Calum Mackenzie

The Tampa area is famous for its great beaches, and famed theme parks like Busch Gardens or Cypress Gardens, but most don't take the time to go off the beaten path and discover some of Tampa's lesser known hidden gems. Whether you're a visitor or just playing tourist in your own town, here are some day trip suggestions for Tampa and the surrounding area you may never have thought of.

For Nature Lovers:

Hillsborough River State Park

First opened in 1938, this is one of Florida's oldest state parks. Built along the banks of the Hillsborough River, visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing camping and biking and hiking trails. Also located in the park is a replica of Fort Foster, an 1837 fort from the Second Semonole War. Tours are offered on weekends.

Lettuce Lake Park

Also situated around the Hillsborough River, this scenic park is a great place to experience Florida wilderness without going far out of town. The boardwalks allow you to safely view alligators, turtles and birds in their natural habitat. Plant lovers will love the blooming orchids, azaleas and magnolia, but also watch for the water lilies and swamp hibiscus.

Picnic Island Park

This great little spot only 15 minutes from downtown has everything you need to spend a perfect day at the beach. Bring a lunch, go swimming, kayaking, fish off the pier, or just lay back and take in the spectacular view of the city.

Canoe the Little Manatee River

The Little Manatee River Canoe Trail provides a scenic watery path through hardwood forest and swamp where you may view otters, alligators, turtles and other wildlife Have a picnic when the trail ends at the Little Manatee River State Park.

Adventure 

Firewalking

For you adventure seekers looking beyond the realm of skydiving or swimming with sharks - how about firewalking? Check out gofirewalk.com for more information on this popular activity held in Floral City Florida, just north of Tampa. Learn how to fight your fears while you walk across hot coals, shards of glass, break boards, or snap an arrow against your throat.

Tampa Bay Segs

Hop on a segway and tour the St. Petersburg downtown waterfront with Tampa Bay Segs. $49.99 will give you a 1.5 hour tour of the area, and training on the safe use of the segway.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

See Tampa as you've never seen it before, from the sky! Tranquility Balloon Rides offers sunrise hot air balloon adventures that include champagne and breakfast. They also offer custom personal tours, heck you can even get married up there!

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Calum MacKenzie is a professional Tampa Florida real estate agent, who makes client satisfaction his top priority. Calum has the expertise needed to find you your dream home in the Wesley Chapel real estate market.