{"id":12899,"date":"2024-06-02T19:55:59","date_gmt":"2024-06-02T19:55:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/?p=12899"},"modified":"2025-01-14T19:45:16","modified_gmt":"2025-01-14T19:45:16","slug":"visiting-tampa-bay-amazing-things-to-do-near-tampa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/visiting-tampa-bay-amazing-things-to-do-near-tampa\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Tampa Bay: Top Things to Do Near Tampa"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>When visting Tampa, beaches may beckon sun seekers and wave crashers, but there is more to vacationing in the area than sea and surf. In fact, you\u2019ll find a number of amazing things to do near Tampa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those looking for some more off-the-beaten path adventures, here are 5 nearby attractions you&#8217;ll want to consider when visiting Tampa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#h-fauna-and-foliage-create-a-calming-respite-at-the-sunken-gardens\">Fauna and Foliage Create a Calming Respite at the Sunken Gardens<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#while-visiting-the-tampa-area-why-not-hit-the-sponge-capital-of-the-world\">While Visiting the Tampa Area, Why Not Hit the Sponge Capital of the World?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#exploring-the-ruins-of-fort-de-soto-near-tampa\">Things to Do Near Tampa: Exploring the Ruins of Fort De Soto Near Tampa<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#visiting-cigar-city-on-the-outskirts-of-tampa\">Visiting Cigar City on the Outskirts of Tampa.<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#manatees-welcome-travelers-visiting-tampa\">Manatees Welcome Travelers Visiting Tampa<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#h-other-travel-adventures-you-might-enjoy\">Get Out. Explore with Seconds to Go<\/a><ul><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#h-what-to-do-on-sanibel-island-beyond-shelling\">What to Do on Sanibel Island Beyond Shelling<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#h-things-to-do-at-fort-myers-beach-when-you-get-tired-of-the-sand-and-sun\">Things to Do at Fort Myers Beach When You Get Tired of the Sand And Sun<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#h-should-you-visit-disney-world-now-in-2022-everything-you-need-to-know\">Three Off-the-Beaten Path Summer Vacation Destinations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-fauna-and-foliage-create-a-calming-respite-at-the-sunken-gardens\">Fauna and Foliage Create a Calming Respite at the Sunken Gardens<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>History and a breathtaking array of flora and fauna come together to create the Sunken Gardens. Sink into the inviting canopy of multiple species of palms and browse the understory for flowering spots of color as you descend into a private oasis right in the heart of St. Petersburg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visiting the Sunken Gardens has been one of the most popular things to do near Tampa for over 100 years, since plumber George Turner Sr. first drained a shallow lake and created his own private underworld. Some of the first plants to join his garden were papayas and citrus varieties, providing a bevy of seasonal fresh fruit to local residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While original strolls of the garden grounds might cost you a nickel, entry fees had risen to nearly a quarter by 1935 as the popularity of the attraction grew. In 1965, Turner\u2019s son and heir expanded the gardens, adding a gift shop and wax museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Guests continue to flock to the Sunken Gardens today to experience the cooling calm of over 50,000 tropical plant species, to walk the 4 acres and simply leave the noise and cares of the world behind. You can also visit with a flock of Chilean Flamingos\u2014descendants of the original flock that joined the gardens in 1956\u2014as well as macaws and cockatiels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 4<sup>th<\/sup> Street North and is a must-do while visiting the Tampa area. While we would love to share all of our breathtaking photos to prove just how special this place is, the organization\u2019s photography policy prohibits it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you don\u2019t want to take our word for it, please view the photo gallery on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stpete.org\/visitors\/sunken_gardens.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sunken Garden\u2019s website page<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"while-visiting-the-tampa-area-why-not-hit-the-sponge-capital-of-the-world\">While Visiting the Tampa Area, Why Not Hit the Sponge Capital of the World?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-boat-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24192\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-boat-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-boat-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-boat-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-boat.jpeg 1366w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">a fishing boat rests against the dock in Tarpon springs near Tampa, Florida<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Explore Florida\u2019s Greek culture and fishing heritage in this charming location only 45 minutes north of Tampa. Cobbled streets invite guests to the town\u2019s historic district and extend into the working wharf where professional anglers still arrive with their bounty each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The catch of choice in <a href=\"https:\/\/exploretarponsprings.