Help me plan my Outback Bowl trip

[republion]

I decided to treat the wife and kids to a bowl experience and escape the mild temperatures of NC and head even more south to the sunshine state for the New Years holiday. I already have game tickets, and reluctantly booked 3 nights at the Opal Sands on Clearwater Beach. I'm notoriously cheap, and prefer not to drop $2500 for 3 nights lodging/parking at any resort, but I do want to give the family a good experience. I can still cancel, but seeking advice on where to stay if I do cancel.

Here are my questions:

LODGING:
- Should I stay on Clearwater Beach, or should we stay in Tampa instead? Is it better to be at the beach and drive into Tampa, or stay in Tampa and drive over to Clearwater for a beach day? We are there for 3 nights, so we want to stay where we can see and do the most stuff efficiently.

EVENTS/ ACTIVITIES/ SIGHT SEEING:
- This is our first time in the Tampa area. Does anyone have any recommendations for local activities and sight seeing, as well as must do events related to the bowl game?

GAMEDAY PARKING/TAILGATING:
- With a noon kickoff, I'm sure tailgating won't be over the top, but what advice would you give for pre-game? We are driving from NC to Tampa, so we will have our vehicle and can pack any pre-game supplies we need. Is there any way to find out if Penn Staters are parking in certain lots? Do I need to pre-purchase parking or just show up and pull in somewhere?

Anything else you might recommend for our first family bowl experience and Tampa trip is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Catch1lion]

Here are the outback events ….

Event Calendar

www.outbackbowl.com

I bought parking on line . Been to Raymond Janes once for a Bucs game . Don’t recall much in the way of restaraunts around it. Maybe someone can elaborate .
I like Don Cesar at St Pete . My outlaws have a place near there .
Busch Gardens is fun if you like amusement parks . Team day and band days are there .
never saw the Outback parade but might check that out .

I think the beaches are much nicer options than anything downtown for the family .
Blue Band is staying at the Sheraton Sand Key that area is really nice . All the beaches along there are really a great choice.

 

[Bosco2]

Breakfast at Lennie's.

 

[Bkmtnittany1]

Beer!

 

[rudedude]

The shot clock will be at MaconNitt’s tailgate!

 

[MrTailgate]

I decided to treat the wife and kids to a bowl experience and escape the mild temperatures of NC and head even more south to the sunshine state for the New Years holiday. I already have game tickets, and reluctantly booked 3 nights at the Opal Sands on Clearwater Beach. I'm notoriously cheap, and prefer not to drop $2500 for 3 nights lodging/parking at any resort, but I do want to give the family a good experience. I can still cancel, but seeking advice on where to stay if I do cancel.

Here are my questions:

LODGING:
- Should I stay on Clearwater Beach, or should we stay in Tampa instead? Is it better to be at the beach and drive into Tampa, or stay in Tampa and drive over to Clearwater for a beach day? We are there for 3 nights, so we want to stay where we can see and do the most stuff efficiently.

EVENTS/ ACTIVITIES/ SIGHT SEEING:
- This is our first time in the Tampa area. Does anyone have any recommendations for local activities and sight seeing, as well as must do events related to the bowl game?

GAMEDAY PARKING/TAILGATING:
- With a noon kickoff, I'm sure tailgating won't be over the top, but what advice would you give for pre-game? We are driving from NC to Tampa, so we will have our vehicle and can pack any pre-game supplies we need. Is there any way to find out if Penn Staters are parking in certain lots? Do I need to pre-purchase parking or just show up and pull in somewhere?

Anything else you might recommend for our first family bowl experience and Tampa trip is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

I responded to the same questions you previously asked. I might suggest calling some of the realtors on the beach if you want to consider something other than the Opal. You can try Sand Key Realty, Florida Beach Rentals, and Belliose Realty. They used to have a list of properties that you could make an offer for lodging if they were not filled near the last minute. So, you could get great deals for condos which would give you more room by making a late offer to someone who simply wants to fill their place at the last minute. You might want to at least check Palm Pavillon which is on the beach but not nearly as resort like as the Opal is. Right across and down the street from the Opal is Coconut Cove which are 2 bedrooms I believe. They will be cheaper and you will have more space.

The Beach is night and day different experience than staying in Tampa. You will have about a 30 min drive from the beach over to Raymond James with normal traffic.

