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Tarpon Springs, United States
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
Most popular attractions in Tarpon Springs, United States
1. Sponge Docks
Greek-American waterfront with living sponge-diving history. Stroll lively piers, watch sponge boats, browse sponge shops, and eat authentic Greek pastries.
2. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral
St. Nicholas showcases Byzantine architecture and living Greek Orthodox tradition. See glittering mosaics, the carved iconostasis, and fragrant incense during services.
3. Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art
Houses an impressive collection by Abraham Rattner and regional modern artists. Quiet galleries and a shady courtyard offer a focused, relaxing art visit.
Book a FREE walking tour in Tarpon Springs, United States
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. Safford House Museum
Well-preserved 19th-century house showing Tarpon Springs' Victorian-era life. Period rooms, original furnishings, and a shaded garden offer a calm, informative visit.
5. Fred Howard Park
Sprawling coastal park with a sugar-sand beach and panoramic Tampa Bay views. Walk shaded mangrove trails, watch kitesurfers, and picnic beneath ancient live oaks.
6. Anclote Key Preserve State Park
Barrier-island beaches, dunes and a weathered lighthouse ruin offer a quiet coastal escape. Walk sandbars, collect shells, snorkel shallow waters and watch shorebirds.
7. Tarpon Springs Aquarium & Animal Sanctuary
Up-close encounters with rescued wildlife make for an unforgettable hands-on visit. Meet otters, parrots and reptiles, enjoy interactive feedings and great photo ops.
8. Downtown Tarpon Springs
Greek heritage and waterfront charm make Downtown Tarpon Springs worth visiting. Explore the Sponge Docks, sample Greek pastries, and watch sponge boats return.
9. Craig Park
Quiet waterfront park popular for fishing and sunset views. Short pier, benches and open lawn make it ideal for picnics and watching boats near the Sponge Docks.
10. Anclote River Park
Scenic riverfront park with a fishing pier, boat ramp, and wide water views. Walk the pier, launch a kayak, and spot dolphins, shorebirds, and colorful sunsets.
Additional popular things to do in Tarpon Springs, United States
Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Baklava
A layered filo pastry with chopped nuts and sweet syrup, baklava is a signature Greek treat widely sold at Tarpon Springs bakeries on the Sponge Docks and a must-try for visitors.
Loukoumades
These small fried dough puffs are drizzled with honey and cinnamon, and they are a festival favorite in Tarpon Springs often served hot at Greek celebrations and street stalls.
Galaktoboureko
Galaktoboureko is a custard-filled filo pastry soaked in lemon-scented syrup, commonly found in local Greek pastry shops and prized for its creamy texture and bright syrupy finish.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Gyro
A gyro, with its sliced seasoned meat, pita, tomatoes and tzatziki sauce, is a staple in Tarpon Springs and a popular quick meal for people exploring the Sponge Docks.
Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a savory pie of spinach and feta wrapped in crisp filo, offered at bakeries and diners around Tarpon Springs as a classic Greek comfort food.
Grouper sandwich
Fresh Gulf grouper, served fried or grilled on a sandwich, showcases Tarpon Springs local seafood heritage and is widely served at the waterfront restaurants near the Sponge Docks.
Traditional Beverages
Greek frappe
The frothy iced Greek frappe, made from instant coffee shaken to foam, is a popular cool pick-me-up in Tarpon Springs on warm days.
Greek coffee
Brewed in a small pot called a briki and served unfiltered so the grounds settle, Greek coffee is a traditional accompaniment to pastries at Tarpon Springs cafes.
Ouzo
Ouzo, an anise-flavored aperitif, is commonly enjoyed at Tarpon Springs tavernas and pairs especially well with seafood and meze.
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Day trips
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Live mermaid shows, crystal springs, and kayaking.
Google MapsComments (10)
Nice for photographers, colorful buildings and docks, but souvenir prices are inflated. Came away a bit underwhelmed.
Expected more nightlife, pretty slow after dinner. Great for a relaxed weekend, not for party seekers.
Skip the tourist restaurants on Dodecanese Boulevard, walk two blocks inland for cheaper, tastier gyros and salads.
Metered street parking fills fast, use the municipal lot behind the post office for longer stays, it's cheaper and a short walk.
Loved the waterfront sunsets, friendly people, humidity was heavy in July though. Recommend spring or fall for comfort.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
Amtrak and regional bus connections
From Tampa Airport use rental car, rideshare, or shuttle; allow 45 to 60 minutes in traffic.
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