Looking for things to do in Tampa Bay? While Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Museum of Art, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park are popular attractions, there are hidden treasures in the Bay that you shouldn’t miss. Let us guide you to some of the best secrets of Tampa Bay.
1. **Wat Mongkolratanaram Temple**: Discover the beauty of Thai-applied Ayudhaya architecture at the Wat Mongkolratanaram Temple. Established in 1981, this temple serves as a residence for monks and holds religious activities. It’s open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. On Sundays, you can visit the weekly charity market and try delicious food like empanadas, crab rangoon, and pork noodle soup. Don’t forget to explore the fresh Thai fruits and vegetables too. Find it at 5306 Palm River Road, Tampa.
2. **Hillsborough River State Park**: Besides offering hiking, biking, kayaking, and more, Hillsborough River State Park also provides a unique glamping experience. Timberline Glamping in the park offers luxury accommodations with actual beds, air conditioners, heaters, and even a coffee maker. Say goodbye to sleeping bags and enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors. Check it out at Hillsborough River State Park.
3. **Sunken Gardens**: Get away from the urban life and escape to the Sunken Gardens, St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum. Explore the curved pathways and floral canopies, and admire the colorful plants and exotic birds. Don’t miss the flock of pretty pink flamingos, the arched bridge over the koi pond, the waterfall, the succulent garden, and the orchid arbor. You can find it at 1825 4th St. N, St. Petersburg.
4. **Largo Central Railroad**: All aboard! Take a train ride through Largo Central Park with the Largo Central Railroad Club. This group of volunteers invites the public to enjoy a free 15-minute, 1-mile ride around the park on the first full weekend of every month. Hop on the train and pass by the park’s pond, beautiful trees, and even through a tunnel. The station is located at 101 Central Park Drive, Largo.
5. **Whimzeyland**: Discover Whimzeyland, a local landmark created by Todd Ramquist and Kiaralinda. Originally their home and Whimzey Wire Creations studio, Whimzeyland now attracts visitors worldwide. Take a scheduled tour to see the vibrant exterior, plexiglass sculptures, paintings, bottle trees, and bowling balls that turn the property into a kaleidoscope-like experience. The address is 1206 3rd St. N., Safety Harbor.
6. **Berlin Wall at the Morean Center for Clay**: The Morean Arts Center is known for its blown glass masterpieces, but it also houses a significant piece of international history. Outside the Morean Center for Clay, you’ll find three stacked sections of the Berlin Wall. Visit the center at 420 22nd Street South, St. Petersburg.
7. **Mazzaro’s Italian Market**: Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Mazzaro’s Italian Market. From handmade pasta and fresh bread to a butcher shop, seafood market, deli, and a wide selection of cheeses and coffee, Mazzaro’s offers a culinary experience you won’t forget. It’s located at 2909 22nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg.
8. **Lithia Springs Park**: Enjoy the beautiful blue natural spring that stays at a temperate 72 degrees year-round at Lithia Springs Park. This 160-acre oasis offers cypress swamps, wooded trails, camping, and swimming opportunities. Experience the tranquility of nature at 3932 Lithia Springs Road, Lithia.
9. **Seaside Seabird Sanctuary**: Visit the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, a wildlife rehabilitation facility dedicated to the care and release of injured or sick native birds. Explore the 1.7-acre property, observe bird species like eastern brown pelicans and sandhill cranes, and enjoy the view of the Gulf of Mexico from the observation tower. You can even attend pelican feedings and public beachside bird releases. The sanctuary is located at 18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores.
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