I detailed the restaurants on the beach previously from casual to fine dining.

As far as Tampa goes, the standard visiting things that people will suggest are the Lowry Zoo, Big Cat Rescue, Ybor City, and Busch Gardens. If you want to drive a bit, St Pete is nice to kick around a bit and the Dali Museum is interesting. That is if you’re staying in Tampa. St Pete will be 45 mins to an hour if you are coming over from the Beach.

 

[Zone-Blitz]

I decided to treat the wife and kids to a bowl experience and escape the mild temperatures of NC and head even more south to the sunshine state for the New Years holiday. I already have game tickets, and reluctantly booked 3 nights at the Opal Sands on Clearwater Beach. I'm notoriously cheap, and prefer not to drop $2500 for 3 nights lodging/parking at any resort, but I do want to give the family a good experience. I can still cancel, but seeking advice on where to stay if I do cancel.

Here are my questions:

LODGING:
- Should I stay on Clearwater Beach, or should we stay in Tampa instead? Is it better to be at the beach and drive into Tampa, or stay in Tampa and drive over to Clearwater for a beach day? We are there for 3 nights, so we want to stay where we can see and do the most stuff efficiently.

EVENTS/ ACTIVITIES/ SIGHT SEEING:
- This is our first time in the Tampa area. Does anyone have any recommendations for local activities and sight seeing, as well as must do events related to the bowl game?

GAMEDAY PARKING/TAILGATING:
- With a noon kickoff, I'm sure tailgating won't be over the top, but what advice would you give for pre-game? We are driving from NC to Tampa, so we will have our vehicle and can pack any pre-game supplies we need. Is there any way to find out if Penn Staters are parking in certain lots? Do I need to pre-purchase parking or just show up and pull in somewhere?

Anything else you might recommend for our first family bowl experience and Tampa trip is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

I live here. Stay on Clearwater beach. Highly recommend the Columbia restaurant over on sand key. Check out the Dunedin area which is just a stones throw from Clearwater beach. There is a nice Main Street there with boutiques, restaurants and the best homemade ice cream, and a new gourmet popcorn place called Harley’s. Read up on the Jolly Trolley. For a small fee you can get an all day ride pass and can hop on/off at many locations around Clearwater beach/ sand key/ and tarpon springs. You will get 10x the value for your money in Clearwater than tampa. Allow an hour for your drive over to tampa. Half of new york has moved here and snowbirds have arrived. Traffic right now is crazy

 

[PSUJam]

The shot clock will be at MaconNitt’s tailgate!

 

[republion]

Here are the outback events ….

Event Calendar

www.outbackbowl.com

I bought parking on line . Been to Raymond Janes once for a Bucs game . Don’t recall much in the way of restaraunts around it. Maybe someone can elaborate .
I like Don Cesar at St Pete . My outlaws have a place near there .
Busch Gardens is fun if you like amusement parks . Team day and band days are there .
never saw the Outback parade but might check that out .

I think the beaches are much nicer options than anything downtown for the family .
Blue Band is staying at the Sheraton Sand Key that area is really nice . All the beaches along there are really a great choice.

Thanks for the info. Maybe a Busch Gardens day would be fun for the kids. I know Disney crowds are crazy busy during this time, I wonder if BG will be too?

 

[republion]

I responded to the same questions you previously asked. I might suggest calling some of the realtors on the beach if you want to consider something other than the Opal. You can try Sand Key Realty, Florida Beach Rentals, and Belliose Realty. They used to have a list of properties that you could make an offer for lodging if they were not filled near the last minute. So, you could get great deals for condos which would give you more room by making a late offer to someone who simply wants to fill their place at the last minute. You might want to at least check Palm Pavillon which is on the beach but not nearly as resort like as the Opal is. Right across and down the street from the Opal is Coconut Cove which are 2 bedrooms I believe. They will be cheaper and you will have more space.

The Beach is night and day different experience than staying in Tampa. You will have about a 30 min drive from the beach over to Raymond James with normal traffic.

I detailed the restaurants on the beach previously from casual to fine dining.

As far as Tampa goes, the standard visiting things that people will suggest are the Lowry Zoo, Big Cat Rescue, Ybor City, and Busch Gardens. If you want to drive a bit, St Pete is nice to kick around a bit and the Dali Museum is interesting. That is if you’re staying in Tampa. St Pete will be 45 mins to an hour if you are coming over from the Beach.

