Last Updated on April 12, 2024
We want to spotlight the best things to do north of Tampa, since our friends at WUCF covered a lot of territories, specifically in the downtown area, in their Tampa episode of Florida Road Trip.
Additionally, we highlighted some of our favorite spots in Tampa in this Authentic Florida article: Top 10 Authentic Things to Do in Tampa, Florida.
Tampa is known for its world champion sports teams (shout out to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Tampa Bay Rays).
“The Big Guava” (an old nickname for Tampa) is also known for the Tampa Riverwalk, Ybor City, incredible roller coasters + exotic wildlife at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay amusement park, and endless authentic culture and cuisine.
There are plenty of fun things to do north of Tampa and throughout the Tampa Bay area.
Today we are focusing on a few of our favorite things to do north of Tampa, on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
So pack your bags, get in your car, put your seatbelt on, and let’s go.
Enjoy these Fun Things to Do North of Tampa
Explore the University of South Florida (USF)
Founded in 1956, USF serves more than 49,000 students on campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota-Manatee.
USF is a designated Preeminent State Research University by the Florida Board of Governors. This places it in the most elite category among the state’s 12 public universities.
Most of the campus confines itself to the lives of students, administrators, and faculty. However, the USF Botanical Garden is open to the public and is a perfect place to get up close and personal with nature.
USF Botanical Garden – College of Arts and Science
The USF Botanical Gardens are home to more than 3,000 species of plants & flowers and animal & insect friends indigenous to the area.
Keep your eyes open for butterflies in the butterfly garden, herb gardens, orchids, bromeliads, palms, fruit trees, begonias, carnivorous plants, ferns, and over 60 species of birds and gopher tortoises.
A new garden buddy named Tank was recently added to the edible garden! On one side is a mix of fragrant herbs, and on the other side is a colorful array of veggies, flowers, and more herbs.
Tank helps keep harmful insects at bay while pollinating the plants. Plus, he’s as cute as cute can be!
All proceeds go right back into maintaining the gardens. This means your visit helps keep the USF Botanical Gardens up & running!
Tips for Visiting USF Botanical Gardens
- Allow yourself about one hour to enjoy the gardens.
- You can stay as long as you like within operating hours, but this is not a full-day outing – most visitors won’t spend more than an hour and a half.
- Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more. Call ahead to schedule. Their phone number is 813.974.2329.
- Bring the family dog along for a stroll through the gardens, but they must remain on a leash.
- Don’t pick the flowers! Removing any of the botanicals in the gardens is strictly permitted.
- Photography is allowed and highly encouraged.
- Don’t miss the Plant Shop to purchase plants and flowers to make your home their new home.
- All proceeds from the plant shop sales go to maintaining the gardens.
- Wear sneakers – not sandals or flip-flops! Parking is in a grass lot across the street – it’s not a long trek to the entrance, but it IS a trek through sandy, grassy areas
- Watch for tall grass & sand spurs (or, as Floridians call them, “stickers”).
- Request a map when you arrive! There are a few hidden rooms and “secret gardens” off the pathway that you won’t want to miss.
- Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children aged 6+. If you have a USF ID, access is complimentary.
- Hours are Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 4 pm (closed on Sundays)
USF Botanical Garden Events
- Summer Plant Festival – June 15, 2024 – Vendors sell plants and plant-related items. Vendors include commercial growers and local clubs from throughout the state. They are all expert growers available to field your questions.
- Fall Plant Festival – (October) Over 30 vendors sell plants and plant-related items. Plant experts are on hand to answer any questions. General admission purchase required. Click the USF Website for more info.
- Alumni Plant Sale – (October) This is part of USF’s homecoming week festivities. USF Alumni receive 10% off all plant purchases — general admission purchases are required.
USF Botanical Gardens Address: 12210 USF Pine Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
The USF Public Art Program
The Public Art program at USF focuses on site-responsive works, typically resulting in the creation of places instead of objects.
Most projects are in interjacent spaces between buildings — plazas, gardens, and courtyards.
These projects serve as informal gathering spaces for the various academic neighborhoods on the USF campuses. Download a map and discover some of the best places to gather on the USF Tampa campuses.
Tips for Visiting The USF Public Art Program
- It’s best to visit when school is not in session.
- Interior locations are closed on USF and State of Florida holidays.
- Tampa campus parking permits are required 24 hours, seven days a week. Permits are available at USF’s main entrance on Fowler Avenue or the museum lot.
- Guided tours are available upon request by calling (813) 974-3503 at least two weeks before the desired tour date.
- Most locations are open Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, but hours can vary by location.
USF Public Art Program Location: 4202 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33620
Main/Mailing Address for Info: 3702 Spectrum Blvd. Suite 100, Tampa, FL 33612-9498
Visit Hillsborough River State Park
Located only minutes from downtown Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park feels a world away from city life.
This 3,000-acre park offers many outdoor activities, including seven miles of hiking and nature trails.
