The Best Attractions in Pinellas County, Florida
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Central Pinellas County attractions
The most famous town in Central Pinellas is Clearwater, famous for its’ white, cool to the touch quartz sand. The sugar smooth sand consistency has won this beach numerous awards over the years. Another famous site is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium where the popular Dolphin Tale film was shot. Clearwater is the busiest area of the Gulf with lots of boat cruises, dolphin tours, waterfront restaurants, and other touristy sights to keep you occupied.
The town of Largo is home to numerous parks including beautiful McGough Nature Park, Eagle Lake Park, & the wonderful free Florida Botanical Gardens. You will find lots of great local restaurants in this area, including Italian, Greek, Indian, Mexican, and American choices. Check out my guide to the top activities to add to your central bucket list!
McGough Nature Park
This great little local park is known as “the turtle park” for its’ high population of gopher tortoises. Keep your eyes peeled as you stroll through the oak hammock lined trails as they tend to hide. The 1 mile trail here is unique as it is made of recycled tires, and thus, thankfully a bit easier on your joints. Other features include a boardwalk trail through mangrove forests, a butterfly garden, ranger bird feedings, a playground with a stand up zip line, and indoor nature exhibits.
Columbia Restaurant Sand Key
This wonderful Spanish restaurant originally opened in Tampa’s historic Ybor City. Fortunately, today there are numerous locations including the most scenic waterfront destination on Clearwater’s Sand Key. Enjoy Spanish Paella and Cuban black bean soup in a gorgeous Mediterranean style dining room overlooking the water. Or better yet, take a seat on the breezy patio if weather permits. Whatever you do, do not leave without trying their famous Guava cheesecake!
Studio Movie Grill
Dinner and a movie is the perfect way to spend a hot summer day in Florida, when in all honesty it is way too humid to be outside for too long. As opposed to a traditional theater, at Studio Movie Grill, you can enjoy a real meal while taking in the latest flick. Along with the standard popcorn and candy movie treats, Studio offers a full menu of apps, entrees, and even dessert! You have the choice of ordering food prior to the movie or buzzing for service from your seat.
Boca Ciega Millennium Park
One of the best Pinellas parks for a quick scenic stroll is Boca Ciega Millennium Park. Here you will find a nice boardwalk trail, as well as an observation tower which overlooks the bay. This park is always quiet, and thus, a great place to escape the tourist crowds for a bit. Boca is an excellent destination for birdwatching (the park is located on the Great Florida Birding trail), picnicking, and light exercise. Other features include a canoe launch, a playground, and a dog park.