For some reason, I thought I posted my original question on the old site. Thanks again for the info.
As for the beach being night and day different than Tampa, I assume that doesn’t mean better or worse, just different. Correct?

 

[Catch1lion]

Thanks for the info. Maybe a Busch Gardens day would be fun for the kids. I know Disney crowds are crazy busy during this time, I wonder if BG will be too?

Holidays so probably crowded . I don’t remember the lines every being Disney long

 

[Catch1lion]

For some reason, I thought I posted my original question on the old site. Thanks again for the info.
As for the beach being night and day different than Tampa, I assume that doesn’t mean better or worse, just different. Correct?

Beach is way better Downtown is city like . Not much for your kids to do there .

 

[MaconNitt]

GAMEDAY PARKING/TAILGATING:
- With a noon kickoff, I'm sure tailgating won't be over the top, but what advice would you give for pre-game? We are driving from NC to Tampa, so we will have our vehicle and can pack any pre-game supplies we need. Is there any way to find out if Penn Staters are parking in certain lots? Do I need to pre-purchase parking or just show up and pull in somewhere?

Anything else you might recommend for our first family bowl experience and Tampa trip is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

The shot clock will be at MaconNitt’s tailgate!

I will be parking and tailgating here:

Events |Mike's Lot

mikes-lot.com

one block over and one block up to the stadium, .3 mile walk, small lot (40 +/- spaces, spoke to the owner by phone said we can tailgate before and after game. Look for the PSU pop-up.

I second the Busch Gardens recommendation. been there several times. best of both worlds amusement park and zoo. some nice shady paths/walkways. get tickets early on line or you will get stuck paying full price at the gate.

 

[ODShowtime]

Stay near the beach in Pinellas county. Clearwater Beach and the surrounding area is much more easy family friendly than most of Tampa. But Tampa does have Busch Gardens. The area surrounding BG is sketchy. The stadium area is nice.

Clearwater Beach and Dunedin are both fun to explore on foot. Honeymoon Island State Park is minutes way and offers even more family fun. I think you can rent kayaks on the causeway that leads to the island.

 

[MrTailgate]

For some reason, I thought I posted my original question on the old site. Thanks again for the info.
As for the beach being night and day different than Tampa, I assume that doesn’t mean better or worse, just different. Correct?

As others have said, Tampa is more urban since it’s a “city”, Clearwater Beach is more a destination stop. CB has all the destination beach activities (charter fishing, parasail, dolphin watch, jet ski, dinner cruises, etc). If you want to stay on land, you can rent scooter cars, bikes, etc as well in the garage under the Edge Motel which is next to the Opal). CB is routinely voted as one of the best beaches in the world with sugar white sand. As others have said Dunedin is 10 min drive or accessible via the Jolly Trolly. I’d also recommend a drive across the Sandkey Bridge down Gulf Blvd through all the great little towns. John’s Pass (about 15 mins drive) is a popular little town to walk around. Touristy but cute shops. The Clearwater Aquarium is very close but Winter who was the star attraction just recently died. Winter was the dolphin that they did two movies about who was rescued and fitted with prosthetics. One thing not mentioned is that you can take the water taxi to Dunedin from Clearwater Beach. It’s not cheap but it gives you a nice boat ride over to Dunedin and will give you some nice time on the water. It will stop at the 4 Clearwater stops and then end at Dunedin.

Casual beach dining - Frenchy’s Rockaway, Palm Pavillion - very similar, both directly on beach
Casual beach Italian - Gondalier
Fine beach Italian - Forlinis
Fine beach dining - Beachcomber, Colombia (Sandkey- 5 min drive), Island Way Grille ( 5 min drive), Caretta (inside Sand Pearl Resort)
Best Place - Bait House a/k/a Clearwater Tackle and Tavern - freshest fish and drunken shrimp, super small

 

[Mr. Potter]

First and Foremost you must have Dinner at an Outback Steakhouse. It's the same level of importance as wearing PSU gear.

 

[MrTailgate]

Just couple of other goofy things if you stay in Clearwater Beach.

