In Brief
Tarpon Springs is a great getaway to visit when you want to indulge your senses and enjoy authentic Greek culture, right here in Florida. With the smells of fabulous Greek food in the air, the sounds of Greek music playing along Dodecanese Blvd., and souvenirs galore, this is a fun spot the whole family will enjoy. Located in North East Pinellas County, and just north of Dunedin, this city is conveniently located to those in Bradenton, Saint Petersburg, Clearwater, and the greater Tampa Bay area in general.
Time Stamp
We visited Tarpon Springs on a sunny Sunday afternoon. As normal, there was ample parking available at the eastern tip of Dodecanese Blvd., and this makes a great starting point for exploring the Greek culture that abounds. Venture off to the sponge dock area, and you will find a variety of pleasure boat cruises to take you out onto the nearby waters. It's safe sailing as you visit the sponge areas, and see your crew bring sponge directly up from under water. After touring the waterways, it's on to a nice lunch at one of the local Greek restaurants. Make sure to try the Greek salad, or for those of you with a heartier appetite, the gyro can't be missed. Tarpon Springs is a shopper's paradise. I picked up a very nice sun hat on this recent trip, with nice colors and perfect for walking in the area. And finally, for those of you who dare to splurge, the Greek pastries are a great way to end the day.
Activities
Sightseeing, boat cruises, deep sea fishing, or just eating ice cream on a lazy day, are all ways to enjoy Tarpon Springs. There is also shopping, leisurely biking, or just stroll along the street and enjoy the coastal breeze. Boats are lined up along the sponge docks to take you out on to the local waterways for a minimum fee. Deep sea fishing exists for the more adventurous sort. Shopping is everywhere along Dodecanese Blvd. The authentic Greek foods are a treat for your taste buds, and the sounds of Greek music will make you want to dance the day away.
Who's in -Who's out
If you enjoy travel, culture, shopping, or being out on the water, this is the place for you. A half-day excursion to Tarpon Springs is a getaway almost everyone will enjoy. Be sure to bring lots of sunscreen in the summer, as you will be outside along Dodecanese Blvd. Also, for those of you who wish to venture further away from the main tourist area, there is an antique district a few blocks away, as well as the ornate St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox church, which is open to the public. Biking is also a nice activity to partake in, especially along the lovely waterfront, or at the Pinellas Trail, which is only a block away from the sponge docks.
Report Card
We give this getaway a big "thumbs up". Where else can you indulge your sense of smell, taste, sight, sound, and touch all in one afternoon? Smell the aroma of magnificent Greek food in the warm air. Indulge your sense of taste with freshly made Baklava. Enjoy the beautiful waterfront, where local birds glide gracefully by. Listen to the sounds of music so often unheard in these hurried days. Touch sponge so recently brought up from the sea. It's all here for you to enjoy on your great getaway to the extraordinary town of Tarpon Springs.
Map | Directions
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Map | Directions |
From the south, take I-275 north across Sunshine Skyway Bridge. North about 10 miles and exit Roosevelt Blvd., which is the last exit before the Howard Franklin Bridge, and then pass the Clearwater/St Petersburg Airport and over the Bayside Bridge. Take McMullen Booth Road north about 12 miles to Keystone Road/Tarpon Ave. Left on Tarpon Ave., and follow all the way to ALT-19. Right on ALT-19, and down less than a mile, take a left on Dodecanese Blvd and you are there.
Sunny, and 79°
