It’s that point in the semester where everyone is drowning in homework, projects, and midterms. The only thing getting us through is knowing that Spring Break is right around the corner, and we will have an entire week off to relax and take break from our insanely busy schedules. Even if you don’t have plans to fly home or travel during this break, there are so many fun activities around Tampa that can turn your Spring Break into a “staycation.” Here are some activities around the area that will make your break fun and relaxing, and don’t require you to spend hundreds of dollars on a big trip.
1. Go visit the Manatee Viewing Center at Apollo Beach
Big Bend Power Station is a power plant at Apollo Beach where manatees go during the cold months to keep warm. Apollo Beach is just a short 30 minute drive from Tampa, and can serve as a fun way to adventure out of the city during Spring Break. The manatee sanctuary is meant to keep the manatees in a safe, warm environment during the winter months from November to April. Here is their website for more details about the sanctuary, visiting hours, and more.
2. GO TO THE BEACH
Everyone has heard us say, “We live where you vacation!” Everyone comes to our beaches for their Spring Break, and we’re only a quick 40 minute drive from St. Pete and Clearwater beaches. If you want to venture a little farther, also check out Siesta Key Beach or Anna Maria Island; they’re about an hour drive south of Tampa. There are plenty of restaurants and bars around all of these destinations, so you can make it a whole day trip without having to worry about packing enough food and drinks. Anna Maria Island also has free parking, which is a huge plus. You can’t go wrong with any of these spots!
3. Weeki Wachee Springs
Weeki Wachee Springs is open all year round and is great for those who want to do something more recreational. Between kayaking and paddle boarding down the springs, you’ll definitely get a workout, too. The bright blue waters are clear enough that you are able to see some manatees if you go during the right time. The park also just started a new night adventure in which the bottom of the kayaks have lights on them to illuminate the water beneath you. This destination is about an hour north, and you can check out park details here.
4. Busch Gardens
If you live in Tampa, you’ve definitely heard people talk about Busch Gardens. It’s very close to UT, and tickets are much less than you would pay for Universal or Disney. You can even buy an annual pass that would allow you access to the Adventure Island Water Park once it opens for the season mid-March. With plenty of rides and wildlife to keep you busy, you can expect to spend a full day at the park. Fair warning-you do have to pay for parking, so it would be smart to carpool or Uber depending on rates.
5. Go on Brewery Tours
Sometimes being a tourist in your own town brings you the most fun! Tampa big enough that there are always new places to visit and restaurants to try. For a rapidly growing city, Tampa also holds a lot of historical sites that offer lots of fun tours. Breweries can be a fun place to go take a tour and learn more about the history of the location and the beer. Cigar City, Six Ten, Yuengling, and Coppertail Brewing companies are just a few that are very popular in Tampa. You can also check out 3 Daughters in St. Pete, along with many others. Just remember to bring along your designated driver!
Allie Spurrier 