Are you a new resident of the 53rd largest city in the US—also known as Tampa, Florida?
That’s right! If you’ve touched down here, you’re one of the 392,890 people who chose this hustling, bustling city in the sunshine state as their home. Luckily for you, there’s not only plenty to do in Tampa, but there are several day trips from Tampa worth your time and gas money.
Here are five of our favorite destinations. You can get there, enjoy your day, and drive back—all before the sun sets. No need to pack an overnight bag or fill your tank more than once!
1. The Dalí Museum
The Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida, is less than an hour away from Tampa. It features an “unparalleled collection” of Dalí’s most notable paintings, all housed in a beautifully-designed building.
The museum features a longstanding collection as well as rotating exhibits. Peruse the walls of artwork, and be sure to add your wish to the Wish Tree in the Avant-garden.
2. Clearwater Beach
Grab all your favorite beach supplies and make your way to Clearwater Beach, where you’ll find soft, white sand, and plenty of shopping, restaurants, and fun attractions.
Take a walk down Pier 60, dine at any of the famous beach-side spots, or pay a visit to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and see Winter—the dolphin with a prosthetic tail!
3. Rainbow River
Located about two hours north of Tampa is Rainbow River, where you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or tubing down the long, winding, relaxing river.
The river is about 6 miles long and takes up to four hours to do entirely. Or, you can get off at their halfway point and make it a shorter day. There are also plenty of swimming and snorkeling options for those who don’t feel like riding the river.
4. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
For all you theme park lovers out there, you’ve got to pay a visit to Universal Parks & Resorts’ Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando.
Located in the aptly-named Diagon Alley, this part of the adventure park is a wonderland for fans of the J.K. Rowling series. Enjoy Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, make your own custom wand, sip on some Butterbeer, and visit the whimsical village of Hogsmeade.
5. Devil’s Den
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring is located in Levy County, about 2 hours north of Tampa.
Walk down a small flight of wooden stairs into a den and snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal-clear spring water. The area is well-lit by a hole in its ceiling that provides natural light, offering just the exposure you need to see everything around you in the water.
Which Day Trips From Tampa Will You Take?
If you made a move to the Tampa area, you’re a lucky one.
Tampa, Florida, is full of amazing things to do, and there are countless day trips from Tampa that make your new hometown that much better. In the meantime, we can help you adjust to your new home even more. Click here to check out our short- and long-term storage options. We offer immaculate, convenient storage solutions for new and established residents.