Clearwater, Florida is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, but there are also plenty of unique and unusual activities to explore in this coastal city. If you’re looking to step off the beaten path and experience something out of the ordinary, Clearwater has a lot to offer. From underwater sculpture gardens to interactive museums, there are plenty of unusual things to do in Clearwater, Florida that will make your trip truly memorable. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover a side of Clearwater that you never knew existed.
Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Essential Information
– Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
– Fee: Adults $24.95, Children (ages 3-12) $19.95
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Families, Animal Lovers
Why is it so unusual
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium stands out as a unique tourist attraction due to its focus on marine life rescue and rehabilitation. Unlike traditional aquariums, this facility is not just about showcasing marine creatures but also about their rehabilitation journey. Visitors have the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible work done by the dedicated team of professionals and volunteers.
One of the most unusual activities at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is the chance to participate in a behind-the-scenes tour. This exclusive experience allows guests to go beyond the typical aquarium visit and gain insight into the daily operations of a marine animal rescue facility. From preparing food for the animals to observing medical procedures, this tour offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the aquarium.
Another unique aspect of this attraction is the opportunity to interact with resident dolphins. Visitors can sign up for a Dolphin Encounter experience, where they can get up close and personal with these intelligent marine mammals. This hands-on encounter provides a memorable and educational experience for guests of all ages.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers a variety of educational programs and interactive exhibits. From marine life presentations to touch tanks, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the importance of marine conservation in a fun and engaging way.
Overall, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its emphasis on marine animal rescue, rehabilitation, and education. It offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors who are passionate about marine life and conservation.
Take a helicopter tour over Clearwater Beach
Essential Information
– Address: Clearwater Airpark, 1000 N Hercules Ave, Clearwater, FL 33765
– Opening hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
– Fee: Starting at $99 per person
– Visit duration: 10-30 minutes
– Ideal for: Adventure seekers and those looking for a unique perspective of Clearwater Beach
Why is it so unusual
When visiting Clearwater Beach, one of the most unusual and thrilling activities you can experience is taking a helicopter tour over this stunning coastal paradise. As you soar above the crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands, you’ll be treated to breathtaking aerial views that few get to witness.
From the moment you lift off from Clearwater Airpark, the exhilaration of flying high above the beach and Gulf of Mexico is unmatched. As you glide through the sky, you’ll have the opportunity to see iconic landmarks like Pier 60, Sand Key Park, and Caladesi Island State Park from a whole new perspective.
The unique vantage point from the helicopter allows you to capture stunning photos and videos of Clearwater Beach that you simply can’t get from the ground. Imagine the thrill of looking down at the bustling beach below, with tiny beachgoers enjoying the sun and surf as you fly overhead.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, some helicopter tours even offer the option to fly with the doors off, providing an even more immersive and thrilling experience. Feeling the wind in your hair and the rush of the air around you as you soar above Clearwater Beach is an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a helicopter tour over Clearwater Beach offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience this beautiful destination. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of excitement and wonder to your Clearwater Beach vacation, don’t miss the chance to take to the skies on a helicopter tour.
Explore the historic Fort De Soto Park
Essential Information
– Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
– Opening Hours: 7:00 am – sunset daily
– Fee: $5 per vehicle
– Visit Duration: Half-day to full-day
– Ideal for: History buffs, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Fort De Soto Park in Clearwater, Florida, is not just your average park. While it boasts beautiful beaches and recreational facilities, what sets it apart are the unique and unusual activities it offers visitors.
One of the standout features of Fort De Soto Park is the opportunity to explore the historic fort itself. Dating back to the Spanish-American War, the fort provides a glimpse into the area’s military history and offers stunning views of the surrounding waters. Visitors can wander through the fort’s rooms and corridors, imagining what life was like for the soldiers stationed there.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Fort De Soto Park also offers excellent opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. Paddling through the calm waters surrounding the park allows visitors to get up close and personal with the local wildlife, including dolphins and manatees.
Another unusual activity at Fort De Soto Park is birdwatching. The park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with a wide variety of species to spot, including ospreys, herons, and pelicans. The park’s diverse habitats, including beaches, mangroves, and wetlands, attract a plethora of birdlife throughout the year.
For a unique beach experience, visitors can head to the park’s dog beach, where furry friends can run and play off-leash in the sand and surf. This designated area allows dogs to enjoy the beach alongside their owners, making for a fun and memorable outing for all.
In conclusion, Fort De Soto Park stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its combination of history, outdoor activities, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the historic fort, paddling through the waters, birdwatching, or enjoying the beach with your four-legged companion, this park offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all interests.
Go on a dolphin watching cruise
Essential Information
– Address: Clearwater Beach Marina, Clearwater, Florida
– Opening Hours: Daily departures at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM
– Fee: $25 per person
– Visit Duration: Approximately 2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, nature enthusiasts, animal lovers
Why is it so unusual
When you think of Clearwater, Florida, pristine beaches and warm sunshine likely come to mind. But one of the most unusual and exciting activities you can experience here is going on a dolphin watching cruise. While dolphin sightings are common in the area, what sets this cruise apart is the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat up close.
