Clearwater, Florida, is a hidden gem in the Sunshine State, boasting a wide variety of attractions, natural beauty, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a place to relax on beautiful beaches, Clearwater has something for everyone. Below, we will dive deeper into the top 14 things to do when visiting Clearwater.
1. Attractions in Clearwater
Clearwater is home to many unique attractions, catering to all types of travelers, from wildlife lovers to history buffs.
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- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: This aquarium is famous for being home to Winter the Dolphin, star of the Dolphin Tale movies. Winter was rescued after becoming entangled in a fishing net and lost her tail. Visitors can interact with dolphins, sea turtles, otters, and more, learning about marine conservation and rescue efforts. There are also behind-the-scenes tours where you can see how animals are rehabilitated and prepared for release back into the wild.
- Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise: A fun-filled adventure for families, Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise takes you on a boat ride through Clearwater Bay. Children are encouraged to join the crew, dress as pirates, and participate in treasure hunts and water gun fights. Adults can enjoy scenic views, drinks, and the unique pirate-themed entertainment.
2. Events & Festivals
Clearwater hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, so check the calendar before your visit to make the most of your trip.
- Clearwater Beach Restaurant Week: Every year, this event brings together Clearwater’s best restaurants, offering exclusive deals and special menus for food lovers. Whether you’re into seafood or international cuisine, there’s something for every palate.
- Clearwater Jazz Holiday: A four-day event held every October, Clearwater Jazz Holiday is one of the premier music festivals in Florida, attracting jazz artists from around the world. The event takes place at Coachman Park, with stunning waterfront views, delicious food, and plenty of live music.
- Clearwater Beach Chalk Art Festival: This annual event transforms the beach into a vibrant outdoor art gallery, where talented artists create stunning chalk art. It’s a free event, perfect for families to enjoy.
3. Arts & Culture
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Clearwater has a rich arts and cultural scene, offering a range of museums, theaters, and galleries to explore.
- Ruth Eckerd Hall: Known as one of Florida’s premier venues for live performances, Ruth Eckerd Hall hosts Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and more. The venue has a rich history of bringing world-class acts to the Tampa Bay area and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.
- Clearwater Art Museum: This museum showcases contemporary art, regional artists, and rotating exhibitions. It also offers educational programs and workshops for artists of all ages.
- The Clearwater Beach Art Walk: Held on the second Saturday of every month, this event allows visitors to stroll along Clearwater Beach and enjoy artwork from local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and crafts.
4. Clearwater Beaches
Clearwater is world-renowned for its pristine beaches, which feature soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Here are some of the best beaches to explore:
- Clearwater Beach: Voted one of the best beaches in the U.S., Clearwater Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline that offers everything from water sports to fine dining. With its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxing day by the ocean. The beach is lined with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Sand Key Park: Located just south of Clearwater Beach, Sand Key Park offers a quieter, more serene experience. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and a dog-friendly beach. It’s an ideal place to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
- Honeymoon Island State Park: A short drive from Clearwater, this beautiful state park offers miles of pristine beach, perfect for swimming, shelling, or just relaxing in a natural environment. The park also features hiking trails, bird-watching, and a pet-friendly beach.
5. Family Fun
Clearwater is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of activities that cater to children and adults alike.
- Moccasin Lake Nature Park: A hidden gem, this 51-acre park offers walking trails, wildlife exhibits, and environmental education programs. It’s an excellent spot for bird-watching, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a great escape for nature lovers.
- Congo River Golf: For family fun, Congo River Golf is a unique mini-golf course with a jungle theme. The course is filled with waterfalls, caves, and interactive obstacles, making it a fun and challenging experience for all ages.
- Clearwater Threshers at BayCare Ballpark: Baseball fans will love watching the Clearwater Threshers, a minor league team, play at BayCare Ballpark. The stadium offers a family-friendly atmosphere, with affordable tickets and plenty of fun activities for kids.
6. Pet-Friendly Places
Clearwater is a pet-friendly destination, offering plenty of parks and outdoor spaces for pet owners to enjoy with their furry friends.
- Clearwater Beach Dog Park: This dog-friendly beach area allows dogs to play off-leash in the sand and surf. It’s a great spot for both pets and pet owners to unwind and enjoy the beautiful weather.
