This Underrated Florida Destination Is A Gem Known As The 'Jewel Of Tampa Bay'

The community of Tampa Bay, Florida, is expansive and includes the three major cities of Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. But among those larger cities rest smaller towns with their own unique style, personalities, and attractions. Safety Harbor, Florida, just 20 miles north of St. Petersburg, is one such location that offers visitors locally inspired foods and drinks, waterfront views from a Native American mound, and a haunted tour that incorporates both local lore and history.

Safety Harbor rests on a body of water of the same name that connects to Old Tampa Bay, a portion of the larger bay just 8 miles to the east of Clearwater. Its main street is full of restaurants, bars, art galleries, and accommodations that feel far removed from the busy coastal towns just a short drive away. This has helped earn the town the moniker of the "Jewel of Tampa Bay." 

The community, named with a historic nod to the safety ships felt here from piracy and rough seas in the 18^th century, is within easy reach of anywhere in the U.S. It sits between two international airports. Tampa International Airport, recognized as one of the best airports in the world for travel and food, is only 20 minutes across the bay by car. Also, just 12 miles south of Safety Harbor sits the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport.

Once within the city limits of Safety Harbor, it can be difficult to imagine just how close you are to the hustle and bustle of this large metropolis. But just like similar gems in the county like Fort DeSoto with its pretty beaches, Safety Harbor is full of beauty. Probably one of the most famous sites here is Whimseyland, a quirky attraction that celebrates a hodgepodge of artistic displays, including a large selection of bowling balls. Whimseyland is a private residence, but tours of the grounds can be booked online.

Just a few blocks away from Whimseyland is Main Street, which is lined with historic homes, bars, and restaurants. You won't find many chain restaurants here, and one of the standout places to eat is Gigglewaters. This 1920s-themed restaurant and bar offers special movie screenings in its small, 32-seat theater along with its inspired menu items.

Nearby, Syd Entel Galleries brings fine art and hand-blown glass to curious browsers and art collectors alike. Serving as a unique stop for art and creativity, this gallery is a family tradition spanning more than four decades. The business is easy to find inside a large pink, art deco building. There are also a number of quaint boutiques lining the downtown strip, offering fashion choices for all budgets.

While downtown Safety Harbor boasts vintage shops and plenty of things to do, just a short drive away is a beautiful link to the town's indigenous history, offering spectacular views of the waters of Tampa Bay. Philippe Park rests on a temple mound that was used by the Native American Tocabaga tribe centuries before Europeans arrived. Artifacts are still uncovered in the area today. The 92-acre Philippe Park offers guests hiking trails, access to boat ramps, and a number of picnic areas that can be reserved for celebrations. Grills, restrooms, and playgrounds are available as well, making the park a great place to enjoy a summer afternoon. The park is open every day — except Thanksgiving and Christmas — from 7 a.m. to sunset.

The Tocabaga people are woven into the history of Safety Harbor, with murals and signage honoring their claim to the area. They are also a central part of the Silent Slayers Ghost Tour of Safety Harbor, which runs nightly. The tour does not enter the park, however, and stays along the main streets of Safety Harbor. If you enjoy history, or anything spooky, the tour is one of many timeless things to do in Florida that make it a fantastic destination.