Just north and west of St Petersburg and Tampa, you’ll find the beautiful sandy beaches of
Clearwater sprawling along the Gulf of Mexico coastline. The area has a subtropical climate, so
it’s always amazing to cool off in the water – but don’t miss out on Clearwater’s inland
attractions. Hop on the Jolley Trolley to tour the town in comfort, or take a stroll on historic
Cleveland Street to enjoy a busting entertainment scene.

1. Clearwater Beach
What is it? A family-friendly white-sand beach has shallow water and an active nightlife.
What makes it unique? Follow the causeway to this barrier island for the area’s best
sandy beaches and a nightly sunset celebration at Pier 60. You’ll find beach volleyball
tournaments, kids playing in gentle waves, and lovely sugary sand. Sunset festivities
include street performers and free outdoor movies.

For more information: http://attractions.timeout.com/en/11312/Orlando-
attractions/Clearwater-Beach/d663-a1136

2. Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill
A casual waterfront eatery serving fresh seafood and signature cocktails.
Locals know this is the best place in town for great food in a relaxed environment. It’s
been that way since it opened in 1926. Their grouper sandwich is a popular favorite, but
you also won’t want to miss the house burgers served on toasted brioche buns. Save
room for tasty key lime pie.
For more information: https://palmpavilion.com/

3. Big Storm Brewing Company
An award-winning craft brewery with all-day pub fare.
Big Storm Brewing Co is part of the local Craft Beer Trail, but this is the must-visit
watering hole if you only have time for one round. In addition to a huge variety of
stouts, ales, and lagers, you won’t want to miss the menu of shared plates, local
seafood, and grass-fed beef burgers. Drop in for trivia night and order a beer flight to
sample Big Storm’s most popular brews.
For more information: https://www.bigstormbrewery.com/

4. Capitol Theatre
A historic art deco-style theater now hosting musical acts and classic films.
Step back in time at the old-school Capitol Theatre in downtown Clearwater. The venue
opened in 1921 as a home to vaudeville performances and movies, and reopened in
2000 after extensive renovations. Take a balcony seat for a night of live jazz, touring
comedians, or a movie like ‘The Sound of Music’.
For more information: https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/bilheimer-capitol-theatre

5. Aspirations Winery
A family-owned micro-winery producing small-batch low-sulfite wines.
It may feel like a scavenger hunt as you navigate through an industrial complex to find

this hidden Clearwater gem, but your reward includes sipping free samples of award-
winning wine. The behind the scenes tour is extremely popular, providing guests a

thorough winemaking experience topped off with a flight of five wines. Be sure to try
Chocolate Grand Finale – a classic port for chocolate lovers.
For more information: https://aspirationswinery.com/

6. Clearwater Marine Aquarium
An aquarium focused on rescuing and rehabilitating local marine life.
Remember the Warner Brothers film, ‘Dolphin Tale’? It was filmed right here at
Clearwater Marine Aquarium and there are plenty more inspiring stories to take in
during a tour. Whenever a local critter is injured or ill, this team of biologists and

veterinarians work to rehab the wild sea creature so it can return to its original home.
All the while, guests are invited to visit the dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and more.
For more information:

http://attractions.timeout.com/en/11312/tours/Clearwater/Clearwater-Marine-
Aquarium-General-Admission/d22457-7327P1

7. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill
A colorful beachfront dining venue with pool tables and live music.
Pull up a chair on the back patio for great views of the beach along the Gulf of Mexico.
This casual eatery focuses on local seafood and specialty salads, though the tacos pair
nicely with a rum runner from the bar. Daily live music adds to the cheerful community
vibe here, and the service is top notch.
For more information: https://frenchysonline.com/frenchys-rockaway/

8. The Florida Botanical Gardens
A dog-friendly county park with nature trails and wildlife across more than 25 different
gardens.
This free-admission 120-acre park is open year-round and it’s perfect for leisurely strolls
with the family. In addition to aromatic rose gardens and butterfly habitats, the park is
home to hundreds of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Catch a glimpse of an alligator,
explore the tropical fruit garden, or follow the Art in the Gardens trail.
For more information: https://www.flbgfoundation.org/

9. Shephard’s Tiki Beach Bar
A popular beachfront bar and grill with live music and dancing.
Shephard’s is the go-to spot for live reggae and rock on a waterfront stage. Join the
party on the dancefloor or kick back on the patio to watch the sunset with a margarita in
hand. No need to dress up. Resort-casual is the norm, with beach bums and vacationers
mingling with locals. Curb late-night hunger with fish tacos, chicken wings, and Angus
beef burgers.
For more information: https://www.shephards.com/venues

10. Clearwater Beach Uncorked – Returning November 6 & 7, 2021
An annual food, wine, and microbrew festival celebrating local chefs and restaurateurs.
For two days each year (dates vary between November and December), thousands
descend on Clearwater Beach to nibble, sip, and celebrate regional culinary excellence.
Local chefs compete and provide cooking demonstrations while Clearwater residents
take part in unlimited wine tastings. Insider tip: don’t miss the dessert tent!
For more information: http://savortheburg.com/