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tarpon Springs<\/a> are sponges, and if you\u2019re lucky enough to be on hand when a boat arrives from days or even weeks out exploring the deep, you can watch the captain and his or her mates count and sort the catch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After witnessing the origins of some of the industry\u2019s greatest finds, stroll on over to one of the shops and pick up you own sponge or corral souvenir. There are plenty of Greek and seafood restaurants to keep your stomach full and your energy high as you continue to explore the quaint shops, filled with everything from kitschy souvenirs to work from local artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"763\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-tarpon-springs-street-1024x763.jpeg\" alt=\"shops lining the streets of Tarpon Springs, seen when visiting tampa\" class=\"wp-image-24196\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-tarpon-springs-street-1024x763.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-tarpon-springs-street-300x224.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-tarpon-springs-street-768x572.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-tarpon-springs-street.jpeg 1366w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to being one of the lesser-known things to do near Tampa, Tarpon Springs is home to one of the largest populations of Greek and Greek-Americans in the U.S. today, and if you\u2019re wondering why the area would be home to such a rich and vibrant Greek culture, that\u2019s easy to explain. Greek immigrants were some of the region\u2019s first sponge divers, settling the area in the early 1900s due to easy access to the Gulf of Mexico.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tarpon Springs is a historical delight, but also offers a rare look into the nitty-gritty of the fishing industry as well as a glimpse of marine life. For a deeper view, be sure to visit the nearby <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tarponspringsaquarium.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tarpon Springs Aquarium and Animal Sanctuary<\/a> located at 1722 North Pinellas Ave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"exploring-the-ruins-of-fort-de-soto-near-tampa\">Things to Do Near Tampa: Exploring the Ruins of Fort De Soto Near Tampa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"729\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-fort-de-soto-battery-1024x729.jpeg\" alt=\"Batteries at Fort De Soto near Tampa\" class=\"wp-image-24197\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:auto;height:1086px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-fort-de-soto-battery-1024x729.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-fort-de-soto-battery-300x213.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-fort-de-soto-battery-768x546.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-fort-de-soto-battery.jpeg 1366w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>While exploring the many keys that make up the barrier beaches provides visitors with a host of things to do near Tampa, those seeking something in addition to sun and surf head over to Fort De Soto, located at the state park bearing the same name. Here, you can explore what remains of the original military post that once protected the mainland from foreign adversaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fort De Soto was originally built in the late 1800s to defend the coast from Spanish ships during the Spanish American War. A self-guided tour will take you along the southwestern tip of the key, where white sandy beaches once held a prime military fort. Waves rushing ashore and the sound of gulls in the air are soothing as you explore the historical remains, always reminded of the present with dramatic views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Handy plaques inform visitors of the old fort structure, with historical images to fill in the gaps where only foundations remain. If you\u2019re still seeking knowledge, the Quartermaster Museum provides more information, including first-hand diary accounts from inhabitants at the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogomerch.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"614\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/S2G-branded-merch-banner-insert-1024x614.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24052\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/S2G-branded-merch-banner-insert-1024x614.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/S2G-branded-merch-banner-insert-300x180.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/S2G-branded-merch-banner-insert-768x461.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/S2G-branded-merch-banner-insert-1536x922.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/S2G-branded-merch-banner-insert-2048x1229.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To complete your trip into the past, be sure to visit the artillery holds and firing galleries located on the northern side of the parking area. You can even climb to the top, courtesy of a modern stairway, for an expansive view of Tampa Bay and Egmont Key to the southwest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve climbed the battlements, make your way over to the fishing pier. From here, you can walk surfside to get up close and personal with the remains of Battery Bigelow, a gunnery station that protected the coast until the hurricane of 1921 destroyed the 2 three-inch rifles. Time and erosion have also taken a toll on the foundation structure, but the history remains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re lucky, the ferry will be running to Egmont Key, where you can also explore the remains of Fort Dade, the Egmont Key Lighthouse and Battery McIntosh. A Ferry operated by Hubbard\u2019s Marina Ferry provides the only transportation to the key and departs daily (weather permitting) spring and summer from the Bay Pier inside Fort De Soto State Park. In the fall and winter, Hubbard&#8217;s offers a more sporadic schedule, so be sure to check the hours before heading out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tours last around 4 hours including 30 minutes travel time. Reservations for those visiting Tampa can be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hubbardsmarina.com\/egmont-key-ferry-cruise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">booked online<\/a> and are highly recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"visiting-cigar-city-on-the-outskirts-of-tampa\">Visiting Cigar City on the Outskirts of Tampa.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24198\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city.jpeg 1366w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You won\u2019t have to drive far to find this popular Florida excursion. It\u2019s one of the hottest things to do near Tampa for nightlife lovers and those seeking inspirational eats. But for daylight explorers and history lovers in particular, Ybor City offers a number of attractive finds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Upon first entering the historic district, which runs from approximately 6<sup>th<\/sup> through 9<sup>th<\/sup> streets heading north or south, you\u2019re immediately struck by the sense of timelessness. Historic factories remain, and while many of the original shops and buildings have been converted to restaurants and night clubs, you\u2019ll find several reminders of the Cuban immigrant culture, particularly when you cross paths with roaming flocks of chickens, descendants from an earlier life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, the Cubans weren\u2019t the only ones to immigrate to Ybor City to ply their hands at the cigar trade. They readily welcomed Spaniards, Germans and Jews from Romania. Some of the most noted cigar makers from the turn of the last century were originally founded from these hardy groups of immigrants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"769\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-factory-1024x769.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24200\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-factory-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-factory-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-factory-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-factory-1536x1153.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-ybor-city-factory.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In its day, Ybor was the model factory city, providing work and support, as well as the culture, entertainment and educational miens of a highly functioning community. You can explore the history of Ybor by visiting the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridastateparks.org\/parks-and-trails\/ybor-city-museum-state-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ybor City Museum State Park<\/a>, located in the town\u2019s former bakery. Tours are only $4 a person and include a film and several displays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a timelier presentation, be sure to visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jcnewman.com\/visit-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">El Reloj<\/a>, the last operating cigar factory in Ybor. Inside the red brick building, the Newman family continues to roll cigars according to historic tradition. Watch skilled craftsman ply their trade and enjoy more historic exhibits outlining the history of cigar making in Florida.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"manatees-welcome-travelers-visiting-tampa\">Manatees Welcome Travelers Visiting Tampa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-big-bend-plant-manatee-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"Big Bend Plant and manatee viewing center, seen when visiting Tampa\" class=\"wp-image-24201\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-big-bend-plant-manatee-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-big-bend-plant-manatee-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-big-bend-plant-manatee-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/tampa-big-bend-plant-manatee.jpeg 1366w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s far from a likely location, but manatees seem to love it. The discharge canal of the Big Bend Plant continues to be a favorite warming spot for cold manatees and has been turned into a state and federally designated manatee sanctuary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To accommodate visitors hoping to spot one of the floating mammals, Tampa Electric created the Manatee Viewing center adjacent to the canals. Here, elevated boardwalks make it easy to peer into the water, where the amorphous manatees hover inches beneath the surface. If you watch for awhile, you may be close enough to see one rise for air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media\" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/CaVs26agthb\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" data-instgrm-version=\"14\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\"><div style=\"padding:16px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/CaVs26agthb\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" style=\" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <div style=\" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;\"> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; 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font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;\">View this post on Instagram<\/div><\/div><div style=\"padding: 12.5% 0;\"><\/div> <div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;\"><div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);\"><\/div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;\"><\/div> <div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);\"><\/div><\/div><div style=\"margin-left: 8px;\"> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;\"><\/div> <div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)\"><\/div><\/div><div style=\"margin-left: auto;\"> <div