Last Updated on February 22, 2024
Are you looking for the best things to do in New Port Richey, Florida? We have put together a can’t-miss list.
New Port Richey is a city in the Tampa-St. Pete-Clearwater area, approximately 35 miles northwest of Tampa and 25 miles north of Clearwater.
The Central West Florida city is near the Gulf of Mexico in Pasco County and is known for its small-town feel.
We’re recommending some of the top things to do in New Port Richey, including the best places to eat, shop, and stay during your visit.
From beautiful parks to historic buildings and more, check out all the cool places you can visit on a trip to this quaint city.
Table of contents
Downtown New Port Richey
Downtown New Port Richey is a popular destination at the heart of the city, with plenty of things to do.
The Historic District is by the Main Street area and the Pithlachascotee River (known locally as the “Cotee” River.)
Stroll around downtown and see historic buildings like the Richey Suncoast Theatre building, built in 1925, and the West Pasco Historical Society building, built in 1915.
The downtown area is also known for its selection of shops and places to eat.
Enjoy visiting cafes, breweries, and some of other restaurants the locals love to frequent.
For more information, visit the official Downtown New Port Richey website.
Downtown New Port Richey Address: Main St., New Port Richey, FL 34652
The Historic Hacienda Hotel
The Historic Hacienda Hotel is a popular spot worth visiting while you are in New Port Richey.
The Hacienda opened in 1927 to accommodate the city’s growing arts and culture scene.
Notable celebrities of the 1920s would stay at the hotel while visiting New Port Richey. The Hacienda and the city itself earned the nickname “Hollywood of the East” due to its popularity with well-known performers.
The Historic Hacienda Hotel was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1996.
The building was recently restored and reopened in 2022. Today, it is known for its 1920s architecture and design as well as its full-service restaurant and bar.
You can stay in one of the hotel’s 40 elegant rooms, each decorated with Spanish-Floridian influence.
Enjoy views of Downtown New Port Richey from your hotel room.
The restaurant located within the hotel is a great fine dining option, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Whether you are looking for a light breakfast or a luxurious three-course dining, you definitely won’t be disappointed if you choose to dine at the Hacienda.
TIPS:
- Historic Hacienda Hotel is open daily. Reservations are recommended.
- Check-in is at 3 pm. Check-out is at 11 am.
- The Hacienda restaurant hours vary. Please check the current operating schedule before visiting.
For more information, visit the official Historic Hacienda Hotel website.
Historic Hacienda Hotel Address: 5621 Main St., New Port Richey, FL 34652
If you love a historic hotel, don’t miss The 20 Best Historic Hotels in Florida.
Sims Park
Sims Park is a beautiful park to visit in New Port Richey.
The park is named after George R. Sims, who donated the park to the city in 1924.
Sims Park is situated downtown, between the Pithlachascotee River and Orange Lake.
The park has a playground and a splash pad for kids to explore. Amenities include public restrooms and picnic areas.
Paved paths in the park make great walking trails, which offer scenic views of the water. There is also a kayak launch by the river, the perfect place to head out and enjoy the water.
TIPS:
- Sims Park is open daily from sunrise to 11 pm.
- The splash pad is open from 9 am to 30 minutes before sunset.
- The kayak launch is ADA-accessible.
For more information, visit the official City of New Port Richey website.
Sims Park Address: Grand Blvd. and Bank St., New Port Richey, FL 34652
The White Heron Tea and Gifts
The White Heron Tea and Gifts is an excellent place to visit in Downtown New Port Richey.
This spot is owned by Kelly Hackman, who was born and raised in the New Port Richey area. She is a certified tea specialist and tea etiquette consultant.
The “Florida Inspired” Tea Room offers an elegant and relaxed atmosphere that serves premium tea from Driftwood Tea Company.
Enjoy tiers of tea sandwiches, scones, and desserts with your tea experience.
For a less formal outing, the White Heron also has the Tea Parlor, located in the gift shop.
The Tea Parlor has a limited menu of teas, sandwiches, and scones available on a first-come, first-served basis.
TIPS:
- The White Heron Tea and Gifts is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm.
- Tea Room reservations are available from 12 pm to 2 pm.
- The Tea Parlor is open for walk-ins from 11 am to 3 pm.
