20 Exciting Things to Do in Clearwater, Florida
Centrally located on Florida's west coast, the city of Clearwater is a popular vacation destination filled with natural and cultural attractions. Clearwater is famous for its beaches as well as its downtown area. The city features a picturesque harbor that provides a dazzling backdrop for the many festivals and outdoor events. If you're heading to Florida to spend time in this sunshine-filled city, here are some of the best things to do in Clearwater!
01 Stroll down Clearwater Beach
With its dazzling turquoise waters, Clearwater Beach is a highlight of any visit to the city. Sugar-white sands and shallow water make it a prime choice for families, not to mention couples and groups of friends looking to spend time in the sunshine. Enjoy sunbathing and fun watersports. Nearby, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and snack shops. There are also vendors who rent beach amenities like umbrellas and lounge chairs.
02 Get up close with nature at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is famous for its interactive exhibits. You can feed the pelicans, stingrays, and other creatures that make their home here. Popular residents include the dolphins, Winter, and Hope, but you can also catch sight of nurse sharks, river otters, sea turtles, and more. If you're an animal lover or traveling with kids, you'll want to visit this popular venue.
03 Pier 60 is a marvelous destination
Pier 60 is a prominent fixture on the Clearwater coast, both for fishing and strolling. It's a great place to enjoy views of the Gulf and the sunset. At any given time, street performers can also be found entertaining the crowds who visit this tourist hotspot.
04 Get cultured at Ruth Eckerd Hall
Ruth Eckerd Hall is a celebrated hub for the arts in Clearwater. This venue features symphony, theatrical, and dance performances. If you're a fan of the performing arts, you'll want to check out the schedule when you're in town. While there are more than 2,000 seats, tickets can sell quickly for popular shows.
05 Moccasin Lake Nature Park is there for you
Located in the heart of Clearwater, Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a pristine natural space filled with oak-lined walking trails, exciting hiking courses, and fun natural exhibits. The park features 50 acres of land and water features. Take in the picturesque Cypress Trail with its lake views and animal exhibits like the bald eagle enclosure.
06 Take in a show at Capitol Theater
A cultural landmark, Capitol Theater has been welcoming Clearwater residents and visitors through its doors since 1921. The historic theater is one of the oldest still operating theaters in the entire state. It features comedy routines, cinema showings, band performances, recitals, and more. Although on the small and cozy side, the Capitol brims with Art Deco flair.
07 Stretch your legs at Cliff Stephens Park
Visit Cliff Stephens Park to enjoy the many trails for jogging, biking, and strolling. Situated on 44 acres, the park has plenty of space for its other installations, like disc golf, exercise courses, and picnic areas. Go boating, fishing, canoeing, or inline skating.
08 Take me out to the ballgame at BayCare Ballpark
A celebrated practice space used by Major League Baseball teams like the Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies, BayCare Ballpark is a great place to spend an afternoon. Many baseball fans head to the field to catch some of their favorite ballplayers in action. The field features more than 8,000 seats and has a sought-after food court where you can grab your favorite ball field snacks.
09 Clearwater Farmers Market has the freshest food
Enjoy an afternoon in the sunshine while perusing the produce and handicrafts at the Clearwater Farmers Market. Of course, you'll want to come hungry, as you'll find a wide array of vendors serving up delicious eats. Shop for arts and crafts or special souvenirs. Live entertainment often adds to the market's vibrant atmosphere.
10 Go for a walk on the beach
Clearwater's fabulous Beachwalk is popular with visitors for its old-fashioned charm. You'll find classic ice cream parlors and cafes nearby, not to mention restaurants, boutiques, craft shops, and more. The pedestrian area is a great place to meet friends and stroll in the sunshine. It's also a popular place to shop for souvenirs.
11 Test your endurance gulf coast kayaking
Get up close to Florida's wildlife by booking a tour with Gulf Coast Kayak in the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Reserve. With a range of guided kayak, paddleboard eco-tours, and guided kayak fishing trips on offer, there really is no better way to experience Florida's mangrove islands and waterways. By following in the footsteps of Calusa peoples, who first paddled the waters over 1000 years ago, you'll have a chance to see dolphins, manatees, stingrays, sea turtles, osprey, and bald eagles. You don't have to be a kayaking pro to explore, as Gulf Coast Tours offers experiences for families and first-timers.
