20 Attractions to Explore Near Lithia Springs Park

Alafia River State Park, is a popular destination for hikers and nature-lovers. The park contains 6 miles of trails and offers impressive views of river bluffs, small rapids and a diverse array of wilderness flora and fauna. With its array of camping facilities, cabins and fishing spots. Additionally, the park provides various organized activities such as canoeing trips and bird watching, giving visitors a chance to take full advantage of the natural beauty surrounding them.

Dinosaur World offers a unique way for visitors, both young and old, to explore the prehistoric era. Located on over 20-acres of land, there are more than 150 life-sized dinosaur models spread throughout gardens and forests; an educational exhibit where you can learn about all phases of dino history; a Dinosaur Bone Dig Sandbox which provides an interactive experience with real fossils; various activities including a fossil find game that helps with problem solving skills.

This is a Thai Buddhist temple that serves as a spiritual center and temple of worship for the local community. The multicolored wooden temple building faces a tranquil pond and is surrounded by lush tropical foliage, making it a beautiful and picturesque sight. Inside the temple, visitors can take part in ceremonies, as well as explore its many artifacts. Additionally, the temple holds festivals with events such as traditional performances, Thai cuisine demonstrations and meditation classes.

Cracker Country is an educational living history museum that provides visitors with a unique view of rural life in the 19th century. Through its re-created farmstead, period demonstrations, craft and trades heritage exhibits, original buildings and artifacts, Cracker Country showcases Florida's rich culture and diverse history. The guided tour offers an up-close look at lives of Florida pioneers who called themselves “Crackers” — self-sufficient cattle ranchers and farmers who lived.

Eureka Springs Park, is a beautiful and natural park that is perfect for spending a day outdoors. The sprawling grounds feature plenty of walking trails amongst the thick forestry, as well as some stunning waterfront views. There are also several attractions within the park such as Big Fish Lake and Eureka Springs Park Nature Center, where visitors can learn more about the local wildlife. Other activities include fishing, picnicking, birdwatching or other leisure activities.

Ybor City is a historically rich and vibrant area founded by Vicente Martinez Ybor in 1886, This Historic Landmark is known for its contribution of Cuban-influenced culture to the region. It has become an attractive place to live, work, and play by its unique combination of old-world charm, modern amenities, and exciting attractions. Visitors will find plenty here from the impressive architecture of century buildings, professional theater companies, stylish art galleries and trendy restaurants.

It is a large scale, 250,000-square-foot (23,000 m2) aquarium home to more than 7,000 aquatic plants and animals from Florida and all over the world.

The Florida Aquarium is a world-class facility showcasing the magic of aquatic life from all around the globe. Visitors can delve into unique habitats such as the Bays & Beaches, Wetlands, and Tropical Corals to get up close and personal with more than 20,000 amazing aquatic animals and plants. If you wish to dive even deeper into marine science, The Florida Aquarium offers educational programs for school groups and other educational institutions.

Ybor City Museum State Park is a great destination for exploring the history of Ybor City. The museum in the park highlights the city's rich culture and history, focusing on its 19th-century cigar industry roots. Visitors to the museum will learn about the Tampa's first settlers and see unique artifacts like machines used to make cigars. There are beautiful trails looping around the park letting visitors take in sights like old cigar factories, Spanish Revival homes, and Victorian architecture.

The TECO Line Streetcar System is a treasured part of the Tampa Bay Region's transportation system. Started in 2002, this popular and efficient 2.7-mile streetcar route runs from downtown Tampa, through the rapidly growing Channelside District, to Ybor City - one of the city's original Latin Quarters. With newly added modern streetcars that are wheelchair accessible, This System provides riders with frequencies throughout most of their operating hours–seven days a week.

A history museum in Tampa. Exhibits include coverage of the Tampa Bay area's first native inhabitants, Spanish conquistadors, and historical figures who shaped the area's history, as well as a reproduction of a 1920s cigar store.

The J.C. Newman Cigar Company has been family owned and operated since 1895, making it one of the oldest cigar businesses in America. This local institution is still owned by the Newman family and is a thriving business today. They produce over 6 million handmade cigars per year with 80 employees across multiple shifts in their Tampa-based factory. The company is dedicated to craftsmanship, quality control and continuing the long history of classic American cigar brands .

Parque Jose Marti is an outdoor recreation area that offers visitors a chance for exploration and play. This park covers 125 acres of land with plenty open space for picnics, sports activities, and walks. The walking paths are lined with tall trees and benches for rest, providing a pleasant environment throughout the park. There are also two lakes in the park which can be used for recreational fishing. Parque Jose Marti is the perfect destination to entertain children of all ages.

Tampa Bay Fun Boat is a great way to explore Florida's beautiful Hillsborough County from a unique vantage point. Spend the day cruising around and take in all the sights of the gorgeous landscape and waters, aboard their comfortable pontoon boat. Their knowledgeable captain will show you hidden gems like secret beaches, wildlife preserves and local landmarks that you might not have seen otherwise. There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing or just lounging in the sun.

Tampa, is a vibrant mix of urban culture, beautiful beaches, and historical landmarks. As home to the University of South Florida and Busch Gardens, The Ybor City Historic District provides a glimpse into the city's famed cigar-making past and features iconic brick buildings housing shops, museums and enticing Cuban restaurants. Outdoors lovers can enjoy Fort De Soto Park where stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico abound or drive up to Clearwater Beach for miles of white sand shoreline.

2.6-mile-long (4.2 km) open space and pedestrian trail development along the Hillsborough River . The Riverwalk extends along most of the downtown Tampa waterfront, forming a continuous path connecting multiple parks, attractions, public spaces, and hotels.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church, offers its parishioners a place of worship with a rich history and sense of community. This historic church dates back to 1899 and offers a variety of services for those looking for spiritual guidance. Not only does the vibrant church provide beautiful services but it also supports outreach programs such as Feeding Tampa Bay Food Pantry, Women’s Pregnancy Center, Oasis Worship Center and is active in local missions.

The Centro Asturiano de Tampa was founded in 1923 as a social center for members of the Spanish and Italian immigrant communities. It provided them with a place to gather socially and recreate, as well as access to healthcare, education, and other services. Today, it continues to serve the community of Hillsborough County by hosting various cultural events and educational programs. The four story building also houses a library filled with more than 5,000 books ranging from literature to history.

Tampa is a vibrant city with an abundance of activities to enjoy. Whether you head to Ybor City for entertainment or walk along the scenic waterfront of Bayshore Boulevard, there is something for everyone in Tampa. You can explore the natural beauty of Citrus County by taking a kayak tour along one of its many rivers and springs, or simply relax on one of the area’s idyllic beaches. Cultural and fine arts are also prevalent in Tampa.