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Travel Florida - Gulf Side, Away from the Crowds

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This is a list of my favorite, somewhat hidden gems on the "other" side of Florida - not so much the spring-breakers side. Go slow here. Take in the natural beauty without feeling rushed. Have drinks & dinner on the dock. From a dog-friendly beac...
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Arts

 
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This October we get to immerse ourselves in jazz, jazz, jazz! We love the festivals near the beach and have a huge selection of jazz artists to choose from.
Clearwater Jazz
 
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Literally, one of the biggest collaborations between artists & local businesses. We really enjoy mapping our way through the city in the fall to check out that signature artsy vibe that St. Pete supports.
Big Art-Only in St. Pete- Shine On Murals
 
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If you love surrealism, abstract and post-modern, you will love this museum. It's a surprising find in the St. Petersburg area (near the Pier), and worth every penny to check out. In fact, there are a number of hidden gem museums in the area.
The Dali Museum
 
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This is a permanent exhibition that gives glass-lovers a sparkle of glass-heaven! I have a tendency to pick up small glass momentos when I can find them, wherever we travel. The art of blowing glass is something that is magical and you can see it bei...
The Chihuly Collection

Ocean

 
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Keeping it safe and fun. Please do try to understand the beach conditions before you plan a trip to one of our beaches. This site is really helpful to find pet-friendly spots, rip-tide zones activity, weather and red tide levels, if any.
Know before you go to Florida beaches with this super helpful site - "BeachLens"
 
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This is our favorite beach to bring our dog. Take note - there is a specific area for dogs and, yes, some owners let their dogs off leash (you are not supposed to, though) . But it all works out in the end. There are also places to rinse off your fee...
Looking for a dog-friendly beach? Bring your dog to Honeymoon Island State Park
 
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While not pet-friendly, (in order to protect the wildlife there), it's a great way to experience an untouched area of nature. You can rent and go kayaking along the mangroves or take the ferry that runs you to the island. This is a great day trip for...
It's an island. It's a beach. It's a park! Caladesi Island State Park is an amazing, pristine break from the mundane.
 
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We love to spend a day here, especially during the farmers market. Dog friendly area, too. And there are a number a great places to eat- some on the water, overlooking the bay. So beautiful. There is a hotel nearby and so many funky, artsy stores. No...
One of my FAVORITE darling places to visit - Dunedin, Florida - Official Guide

Activities

 
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Away from the crowds, this is a quaint place to grab ice cream, catch live music and watch harbor boats. 30 minutes south of Sarasota.
Fishermen's Village
 
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12 acres of reptiles. It’s gonna be fun! So much to learn here. I suggest giving your group at least 2 hours to meander. And the trivia you can take back home?! So fun!
Visit IGUANALAND
 
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Tour the real Florida wildlife by experiencing this 90 minute adventure. I suggest that you have solid transportation plans to get in and out of the area. It’s a bit remote but that’s how you get the best views! Worth the time and money.
Babcock Ranch Eco Tours Punta Gorda, FL
 
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Do something off the beaten path. Make sure to spend a day at the sponge docks and learn about the history of this special place. We love to meander and discover different Greek restaurants along the way. Bring your walking shoes!
More than typical -Tarpon Springs Florida|Sponge Docks|Greek Restaurants|Epiphany
 
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When you tire of the amusement parks and packed beaches, find your way to this side of Florida, north of Tampa. This area has steadily grown so many activities, both in the water and out. Paddle boarding, boating, fishing, marine exploration, golf, p...
FL Sports Coast
 
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Really advise avoiding the spring break weeks, as the site gets crowded. Better to visit in the fall and February or so for the easiest exploration. But don’t forget to take pictures of the ocean from the top of the pier - amazing views.
Visit the St. Pete Pier District as a simple meandering day to be out & about. Lots to do- beach, events, restaurants, museums!
 
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Not quite the golf champion? Well, you can play a put-put course created by one! Tiger Woods helped design this fun course that's great for the family. I enjoy the friendly competition and a quick meal afterwards. Add this to your list for a fun acti...
Mini Golf, Craft Food, Drinks & Family Entertainment | PopStroke Tampa
 
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This is the newest addition to the park. We are planning to go later this fall (when it's a bit cooler) and are looking forward to seeing the habitat and animals.
Lion and Hyena Ridge | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay