While not as well known as numerous other places in the state of Florida among visitors, the city of Tarpon Springs is home to many cultural events throughout the year, as it boasts the largest Greek heritage population than any other city in America, as well as a number of other things to do. Tarpon Springs is also known for being the world’s “natural sponge capital” and offers dozens of miles of the state’s scenic waterfront. There’s a quaint downtown area that’s listed on the country’s National Register of Historic Places and provides plenty of opportunities for shopping and much more.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tarpon Springs is from October to April, when temperatures are mild and perfect for walking the sponge docks, boating, and enjoying alfresco dining. Spring offers ideal weather for festivals and outdoor adventures.
How to Get There
- By Car: Tarpon Springs is located along U.S. Route 19, about 45 minutes northwest of Tampa.
- By Air: Fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is just under an hour away by car.
- By Public Transit: The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) offers limited bus service to and from the greater Tampa Bay area.
Where to Stay
- Hampton Inn & Suites Tarpon Springs – Clean, comfortable, and minutes from the sponge docks and downtown.
- Tarpon Shores Inn – Budget-friendly option with a pool, hot tub, and easy access to beaches and town attractions.
- Hibiscus Hideaway – Quaint local guesthouse with a tropical garden vibe and personal touches.
Top Attractions
1. Watch the Sunset from the Beach at Fred Howard Park
Rating: ★★★★★
I discovered Tarpon Springs as a day trip from Clearwater and I really loved it so I want to tell you about my favorite attractions here.
My first stop was Fred Howard Park which encompasses more than 150 acres along the Gulf.
Its unique location offers gulf access by way of a causeway measuring one mile in length.
The has a white sand beach that I adored. There was plenty of parking, great fishing and kayaking. After a long swim, we had a picnic lunch in the shade (there are nine picnic shelters).
If you have kids, they can play on two playgrounds.
If you are lucky, you may come across a manatee or dolphin. There are usually some butterflies around as well.
Definitely stay for sunset and have your camera handy!
Address: 1700 Sunset Dr, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, Phone: 727-582-2100
2. Spongeorama Sponge Factory
If you’re crazy about natural curiosities and want to experience attractions that Tarpon Springs is best known for, then the Spongeorama Sponge Factory should be a stop on your itinerary while in the city.
Home to the largest selection of natural sponges in the world, the Spongeorama Sponge Factory features various types of sponges harvested in Tarpon Springs.
See exhibits of sponges that have been used for bathing, automobile use, cleaning, or even for beauty purposes.
But that’s not all there is to do at Spongeorama.
You can also take a dolphin cruise and dine on authentic Greek fare at Yianni’s. Don't worry, the prices are actually quite affordable with dolphin cruises from $27 for adults!
510 Dodacanese Boulevard, Tarpon Springs, Florida 34689; Phone: 727-943-2164
3. Stroll on Lakeside Trails at A. L. Anderson Park
Just 15 minutes by can inland from Fred Howard Park is my second favorite park in Tarpon Springs: A. L. Anderson Park.
Situated on Lake Tarpon, it has great views of the lake and Salmon Bay, wooded areas, and hilly terrain.
Along the shoreline of the Salmon Bay, you will find a distinct arrangement of a 478 linear-foot-long nature trail, elevated boardwalk, and picnic pads among cypress trees.
You can also spend your day boating. A boat ramp can be used for a fee.
Other features of the park consists of a dog park, a playground, multiple picnic shelters, restroom facilities, nature trails, and boardwalks.
39699 US Hwy 19 N, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, Phone: 727-582-2100
If you decide to spend the night here, Hampton Inn & Suites Tarpon Springs is very comfortable.
4. Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve
From A. L. Anderson Park, drive further inland for 15 minutes to reach Brooker Creek Preserve. I went hiking here and I loved it!
The preserve spans across approximately 9,800 acres, providing abundant space for outdoor recreation activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and birding.
Stop by the Environmental Education Center at the Brooker Creek Preserve which offers a number of interactive exhibits and displays for you to explore and to learn about both the local history and natural history of Florida.
A network of equestrian and hiking trails provide you with a chance to explore the preserve’s ecosystems.
3940 Keystone Rd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688, Phone: 727-453-6800
5. Take the kids to Konger Tarpon Springs Aquarium
If you are traveling with kids or if it's a hot summer afternoon, drive about 8 minutes north from A. L. Anderson Park to Konger Tarpon Springs Aquarium.
If provides you with an opportunity to see an array of local reptilian and aquatic life.
You can watch eel, snake, alligator, and shark showings at multiple times in the day.
View the staff feeding the animals, and possibly touch the animals as well.
The Tarpon Springs Aquarium is also home to Puffy’s Playground, an indoor playground with a ball pit, a bounce house, and more.
My favorite aquarium exhibits were the stingray pool and the touch pool.
850 Dodecanese Blvd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, Phone: 727-938-5378
6. See art at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art
Next, stop by the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, situated on the campus of the St. Petersburg College, only a couple miles away from the historic district’s shops and sponge docks.
This contemporary and modern art museum primarily features works of art created during the twentieth century and the twenty-first century.
Along with eight permanent galleries showcasing the museum’s collection, the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art also hosts an array of special exhibits throughout the year, as well as educational art programs.
The award-winning building also houses a museum store selling local works and art-themed products, and an interactive gallery.
600 E Klosterman Rd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, Phone: 727-712-5762
7. Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks
Immerse yourself in one of Florida’s historic villages at Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.
Located at the center of Tarpon Springs, the Sponge Docks started when sponge beds were found in the waters.
Since then, with the know-how and efforts of Greek immigrants, the local sponge industry flourished and grew until Tarpon Springs became known as the sponge capital of the world.
Although the sponge beds were destroyed in 1946, the decades of industry and commercial success is still strongly felt by the community.
735 Dodecanese Boulevard, Tarpon Springs, Florida 34689
8. Step Into Victorian Elegance at the Historic Safford House Museum
The 1883 Safford House Museum is the former home of one of the original developers of the city of Tarpon Springs, Florida, offering you an opportunity to step back into the city’s past.
The house has been meticulously restored to reflect its original Victorian grandeur and is now open to visitors.
A visit to the Safford House Museum offers a glimpse into life in Florida over one hundred years ago, as well as the life of the Safford family in particular.
23 Parkin Ct, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, Phone: 727-942-5605
9. Explore the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society
The Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the culturally rich history of Tarpon Springs, Florida and operates a museum in the historic Tarpon Springs Train Depot which you can visit.
While the train depot has been around for more than a century, it’s no longer a working train station and the public can now visit the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society’s museum on certain days.
You can either explore the local history museum on your own or take a guided tour. There’s also a History Hunt offered for children or “kids at heart.”
160 E Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689, Phone: 727-943-4624
I just ADORE this part of Florida and keep visiting as much as I can. If you've already been to Clearwater Beach, head to Palm Harbor next!
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