Years ago, conservationist and zoologist Ralph Heath, Junior set up a non-profit organization designed to rescue, repair and rehabilitate wild birds suffering from the injuries of contemporary civilization. Pelicans with hooks in their beaks, gulls with broken wings and all the casualties of the injured bird world recover here, making this a squawking stop where birds eat from the hands of their keepers. This sanctuary will tug at your heartstrings, and if the tug's hard enough, you can adopt your own bird with a donation. Open daily 9am onwards.
The Madira Bickel Mound is spread across an area of 10 acres (4.04 hectares) and is the first Native American location in the state to be termed as a State Archaeological Site. The Madira Bickel Mound State Archaeological Site offers educational programs and interpretive displays that focus on the history, archaeology, and significance of the mound. The site also offers an array of recreational activities and is a great option if you are looking to spend an eventful weekend picnicking or hiking with your family.
More than 450 activities await you at this non-profit facility dedicated to promoting a better understanding of science and technology. The Saunders Planetarium shows you the stars. Step inside the Gulf Coast Hurricane exhibit for a blast of tropical nightmare. At the IMAX Dome Theatre, the world is bigger than life, filled with odd sights and sounds on a huge screen. Souvenirs ranging from totes and T-shirts to puzzles and posters are available at the Science Store. For refreshment, the MOSI Café offers pizzas, salads and sandwiches.
Picture yourself sailing the waters of Tampa Bay, starlight above, sea below and a good dinner on the table in front of you. Then call Starlite Cruises, voted "Best Dinner Cruise" by readers of Tampa Bay Magazine. The cruises offer full service dining and live entertainment. Enjoy Dixieland Jazz or dance to intimate oldies during a luncheon or dinner-dance cruise. Starlite can arrange special attention for you to celebrate a personal occasion or arrange a company charter. Rates vary depending on date, time and dinner choice, see the web site for information.
The StarShip Yacht provides two-hour dining cruises along with 4-star menu selections prepared daily by the ship's chef. Enjoy the Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise featuring breakfast and lunch selections or the Lunch Cruise, which offers a 3-course meal including appetizer, entree and dessert. While cruising the waters of Tampa Bay, a narration of historical points of interest is provided on both cruises. For an evening of fun, the Dinner Cruise offers a 3-course meal, live music, bar and dancing under the moonlight. Throughout the year, special cruises have been scheduled for holidays and special events. Reservations required.
Price:Brunch and Lunch Adults: $44.95 Child: $31.95 Dinner Adults: $79.95 Child: $44.95
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced rider, In the Breeze offers something for everyone. The ranch offers riding lessons in both English and Western style, nature trail rides with certified guides, moonlight rides for intermediate and advanced riders, plus pony rentals and hay rides. Children's camps are also held. Call them to check the dates. Take lessons on nature while you walk through woods. One-on-one attention is paid for the handicapped. You may also throw a nature party at Breeze.