1- If by chance any Phillies fans are making the trip down, it’s worth a quick drive to Clearwater proper to see old Jack Russell Stadium ( take Fort Harrison to Seminole, right on Seminole to Jack Russell). The Phillies have a series of monuments along one of the walkways at the facility honoring the history of Jack Russell. One of the monuments details the Hall Of Famers who played at Jack Russell. If you consider the rock pile that they played at a couple of blocks away from Jack Russell, probably close to half the Hall played on one of the locations. You won’t see Jackie’s name and DiMaggios name on the monument since they played at the rock pile and not JR, but you will see a who’s who of names who played at old Jack Russell.

2- For music historians, you will also be able to to say you saw rock history. The Rolling Stones played at old Jack Russell but were shut down after 4 songs. They returned to the Fort Harrison Hotel after the gig, and legend has it that Satisfaction was written that night at the Fort Harrison. There is some dispute, but most agree that Satisfaction was born in Clearwater. You can also take a drive a couple blocks away to an empty lot that was the site of the former house where Jim Morrison lived. It’s a shame that the house wasn’t preserved or at least noted by a plaque.

3- Others have mentioned Dunedin. One thing you can do, is park in Dunedin and go to Racers and rent bikes to ride up the Pinellas Trail. If you want a 25 mile round trip, you can ride out to Tarpon Springs which is a funny little town known for its sponge diving, etc. Lots of Greek shops and places to eat at.

4 - If some are coming down and Brewery visits is something you’re interested in, there are a large number of breweries in Dunedin. The four breweries that attract the most attention are Angry Chair (Tampa), Arkane (Largo), Cycle Brewing (St Pete), and Cigar City (Tampa). Of the 10 or so breweries nestled in Dunedin, 7th Sun is my favorite). I don’t drink whiskey, etc, so you’d have to google distillery spots around the area. I’m sure there are some.

5- If you do a dolphin trip, I can vouch for Lil Toot at the Circle when you come onto the beach. What makes their excursion a little interesting is that they combine a little local history with dolphin watches. They will take you along the water to houses where the celebrities have lived or still continue to live at. There are a couple of impressive spreads for sure including where the CEO of Outback, Hulk Hogan,etc.

 

[TiogaLion]

I decided to treat the wife and kids to a bowl experience and escape the mild temperatures of NC and head even more south to the sunshine state for the New Years holiday. I already have game tickets, and reluctantly booked 3 nights at the Opal Sands on Clearwater Beach. I'm notoriously cheap, and prefer not to drop $2500 for 3 nights lodging/parking at any resort, but I do want to give the family a good experience. I can still cancel, but seeking advice on where to stay if I do cancel.

Here are my questions:

LODGING:
- Should I stay on Clearwater Beach, or should we stay in Tampa instead? Is it better to be at the beach and drive into Tampa, or stay in Tampa and drive over to Clearwater for a beach day? We are there for 3 nights, so we want to stay where we can see and do the most stuff efficiently.

EVENTS/ ACTIVITIES/ SIGHT SEEING:
- This is our first time in the Tampa area. Does anyone have any recommendations for local activities and sight seeing, as well as must do events related to the bowl game?

GAMEDAY PARKING/TAILGATING:
- With a noon kickoff, I'm sure tailgating won't be over the top, but what advice would you give for pre-game? We are driving from NC to Tampa, so we will have our vehicle and can pack any pre-game supplies we need. Is there any way to find out if Penn Staters are parking in certain lots? Do I need to pre-purchase parking or just show up and pull in somewhere?

Anything else you might recommend for our first family bowl experience and Tampa trip is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

How old as the kids? What do you guys like to do when on vacation? Fish, hike, sight see, shop, generally explore, sit around and relax, etc?

 

[Nitwit]

Just couple of other goofy things if you stay in Clearwater Beach.

1- If by chance any Phillies fans are making the trip down, it’s worth a quick drive to Clearwater proper to see old Jack Russell Stadium ( take Fort Harrison to Seminole, right on Seminole to Jack Russell). The Phillies have a series of monuments along one of the walkways at the facility honoring the history of Jack Russell. One of the monuments details the Hall Of Famers who played at Jack Russell. If you consider the rock pile that they played at a couple of blocks away from Jack Russell, probably close to half the Hall played on one of the locations. You won’t see Jackie’s name and DiMaggios name on the monument since they played at the rock pile and not JR, but you will see a who’s who of names who played at old Jack Russell.