- There is a “No Cell Phone Policy” while visiting the Tea Room and Tea Parlor.
For more information, visit the official White Heron Tea and Gifts website.
The White Heron Tea and Gifts Address: 6228 Grand Boulevard, New Port Richey, FL 34652
If you love tea, please don’t miss the 12 Best Tea Rooms in Florida.
Antique Center on Main
Antique Center on Main is a fantastic place in New Port Richey if you are shopping for vintage and antique items. Established in 2013, this 2800-square-foot shop is comprised of six antique dealers.
At Antique Center, you can purchase items like furniture, home décor, jewelry, books, and other cool finds.
Antique Center on Main is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 am to 3 pm.
For more information, visit the official Antique Center on Main Facebook page.
Antique Center on Main Address: 5811 Main St., New Port Richey, FL 34652
Lyon’s Head Antique Mall – Port Richey
If you are looking for places to shop near New Port Richey, Lyon’s Head Antique Mall is a great spot to check out in Port Richey.
It is the oldest continuously operating antique business in the county.
There are over 20,000 square feet of space in the mall, filled with a variety of antiques and collectibles for sale.
With over 50 dealers, you can find everything from furniture to art to home décor and more.
TIPS:
- Lyon’s Head Antique Mall is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
- The mall buys items from the public, depending on age, condition, and other item factors.
- Carve out plenty of time to seek out treasures. You never know what you may find.
For more information, visit the official Lyon’s Head Antique Mall website.
Lyon’s Head Antique Mall Address: 10447 U.S. Hwy 19, Port Richey, FL 34668
If you are looking for other places to thrift, don’t miss the 10 Thrift Shops in Florida for Treasures at Bargain Prices.
Herschel’s Scratch Kitchen
Herschel’s Scratch Kitchen is a great place to eat in New Port Richey.
The restaurant opened in 2020 and is known for its combination of European Brasserie and American flair with Southern influences.
Located downtown, Hershel’s offers patio seating and serves breakfast and lunch all day.
Enjoy tasty breakfast options like eggs benedict, served with breakfast potatoes. Or try one of the menu’s grit skillets.
For sweet options, you can’t go wrong with waffles or stuffed French toast.
Lunch favorites include fried green tomatoes and a selection of wraps, sandwiches, and burgers.
Monday through Thursday, the restaurant offers a lunch special like chicken hash or shrimp and grits, served with a biscuit. This is a great way to get a delicious meal at a fantastic price.
- Herschel’s Scratch Kitchen is open daily from 7:30 am to 3 pm.
- Breakfast and lunch are served all day.
- Online ordering is available.
For more information, visit the official Herschel’s Scratch Kitchen website.
Herschel’s Scratch Kitchen Address: 5749 Main St., New Port Richey, FL 34652
Richey Suncoast Theatre
Richey Suncoast Theatre was originally known as the Meighan Theatre, named after Thomas Meighan, a silent film star. It was initially a movie theatre when it opened in 1925.
Sound was added to the theatre in 1930, but unfortunately, the theatre closed in 1934 during the Great Depression. It reopened as the New Port Richey Theatre in 1938.
Over the years, this piece of local history experienced its ups and downs. In 1972, the theatre reopened again – this time as the Richey Suncoast Theatre, a community theatre that could host live music and shows.
Today, people can visit the Richey Suncoast Theatre to see a variety of different productions and special events.
Seeing a live show is one of the best things to do while in New Port Richey, so make sure to check out the theatre’s schedule before your visit.
TIPS:
- Richey Suncoast Theatre’s operating hours are dependent on the facility’s show schedule.
- The box office is open Thursdays from 11 am to 4 pm and 45 minutes before any show.
For more information, visit the official Richey Suncoast Theatre website.
Richey Suncoast Theatre Address: 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey, FL 34652
If you love the theatre, don’t miss the 8 Unique and Historic Theatres in Florida.
Rao Musunuru, M.D. Museum and Library
Rao Musunuru, M.D. Museum and Library is an educational space operated by the West Pasco Historical Society.
Visiting the museum is the best way to learn about the history of New Port Richey and the surrounding areas.
The museum has tons of different exhibits, including a Native American exhibit, a New Port Richey exhibit, and a Pioneer Life Exhibit.
