If you’re visiting Tampa and have had your fill of the ubiquitous theme parks, chain restaurants, and tourist traps, you may be interested in exploring some of the vicinity’s quirkier landmarks, natural oddities, and distinctive eateries. For a true taste of the area, consider visiting some or all of these wonderfully unique destinations:

– Airstream Ranch – You’ve probably heard of the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. But in Dover, just outside Tampa, you can see eight silver Airstream trailers planted firmly in the ground with their noses pointing defiantly skyward. This fun and rather infamous exhibit has generated both raves and criticism and, as such, has arguably achieved its purpose as a work of art – to evoke a reaction in the viewer. It also makes for a great photo opp.

– Parkesdale Farm Market – Located in Plant City, also known as the strawberry capital of Florida, this family-operated strawberry and citrus market is visited by people who travel from far and wide to sample a world-famous strawberry milkshake, available year-round and dubbed by the Food Network as “America’s Best Drinkable Dessert.”

– Weeki Wachee Springs – Home to a refreshing, spring-fed water park (open seasonally), this attraction is better known for its unique live underwater “mermaid” show – the only one of its kind in the world.

– Hillsborough River State Park – Experience the Florida wilderness just outside of Tampa, where you’re likely to see an alligator basking in the sun as you hike, cycle, camp, canoe, kayak, picnic, or simply relax. Just be sure to observe from a distance, and never attempt to feed the gators.

– Big Cat Rescue – Take a guided tour and meet over 100 lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, and other wild cats in this unique educational sanctuary dedicated to ending the abuse and abandonment of captive exotic animals and promoting preservation of the species in the wild.

– Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center – Large numbers of warm-blooded manatees flock to the clean, warm saltwater discharge canal of the Big Bend Power Station, which has been designated a state and federal sanctuary to provide critical protection from the cold for these slow-moving, plant-eating aquatic animals. Enjoy an educational exhibit and nature walkways, along with the unique opportunity to view these gentle giants up close.

– Tampa Theater – Built in 1926 as one of America’s most elaborate “movie palaces,” the Tampa Theater remains a fiercely protected landmark in the heart of downtown. Inside, audiences are transported to a lavish, Mediterranean courtyard replete with old world statuary, gargoyles, and flowers. Overhead, you can view the floating clouds and twinkling stars of a nighttime sky. A favorite of area ghost hunters, the Tampa Theater is also rumored to be haunted.

– The Fish House – If you would enjoy eating some fresh fish at a picnic table, this hidden gem -and local favorite – is the place to be. Everything from shrimp to oysters to mullet to grouper comes dipped in a light, delicious batter, and if the heat rules out alfresco dining, you can take your order to go.

– Bok Tower Gardens – A meandering, historic landscaped garden complete with tranquil resting spots invites contemplation among breathtaking vistas. Acres of ferns, palms, oaks, and pines create a lush backdrop for flowering foliage, and the 205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco Singing Tower houses one of the world’s finest carillons. Concerts are performed daily.

– Ybor City – Known as Tampa’s “Latin Quarter,” this culturally rich neighborhood was founded as a cigar-manufacturing center and is now designated a National Historic Landmark District. Enjoy some Spanish or Cuban cuisine and then browse the eclectic shops and galleries among the old-world charm of red brick buildings, wrought iron balconies, and narrow brick streets.

– The Sponge Docks – The sponge industry helped build Tarpon Springs, a small Greek community now famous not only for the world’s finest sponges, but also some of the best Greek restaurants, markets, and bakeries in the U.S.

With its glistening beaches, lush foliage, rich history, and intriguing wildlife, Tampa is an alluring destination that draws countless visitors year round. By adopting a spirit of adventure, however, you will discover just how much more this beautiful tropical city has to offer.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to general Tampa information.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to general Tampa information. http://www.laserspinelocations.com/tampa/

Author Bio: John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to general Tampa information.

Category: Travel
Keywords: general Tampa information