A family getaway often feels like a whirlwind of activities that leave you more exhausted than when you started. But what if there was a destination that offered an ideal blend of excitement and relaxation—so you could actually call it a vacation instead of a trip for once?
Florida’s Sports Coast is an under-the-radar gem in Pasco County, Florida that keeps parents and kids entertained without feeling overwhelmed. From scenic outdoor and water adventures to shopping sprees and cultural activities, it offers just the right mix of activities and downtime.
Check out our five favorite experiences below:
1. Big-time adventures
We know the struggle of keeping kids entertained all day long while on vacation—especially if you’ve got early risers or Energizer bunnies in your crew. So if you’re looking for an activity that’ll fill up a day’s worth of fun on your itinerary (and simultaneously wear them out!), look no further than TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park.
Kids of all ages can swing, climb, and zip line from tree to tree in this Central Florida forest. With ten themed courses that cater to different skill levels, including a toddler-friendly trail for adventurers one to six and an expert-level “Black Storm” trail for tweens and above, everyone in the family will have fun.
Want to cross an item off your bucket list while also proving to your big kids that mom and dad are cool? Head to Skydive City, where you’ll descend 13,500 feet and catch once-in-a-lifetime views of Zephyrhills, FL and the surrounding Florida’s Sports Coast… at 100 miles per hour!
2. Leisurely shopping (loaded with deals!)
While it’s tough to get any real shopping done with younger ones back at home, it’s more feasible (and way more fun) when on vacation in Florida’s Sports Coast. You’ll find some of Florida’s best outlets, packed with every retailer you can think of and plenty of restaurants… all in one place.
Head to Krate at the Grove for specialty shops and eateries built inside repurposed shipping containers. Not only will you find handcrafted goods and the latest fashions, but the site features an impressive roster of events that keep the fun going, including special family days, Sunday markets, and live music on weekends. Did we mention there’s a playground open year-round? Heck. Yeah.
Don’t miss Tampa Premium Outlets for great deals on top brands, like Coach, Michael Kors, and Polo Ralph Lauren. With plenty of options for dining and a dedicated children’s play space, it’s an ideal spot to keep little ones occupied as you get ahead on buying everyone’s seasonal wardrobe.
3. Rich cultural & historical activities
Visiting Florida’s Sports Coast during the summer often involves an afternoon rain shower or two, so having a backup plan of indoor activities is a must. Fortunately, there are a handful of local museums to keep everyone entertained and in good spirits.
For a fun and immersive dive into local history, hop on a trolley tour in Downtown Dade City with Joy Lynn from The Spoke visitor center. Joy will keep little historians on the edge of their seats with tales of the town’s haunted hotels, and let them explore historic buildings, like the old City Market Building that’s now home to Green Door on 8th. With the tour starting and ending at The Spoke, kids have the perfect opportunity to cool and play at the park and splash pad located on-site!
Located within a four-acre park, the Zephyrhills Train Depot Museum is a perfect morning activity for train lovers and history enthusiasts. It’s loaded with interesting exhibits, artifacts, and memorabilia that tell the story of the charming town, but the biggest draw is the 1970s-era caboose that sits out front (that’s your cue for a photo opp!). If the weather lets up, head to the train-themed playground, wooded walking trails, or picnic spaces that are just a walk away.
To learn about the trailblazing spirit that shaped the Sunshine State, head to the open-air Pioneer Florida Museum. There you’ll explore 11 historical landmarks, like a one-room schoolhouse, general store, shoe repair facility, barn full of carriages and late 19th-century farm equipment, and a museum with antiques.
4. One-of-a-kind aquatic experiences
It wouldn’t be a true Florida’s Sports Coast vacation without diving into the area’s pristine waters, And we’ve got our eye on The Lift Adventure Park, an experience that’ll make serious waves (see what we did there?). This inflatable jungle gym floats atop a spring lake in Hudson, FL, giving water ninjas ample space to run, jump, slip, and slide their way around. Tweens and teens will appreciate the range of adrenaline-pumping water sports available, from wakeboarding to paddleboarding. Plus, there’s even a jungle ropes course that’ll test everyone’s strength and agility.
For a more laid-back experience—after all, not everyone wants to feel like a contestant on Wipe Out—check out Mirada Lagoon, the largest man-made lagoon in the U.S. You can kayak, swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sandy shore, and there’s also a water obstacle course, in case the kiddos get a second wind.
5. Unforgettable dining
Florida’s Sports Coast is known for its diverse culinary scene, which will please both food lovers and picky eaters. Foodies shouldn’t sleep on Downtown Dade City’s Lunch on Limoges, known for their ever-changing daily menu, Southern-style desserts, and open kitchen (we’ve heard breakfast is also fantastic). And if you happen to be in town upon the New Year, don’t miss out on these spectacular kumquat dishes during the town’s annual Kumquat Festival. While in Downtown Dade City, you’ll also want to make a stop at local favorite, Steph’s Southern Soul Restaurant, for fried chicken, savory collard greens, and classic Southern hospitality.
For more of an international vibe, Dang Good On Main‘s menu features poké bowls, sushi burritos, unique hand rolls, and vegan dishes in Downtown New Port Richey. Meanwhile, farm-to-table lovers should head to nearby Herschel’s Scratch Kitchen, which showcases the best locally sourced produce and ingredients.
Any craft beer fans in your crew? Craft Street Kitchen in Trinity serves hearty dishes, kid-friendly options, and the finest brews the area has to offer, while nearby treasure Escape Brewing Company (a.k.a the makers of Florida’s Sports Coast beer!) will give you a true taste of the region.
6. Breathtaking natural wonders
There are plenty of outdoor escapes that’ll get even your wildest adventurer to slow their roll. A local family favorite is Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park in New Port Richey. Take advantage of peaceful hiking trails, excellent bird-watching opportunities (we’re talking bald eagles, songbirds, hawks, and more), and kayaking opportunities through the salt marshes.
Unfortunately, there aren’t dedicated spaces for swimming due to the mangroves that cover the shoreline, but kids can hit the water at the nearby Durney Key. While it’s located outside the Werner-Boyce, it can be reached by either kayak or canoe from within the park (if you’re up for a challenge!), or by car within ten minutes.
If a boat ride that takes you to a crystal clear ocean with hours’ worth of shelling sounds dreamy, add Anclote Key State Park to your itinerary. This pristine island offers swimming, snorkeling, fishing, bird watching, and even camping if you want to extend your visit. Toss in some historical fun with a visit to the 1887 Anclote Key Lighthouse, which is open to the public during special events.
Ready to experience all the awesomeness? Plan your trip to Florida’s Sports Coast, and discover the hidden treasures of Florida’s Sports Coast. Visit floridasportscoast.com to find even more suggestions.
