. In the event you favor to remain above the waterline, try the Crystal River Kayak Tour as an alternative. 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 at all times wished to go on an airboat journey on the Everglades, however the primary park is extraordinarily distant. So, think about my pleasure once 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 take pleasure in the identical expertise.

It’s top-of-the-line day journeys from Tampa by automotive, and also you’ll actually get to understand the pure habitat of birds and even alligators. Whilst you may not see one, you’ll be able to relaxation assured they’re there! The airboat journey itself is admittedly enjoyable, however I’d advocate sporting a hat as it may well get actually chilly, even on a heat day.

As soon as the journey is over, you’ll be able to find out about conservation efforts within the space and even seize some refreshments within the cafe.

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour quarter-hour, 82 miles/132 kmLocation: 2001 E Southport Highway, Kissimmee, Florida 34746. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: You may drive by following the I-4 E, or you’ll be able to take the practice, which can take 1 hour 20 minutes, with a fast taxi journey of quarter-hour to take you straight there. Click on right here for extra info. Should-Do Actions: An airboat journey is a ceremony of passage right here. In the event 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 can train you concerning the heritage, tradition, and cooking of the Native People who used to dwell within the space. The place to Eat: 3 Sisters Speakeasy is a improbable restaurant near Boggy Creek. It has a novel menu combining sushi with common fare corresponding to large burgers and sandwiches.

9. Rainbow Springs State Park

The realm round Tampa is teeming with wildlife, and Rainbow Springs State Park is certainly one of my favourite locations to go. This can be a protected space for manatees and different species, corresponding to 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 may hire a tube and head off at your personal tempo, however kids below 5 can’t participate on this exercise. There are additionally many strolling paths if you happen to favor to remain on dry land. I didn’t attempt tubing, however I took a glass backside boat tour as an alternative and noticed so many manatees and species of fish.

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 45 minutes, 95 miles/152kmLocation: 19158 SW 81st Pl Highway, Dunnellon, Florida 34432. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: Observe the FL-589 N by automotive or take the bus to Ocala (1 hour 50 minutes) after which a brief taxi journey lasting half-hour. Click on right here for extra info. Should-Do Actions: Tubing down the lazy river is a high exercise, however the Glass Backside Kayak Eco Tour can be an important alternative. 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’ll be able to 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 at all times make a journey to Sanibel Island just because it reconnects me with nature and helps me change off. It’s a type of locations that you could’t presumably be harassed in, and it’s a simple day journey from Tampa by automotive or bus.

Sanibel Island is near Fort Myers so you can additionally name in there on the way in which again when you have time. Nonetheless, merely sitting on this beautiful seaside and absorbing the solar is my favourite exercise. The ocean is calm and excellent for swimming, and whereas it’s widespread right here, it by no means feels overly crowded.

The city is small, however there are some improbable eating places and quaint memento retailers to discover. For me, this can be a complete day of R&R and a world away from the busy streets of Downtown Tampa. Make sure you keep for the sundown — you received’t be dissatisfied.

Distance from Tampa: 2 hours half-hour, 157 miles/252kmLocation: Click on right here for directionsGetting There: You may drive by following the I-75 S highway, or you’ll be able to 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 if you happen to do need some motion, the Sanibel Causeway Jet Ski Tour is a enjoyable expertise – maintain your eyes peeled for dolphins. Alternatively, seaside 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. This can be a improbable spot for Caribbean meals and serves great cocktails.

11. Weeki Wachee Spring State Park

Households ought to positively head over to Weeki Wachee Spring State Park, particularly if there are any Little Mermaid followers amongst you. Right here, you’ll be able to benefit from the dwelling of Mom Nature, however there are additionally periodic reveals that includes dancing “mermaids”.

This can be a distinctive place to go to from Tampa however one which’s extraordinarily widespread. You may 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 charming efficiency.