2- For music historians, you will also be able to to say you saw rock history. The Rolling Stones played at old Jack Russell but were shut down after 4 songs. They returned to the Fort Harrison Hotel after the gig, and legend has it that Satisfaction was written that night at the Fort Harrison. There is some dispute, but most agree that Satisfaction was born in Clearwater. You can also take a drive a couple blocks away to an empty lot that was the site of the former house where Jim Morrison lived. It’s a shame that the house wasn’t preserved or at least noted by a plaque.

3- Others have mentioned Dunedin. One thing you can do, is park in Dunedin and go to Racers and rent bikes to ride up the Pinellas Trail. If you want a 25 mile round trip, you can ride out to Tarpon Springs which is a funny little town known for its sponge diving, etc. Lots of Greek shops and places to eat at.

4 - If some are coming down and Brewery visits is something you’re interested in, there are a large number of breweries in Dunedin. The four breweries that attract the most attention are Angry Chair (Tampa), Arkane (Largo), Cycle Brewing (St Pete), and Cigar City (Tampa). Of the 10 or so breweries nestled in Dunedin, 7th Sun is my favorite). I don’t drink whiskey, etc, so you’d have to google distillery spots around the area. I’m sure there are some.

5- If you do a dolphin trip, I can vouch for Lil Toot at the Circle when you come onto the beach. What makes their excursion a little interesting is that they combine a little local history with dolphin watches. They will take you along the water to houses where the celebrities have lived or still continue to live at. There are a couple of impressive spreads for sure including where the CEO of Outback, Hulk Hogan,etc.

There are some nice boat cruises out of Tarpon Springs focused on the ecological aspects of the area. You’re likely to see some dolphins along the way. And as you mentioned there are a lot of good Greek restaurants to sample for either lunch or dinner.

 

[step.eng69]

I will be parking and tailgating here:

Events |Mike's Lot

mikes-lot.com

one block over and one block up to the stadium, .3 mile walk, small lot (40 +/- spaces, spoke to the owner by phone said we can tailgate before and after game. Look for the PSU pop-up.

I second the Busch Gardens recommendation. been there several times. best of both worlds amusement park and zoo. some nice shady paths/walkways. get tickets early on line or you will get stuck paying full price at the gate.

MaconNitt, @PSUJam @rudedude

Have son, daughter in law & four grand kids going to the game. All live in NEPA

If they are in the area, Would it be ok if they stop by?

If so, suggestions on what to have them bring.
They’re renting a BnB somewhere between Orlando and Tampa and Ubering to the stadium

Step

 

[Catch1lion]

First and Foremost you must have Dinner at an Outback Steakhouse. It's the same level of importance as wearing PSU gear.

Bonus points if you order the OSU marketed items !

Outback Steakhouse inks NIL deals with Florida, Michigan, Ohio State stars

...

247sports.com

Waynesboro - Order Online

Order Online at Waynesboro, Waynesboro. Pay Ahead and Skip the Line.

order.outback.com

 

[republion]

How old as the kids? What do you guys like to do when on vacation? Fish, hike, sight see, shop, generally explore, sit around and relax, etc?

Kids are 16,15, and 12. The boys likes to fish. The girls like to beach, site see, shop, and relax.

 

[TiogaLion]

Kids are 16,15, and 12. The boys likes to fish. The girls like to beach, site see, shop, and relax.

Clearwater Beach is the place for your family. Plan a 1/2 in Tarpon Springs. Also, bring some fishing gear or stop at a Walmart and pickup some gear on the way to Clearwater Beach. Any rig is fine for a day or two but if a big one grabs your bait it'll be dicey trying to land him. Take pictures and release your catc

Public Fishing piers near Clearwater Beach. Zoom in a click on ones close to your place.

Public fishing pier near clearwater beach fl

www.google.com

Hotels in Clearwater Beach. Set the "Check-in and Check-out" dates in the side pane.

Hotels in clearwater beach fl

www.google.com

Tarpon Springs is a town settled by Greek sponge fishermen and sponge fishing continues today. Park in the free lots near the sponge docks. The kids will like the goofy stores selling touristy stuff and you'll love the Greek Restaurants. Here's a Trip Advisor on the best things to do in Tarpon Springs. I personally like just walking around.