- Moccasin Lake Nature Park: Leashed pets are welcome at Moccasin Lake, where visitors can explore the trails and enjoy the park’s natural beauty with their dogs.
7. Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park is an expansive 95-acre park offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, walking, picnicking, and nature walks. The park also features a playground, perfect for families with young children.
8. Clearwater Marine Aquarium
A must-see for animal lovers, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life. In addition to Winter the Dolphin, the aquarium is home to several other animals in need of care, including sea turtles, otters, and stingrays.
9. Moccasin Lake Nature Park
This tranquil park is an excellent spot for nature lovers. It features a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and alligators. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, enjoy peaceful picnics, or attend environmental education programs.
10. Clearwater Threshers at BayCare Ballpark
10. Clearwater Threshers at BayCare Ballpark
Clearwater is home to the Clearwater Threshers, a minor league baseball team that provides a fun and affordable way to enjoy America’s pastime. They play their games at BayCare Ballpark, a beautiful facility located just a few minutes from Clearwater Beach. Whether you’re a sports fan or simply looking for a relaxing day out, watching a Threshers game is a great option.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: BayCare Ballpark is known for its family-friendly environment. The stadium offers plenty of seating options and activities for children, making it a great place to spend time with family. There are themed nights, kids’ activities, and even visits from the team mascot to entertain the little ones.
- Affordable Tickets: One of the best things about attending a Threshers game is the affordable ticket prices. Whether you’re a solo fan or with a group, it’s much cheaper than attending a major league game, making it an excellent value for families on a budget.
- Delicious Food & Drinks: A visit to BayCare Ballpark isn’t complete without sampling some of the delicious food available at the venue. From classic ballpark snacks like hot dogs and pretzels to more gourmet offerings, the concessions provide something for everyone. Don’t forget to grab a refreshing drink while enjoying the game.
- Great Views and Close Seats: BayCare Ballpark offers great sightlines, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the action. Whether you’re in the front row or up in the stands, the intimate size of the ballpark allows for a great view of the game. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the sport in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
- Special Events: Throughout the season, the Threshers host various promotions and special events, such as fireworks nights, fan giveaways, and themed games. These events add an extra layer of fun and excitement for those looking for more than just a game.
11. Cliff Stephens Park
Located alongside the serene Lake Chautauqua, Cliff Stephens Park is a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded tourist areas of Clearwater. This lovely park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy nature, relax, or spend quality time with family and friends.
- Walking Trails and Nature: The park features beautiful walking trails that wind through wooded areas and alongside the lake. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the trails offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the local wildlife.
- Fishing Opportunities: For fishing enthusiasts, Cliff Stephens Park offers a peaceful spot to cast a line and enjoy a relaxing day by the water. The park is home to Lake Chautauqua, which is stocked with fish, providing ample opportunity to catch species like bass, catfish, and bluegill.
- Picnic Areas and Barbecue Grills: Cliff Stephens Park has numerous picnic tables and barbecue grills, making it an excellent place for a family gathering, a casual lunch, or a romantic picnic by the lake. The peaceful setting, combined with great facilities, makes it a popular spot for outdoor dining.
- Peaceful Escape: The park is quieter and less crowded than some of Clearwater’s more popular attractions, making it a great choice for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s the perfect place to relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
- Wildlife Watching: For nature lovers, the park is a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife observation. The area is home to a variety of species, including herons, egrets, and other native birds, as well as small mammals and reptiles.
12. Ruth Eckerd Hall
Ruth Eckerd Hall is one of the premier performing arts venues in the Tampa Bay area, offering a wide variety of performances for every taste. Located in the heart of Clearwater, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in high-quality entertainment.
- Diverse Performances: Ruth Eckerd Hall hosts an impressive range of performances, from Broadway shows and concerts to dance performances and symphonies. Whether you’re a fan of classical music, rock concerts, or theater, you’ll find something to suit your interests on the hall’s schedule.
- Acoustic Excellence: The hall is renowned for its excellent acoustics, providing an intimate and high-quality experience for every performance. The acoustics are designed to offer optimal sound, making it the perfect venue for everything from orchestral performances to live music.