Recognized for its Class 2 river rapids (very rare in Florida), the park is also known for its beautiful oak trees.
As a matter of fact, in 1938, this park was one of the original eight parks that created the Florida State Park system.
It’s still a great place to connect with nature. This makes it one of the best things to do north of Tampa.
The park has natural habitats, including plants, animals, and native birds. When you visit, keep your eyes open for alligators, pine Flatwoods, cypress swamps, sandhill cranes, red-shouldered hawks, and some woodpeckers.
There’s a large swimming pool, but it’s currently closed for maintenance. It reopens in the summer of 2024.
Within the park are campgrounds with over 108 sites, picnic areas, a playground, and places to rent or launch a kayak or canoe.
For those who don’t like roughing it, check out Timberline Glamping. Glamping is glamorous camping, a getaway combining modern comfort and the great outdoors.
You can do a solo trip, a couples getaway, or even bring a group of up to 7 on a glamping adventure. It should be on everyone’s list of things to do north of Tampa.
For reservations, click Timberline Tampa.
Tips for Visiting Hillsborough River State Park
- Hillsborough River State Park is part of the Florida State Park and accepts annual passes. Otherwise, the cost is $6.00 per vehicle.
- Thonotosassa is in Hillsborough County and is about 15 miles northeast of Tampa
- The best time to visit is March through May, but they are open yearly.
- When the ranger station is closed, exact change is needed.
- The café, pool, and tours of Fort Foster are currently closed.
- If you have questions, call 813-688-9500.
- The park is open 7 days a week from 8:00 am – 7:30 pm.
Hillsborough River State Park Address: 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
Discover the Town of Odessa
Odessa is a suburb of Tampa and a peaceful change of scenery from city life.
Located in Pasco County, Odessa has a few spots worth exploring, so we put it on our list of things to do north of Tampa.
Old McMicky’s Farm
Old McMicky’s Farm is an interactive educational experience focused on real farm living. There are hands-on introductions to farm animals along with tractor-drawn hayrides.
From milking a cow to catching chickens to riding a pony, there are many exciting farm activities for people of all ages to explore at Old McMicky’s Farm.
Tips for Visiting Old McMicky’s Farm
- Old McMicky’s Farm has guided tours. You can learn more about them on the Old McMicky’s website.
- Tours leave every 15 minutes.
- No reservations are needed for families.
- The first tour starts at 9:00 am, and the last tour leaves at 1:00 pm.
- They are open Thursday – Sunday.
Old McMicky’s Farm Address: 9612 Crescent Dr, Odessa, FL 33556
Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center
Brooker Creek Preserve is the largest natural area in Pinellas County, clocking in at approximately 8,700 acres. The Preserve consists primarily of forested wetlands and pine flatwoods.
Bordered by dense urban development, the Preserve provides both a unique refuge for native flora and fauna as well as an opportunity for visitors to explore the natural beauty of wild Florida.
The Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center supports the Brooker Creek Preserve through educational programming and volunteerism.
The Center is a beautiful, 25,000-square-foot, three-building complex designed in old Florida Pioneer-style architecture.
Put a visit on your list of things to do north of Tampa.
Tips for Visiting Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center
- If using GPS mapping to guide you to the Preserve, then choose the Brooker Creek Education Center, not the Walk Through, so you’re guided to the correct parking area.
- The interactive exhibits, films, and storytimes in the Education Center are great for young children and enough to keep them occupied for 2 or 3 hours (and it’s FREE!).
- Plenty of public restrooms are conveniently located on the walks back to the Education Center and in the Education Center.
- It’s essential to note trails have benches so you can stop to rest when needed.
- Check the website for the calendar and schedule the day before you visit, even if you aren’t doing a guided tour.
- Some areas get flooded and can be impassable. Waterproof shoes are recommended.
- Generally speaking, the trails are well-maintained and marked; however, this is a nature preserve, and it’s still easy to get lost. Bring your phone!
- Center Hours: Open Thursday – Saturday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Open Sunday, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm. (Closed Monday-Wednesday)
- Preserve Hours: Open daily, 7:00 am to time posted, approximately 1 hour before sunset. Closed the day after Thanksgiving and December 25 and all County holidays.
Brooker Creek Preserve Address: 3940 Keystone Rd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688
Odessa Equestrian Center
Odessa Equestrian Center has over 30 acres of 35 grazing pastures, a lighted outdoor grass arena, a lighted outdoor clay arena, an indoor footed arena, a round pen, and horse boarding facilities.
The center offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of options for whatever your discipline – competitive riding or casual.
Both outdoor & indoor facilities feature jump courses that are well-lit.
Tips for Visiting Odessa Equestrian Center
- GREAT place to learn to ride – plenty of options for beginners and seasoned riders.
- There’s an office and indoor area that overlooks the outdoor arena. If family & friends want to watch, they can do so in this area.