style=\" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);\"><\/div> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);\"><\/div> <div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);\"><\/div><\/div><\/div> <div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;\"> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;\"><\/div> <div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;\"><\/div><\/div><\/a><p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/CaVs26agthb\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A post shared by Seconds To Go Travel (@seconds2go)<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s free to park at the Manatee Viewing Center, but the lot does fill quickly at park opening. Your best chance to see manatees from the walkways is during colder weather, but if you come up short on manatee sightings, you can always learn vicariously by visiting the MVC&#8217;s environmental education building. Here, colorful displays illustrate manatee life in detail and may just provide more information than you\u2019ll find by merely observing manatees in real life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After viewing the manatees, be sure to take the Tidal Walk trail or the Manatee Viewing Center&#8217;s habitat loop trail, to explore another habitat, that of the mangrove. Shell lined pathways and elevated boardwalks meander through various ecosystems, including a mangrove forest, and ultimately lead to the 50-foot-high viewing tower, offering a sweeping panorama of Tampa Bay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-css-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-other-travel-adventures-you-might-enjoy\">Get Out. Explore with Seconds to Go<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-to-do-on-sanibel-island-beyond-shelling\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/what-to-do-sanibel-island\/\">What to Do on Sanibel Island Beyond Shelling<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Sanibel-Island-pin-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24062\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Sanibel-Island-pin-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Sanibel-Island-pin-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Sanibel-Island-pin-1.jpg 735w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-things-to-do-at-fort-myers-beach-when-you-get-tired-of-the-sand-and-sun\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/fort-myers-beach\/\">Things to Do at Fort Myers Beach When You Get Tired of the Sand And Sun<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/fort-myers-beach\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/fort-myers-683x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5762\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/fort-myers-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/fort-myers-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/fort-myers-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/fort-myers.png 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-should-you-visit-disney-world-now-in-2022-everything-you-need-to-know\"><a href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/off-beaten-path-summer-vacation-destinations\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1638\">Three Off-the-Beaten Path Summer Vacation Destinations<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/summer-destinations-Pin-683x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17842\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/summer-destinations-Pin-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/summer-destinations-Pin-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/summer-destinations-Pin-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/summer-destinations-Pin.png 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-css-opacity\"\/>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When visting Tampa, beaches may beckon sun seekers and wave crashers, but there is more to vacationing in the area than sea and surf. In fact, you\u2019ll find a number of amazing things to do near Tampa. For those looking for some more off-the-beaten path adventures, here are 5 nearby attractions you&#8217;ll want to consider &#8230; <a title=\"The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Tampa Bay: Top Things to Do Near Tampa\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/visiting-tampa-bay-amazing-things-to-do-near-tampa\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Tampa Bay: Top Things to Do Near Tampa\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":24195,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[890],"tags":[2170,2303],"ppma_author":[2365],"class_list":["post-12899","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-u-s-a","tag-florida","tag-south-usa-travel","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"authors":[{"term_id":2365,"user_id":1,"is_guest":0,"slug":"khesketh","display_name":"Kathleen Hesketh","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/23494c9101089ad44ae88ce9d2f56aac.jpg?ver=1776809670","url2x":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-content\/litespeed\/avatar\/23494c9101089ad44ae88ce9d2f56aac.jpg?ver=17768096702x"},"0":null,"1":"","2":"","3":"","4":"","5":"","6":"","7":"","8":"","9":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12899","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12899"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12899\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":24205,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12899\/revisions\/24205"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24195"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12899"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12899"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12899"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/secondstogo.net\/wordpress\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=12899"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}