Are you visiting Clearwater, Florida and wondering what to do? With its crystal clear waters and pristine white sands, plus its tantalizing restaurants, chic bars and incredible attractions, Clearwater is a slice of paradise. To ensure your vacation is filled with plenty of fun, check out our roundup of the best 14 things to do in Clearwater, FL. From fishing on Pier 60 to admiring the beauty of Sand Key Park, there’s something for everyone in the family. Let’s get started!
14 Things To Do In Clearwater, Florida
| Attraction | Location | Opening & Closing Time | Fee to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clearwater Beach | 1 Causeway Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767 | 24 hours | Free |
| Pier 60 Clearwater | 600 Pier 60 Drive, Clearwater, FL 33767 | 7am-11pm | Free |
| Clearwater Marine Aquarium | 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33755 | 9am-5pm | $25 for adults, $22 for seniors, $20 for children |
| Sand Key Park | 1060 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767 | 8am-sundown | Free |
| Cleveland Street District | Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL 33755 | Varies by business | Free to walk around |
| Ruth Eckerd Hall | 1111 N McMullen Booth Rd, Clearwater, FL 33755 | Varies by event | Ticket prices vary by event |
| Cliff Stephens Park | 600 Fairwood Ave, Clearwater, FL 33759 | 8am-sundown | Free |
| Tampa Bay Grand Prix | 12000 N US Hwy 19, Tampa, FL 33612 | Varies by event | Ticket prices vary by event |
| Captain Bligh’s Landing | 11311 Gulf Blvd, Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785 | 11am-9pm | Free |
| Bright House Field | 601 Old Coachman Rd, Clearwater, FL 33755 | Varies by event | Ticket prices vary by event |
| Coachman Park | 1 Coachman Rd, Clearwater, FL 33755 | 8am-sundown | Free |
| Mandalay Avenue | Mandalay Ave, Clearwater, FL 33755 | Varies by business | Free to walk around |
| Moccasin Lake Nature Park | 11501 N McMullen Booth Rd, Clearwater, FL 33755 | 8am-sundown | Free |
| Philippe Park | 12411 Gulf Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33755 | 8am-sundown | Free |
Clearwater Beach
Take a trip to paradise and head over to Clearwater Beach. Just 25 miles away from the bustle in Tampa and St. Petersburg, this 2.5-mile beach is home to sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters. Sway with the gentle breeze on the tranquil shores and enjoy cheap activities such as building sandcastles, admiring magnificent sunsets, or just simply immersing yourselves in the soothing atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the local educational aquarium and other kid-friendly attractions if you’re traveling with kids.
Pier 60 Clearwater
An absolute must-see on your Gulf vacation is Pier 60, located right on the stunning Clearwater Beach. Spanning 1,080 feet, this pier not only captivates with gorgeous panoramas, but it’s also a relaxing fishing pier with plenty of amenities for all ages.
Whether you’re looking for an exciting festival or a fun day out, Pier 60 has all the answers. So don’t forget to check out the Sunset Cinema or Sugar Sand Festival while you’re there.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Just off the coast of Clearwater is the perfect destination for marine life conservation – the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Established in 1972, this non-profit organization is known for its interactive programs and captivating exhibits, making it one of the top attractions in Clearwater for traveling families. Come face to face with a variety of sea creatures, including sharks, otters, birds, and dolphins. Don’t forget to meet and greet the aquarium’s most famous resident – Winter the Dolphin!
Sand Key Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a trip over to Sand Key Park. This 95-acre beach is an excellent place for a picnic, complete with a playground and dog park. The nearby bathhouses, beach cabanas and seasonal lifeguards further add to the convenience. Plus, it’s free admission so you wouldn’t need to worry about burning a hole in your pocket.
Cleveland Street District
Head over to Cleveland Street District for a taste of small-town charm. Just a short distance away from Clearwater Beach, this district has all the urban scenes and waterfront views you could ever need. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and explore its many restaurants, serving everything from gelato to tacos. Cap off your evening with some craft beer at the hip pubs and bask in the contagious energy of the night.
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Ruth Eckerd Hall is one of Florida’s most renowned performing arts venues, boasting a 73,000-square-foot space that offers its visitors exceptional acoustics and modern amenities. Located in Clearwater, the venue hosts a wide range of events, from Broadway shows and symphonies to educational programs ideal for kids. Open since 1983, this grand hall is a must-visit in Clearwater for people looking for activities for a memorable experience.
Cliff Stephens Park
Spanning 44 acres, Cliff Stephens Park is a splendid gateway for outdoor recreation, located in Clearwater. Adventurers will delight in the multitude of activities they can find at this park while admiring breathtaking scenery. Families can enjoy picnics and weekend BBQs, while fitness buffs can take advantage of its four tennis courts, two softball fields, basketball courts and recreation center.
Tampa Bay Grand Prix
For thrill-seekers, the Tampa Bay Grand Prix is an adrenaline-pumping attraction in Clearwater. Considered as the largest indoor go-kart track in the area, this 200,000-square-foot facility features an outdoor course, an indoor karting theatre, mini golf and an arcade.
From corporate events and family gatherings to birthday parties and race days, Tampa Bay Grand Prix promises a unique experience for drivers of all ages.
Captain Bligh’s Landing
Nestled in Clearwater, Captain Bligh’s Landing is a great place to breathe in fresh air and admire nature’s beauty. This boating center provides quality dockage and storage services, with plenty of services and amenities, such as boat repairs, fueling, restrooms and showers. Visitors looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the sea with their friends and family can unwind in their dockside cabanas that come equipped with furniture and fans.
Bright House Field
Just minutes away from Clearwater Beach, Bright House Field is a ballpark with a rich history. Initially opened as Jack Russell Stadium in 1912, the stadium is home to the minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, the Clearwater Threshers.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon of fun with your family or an evening of high-energy baseball action, a visit to Bright House Field should definitely be on your list.
Coachman Park
For a coastal getaway with a difference, make sure to check out Coachman Park. Located near Clearwater Harbor, this waterfront park offers ample opportunities for relaxing, walking and jogging around the waterfront.
Along with stunning views of the harbor, there are picnic tables and pavilions available that are perfect for hosting outdoor gatherings and special events. So, make the most of your vacation and explore the beauty of Coachman Park.
Mandalay Avenue
Mandalay Avenue is one of the most vibrant and historic streets in the city of Clearwater. Start off your tour by exploring the area’s architecture from the late 1800s and early 1900s, before heading over to the Clearwater Main Library for some educational entertainment. For some shopping, head over to the boutiques and galleries that line the streets of Mandalay Avenue.
Moccasin Lake Nature Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a peaceful walk through nature at Moccasin Lake Nature Park. This 130-acre park features trails, wetlands, boardwalks, and a playground. Take a guided hike with a certified naturalist and learn more about Florida’s wild areas and animals that call it home.
Philippe Park
Philippe Park is the oldest county park in Pinellas County, boasting breathtaking views of Old Tampa Bay. With 650 acres of lush greenery and various amenities, this park has something for everyone. Enjoy a picnic or BBQ with friends and family, admire the blooming plants and trees along its nature trail, and explore its 19th-century fort ruins.
Conclusion
As you can see, Clearwater is a true paradise that offers something for everyone. From the crystal clear waters to the incredible attractions, it’s no wonder why more and more people are choosing to take a trip here. So, don’t waste anymore time and start planning your vacation with this handy guide to the 14 best things to do in Clearwater, Florida. Whether you’re after a romantic evening out, or an exciting day of exploration for the whole family, Clearwater has you covered!