There is a historical library in the building that contains hundreds of books on local history and Florida history, as well as local newspapers and school yearbooks.
Stop by the gift shop for t-shirts, local books, and items made by local artisans.
TIPS:
- Rao Musunuru, M.D. Museum and Library is open Friday through Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm.
- Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students ages 13 to 18, and $1 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 and West Pasco Historical Society members are admitted for free.
- Private group tours can be scheduled in advance by filling out a form on the official website.
For more information, visit the official West Pasco Historical Society website.
Rao Musunuru, M.D. Museum and Library Address: 6431 Circle Blvd., New Port Richey, FL 34652
Additional Things to Do in New Port Richey
James E. Grey Preserve
Have a great time exploring natural attractions at this large preserve with a kayak launch and river boardwalk.
James E. Grey Preserve Address: 6938 Plathe Rd., New Port Richey, FL 34653
Cotee River Brewing Company
Don’t miss this cool brewery located in downtown. It hosts live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Cotee River Brewing Company Address: 5760 Main St., New Port Richey, FL 34652
Robert K. Rees Memorial Park
Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, also known as Green Key Beach, is a small public park located in New Port Richey.
It is situated on the Gulf of Mexico and offers a variety of recreational activities and amenities for visitors.
Here are some key features of the park:
- Beach Access: The park provides access to a natural beach where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
- Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for its wildlife, including birds and marine life, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
- Picnic Facilities: There are picnic tables and shelters available for visitors to use, making it an ideal location for family outings and gatherings.
- Fishing: Anglers can fish from the shore or the designated fishing areas within the park.
- Nature Trails: There are walking trails through the park’s natural habitats, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna.
- Playground: A playground is available for children to enjoy.
- Restrooms and Showers: The park is equipped with restroom facilities and outdoor showers for convenience.
- Parking: There is a parking area for visitors.
The park is named in memory of Robert K. Rees, a local resident who contributed to the community.
It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful and natural setting by the water.
Robert K. Rees Memorial Park Address: 3503 Green Key Rd., New Port Richey, FL 34652
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is a large, protected natural area located in New Port Richey, Florida.
It is named after Jay B. Starkey, a local rancher and conservationist who played a significant role in the preservation of the land.
The park is known for its scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and recreational opportunities.
Here are some key features of the park:
- Size and Habitat: The park spans over 8,000 acres and includes various habitats such as pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and freshwater marshes, providing a home for a wide range of wildlife.
- Trails: There are numerous trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, offering visitors the chance to explore the park’s natural beauty. The trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to different skill levels.
- Camping: The park offers primitive camping sites for those looking to experience an overnight stay in the wilderness. Campers must obtain a permit in advance.
- Picnic Areas: There are picnic facilities available throughout the park, making it a great spot for a family outing or a relaxing day in nature.
- Educational Programs: The park occasionally offers guided tours and educational programs to help visitors learn more about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is a cherished natural resource in the New Port Richey area, providing a peaceful escape from urban life and a chance to connect with Florida’s unique natural environment.
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park Address: 10500 Wilderness Park Blvd., New Port Richey, FL 34655
Tarpon Springs Aquarium
This is a local, family-owned aquarium and animal sanctuary that is home to sharks, pythons, turtles, alligators, and more.
The Tarpon Springs Aquarium is known for its interactive and educational exhibits.
Key attractions include live animal presentations, touch tanks where guests can interact with sea creatures like starfish and sea urchins, and alligator feeding demonstrations.
The aquarium is designed to provide an engaging experience for people of all ages, promoting conservation and awareness of marine ecosystems.
It serves as both a tourist attraction and an educational resource for the community.
Tarpon Springs Aquarium Address: 1722 N Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
It’s worth spending a few hours or a day in Tarpon Springs. Check out Things To Do Near The Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.
Anclote Key Preserve State Park
Accessible only by boat or ferry service, this remote state park has beautiful beaches and a historic Anclote Lighthouse.
The park encompasses Anclote Key and several smaller islands.
It is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife, including nesting sea birds and sea turtles.
It offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Anclote Key is a popular destination for boaters, anglers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil and natural coastal experience.
Anclote Key Preserve State Park Address: offshore, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
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