Top 12 Weekend Getaways From Tampa, Florida - Updated 2024

Maria Cristina
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 8 min read
weekend getaways from tampa

Tampa, a city on a bay on Florida’s west coast, is popular as western Florida’s economic hub and tourist center. Tampa Bay, sandwiched by the beaches of St. Pete and Clearwater, and Orlando, is perfect for a quick stop if you are vacationing around the cities of Florida. Drop by Tampa’s famous Busch Garden, a perfect family vacation destination that combines the exciting features of a theme park and an exotic petting zoo. Enjoy a shopping spree at International Plaza which offers more than 200 high-end shops.

Even though Tampa is undeniably a wonderful city, with amazing beach resorts and high-class Marriott hotels that will convince you to stay a little while longer, you might want to go on a day trip to visit other areas. If you agree with this sentiment, then read our list of the top weekend getaways from Tampa, Florida, and book one now.

Popular picks in Tampa:

  • Ybor City, also known as the Cigar Capital of the World, is one of Tampa’s most historic areas. It has charming streets, unique businesses, and a rich cultural heritage. The neighborhood is recognized for its beautiful brick buildings, resident chickens, and vibrant community.

  • Al Lopez Park offers the perfect weekend retreat with 132 acres (53.42 hectares) of wildlife, peaceful fishing ponds, and scenic trails. It features a community center with fitness equipment, a spacious fishing dock, paved trails, playgrounds, and nature trails for outdoor activities. There’s also a dog park, so you can bring your furry friend along.

Why Trust Trip101?


Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team

Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles

Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)

Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform

Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts

Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more

Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content

Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.

Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.

1. Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach, Florida
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michel Rathwell used under CC BY 2.0

If you prefer a Tampa weekend getaway that’s close to the city, then you should consider going to Clearwater Beach.

Clearwater Beach, 28 miles (45.06 kilometers) from Tampa, is popular for its powder-white sandy beaches and deep blue waters. Its coasts are recognized by Forbes as one of the “Best Spring Break Beaches in America”. Its lively downtown area lures in tourists for shopping, live entertainment, and endless dining options. Watch a concert or attend an exhibit at the Cleveland Street District with the jaw-dropping background of the Marina and Clear Water Harbor. Join a boat tour so you can explore the beach and its nearby islands. One can enjoy jet-skiing, paddle boarding, and parasailing here, among many other activities.

Visited this place?

2. Miami

Night Panorama Miami Florida
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dori used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Miami, the “Magic City”, experiences a perennial summer. Its tropical weather, which is always hot and humid, is perfect for hanging out at the beach. It has at least five lovely beaches you must visit. Since it’s a haven for South and Central American immigrants, its Latin influences are strong in their culture, cuisine, and language. Miami is also notorious for its active nightlife and natural wildlife.

It’s located beside the Florida Everglades and is home to America’s biggest tropical wilderness. You can explore Biscayne Bay riding the famous Miami Duck, the iconic amphibian famous for tours around town and Miami’s famous sites.

But, besides its local sights and sounds, Miami is also a haven for foodies. The food tour will take you on an eating spree unlike any other to one of the best Cuban restaurants outside Cuba itself. Fire up those tastebuds by tasting some local cuisine, such as flan ice cream, guava pastries, and chicken plantain cups. To cap off the day, you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture in the Cuban district, meet local artists, and listen to some Cuban music – music guaranteed to make you sway.

Visited this place?

Book Tours : Miami Duck Tour

3. Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda FL
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Punta Gorda, one of Florida’s heritage towns, is full of charm and history. It sits at the intersection of Charlotte Harbor and Peace River in northern Fort Myers. From Tampa, it’s an hour and 30-minute drive. This “Sportsmans Paradise” is the location of Florida’s loveliest paddling trails for kayaks in the Southwest. Though it has modern conveniences, it kept its old town vibe with its Victorian-era neighborhoods. This pedestrian and bicycle-friendly historic downtown has a network of pathways running alongside the Peace River. It’s also home to a unique waterfront destination, called Fishermen’s Village. You’ll find almost everything here, including gift and clothes shops, thrift and specialty shops, restaurants, a military heritage museum, and luxury villas lining the boulevard.