As you board the boat at Clearwater Beach Marina, the anticipation builds. The knowledgeable crew provides insights into the local dolphin population and their behaviors, adding an educational element to the adventure. Once the boat sets sail, keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins swimming alongside, leaping out of the water, and riding the waves created by the boat.
What makes this experience truly unique is the chance to participate in dolphin research efforts. The crew often collaborates with marine biologists, allowing passengers to assist in data collection by recording dolphin sightings and behaviors. This hands-on approach not only enhances the cruise but also contributes to ongoing conservation efforts.
Moreover, some cruises offer the opportunity to listen to underwater dolphin sounds using specialized equipment. This audio experience provides a deeper understanding of dolphin communication and social interactions, making for a truly immersive encounter with these intelligent marine mammals.
Whether you’re a family looking for a fun outing, a nature enthusiast seeking a close encounter with wildlife, or an animal lover wanting to support marine conservation, a dolphin watching cruise in Clearwater offers a unique and unforgettable experience that combines entertainment with education. So, next time you’re in Clearwater, don’t miss the chance to embark on this extraordinary adventure on the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Try stand-up paddleboarding in the mangroves
Essential Information
– Address: Clearwater, Florida
– Opening hours: Varies, typically from sunrise to sunset
– Fee: Rental prices start at $25 per hour
– Visit duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature lovers and adventure seekers
Why is it so unusual
When it comes to exploring the natural beauty of Clearwater, Florida, stand-up paddleboarding in the mangroves offers a unique and exhilarating experience. Unlike traditional paddleboarding on open waters, navigating through the intricate network of mangrove tunnels provides a sense of adventure and discovery.
As you glide through the narrow waterways, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including herons, egrets, and even the occasional manatee or dolphin. The peaceful serenity of the mangroves creates a stark contrast to the bustling beaches of Clearwater, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a tranquil natural environment.
One of the most unusual aspects of paddleboarding in the mangroves is the opportunity to paddle through tunnels formed by the mangrove roots, creating a maze-like experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Maneuvering through these tight spaces requires skill and precision, adding an element of excitement to your adventure.
For those seeking a unique outdoor activity that combines nature exploration with physical activity, stand-up paddleboarding in the mangroves of Clearwater, Florida, offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time spent in this beautiful coastal paradise.
Visit the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg
Essential Information
– Address: 1 Dali Blvd, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
– Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
– Fee: Adults $25, Seniors $23, Students $18, Children (6-12) $10
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Art enthusiasts, history buffs, families
Why is it so unusual
The Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg offers a unique and unconventional experience for visitors seeking a break from traditional art galleries. What sets this museum apart are the unusual activities and exhibits that showcase the eccentric and surreal world of the renowned artist.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the iconic giant mustache sculpture, setting the tone for the quirky journey ahead. One of the most unusual attractions is the “Dali Lives” exhibit, where a digital reincarnation of Dali himself interacts with guests, sharing insights into his life and art in a way that feels both futuristic and surreal.
For those looking to delve deeper into Dali’s mind, the museum offers interactive experiences such as the Virtual Reality Experience, where visitors can step inside Dali’s paintings and explore his imaginative landscapes in a whole new dimension. Additionally, the museum hosts unconventional events like “Midnight in Paris,” where guests can enjoy Dali-inspired cocktails and live music in a setting that mirrors the artist’s avant-garde spirit.
Visitors can also participate in workshops and lectures that delve into Dali’s unconventional techniques and artistic vision, providing a hands-on experience that goes beyond traditional museum tours. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious about the eccentric world of Salvador Dali, this museum promises a truly unusual and unforgettable journey into the surreal.
Take a sunset sail on a pirate ship
Essential Information
– Address: Clearwater Beach Marina, Clearwater, Florida
– Opening Hours: Sunset tours available daily, weather permitting
– Fee: Tickets start at $40 per person
– Visit Duration: Approximately 2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, couples, and adventure seekers
Why is it so unusual
When it comes to sunset cruises, Clearwater, Florida offers a unique experience that sets it apart from the typical boat tours. Imagine setting sail on a pirate ship as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the tranquil waters. This unconventional excursion allows visitors to channel their inner swashbuckler while enjoying the stunning views of the Gulf Coast.
As you board the pirate ship, you’ll be greeted by a crew of lively buccaneers who are ready to entertain and engage guests of all ages. From sword fights to treasure hunts, the onboard activities are far from ordinary. Guests can even try their hand at steering the ship or raising the sails, adding an interactive element to the journey.
One of the highlights of this sunset sail is the chance to witness a fiery sky as the sun sets, painting the clouds in hues of orange and pink. The pirate ship provides a unique vantage point for capturing breathtaking photos of the picturesque scenery, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts.
For those seeking a memorable and offbeat experience in Clearwater, embarking on a sunset sail on a pirate ship is a must-do activity. Whether you’re a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a fun outing with loved ones, this unconventional tour promises an unforgettable adventure on the high seas.
