Nestled into the northwest corner of Tampa Bay sits Safety Harbor. While the name originates from the time pirates ruled the Gulf of Mexico you will find a deeper history along its shores. Including the mounds of the Tocobaga, healing mineral springs, and a vibrant art community today.
The 1950s were a time of innocence, post-war booms, moving to the suburbs and free beer. Well, free beer at Busch Gardens. The gardens were opened in 1959 as an admission-free hospitality center for the Tampa Anheuser-Busch brewery. Visitors were welcomed for their brewery tour with bird shows in a tropical setting and beer.
Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast is the picturesque town of Dunedin. This hidden gem of Florida should be on your must-see list. The wooded sub-tropical setting offers nearly four waterfront miles. Nearly weekly celebrations fill the delightful downtown. The surrounding streets are filled with sherbet-colored houses and a typical relaxed Florida lifestyle. Dunedin’s 29 city parks offer the community 270 acres of green space. While support for the locally-owned shops and restaurants offers a welcome reprieve from the all too common large chain stores with their commercial signs.
Wandering the streets of Dunedin you will find smiles everywhere while its residents enjoy the outdoors. Golf carts are a common sight. The golf carts are decorated for the closest holiday or favorite team. The trees of homes often display handmade “chandeliers” of solar lights. This delightful town is filled with personality!
The Tampa Bay History Center opened the doors of a 60’000 square-foot facility in 2009 on Tampa’s Riverwalk. Then, in 2012, the center entered into an agreement to be a Smithsonian Affiliate. This long-term partnership allows the sharing of collections, exhibitions, and educational strategies. It also facilitates joint research.
Keeping caffeinated for adventures is always a priority. Searching out the local coffee roasters and brewers in an area allows you to dive into local flavors and cultures.
Today, the Victory ship American Victory serves as a museum. Also, as a memorial to the men and women who served during both war and peace. Carrying ammunition and military equipment to theaters of war to aid in the victory. Bringing our brave service members back home afterward. And humanitarian supplies to war-torn continents, this ship has many stories to tell. Take the time to visit. Listen to her stories, before they are forgotten.