Pinellas reveals itself through its distinct features: Fort De Soto Park comprises five interconnected islands, while Weedon Island Preserve lies on Tampa Bay and consists mainly of marine ecosystems, with some upland areas. There are also extensive protected areas, gardens, historic homes, and experiences centered on wildlife, crafts and food. You can choose which aspect shapes your visit based on your interests.

Coast and Landscapes

At 1,136 acres, Fort De Soto Park is the largest park in the Pinellas County Park System. Its five interconnected islands give the park a distinctive spatial layout. Pinellas County also maintains three regional beach parks on the Gulf Coast. They offer opportunities for picnicking and fishing—two simple reasons to plan some time outdoors.

The preserves also differ considerably in size. Weedon Island Preserve covers 3,000 acres, while Brooker Creek Preserve in northeastern Pinellas County is significantly larger, at about 8,700 acres. These figures help compare their scale, while each landscape offers a different impression: marine ecosystems dominate Weedon Island, complemented by some upland areas.

On the Water and the Trail

Weedon Island Preserve has two self-guided paddling trails that visitors can use to explore its islands and waterways. The northern trail is currently closed. Take this restriction into account when planning, and check current conditions before your visit.

The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail offers a different way to discover Pinellas: this linear, multi-use trail runs from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. Its protected green spaces provide room for hiking, jogging, skating and cycling. The trail is open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset; conditions may change temporarily. Check access if you are planning a visit.

Two trolley routes are described. The Central Avenue Trolley runs between the St. Pete Pier and Grand Central Station every 20 minutes, free of charge. The Jolley Trolley runs daily from Clearwater Beach to Tarpon Springs, passing through several coastal communities in Pinellas County. Since schedules may change, it is a good idea to check the times before your trip.

History, Crafts and Local Cuisine

The Heritage Village Historic Houses feature authentically furnished interiors that offer insights into the everyday lives of early settlers and residents. A permanent exhibition in the Turner Bungalow explores the history of the Turner family. The Plant–Sumner House is a local historic landmark in Heritage Village. Together, these sites offer different ways to engage with the region’s history.

Demonstrations and tours add their own highlights. The Weaver’s Guild demonstrations at the Daniel McMullen House take place on the first Saturday of every month; check event dates when planning. Tarpon Springs Distillery offers tours and tastings of craft spirits. It is located in a renovated historic sponge warehouse that once housed the Stephen Katzaras Sponge Company.

The Dunedin Food Tour is a guided culinary walk with tastings at five to six independent restaurants and craft breweries. Tour dates are listed from September 5, 2026, through October 30, 2027; dates and availability may change. Check both before planning your tour.

Gardens and Wildlife Encounters

The Florida Botanical Gardens invite visitors to stroll through 150 acres of formal gardens, landscaped areas and natural habitats. Admission is free. The gardens are open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., except the day after Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Leashed pets are welcome. The entrances are at 12520 Ulmerton Road and 12211 Walsingham Road. Since opening hours may change, check them before your visit.

At Clearwater Marine Aquarium, visitors can tour the working Marine Animal Hospital and observe its rescue work. At Stingray Beach, they can watch and safely touch cownose rays. Since exhibits and animal experiences may change, check current visitor information before your visit. This lets you choose among nature preserves, gardens, history and animal encounters based on the experiences that interest you most.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Treasure Island, Clearwater, Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Dunedin, Indian Rocks Beach, Pinellas Park, St Pete Beach, Largo, Oldsmar, Saint Petersburg, Tierra Verde, Indian Shores, Madeira Beach, North Redington Beach, Seminole, Redington Beach, Feather Sound, Belleair, South Pasadena, Bay Pines and Belleair Beach.

Go to the main travel overview: Florida.