Housing the largest collection of Salvador Dali works in the world, the museum offers a regularly changing exhibit of the legendary surrealist artist's melting-watch canvases and a wide variety of his sculpture and fiber objects that are, at the very least, intriguing. One memorable creation toasts the cocktail party; it is a vest covered with full glasses of creme de menthe. Daily tours seek to explain this complex man and his equally complex art. In the museum store you can select a memento of your surreal experience. Do check the website or call for timings.
A hub for outdoor activities, this Tampa park offers visitors the opportunity to hike, fish, kayak, and more. The little ones can let loose on the playground structure and the picnic tables and barbecue's are perfect for a summer gathering. A nature center informs visitors on the local flora and fauna along with the extensive hiking trail information.
Fort DeSoto Park is comprised of over 1,100 acres (445.15 hectares) and five interconnecting islands. The park was used as a military post until 1922 and you will see the original gunnery, plus the reconstructed buildings of the era, including historical photographs and memorabilia when touring the fort. Enjoy miles of white sandy beach, fishing piers, hiking trails, canoeing, picnic areas and camping facilities. There are restaurants, snack bars and public restrooms for your convenience.
Nestled along the shores of Tampa Bay is a popular fishing and boating area over the tangled roots of mangroves. This nature lover's paradise is called the Weedon Island Preserve. Here, from the top of an observation tower, visitors can relish a great view of Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg's gorgeous skyline. Here, herons and egrets amble through lush, wooded expanses, while black crabs dart along mangrove branches that form marvelous arcs over streams. Sheltering a fishing pier, picnic tables with charcoal grills and a canoe/kayak trail, this preserve is also home to a picturesque boardwalk, ruins of an erstwhile airport and historical markers pointing out a Native American mound. Displaying a brilliant convergence of nature, culture and archaeology, the Weedon Island Preserve is a sprawling canvas of magnificence and unabashed, natural grandeur.
Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo is sprawled over 56 acres (22.7 hectares). It boasts of a dual distinction of being Tampa's oldest zoo as well as one of the most kid-friendly attractions in the city. Its fauna are sheltered in eight habitat zones that recreate the natural environment of the wildlife. These include the Wallaroo Station for Australian species, the Asian Gardens and Sulawesi Aviary for giant cats, and the Florida Boardwalk for native animals. Its rehabilitation and preservation programs extend well beyond the efforts of a typical zoo. Its most notable initiative is the hospital, Manatee and Aquatic Center. After an engaging day with animals, kids can delight in safari tours, bumper boats, roller coasters and pony rides. Its traveling exhibits and talk shows educate the public on environmental conservation. This venue is also ideal for camps and sleepovers. Celebrate a birthday party, business event or a wedding in style amidst wildlife.
Learning about Tampa Bay's history is a fascinating trip from migrant tribes 1,500 years ago through the captains of industry to modern day cowboys. The Tampa Bay History Center offers tours that trace this history with pictures, artifacts and more. Walking through the doors of the salmon-colored building is like taking a step into the past. The gift shop offers clothing, books and coffee mugs.
The First Presbyterian Church in downtown St. Petersburg is a devoted community church steadfast in its commitment to Jesus Christ. The church has several on-going programs for children and adults including Sunday school, Bible studies and more. The church has regular Sunday worship which is well attended and is also an ideal venue for weddings.
Since 1984, the Brad Cooper Gallery has provided an ongoing array of unique and expressive works. At its Ybor gallery, artists from around the US and abroad exhibit their creative pieces. The gallery focuses on contemporary art by established artists as well as emerging artists. The gallery features paintings using several mediums including oil on linen, wood, and canvas, acrylic on paper, silver print, and mixed media. There are featured solo exhibits throughout the year. Professional staff is available to help collectors choose pieces for ongoing collections as well as custom framing. Gallery viewing is by appointment only. -Vickie Ferguson
Drift along the tranquil channel of the eponymous bay, or explore the wetlands and forested areas which comprise the landscape of Terra Ceia Preserve State Park. Here, visitors can traverse calm waters while taking in the serene surroundings and observing the park's abundant wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the birds flitting about the woodlands, or scour the waters of the bay teeming with fish. Serene and tranquil, Terra Ceia Preserve State Park makes for a refreshing and rejuvenating outdoor experience.
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is a local landmark, a historic worship house in Tarpon Springs, Florida. Boasting a remarkable edifice styled in Byzantine and Gothic Revival architecture, it is said that the structure was designed after the Hagia Sophia of Istanbul. Built in 1943, the beautiful domed church features stained glass windows, hand-painted life of Jesus and the saints on the dome roof, and ornate imported chandeliers. Admire the rich interiors and enjoy a quiet time.
A hub for outdoor activities, this Tampa park offers visitors the opportunity to hike, fish, kayak, and more. The little ones can let loose on the playground structure and the picnic tables and barbecue's are perfect for a summer gathering. A nature center informs visitors on the local flora and fauna along with the extensive hiking trail information.
Take a riveting history tour at Safety Harbor Museum and Cultural Center, which boasts an incredible collection on display. The museum is home to an eclectic collection of artifacts, records, and items such as pottery, tools, and other memorabilia on display, dating back from pre-historic times to the present. It features dioramas of the city, fossils of mammals that used to live in the region, artifacts and documents of Tocobaga Indian tribes, civil war history, and many such interesting exhibits. The City of Safety Harbor manages the museum and hosts events to preserve the rich history. Check the website for more details.