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 56 miles/90kmLocation: Click on right here for directionsGetting There: The simplest possibility 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 good alternative, and because the kayaks are glass-bottomed, you’ll be able to see all method of marine life under. The mermaid present is a must-do right here, whether or not you’re touring with kids or not. You can even take a sundown kayak tour with light-up kayaks. The place to Eat: In the event you’re a fan of Asian meals like me, you must positively attempt Masa Asian Bistro & Bar. There’s an enormous collection of sushi on the menu, in addition to different Asian dishes, corresponding to teriyaki and tempura.

12. Satan’s Den, Williston

One explicit day, I used to be feeling fairly courageous, and I heard about a spot known as Satan’s Den in Gettysburg. The title 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 instances, and fossils courting again to the Pleistocene Age have been discovered right here. As you descend down into the cave, a wierd blue mild encompasses you, providing you with shivers of pleasure. It’s like nothing I’ve skilled earlier than.

This is likely one of the greatest day journeys from Tampa for many who take pleasure in diving or snorkeling as you’ll be able to dive down and discover the underwater world. Alternatively, there are strolling paths to comply with, which present you the fantastic thing about the native space.

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour 50 minutes, 120 miles/193kmLocation: 5390 NE one hundred and eightieth Ave, Williston, Florida 32696. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: Essentially the most wise means 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 can 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 good place for outside eating, and I actually loved the desserts right here – save room for the chocolate cake.

13. Punta Gorda

In the event you’re on the lookout for romantic day journeys from Tampa, a go to to Punta Gorda is a good thought. This small city is filled with historic structure, small memento retailers, 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 sluggish and leisurely, making it the right 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/167kmLocation: Click on right here for directionsGetting There: You may drive by following the I-75 S. You can even 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 just a little retail remedy. In the event you can keep by means of the night, the Stargazing Tour is certainly one of my favourite issues to do. The place to Eat: In the event you’re touring as a part of a gaggle, the Captain’s Desk Restaurant is a improbable alternative, 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 an attractive spot the place you’ll be able to stroll, hike, kayak, wildlife spot, and easily sit back within the limitless inexperienced of the bushes. The river itself leads proper into Tampa, and you may spot totally different species of fish.

There’s a really small entrance charge of $6 per automotive, however from there, you’re free to discover. It’s an important thought 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/34kmLocation: 15402US-301, Thonotosassa, Florida 33592. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: You may 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 admittedly about sporting comfy sneakers and exploring at leisure. Observe one of many strolling trails and see what number of species of wildlife you’ll be able to spot. The place to Eat: Most individuals take picnics to this vacation spot, nevertheless, it’s fully potential to drive again to Channelside and eat a scrumptious meal. I like to recommend The C Home for its wonderful cheese boards and sharing platters.

15. Legoland Florida

Households can’t miss out on heading to Legoland Florida for the day. This can be a nice park for smaller kids 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 sights and reveals across the park too, in addition to exhibitions all year long. Youngsters (and adults) will definitely be exhausted by the top of the day!

A day tour from Tampa will take you slightly below two hours and setting off early is suggested. It’s additionally greatest to guide 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/86kmLocation: 1 Legoland Method, Winter Haven, Florida 33884. Click on right here for instructions. Getting There: Self-drive is the quickest and simplest way, however you can even take the practice to Winter Haven, which can take slightly 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 numerous day journeys round Tampa, and whereas public transport could be very dependable, it’s a lot simpler to easily rent a automotive and set off by yourself. You may rent a automotive from varied shops within the metropolis and from the airport once 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 very best day journeys from Tampa require you to cram as a lot into your time as potential, so if you happen to can drive, it’s a a lot better possibility. Click on right here to seek for the very best offers on rental automobiles in Tampa.

Day Journeys Round Tampa: FAQs

Listed here are some solutions to essentially the most generally requested questions on day journeys round Tampa:

In Conclusion

I used to be stunned on the sheer variety of day journeys from Tampa on provide, however it actually opened my eyes to marvel of the world. I like to recommend heading out on at the least two excursions when you have the time; whereas the town is wonderful, 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 at all times be two of my absolute favorites, I actually cherished 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.