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Tarpon Springs (2024)

Things to Do in Tarpon Springs, Florida: See Tripadvisor's 33,672 traveler reviews and photos of Tarpon Springs tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in October. We have reviews of the best places to see in Tarpon Springs. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

www.tripadvisor.com

 

[republion]

Clearwater Beach is the place for your family. Plan a 1/2 in Tarpon Springs. Also, bring some fishing gear or stop at a Walmart and pickup some gear on the way to Clearwater Beach. Any rig is fine for a day or two but if a big one grabs your bait it'll be dicey trying to land him. Take pictures and release your catc

Public Fishing piers near Clearwater Beach. Zoom in a click on ones close to your place.

Public fishing pier near clearwater beach fl

www.google.com

Hotels in Clearwater Beach. Set the "Check-in and Check-out" dates in the side pane.

Hotels in clearwater beach fl

www.google.com

Tarpon Springs is a town settled by Greek sponge fishermen and sponge fishing continues today. Park in the free lots near the sponge docks. The kids will like the goofy stores selling touristy stuff and you'll love the Greek Restaurants. Here's a Trip Advisor on the best things to do in Tarpon Springs. I personally like just walking around.

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Tarpon Springs (2024)

Things to Do in Tarpon Springs, Florida: See Tripadvisor's 33,672 traveler reviews and photos of Tarpon Springs tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in October. We have reviews of the best places to see in Tarpon Springs. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

www.tripadvisor.com

Good info. Thanks! And thanks to everyone for great feedback!

 

[Nohow]

Ybor City in Tampa: Columbia Restaurant (115 years, 5 generations, oldest Spanish restaurant in US, flamenco dancing).
Handmade cigars rolled for you by Cubans on 7th Ave.

 

[Catch1lion]

Ybor City in Tampa: Columbia Restaurant (115 years, 5 generations, oldest Spanish restaurant in US, flamenco dancing).
Handmade cigars rolled for you by Cubans on 7th Ave.

Parade is Friday evening in Ybor

 

[Nohow]

Parade is Friday evening in Ybor

You mean Outback Bowl Parade.

 

[MrTailgate]

Good info. Thanks! And thanks to everyone for great feedback!

Let me know what you settled on for final choices.

 

[MaconNitt]

MaconNitt, @PSUJam @rudedude

Have son, daughter in law & four grand kids going to the game. All live in NEPA

If they are in the area, Would it be ok if they stop by?

If so, suggestions on what to have them bring.
They’re renting a BnB somewhere between Orlando and Tampa and Ubering to the stadium

Step

Sure, the more the merrier.

 

[harjeff]

Thanks for the info. Maybe a Busch Gardens day would be fun for the kids. I know Disney crowds are crazy busy during this time, I wonder if BG will be too?

Just got back from BG last week, it is very crowded, but still fun if you like roller coasters, they have many and a couple nice Christmas shows. Get there at opening and hit up Cheetah Hunt first as it will get an hour or 2 long wait within an hour of park opening. Sheikra and Montu are AWESOME rides. Falcons Fury will give you a whole new look at drop towers! It is AWESOME as well. Enjoy your trip

 

[LBUfanatic]

Clearwater Beach is the place for your family. Plan a 1/2 in Tarpon Springs. Also, bring some fishing gear or stop at a Walmart and pickup some gear on the way to Clearwater Beach. Any rig is fine for a day or two but if a big one grabs your bait it'll be dicey trying to land him. Take pictures and release your catc

Public Fishing piers near Clearwater Beach. Zoom in a click on ones close to your place.

Public fishing pier near clearwater beach fl

www.google.com

Hotels in Clearwater Beach. Set the "Check-in and Check-out" dates in the side pane.

Hotels in clearwater beach fl

www.google.com

Tarpon Springs is a town settled by Greek sponge fishermen and sponge fishing continues today. Park in the free lots near the sponge docks. The kids will like the goofy stores selling touristy stuff and you'll love the Greek Restaurants. Here's a Trip Advisor on the best things to do in Tarpon Springs. I personally like just walking around.

