22 Best Things To Do In Tarpon Springs, Florida

things to do in tarpon springs florida
Venkateshwar
Venkateshwar 
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Known as the “sponge capital of the world” the historic riverfront town of Tarpon Springs is located along the shore of the Gulf of Mexico just 40 minutes north of St. Petersburg. The city has a Greek heritage owing to the arrival of Greek sponge divers in Tarpon Springs to grow the now-famous sponge industry. The Greek community is famous for some of the finest Greek restaurants, including Mama’s Greek Cuisine, Hellas and Mykonos, markets, and bakeries in the country.

The city, named for the abundance of fish found in nearby waters, offers numerous attractions along with beautiful miles of waterfront. The city hosts famous Sponge Docks, a downtown center listed on the National Register of Historic Places, antique stores, art galleries, and specialty shops housed in buildings dating from the late 1800s. The Tarpon Springs Performing Arts and Cultural Centers offer concerts, theater, art, and historical exhibits, and other quality programs. Dodecanese Boulevard, which follows the riverfront, has gift shops that carry everything from home goods to unique Greek and Florida Souvenirs, to natural sponges to olive oil soap. Tourists who wish to explore this wonderful city could stay in excellent hotels and Airbnb vacation rentals.

Keep reading for the full list of the best things to do in Tarpon Springs, Florida.

1. Antique District

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Antique District in Tarpon Springs is a charming and historic area that is sure to excite antique enthusiasts. Located in the heart of this picturesque town, the district offers a wide selection of antique shops and boutiques, showcasing a variety of unique and intriguing treasures from different eras.

Visitors will be delighted by the diverse range of items on offer, including furniture, jewelry, clothing, books, and more. Whether you are searching for a specific collectible or simply enjoy browsing through the past, the Antique District has something for everyone.

In addition to the existing array of antique shops and boutiques in Tarpon Springs’ Antique District, there is a new addition that antique enthusiasts will surely want to explore. The Court of Two Sisters, an antique and consignment shop, has recently relocated to the south side of Tarpon Avenue.

Court of Two Sisters

Address: 134 E Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Court of Two Sisters

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

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2. Safford House Museum

Historic Safford House
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Photolover2139 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience in Tarpon Springs, you’ve got to check out the Safford House Museum. This awesome museum was built way back in 1883 by Anson P. K. Safford, one of the founders of Tarpon Springs.

Inside, you’ll discover the fascinating history of the early settlers, the sponge industry, and the Greek community that played a big role in the area. Take a guided tour and soak in Victorian architecture and beautiful furnishings. You’ll also learn all about the Safford family and their incredible legacy. Keep an eye out for special events and programs happening there throughout the year too.

Safford House Museum

Address: 23 Parkin Ct, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Safford House Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 11am - 3pm (closed on Sat - Tue)

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3. Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
Source: Photo by Flickr user Mark D L used under CC BY-ND 2.0

This is an amazing place to go in Tarpon Springs and explore when you have a free afternoon. You can find sponges for sale, watch the sponge diver boats set off to look for sponges, then watch the divers unloading the sponges onto the dock. You can opt for a guided tour of this place, or simply set out on your own. There are plenty of eateries here that serve delicious Greek food, and you can see that Greek culture is alive and well in Tarpon Springs. In addition, you can go shopping for souvenirs and small tidbits at the stalls along the docks, or go for a long boat ride on the waters.

Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

Address: 735 Dodecanese Blvd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)

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4. Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Epiphany diver statue in front of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 3
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Candleabracadabra used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is a Greek Orthodox church that welcomes people from all faiths for a visit. The architecture is absolutely breathtaking, and the interiors are done up in the traditional Greek Orthodox way, with beautiful paintings on the ceilings and glittering chandeliers everywhere. This church has been around since the Second World War, and it contains true relics of St. Nicholas of Myra. The interiors have real marble, and it is a very peaceful place to just sit, meditate or pray. The Cathedral Tower rises above all of the other buildings in Tarpon Springs and it is the pride of the city’s residents.

Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Address: 36 N Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 3pm; Sun: 7am - 1pm (closed on Sat)

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5. Tarpon Springs Splash Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Tarpon Springs Splash Park-FREE on Monday, March 28, 2016

If you are traveling with young kids, there are few places more exciting than a splash pad. Filled with a variety of activities and attractions in Tarpon Springs, including fountains and slides to keep your little ones busy and happy all day long, the splash pad in Tarpon Springs is considered one of the best in the area. There is plenty of comfortable seating for parents throughout the park, and there is an adjacent playground as well as a dog park if you are traveling with your fur babies. This splash pad is ideal for toddlers but can be enjoyed by kids up to the age of eight.

Tarpon Springs Splash Park

Address: 508 Live Oak St, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 10am - 2pm; Thu - Fri: 10am - 2pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Wed)

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6. Tarpon Springs Historical Train Depot Museum

Tarpon Springs Depot
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jackdude101 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Situated in downtown Tarpon Springs in the heart of the city, this is an old railroad museum that is perfect for guests who love locomotives and their history. This railroad museum is an exact replica of an old railway station that was built in Tarpon Springs in the late 1800s. Admission is completely free, and there is a ticket office where you can purchase tickets to ride the trains. You can find replicas of buildings simulating what life might have been like near a railway station more than a century ago, and you can opt for a professional tour guide who will explain the significance of all the exhibits and buildings to you.

Tarpon Springs Historical Train Depot Museum

Address: 160 E Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Tarpon Springs Historical Train Depot Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 12pm - 3pm (closed from Sun - Tue)

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7. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Tarpon Arts on Thursday, December 10, 2020

If you are a fan of the performing arts, head over to the performing arts center in this city for a variety of different events and activities in Tarpon Springs, including dance, music, theatre, and more. There is plenty of comfortable seating for guests, and stalls that serve food and drinks are available. You can check out the latest shows on their website, and book tickets online from the comfort of your home.

Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center

Address: 324 Pine St, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center

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8. Brooker Creek Preserve

Boardwalk over Brooker Creek
Source: Photo by Flickr user B A Bowen Photogr... used under CC BY 2.0

If you are thinking about what to do in Tarpon Springs, then look no further! The county park is a treat for bird watchers and nature lovers with beautifully laid out boardwalks, meeting rooms, and clean restrooms. The easy to walk trails marked through forested wetlands and pine woods, with a lot of wildlife scattering around, are fantastic. The onsite museum and their displays are also quite useful for both youngsters and adults. The preserve is also the location of the Brooker Creek Watershed.

Brooker Creek Preserve

Address: 3940 Keystone Rd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688, USA

Website: Brooker Creek Preserve

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9. Fred Howard Park

Howard Park
Source: Photo by Flickr user Mark D L used under CC BY-ND 2.0

With public restrooms and showers, a nice beach, kayaks and paddle boards for rent, it is a great place to spend a day. The first portion of the park is a shady forest with a nature trail and picnic shelters scattered throughout. On moving through the park you come to the coast with a mile (1.6 km) long boardwalk to the beach where people fish, swim and ride jet skis.

It is a great beach during the week to sun, swim, and relax. This Tarpon Springs beach has a separate parking lot and white sand. The park is fantastic for events, walking, biking, and swimming.

Fred Howard Park

Address: 1700 Sunset Dr, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: Fred Howard Park

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10. Day Dream Charters

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Day Dreamer

Posted by Day Dream Charters on Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Captain Luke is friendly and knowledgeable about the area. Captain Luke takes his clients to islands loaded with shells and provides a booklet to identify the shells. If you want to find sand dollars, Luke knows where to take you. The tubing is exciting and fun as well! The Captain ensures a great experience for his clients, including dolphin watching, snorkeling, shelling, tubing and a beautiful sunset; it is just an excellent trip.

Day Dream Charters

Address: 1813 Mariner Dr #150, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: Day Dream Charters

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11. Dolphin Deep Sea Fishing

We had 125 American Red Snapper and a dozen gags . Lots of mangoes. It wasn’t a limited out trip but a great one! This was a 30-hour trip. Last 30-hour leaves Friday July 23rd. It is sold out.

Posted by Dolphin Deep Sea Fishing-Two Georges on Monday, July 19, 2021

Dolphin Deep Sea Fishing is filled with excitement and joy with dolphins, pelicans and seagulls following the boat. The Two Georges boat at the Sponge Docks has a friendly crew that teach first timers how to fish and are always on the spot to help fix the line tangles and help unhook the catch. The fishing pole and bait are included in the fee and are sufficient for catching fish.

