Many beautiful areas nearby to explore!
St. Petersburg
City life meets a relaxed beach vibe – that’s the alluring charm that St. Petersburg offers to anyone who visits this unique spot between Tampa and Sarasota. From the award-winning restaurants, breweries, museums, and shops of downtown St. Petersburg, situated along the stunning Tampa Bay, to the miles of sandy shores along the Gulf of Mexico in St. Pete Beach, this Florida destination truly offers it all. And if you’re a sports enthusiast, you won’t be disappointed. St. Petersburg is home to the Tampa Bay Rays and the Tampa Bay Rowdies. So whether you want to take in a baseball game at Tropicana Field or enjoy a soccer game at Al Lang Stadium (just steps from the famous Salvador Dali Museum), you’ll fall in love with the energy and spirit of St. Pete. Did we mention the 360 days of sun per year?
Tampa
With its mix of historic architecture and modern landmarks, the city of Tampa is a great place to work, play and explore. Stroll the downtown Tampa Riverwalk with its lively bars and innovative restaurants. Cheer on NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers or the NHL Tampa Bay Lightning at their nearby arenas, visit the Florida Aquarium or attend an opera the Straz Center. Ride the TECO Line Streetcar and soak in the Cuban and Spanish infused culture of Ybor City, which was created around the Cuba cigar-rolling industry in the late 1,800s. Feeling adventurous? Take a thrilling ride on one of the many roller coasters and rides at Busch Gardens, where you can also interact with animals or see a live show. There is so much to choose from in this great city!
Sarasota
Just across the famous Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Sarasota is a true Gulf Coast gem. The moment you take in the views of the tranquil blue waters and endless white coastline, there are unlimited options for everyone. Relax on one of the city’s famous beaches such as Longboat Key and Lido Beach, or take your four-legged friend to Brohard Beach Paw Park. Open-water enthusiasts can indulge in boating and kayaking, or enjoy the tranquility of one of Sarasota’s many fishing piers – Saprito Pier, Skyway Fishing State Park and the Venice Fishing Pier to name a few. But don’t get too comfortable at the water’s edge. Inland attractions like world-famous golf courses and shopping on St. Armand’s Circle are some of Sarasota’s best treasures.
Bradenton
While the friendly, beautiful city of Bradenton sometimes gets overlooked amidst the buzz of its high-profile neighbors (Tampa to the north and Sarasota to the south), the charms of this town along the Gulf Coast shouldn’t be overlooked. Bradenton is home to some of the last pristine, undeveloped beaches that still tout Old Florida beach bungalows, lazy fishing villages, and a few of the best local seafood joints in the area. Bradenton Beach, Anna Maria Island, and Longboat Key draw visitors from all over the country for their tranquil, laid-back vibes and stunning shorelines. Need to step up the pace? Check out the Bradenton Riverwalk, take in a Pittsburgh Pirates spring training game, or drive a few miles to the Ellenton Outlets stores for a day of shopping.
Anna Maria Island
If you want to enjoy the best of Florida as it was in the days of yesteryear, you’re in good company on Anna Maria Island. A laid-back paradise without the high-rise condos, glitz, and bustle of some of its coastal neighbors, this is truly where you’ll be able to take a deep breath and slow things down. Crystal blue waters surround this town’s stellar attractions. Be sure not to miss Bean Point Beach by bicycle, or kayak from Bayfront Park around the tip of Bean Point. After a day in the sun, sit back with a cocktail or cold beer at The Sandbar restaurant or the Rod and Reel, a local hotspot perched on the edge of Anna Maria’s iconic pier.