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Tarpon Springs (2024)

Things to Do in Tarpon Springs, Florida: See Tripadvisor's 33,672 traveler reviews and photos of Tarpon Springs tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in October. We have reviews of the best places to see in Tarpon Springs. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

www.tripadvisor.com

If you’re venturing north of Clearwater and want to experience a truly phenomenal Italian restaurant, visit Casa Ludovico in Palm Harbor. Hands down, one of the best Italian restaurants I’ve experienced.

 

[step.eng69]

Sure, the more the merrier.

Thank you MaconNitt,
I’ll let the kids know they are welcome at your tailgate. If they plan on meeting up with you and your gang, I’ll have them bring beer & bourbon.

 

[rudedude]

MaconNitt, @PSUJam @rudedude

Have son, daughter in law & four grand kids going to the game. All live in NEPA

If they are in the area, Would it be ok if they stop by?

If so, suggestions on what to have them bring.
They’re renting a BnB somewhere between Orlando and Tampa and Ubering to the stadium

Step

Tell them to bring $1000 in small bills!

 

[step.eng69]

Tell them to bring $1000 in small bills!

Planning a trip to the
“world famous" Mons Venus

 

[MaconNitt]

Tell them to bring $1000 in small bills!

Planning a trip to the
“world famous" Mons Venus

I learned everything from an online seminar run by Gambit enterprises

 

[republion]

Let me know what you settled on for final choices.

We ended up canceling the hotel within our full refund period to make sure the game was still being played. We tried to rebook with Opal Sands yesterday but they were full. So we ended up going with Sand Pearl. From there, we’ll take everyone’s input into consideration and find places to go from there. Thanks again!

 

[MrTailgate]

We ended up canceling the hotel within our full refund period to make sure the game was still being played. We tried to rebook with Opal Sands yesterday but they were full. So we ended up going with Sand Pearl. From there, we’ll take everyone’s input into consideration and find places to go from there. Thanks again!

Sand Pearl is great. It is the site of the grand old lady of Clearwater Beach, The Clearwater Beach Hotel. We had such a wonderful history in the old CBH. There are photos of the old hotel along the wall as you walk into the lounge. The stories I could tell about the old place (and the new place come to think of it)!! Every night was special there and those escapades went deep, deep, deep into the night as the old CBH technically had no curfew. As far as in the immediate area, Clear Sky and Broken Egg are preferred breakfast spots. Frenchy’s Original on Baymont is not as popular as The Rockaway on the beach but I gave my liver to the Original so it’s my preferred of the two. Sunset at the Palm is a must with a nice beer watching the sun go down. Saltwater and Cooters on Pointsetta are very similar places. Best fine dining is the Caretta within the Sand Pearl and Bob Heilmam’s to take in the history of fine dining on the beach. Forlini’s is upscale Italian within steps of the SandPearl. Boy, the baseball stories that were told within Heilman’s by Paul Owens, Bill Conlin, and everyone else inbetween. Boxer & Hogan’s are beach bars popular with youngins and are open late, they will be popular to watch college and pro games since they have so many screens.

 

[republion]

Sand Pearl is great. It is the site of the grand old lady of Clearwater Beach, The Clearwater Beach Hotel. We had such a wonderful history in the old CBH. There are photos of the old hotel along the wall as you walk into the lounge. The stories I could tell about the old place (and the new place come to think of it)!! Every night was special there and those escapades went deep, deep, deep into the night as the old CBH technically had no curfew. As far as in the immediate area, Clear Sky and Broken Egg are preferred breakfast spots. Frenchy’s Original on Baymont is not as popular as The Rockaway on the beach but I gave my liver to the Original so it’s my preferred of the two. Sunset at the Palm is a must with a nice beer watching the sun go down. Saltwater and Cooters on Pointsetta are very similar places. Best fine dining is the Caretta within the Sand Pearl and Bob Heilmam’s to take in the history of fine dining on the beach. Forlini’s is upscale Italian within steps of the SandPearl. Boy, the baseball stories that were told within Heilman’s by Paul Owens, Bill Conlin, and everyone else inbetween. Boxer & Hogan’s are beach bars popular with youngins and are open late, they will be popular to watch college and pro games since they have so many screens.

Wow. You have a little bit of history there, I guess. Lol. Thanks for all the great info. Hitting the road by noon today.

 

[LionJim]

Wow. You have a little bit of history there, I guess. Lol. Thanks for all the great info. Hitting the road by noon today.

Safe travels.