They supply everything for you and you can either buy food and drinks on board or bring your own with you. They even clean the fish for you. The food options on the boat are great and the prices are reasonable - 5 USD for a double cheeseburger.

Dolphin Deep Sea Fishing

Address: 810 Dodecanese Blvd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: Dolphin Deep Sea Fishing

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12. Konger Tarpon Springs Aquarium

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Who doesn't love to play in the mud on a day off??

Posted by Tarpon Springs Aquarium on Sunday, May 1, 2022

This is a great little place for a family trip at 7.50 USD entry fee. You can feed stingrays with your hand and sharks with a stick. The varieties of fish are fascinating; you’ll see everything from grouper to lionfish and eels. The alligator feeding and the shark feeding is a treat to the eyes. You can help carry a snake, and touch a turtle and horseshoe crab. The plus point is you are able to re-enter the aquarium throughout the day, so check for the schedule of feedings.

Konger Tarpon Springs Aquarium

Address: 850 Dodecanese Blvd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: Konger Tarpon Springs Aquarium

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13. Springs Castle Winery

Posted by Tarpon Springs Castle Winery on Friday, 4 June 2010

This “down home” looking winery is owned by an older couple, and the wine tasting is a unique process. The “chocolate paradise” tasting comes with 4 wine tastings, one full glass, a box of chocolates, and a bottle of your choice. The wines are exquisitely made using European technique with American-grown grapes. If you understand the difference between European wines and California wines you’ll appreciate Castle Winery.

Springs Castle Winery

Address: 320 E Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: Springs Castle Winery

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14. Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

New exhibit alert! Yesterday YOU GOOD? opened in our interactive gallery and we are SO excited to share it with you....

Posted by Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art on Wednesday, April 6, 2022

This small museum located adjacent to the St. Pete College Tarpon Campus Library Building is filled with great art pieces and knowledgeable staff. The museum is well laid out with an Interactive Gallery for students and visitors, and also has the only life-size replica of Picasso’s famous painting, Guernica.

The gallery includes an outstanding display of underwater photography of many of Florida’s prominent springs and cavern systems. The museum periodically runs exhibits. The permanent galleries display the abstract expressionist Abraham Rattner (1893-1978), his wife Esther Gentle, and his stepson, Allen Leepa. Some items of Manet and Picasso are also there.

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

Address: 600 E Klosterman Rd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art

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15. A.L. Anderson Park

This is a beautiful and clean maintained park with a nice boat launch. There is a nice trail along the water through gorgeous cypress, palms, pines, ferns, oaks and numerous birds of all kinds. There are also many different picnic areas, clean bathrooms, and shelters you can rent. Great place to launch your boat or kayak onto Lake Tarpon.

There are lots of people boating in the lake, so you can watch the activity on Lake Tarpon. Picnic spots abound; it’s a wonderful park for singles, family, and friends.

A.L. Anderson Park

Address: 39699 US Hwy 19 N, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: A.L. Anderson Park

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16. Replay Amusement Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

New California Coaster Plans for Knott's and Universal, plus news from Legoland, Six Flags, Las Vegas and More in today's update - www.screamscape.com

Posted by Screamscape on Monday, May 16, 2022

This can be termed as the BEST arcade with 80-90’s video games and pinball machines in the country. The selection of games is unmatched; the pinball and arcade games they have are great fun. You can come and go as you please for 13 USD all day play. On Friday and Saturday, you can play from 11 am to 11 pm. The staffs are knowledgeable, and parking is free outside the museum or in the nearby public parking.

Replay Amusement Museum

Address: 119 E Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, USA

Website: Replay Amusement Museum

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17. Sunset Beach (from USD 162.0)

The man-made family friendly sandy Sunset Beach is an ideal destination to enjoy the beautiful sunset, clear water, and beautiful views. The water is shallow and calm, perfect for children.