- Iconic Acts and Artists: Over the years, Ruth Eckerd Hall has hosted a variety of top-tier performers, including legends like Tony Bennett, Willie Nelson, and The Beach Boys. The venue’s reputation for bringing world-class talent to Clearwater makes it a prime spot for arts and culture lovers.
- Intimate Venue: Unlike larger arenas, Ruth Eckerd Hall offers a more intimate setting, where the audience can experience top-notch performances up close. The hall’s design ensures that every seat offers a great view, so you can feel fully immersed in the performance.
- Educational Programs and Community Events: In addition to major performances, Ruth Eckerd Hall also offers a range of educational programs, including youth concerts, art exhibitions, and community outreach initiatives. It’s a great place to learn about the arts and experience live entertainment in an intimate setting.
13. Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly activity in Clearwater, Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise is a must. This pirate-themed boat ride provides a unique and entertaining way to explore Clearwater Bay while enjoying a dose of adventure.
- Pirate-Themed Adventure: From the moment you board the boat, you’ll be immersed in the pirate theme, with crew members dressed as pirates and plenty of interactive fun for everyone. The cruise offers treasure hunts, pirate games, and fun activities, making it an exciting experience for kids and adults alike.
- Family-Friendly Fun: The cruise is perfect for families looking for an entertaining outing. Young kids can join in on the treasure hunt, engage in water gun fights with other passengers, and participate in pirate-related games and activities.
- Beautiful Views of Clearwater Bay: As you sail along Clearwater Bay, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the water, nearby islands, and marine wildlife. You might even spot dolphins or manatees swimming near the boat.
- Water Gun Fights: One of the highlights of the cruise is the chance to get in on a water gun fight with other passengers. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot Florida day while having fun with family or friends.
- Memorable Experience: Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for something unique to do, Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise offers a memorable adventure. It’s one of those experiences you’ll look back on fondly long after your trip.
14. Congo River Golf
For a unique and exciting activity, Congo River Golf offers a jungle-themed mini-golf course that’s sure to entertain visitors of all ages. Located just a short drive from Clearwater Beach, Congo River Golf is a fun-filled destination perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking for a little friendly competition.
- Jungle-Themed Mini Golf: The mini-golf course is designed with a tropical jungle theme, featuring waterfalls, caves, and exotic wildlife sculptures. The creative course layout offers a variety of challenges, making it an exciting and immersive experience for golfers of all skill levels.
- Interactive Obstacles: The course is filled with interactive obstacles, including caves, bridges, and spinning wheels, which keep things fun and unpredictable. Each hole presents a new challenge, ensuring that the game stays interesting throughout.
- Arcade and Gem Mining: In addition to mini-golf, Congo River Golf also has an arcade and offers a gem mining experience. Guests can pan for gems and take home their discoveries, adding an extra layer of excitement to the visit.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Congo River Golf is a great option for families, as the course is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Whether you’re playing a competitive game with friends or enjoying a relaxed round with the family, everyone will have a blast.
- Indoor and Outdoor Fun: While the mini-golf course is the main attraction, Congo River Golf also offers indoor activities like air hockey, video games, and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs from your adventure.
Conclusion
Clearwater, Florida, offers a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From thrilling pirate cruises and interactive mini-golf to peaceful parks and cultural venues, there is no shortage of things to do in this beautiful Gulf Coast city. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Clearwater has it all. Make sure to visit these top attractions during your next trip to ensure an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
Q1: Is Clearwater good for families?
Yes, Clearwater is a fantastic destination for families. With its many family-friendly activities, including the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, and Congo River Golf, there is plenty to keep kids entertained.
Q2: What is the best time to visit Clearwater?
The best time to visit Clearwater is between March and May when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the crowds are not overwhelming. The peak tourist season is during the summer months, which can be crowded and hot.
Q3: Are the attractions in Clearwater accessible for people with disabilities?
Many of Clearwater’s top attractions, such as BayCare Ballpark and Ruth Eckerd Hall, are accessible to individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair access and assistive listening devices for shows.
Q4: How much time should I spend at Clearwater Beach?
Clearwater Beach is a must-see destination in Clearwater. Most visitors spend several hours or even a full day at the beach to enjoy the sand, surf, and nearby attractions like Pier 60 and Sunset Celebrations.
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