Moreover, you can enjoy some leisurely walks and sightsee along Harborwalk to check out the lavish mansions along the coast. This city is the epitome of a relaxing sightseeing destination, with streets lined with huge palm trees, brick lanes, and many other classic elements, surrounded by modern villas.

Craving for fresh seafood? There are over 50 privately owned dining options from small pubs to award-winning diners serving the best seafood dishes of Florida. Join one of the Special Events tours that involve alcohol and paranormal investigations done in private.

SW Florida Walking Tours

Address: 117 W Marion Ave, Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Website: SW Florida Walking Tours

Visited this place?

4. Naples

Naples FL Pier
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Naples is just 166 miles (267 kilometers) or a 1 hour and 37-minute drive to Tampa. Escape the city and head off to Naples, a former fishing village that was named after a city in Italy. It’s now one of the wealthiest and loveliest coastal cities in the US.

Similar to Italy’s coastal town, Naples is blessed with beautiful natural surroundings including Keewaydin Island, Port Royal Mansions, Southwest Florida wildlife, and the Gulf of Mexico. By joining in a sightseeing boat tour, you’ll see dolphins, manatees, and exotic birds like the “snowbirds” living in their natural habitat around the coast.

Visited this place?

5. Sarasota

Weekend trips from Tampa, Florida
Source: Wikipedia

Sarasota or “Circus City” is on Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s a one-hour drive to Sarasota coming from Tampa. It’s known for its lovely beaches such as Siesta Beach, one-of-a-kind shopping experience, exceptional dining options, and a robust art scene.

Old Stickney Point Road is a popular jump-off point when exploring the city by riding a bike. Follow the biking trail that leads to the sandy shores where you will be witnessing one of the spectacular sunsets in the world. You can hire an electric bike by joining a day tour which takes you to the beach and back to the village. End the day with treats of fresh fruit, cheese, and wine.

Sarasota is dubbed “Florida’s Cultural Coast”, and you can schedule a splendid performance at one of the theaters around the city or be mesmerized by the art pieces at one of the many galleries and museums.

Visited this place?

6. Amelia Island

Fernandina Beach FL Amelia Island Light
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

An hour and a half from St. Augustine and half an hour from JAX International Airport is the pearl of Florida’s barrier islands – Amelia Islands. It’s known for its immaculate natural surroundings and expansive beaches the most famous of which is Fernandina Beach. It’s the ideal vacation destination for all and sundry – family outings, amorous retreats, art aficionados, golf enthusiasts, and history buffs. Explore 50 blocks of well-preserved structures with amazing ancient architecture like Florida House Inn. Historic sites like Amelia Island Museum of History are worth the long walk. Discover its lush forests overflowing with exotic wildlife by paddling in a kayak on Lofton Creek under a canopy of Cypress and Southern Live Oak Trees.

Visited this place?

7. Delray Beach

Delray Beach Florida
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Don Ramey Logan used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Delray Beach, USA’s “Most Fun Small Town”, is a high-spirited coastal village with a disparate history. It’s popular for its alluring beach environment, flourishing culture and art scene, and vibrant main street - Atlantic Avenue. This walkable street stretches from Interstate 95 to the sunny Delray Beach coastline. It’s filled with brick-lined sidewalks lit by gas-light lampposts; a plethora of restaurants, shops, bars, museums, and galleries; and public displays of arts and culture. Join a three-hour food and drink tour that allows you to experience the city’s intriguing history and amazing architecture that took centuries to build.

Visited this place?

8. Saint Petersburg

Besides the usual famous landmarks of Saint Petersburg, such as its abundant, beautiful, and award-winning beaches, world-renowned Salvador Dali Museum, and the beautiful Fort De Soto Park, you can experience this city from a whole new different perspective. Immerse yourself in a number of exciting and educational activities, starting off with seeing dolphins, manatees, and other marine fauna in their natural habitat.