- Boarders are permitted to use their own trainers – no requirement to use trainers at the center.
- Generally, there’s convenient parking for horse trailers.
- WiFi is provided for free.
- No reservation is necessary – visit any time from sun up to sundown daily. For access, call: 813.846.1511
Odessa Equestrian Center Address: 1320 Huntsville Rd., Odessa, FL 33556
Odessa Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary
The mission of the non-profit 501C3 Odessa Wildlife Rescue & Sanctuary is to provide animals of all types – wild, domesticated, and farm animals, a loving forever home.
In addition, over 1,000 animals have been helped since the Sanctuary opened in 1984.
Some residents who call Odessa Wildlife Rescue & Sanctuary home include zebras, raccoons, goats, rabbits, and domestic cats & dogs. Currently, 450 animals live in the sanctuary at a time.
When they arrive, the rescued animals are offered food, shelter, and veterinary care. In addition, they receive companionship & loving attention.
Tips for Visiting Odessa Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary
- The main focus is educating the public about animal homelessness’s cruelty and what everyone can do to help.
- Visitors of all ages can tour the grounds, pet and feed animals, and learn about animal care.
- Plan for about 2 or 3 hours for your visit.
- Call ahead to make a reservation for a tour: 813.792.5454
Location: 18404 Rustic Woods Trail, Odessa, FL 33556
Step Back in Time at Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction
Located about 50 miles northeast of Tampa, Boyett’s is a popular tourist stop in Hernando County that has entertained visitors since 1966.
This popular, family-owned, and operated roadside attraction has given visitors a real, “old Florida” experience for decades.
Boyett’s Citrus Attraction is perched on a hill surrounded by scenic pastureland and orange groves.
The Boyett Grove has 30 acres of citrus trees, and the family picks, washes, waxes, packs, and ships their fruit nationwide.
In fact, you can select your own from the fruit bins at the grove stand.
This amusement and citrus attraction includes lots of quirky stuff, including an animated Pterodactyl, a growling Brontosaurus, talking Parrots, cowboys, stagecoaches, and much more.
It’s truly one of the most eclectic things to do north of Tampa.
Boyett’s also has a wildlife zoo with live zebras, emus, lemurs, pigs, goats, camels, alligators, monkeys, and more.
And that’s not all …
There are delicious homemade ice cream sundaes or old-fashioned sodas and root beer floats, a makeshift mine for panning precious gold, kitschy Florida souvenirs at its gift shop, a vintage arcade, and a miniature golf course – all alongside fresh oranges.
Without a doubt, Boyett’s is one of the funkiest, kitschiest, and best day trips you can take from Tampa and one you surely won’t forget.
Ensure it’s on your itinerary for things to do north of Tampa.
Tips for Visiting Boyett’s Grove and Citrus Attraction
- It’s free to walk around the gift shop, however, you must pay to visit the Zoo or play mini golf.
- If you want to send a bit of the Sunshine State to a friend or loved one, you can have them ship fresh citrus.
- You can feed the animals at the Zoo. They sell food for animals, and the animals are friendly. Many are rescues.
- Be sure to bring cash, even though they accept credit cards. The owners appreciate cash.
- The staff is very friendly and happy to answer any questions.
- Boyett’s is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week.
Boyett’s Grove & Citrus Attraction Address: 4355 Spring Lake Hwy, Brooksville, FL 34601
To learn more about Boyett’s and Florida’s Adventure Coast, check out: A Day Trip to Florida’s Kitschy Adventure Coast and Exploring Florida’s Adventure Coast, Brooksville – Weeki Wachee.
Stroll around Dade City
Located approximately 40 miles northeast of Tampa in Pasco County, Dade City is a hidden gem with that old-fashioned hometown feel.
The centerpiece of the town square is the classic 1909 revival-style beautifully restored courthouse on the National Register of Historic Places.
The bottom line is whether you want to check out some great antique stores, grab a bite to eat, or buy some unique gifts, the choices are endless in this small town.
Make sure you carve out time for a slice of cake or pie at Lunch on Limoges. This southern restaurant, gift shop, and women’s clothing shop offer chalkboard menu items with a Southern flair.
Plus, the staff is super friendly, and the food is delicious.
Tips for Visiting Dade City
- Start your Dade City adventure at the Dade City Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center. They have lots of info on the area.
- Consider visiting Dade City for the annual Kumquat Festival at the end of January.
- Remember to wear comfortable shoes because you’ll want to explore this area on foot. Window shopping is a must.
- Try a kumquat. Dade City is the Kumquat Capital of the World.
- If you are there at night, hit the Joy-Lan Drive-In Movie Theater, one of Florida’s five remaining drive-in theatres.
Dade City Address: 14112 8th St, Dade City, FL 33525
We hope you enjoyed our recommendations of things to do north of Tampa. Other areas you may want to put on your Florida or United States Road Trip bucket list:
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