This Tarpon Springs tourist attraction has beautiful white sand; a public restroom centrally located just a few minute’s walk from the beach areas. There are pavilions and charcoal grills if you want to have a beach cook out. It is a favorite spot for para-surfing. The evening concerts are also quite popular and draw a big crowd, just bring your own chair, snacks, and enjoy the night.

Sunset Beach

Address: Tarpon Springs

Website: Sunset Beach

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Clearwater Private Coastal Helicopter Tour

Duration: 30 minutes

3 reviews

18. Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

While the establishment opened in 2005, the team behind Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill has been in the seafood business since their arrival in Tarpon Springs in the ‘70s. The business originated as a shrimp boat selling seafood, and it has evolved into what the restaurant is now. Try their wide selection of sushi and steamed seafood along with some of their specialties: Due West Snapper, Madame Butterfly, Galilee, and E. Sea Rider! Pair these with some of their Rusty Bellies Sangria, and you’re good to go.

Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill

Address: 937 Dodecanese Boulevard, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm (closed on Mon)

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19. Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum

Tarpon Springs FL Heritage Msm04
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 4.0

If you’re keen on getting to know the history of Tarpon Springs, you have to visit Heritage Museum. There, you’ll be welcomed with stories and interactive displays from the Greek beginnings and community of the city. There’s also a photograph exhibit that shows the development of Tarpon Springs. Heritage Museum, and museums in general, brings you a sense of familiarity with the place you’re trying to explore. Do you have little ones who are always curious? This is a great way to keep them occupied. Come one, come all!

Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum

Address: 100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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20. Odyssey Cruises

See the beautiful Florida sites on one of our Dolphin Adventure Cruises. These are real pictures from real passengers. Book your cruise today: (727) 934-0547

Posted by Odyssey Cruises, Tarpon Springs, FL on Thursday, May 18, 2017

Go further across the ocean to see the sunset or meet our underwater friends by joining Odyssey Cruises. For a little intimate and romantic getaway with your special someone, join their relaxing two-hour sunset cruise. As you travel down the Gulf of Mexico, the history of Tarpon Springs will be narrated by your enthusiastic captain. If you’re travelling with children, we highly recommend joining their Dolphin Adventure Island Cruise to ensure an absolutely good time. Tours like cruises are always weather-permitting, so make sure to call ahead. As always, keep your cameras close!

Odyssey Cruises

Address: 776 Dodecanese Boulevard, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Odyssey Cruises

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21. Spongeorama Sponge Factory

Spongeorama's Sponge Factory (Tarpon Springs, Florida) 01
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Leonard J. DeFran... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

You’re visiting the Sponge Capital of the World, of course you’re going to find a sponge factory here! Spongeorama Sponge Factory has a vast collection of natural sea sponges and offers free admission to their museum and movie theater, which tell the story of Tarpon Springs’ beginnings, Sponge Docks, and the sea sponge industry. It’s only fitting that you get to know where you are! After your history lesson, head right on to the gift shop to purchase one (or many) of your own!

Spongeorama Sponge Factory

Address: 510 Dodecanese Boulevard, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Spongeorama Sponge Factory

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

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22. Silverking Brewing Company

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

For the beer lovers out there, this next thing to do is for you! Silverking Brewery Company was fairly recently established, in June 2012, but it has been a vision and hard work for a long time by a tight group of fishermen and outdoorsmen. The brewery is now standing on the old Tarpon Springs Jail & Fire House. Try their flagship beer, Silverking Strike, which is now served across 50 establishments in San Francisco’s Bay Area. Take your fellow enthusiasts for a night of drinks at Silverking Brewery!

Silverking Brewing Company

Address: 325 East Lemon Street, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, United States

Website: Silverking Brewing Company

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5pm - 9pm; Fri: 5pm - 12am; Sat: 2pm - 12am; Sun: 2pm - 6pm

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Sponge Capital of the world

The historic riverfront town of Tarpon Springs hosts famous sites and fun activities for all. We hope that, by now, you have an idea of what to do in Tarpon Springs. The beauty of this city with its Greek heritage has to be seen to be believed.

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Frequently asked questions about things to do in Tarpon Springs, FL


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Journalist and a freelance writer based in India, traveling for K.Venkateshwar.Rao means exploring the world in search of arts and culture, interesting people, great food, and hidden gems. He has...Read more

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