Then, visit the Sunken Gardens, a tropical attraction that features thousands of plants, land animals, and an aviary. Lastly, cap off your day by visiting Saint Petersburg’s oldest museum.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

John

John
Tampa

For nature lovers, Fort De Soto Park in St. Petersburg is an absolutely gorgeous place to spend the day. Situated at the tip of the peninsula that creates the northwestern part of Tampa Bay,  Fort De Soto Park offers some of the top beaches in America as well as wildlife watching! You will frequently see dolphins swimming by off shore and a multitude of migratory birds whose beautiful colors are a delight to see. You can also take one of the ferries to the small islands off the coast of the park, which is a wonderful addition to a day trip to Fort De Soto Park! 

Visited this place?

9. Fort Lauderdale

Another gem that caters to beach-lovers and nature enthusiasts is Fort Lauderdale. It’s the foremost beach destination in Florida and home to many water-sport activities.

But besides its pristine beaches, Fort Lauderdale boasts another natural wonder – its rivers and waterways. The river is home to many exciting boat tours and this day trip is one of them, which will take you along Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway. The fun starts when the themed tour fires their water cannons towards their rival boat! Piracy is the theme of this tour and you’ll fend off both parties until only one remains! Experience this fun and unique boat tour that is perfect for families and kids who just want to have fun.

Visited this place?

10. Orlando

Orlando, Florida - Lake Eola Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Senator2029 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Because of its array of impressive attractions, going to Orlando is undeniably one of the most exciting weekend trips from Tampa that you can try.

Here, you can visit one of its popular tourist attractions, the Kennedy Space Center. This NASA facility has huge exhibits of spacecraft and rockets from different generations of space explorations at the Rocket Garden. See the actual spaceship Neil Armstrong took to the moon and feel the earth vibrate as it simulates a take-off.

The two IMAX movie theaters show films about the International Space Station. Walk over to the Astronaut Encounter to socialize with real astronauts and take selfies with them too. Ride a mock-up of an actual Space Shuttle and experience how a flight simulator works. Upgrade your tickets and share an intimate lunch with an astronaut so you can ask as many questions as you want.

Visited this place?

11. Jacksonville, FL

Skyline of Jacksonville FL
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user DXR used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Jacksonville is approximately a 3 hour and 17-minute non-stop drive from Tampa. It’s among the most economical travel destinations in the country. You can hike and bike as you explore the city and state parks, paddle your way through the waterways, stretch out on 22-miles (35.4 kilometers) of exquisite beaches, or dine in the country’s finest restaurants.

A great activity for you to do would be to join the 3Quest Challenge Clue-gathering Game and the tasks will take you on a tour of Jacksonville’s scenic places. It’s a two-hour fun activity for families and friends. Download the app on your smartphone and follow the instructions in completing the three quests.

Visited this place?

12. Tallahassee

Tallahassee FL old and new capitol
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Craving a long weekend trip from Tampa? Then Tallahassee should be your next destination. Tallahassee, the Panhandle region’s largest city, is also the capital of Florida.

Its semitropical weather and lakes are the perfect stage for outdoor activities and some time in nature. It’s known for award-winning parks and gardens such as Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, a 1,076-acre (435.4 hectares) ornamental garden. Over 700-miles (1126.5 kilometers) of various trails are spread across the gardens and ponds. e.g. Florida National Scenic Trail. You can camp or hike across the 49.5-mile (79.66 kilometers) stretch of trails. Explore its museums and ancient monuments that commemorate their Southern culture and politics. Join a City Scavenger Hunt Tour which is an outdoor activity using an app that will take you on a rendezvous around the city while following clues.

Visited this place?

Have fun in Florida

Tampa and its neighboring cities have a lot to offer in terms of tourist entertainment. The lovely coastal scenery, lush wildlife, prosperous surroundings, and unique activities are definitely a lot to look forward to not just for a weekend stay but for an extended vacation. Start the fun by trying out one of the best weekend getaways from Tampa when planning your vacation in Florida.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Tina is a free-spirited writer and traveler. She likes to experience unfamiliar places, cuisines, and scenery. She prefers beaches to mountains though as she is afraid of heights. Visiting museums,...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Register Here
0 Comments
Explore Tampa
Looking for accommodation?
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.
tampa vacation rentals with private pool

32 Best Tampa Vacation Rentals With Private Pool - Updated 2024