12 Trek through Philippe Park
The oldest park in Pinellas County, Philippe Park, is a tranquil escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a stroll along the one-mile shoreline, admire the view of Old Tampa Bay, and go fishing and cycling in this pet-friendly park. If it's a sunny day, don't forget to pack a picnic, as you'll want to take in the majestic shade trees. Philippe Park is also home to the largest remaining Native American Temple Mound in the Tampa Bay Region, an impressive structure made of shells and sand, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Landmarks.
13 Hike, bike, or walk Ream Wilson Clearwater Trail
Stretching 4.5 miles from Coachmans Ridge Park to Safety Harbor, Ream Wilson Clearwater Trail is an excellent place to head out for a hike, run, or bike ride. Suitable for all skill levels, along the way, you can admire beautiful wildflowers, old oak trees, and Spanish moss. There is plenty of shade along the trail, which passes through several Clearwater parks and sports facilities. For avid cyclists, the trail offers some varied terrain, and dog walkers can feel free to bring their dogs to the trail but make sure to keep them on a leash.
14 Check out Sand Key Park
Part beach, part park, Sand Key Park is perfect for a family day out. With white sands, the beach is a pristine and peaceful paradise. The park nearby features picnic stands, a playground, and a dog park, so there really is something for everyone. For those interested in wildlife, birdwatchers can try to spy herons, roseate spoonbill, and great horned owls in the salt marshes. The beach is known as the base of operations of the artificial reef program as well as a place where sea turtles come to lay their eggs.
15 Enjoy a pint or two at Sea Dog Brewing Company
Who can say no to craft beer, margaritas, and Mexican-inspired food? Visit the Sea Dog Brewing Company's Clearwater Cantina for a fun evening out where you can share a few laughs with friends and even make some new ones. Known for their nights featuring DJs and live music, the Sea Dog Brewing Company is a great evening out where you can take your pick from their two bars and three patios.
16 Immerse yourself at Caladesi Island State Park
Experience a refreshing excursion to Caladesi Island State Park, an untouched island accessible only by ferry. Fresh sea breezes awaken the senses, making it the ideal spot to relax and rejuvenate. Nature and mountain bike trails lead you deep into the wilderness, and ample activities await if you're prepared to get your adrenaline pumping. Rent a kayak and work your way through a shady mangrove forest or go for a swim along the striking shoreline. Bicycling, boating, birding, camping, hiking, snorkeling, and horseback riding keep adventure lovers busy every day on this pristine oasis.
17 Test your skills on jet ski rentals
Ready for a thrill ride? Live the good life with a jet ski rental. This a unique way to experience Clearwater's pristine scenery; now's the time to embrace your wild side with a readily available watercraft. You'll capture wildlife while you speed through the waters, including rare beauties such as dolphins, sea lions, puffer fish, sea horses, and starfish — a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With over 20 miles of coastline to explore, this open-water adventure offers a new sense of freedom.
18 Go to a Clearwater Threshers baseball game
If you're visiting Clearwater during baseball season, take a trip to BayCare Ballpark to catch the Clearwater Threshers play ball. The 360-degree main concourse has every seat open to the playing field, so you'll enjoy a state-of-the-art view wherever you are. Elevate your experience with a trip to the tiki hut pavilion, or set up something special with club seats or party suites. Since the two teams are affiliated, the park also hosts the legendary Philadelphia Phillies' spring training, making BayCare Ballpark a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.
19 Check out Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise
Whether you're young or young at heart, Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise provides fun for all ages. Board a real-life pirate ship and set sail across in an engaging atmosphere that gets you fully immersed in the theme. Crew members are dressed in full costume, and not only are they talented seamen but experienced entertainers who ensure that everyone is having a blast. There's something fun happening every minute of the journey, including treasure hunts, pirate games, face painting, dancing, storytelling, musical activities, and water gun battles for the entire family. If you want to create an extra special moment, the ship offers birthday parties, corporate meetings, private events, and even weddings!
20 Enjoy a sunset sailing tour
There's nothing quite like a sunset sailing tour to experience Clearwater's enchanting beauty. You'll watch the glowing sun go down over the Gulf of Mexico, and with crowds thinning out and temperatures dropping, it's the perfect time to rejuvenate over the open sea. Your captain will explain the history and culture surrounding Clearwater while you sip champagne, savor a mouth-watering meal, or both if you're feeling daring. Most tours last around 2 hours, so you have plenty of time to catch the views, share something delicious, and take the types of pictures you'll remember forever.
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