What to Do in Tarpon Springs: Florida’s Greek Enclave

There’s plenty for the whole family to discover and enjoy in this Gulf Coast town known for its vibrant Greek community and sponging industry. 

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Greece with its azure waters and fascinating history, you might be happy to know that you can experience some of the charms of the country justly called “the cradle of Western civilization,” without leaving the Sunshine State. 

Did you know that Tarpon Springs, an enchanting town along the shore of the Gulf of Mexico, and just 45 minutes north of St. Petersburg, is home to the largest population of Greek and Greek-Americans in the US?

That’s because Greek sponge divers settled there after the discovery of natural sponge beds in the early 1900s, and as the sponging industry grew, so did the place once known as the “Venice of the South” for its 51 miles of waterfront allure. 

So, what is there to do in Tarpon Springs, besides “soaking up” the quaint beauty of “The Sponge Capital of the World”? Plenty, as you will find out!

Stroll Through Its Historic District

Tarpon Springs’ downtown center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s no wonder! Encompassing approximately 700 acres, it lets visitors stroll through brick-paved streets lined with art galleries, antiques stores, colorful cafes, and specialty shops all housed in buildings dating from the late 1800s—145 historic buildings in all. Of course, those who like to dive into the history of a place and learn in detail about the landmarks they see as they walk around can also take an audio-guided walking tour through the Greektown and Downtown Historic Districts.

Enjoy Greek Cuisine and Entertainment

At the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, visitors can purchase sea sponges, see authentic docked sponge boats, and sample Greek fare, from pastries to tzatziki (salted strained yogurt mixed with cucumbers, garlic, and other delights) with dozens of places to choose from. 

And if it’s a show you’d like, Mama’s Greek Cuisine, for example, features live Greek Music (bousoukia) and a Belly Dancing Show every weekend. 

Take a Cruise

Dive boats leave each day from the Tarpon Springs sponge docks to search for sponges. But the place offers many water pleasures for the visitor. There are also shelling cruises, sunset cruises, tour boats, and dolphin-spotting cruises.

Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture

As you can expect from a Greek settlement, there’s plenty of art and culture to be found everywhere. For example, you can check out dozens of Public Art installations throughout town, or visit the ecology and history wings at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum. Then there’s the Safford House Museum, where you’ll travel back to the Victorian Era when you take a guided tour at the Anson P.K. Safford, the original home of Tarpon Springs’ founding father.

Do you or your family love special events such as Wine Walks, Hippie Fests, and Opa-Palooza? Then look up all the festivals that are held in this unique city by the sea. As you know, the theater of Ancient Greece flourished between 550 BC and 220 BC… and it’s still flourishing today. Enjoy a community theater play in the charming 70-seat theater at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. Built in 1915, it has a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

And Then There’s Nature!

It would be a shame to visit this beautiful town without enjoying the many opportunities it offers to bask in the sunshine and the fresh ocean air! Here are some fun ideas for an outdoor adventure:

• Take a relaxing ferry ride to Anclote Key Preserve State Park & Lighthouse, home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle, and piping plover. Remember to bring your own munchies and water, as there are no provisions offered on the island.
• Go biking or walking along the Pinellas Trail that runs directly through town and connects some of the most urbanized areas of the county with parks, scenic coastal areas and residential neighborhoods.
• The kids will love to play and, of course, splash around at Splash Park courtesy of the City of Tarpon Springs. The park is free and for family use only. FYI,  Splash Park will be closed for annual winter maintenance and will reopen February 24, 2023.
• Tarpon Springs Dog Park lets Fido or Firulais enjoy the beautiful premises equipped with everything for their pup-pleasure: benches, shade sails, sanitation supplies, water sprinklers, bridges, tunnels and separate fenced facilities for small and large dogs.
• Of course, if you love to hike, there’s Brooker Creek Preserve! Its hiking and equestrian trails provide a unique opportunity to explore the Preserve’s many ecosystems.

As you can see, there’s plenty to do, discover and enjoy in this bit of paradise in Florida’s Greek enclave. What is there left to say, but Opa!?
To learn more about Tarpon Springs and its amenities, visit HERE.

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