Fun Things To Do Near Clearwater, FL

Posted on: August 1, 2023

Planning a trip to Clearwater? Live in the area and need ideas for weekend activities? Whether you’re a visitor or call the area your home, you’ll want ideas for fun places to visit in Clearwater, Florida. Luckily, there’s plenty to do in the city, from going to the beach to enjoying the other tourist attractions and entertainment options around. You just have to know where to begin.

We’ve gathered lots of the top things to do in the area so you can have the perfect day or night out in the city. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Clearwater today or you’re planning your next vacation, we’ve got something for everyone on this list.

Indoor Things to Do in Clearwater

Whether you’re looking for the best rainy-day activities in Clearwater, Florida, or you want to stay out of the heat for a bit, there’s so much to do indoors. Indoor things to do in Clearwater range from thrilling adventures to relaxing activities. Find family-friendly entertainment or head out with friends for the evening. Check out these Clearwater indoor activities:

1. Tampa Bay Grand Prix

Looking for fun activities in Clearwater FL? It doesn’t get more thrilling than indoor go-kart racing in Clearwater and St. Petersburg. Perfect for those with a need for speed, Tampa Bay Grand Prix provides go-carts that reach speeds up to 50 mph. That’s all while using industry-leading designs and safety measures to protect you, your friends and your family on your visit. Have fun while you wait as you watch televised races in the lounge and fuel up with refreshments from The Cafe before your turn on the track.

Once it’s time to race, you’ll experience the exhilarating rush of competition as you face off against friends, family and other racers. Take on the thrilling challenge and work to improve your skills with each lap. Adults race around the one-quarter mile track 16 times in a race, and junior racers can enjoy the rush of 12 laps per race. Walk-ins are welcome, but you may want to plan ahead in case a party or event has already rented the facility. If you’d like to visit for a party or rent the entire track, be sure to make a reservation.

Private events are perfect for bachelor or bachelorette parties, birthday parties, graduation parties, fundraising events and more. Even if you just want a private space to enjoy the tracks with your friends and family, room rentals are available. These spots allow you to have your own space to relax between races or take a lunch or snack break. For bigger parties or extra special events, you can rent the whole facility. Take a look through the various rental options to find the right package for you.

2. Escape Room Clearwater Beach

Whether you’re in Clearwater with friends or family, you can all put your puzzle-solving skills to the test with this escape room. Visit for a bachelor or bachelorette party, or book your visit to enjoy things to do in Clearwater this weekend. Escape Room Clearwater Beach creates a narrative with its escape rooms to engross visitors in the story. Work together with your friends or family and unlock unique adventures in Escape Room Clearwater Beach’s variety of themed challenges, including zombies, pirate ships, Area 51 and runaway subway trains.

An escape room is a great way to spend time indoors. Try to beat the clock as part of a team-building activity or feel like the action hero as you put together clues to solve puzzles and save the world. Every puzzle at Escape Room Clearwater Beach only takes around an hour to solve, meaning you can still fill your day with other exciting Clearwater activities and really make the most of your time in the city.

3. Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. On hot or rainy days, head inside to the air-conditioned areas where you can visit dolphins and turtles, touch or feed stingrays, or hang out with the aquarium’s resident otters.

The fun carries on outside, where you can take a boat tour around Clearwater Bay to learn more about the aquarium’s conservation efforts and marine life. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is committed to helping local marine life by rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing injured or sick animals. Additionally, the aquarium values promoting conservation and marine life education.

4. Sim Center Tampa Bay

Want the excitement of an arcade with a modern twist? This virtual reality entertainment center provides lots of fun things to do in Clearwater. Sim Center hosts events and parties, but you can also stop in for things to do in Clearwater, Florida, today. On your visit, check out these virtual reality offerings:

Flight simulators: Sim Center offers various flight simulator options. Imagine you’re the pilot of a fighter jet going the speed of sound. Or pilot a Boeing 737 from takeoff to landing in a one-hour experience. You can even get in a real Cessna plane and pilot it in virtual reality. Fly around beaches in Miami, mountains in Colorado or the Grand Canyon.
Solar system tours: Explore the galaxy without leaving the planet. Step into the facility’s spaceship and enter virtual reality for a tour of space. The 45-minute guided virtual tour is great for kids since it provides a fun yet educational look at outer space.
Motion simulators: This attraction is the facility’s most popular virtual reality experience. Sit in the motion simulator and put on your goggles. From there, you can ride a roller coaster or fly a fighter jet, all with immersive motion.
HydroMassages: Had enough of adrenaline-pumping virtual reality? Escape to a calmer virtual reality by relaxing in the HydroMassages, where your virtual reality goggles can make you feel like you’re floating in a coral reef. Adjust the HydroMassage bed to your liking and leave your worries behind.

5. Wine Tastings

If you’re in need of some adult indoor activities in the Clearwater area, check out a few of the local wineries. While all the local wineries have something great to offer, the Clearwater area is home to some of the top winemakers in the state, like Murielle Winery and Aspirations Winery.

Aspirations Winery hosts tours, events and private parties. The winery focuses on fermenting small batches of wine and using attention to detail to craft a consistent taste every time. Try samples, flights or wine by the glass and pair it with build-your-own charcuterie. Pick your favorite wine and visit again later, knowing you’ll find the same quality in a future bottle.

Murielle Winery creates unique wines from sweet to traditional, using premium grapes and other fruits. The winery invites visitors to sample various available wines, whether you’re looking for something classic or a unique option. You can also take advantage of the winery’s private label services to get custom bottles of wine that make a great gift or commemorate an event.

6. Breweries

If you’re more of a beer person, Clearwater offers extra indoor activities with its many breweries, pubs and bars perfect for day trips. Find whatever pleases your palate at taprooms and bars like these in the area:

Clearwater Brewing Company: Located in downtown Clearwater, this spot is an independently owned microbrewery. Sample a few of the location’s brews on tap, which include a varied selection. You’ll find IPAs, stouts, ales and other options that are sure to satisfy any beer-loving visitor with a visit to Clearwater Brewing Company.
Grand Central Brewhouse: Located right on Central Avenue, Grand Central Brewhouse has something for everyone with its expansive indoor and outdoor spaces, including a beer garden shared with LALA St. Pete, the hottest restaurant and karaoke bar in Tampa Bay. They utilize European-style serving tanks to provide fresher and longer-lasting beer, and their knowledgeable staff can help you choose from lagers, to sours and IPAs.
Southern Lights Brewing Company: As this location strives to create unique brews, it starts with the finest grains, hops and ingredients around. A group of beer lovers founded this brewery, so you know they put care into every glass. You’ll find options that take your taste buds around the world at Southern Lights Brewing Company.

7. Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre

This location, formerly known as the Capitol Theatre and the Royalty Theatre, is a cultural landmark downtown. It’s one of the best places in Clearwater to visit if you’re interested in a wide array of live performances. The theater hosts musical acts, comedians, Broadway performances and murder mystery events. Whatever you’re feeling, the theater is probably hosting an upcoming show you’ll want to see. Book the privacy of the theater’s loge boxes for your visit, which also gets you access to the VIP lounge and an outdoor balcony that overlooks the Clearwater causeway.

The theater opened in 1921, and you can feel the history from the outside in. Admire the street view of the location’s classic theater facade, then step inside to enjoy modern renovations. The Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre now boasts concession stands, an outdoor balcony, a large lobby and seating for 750 visitors. Be sure to check out their events and get your tickets before planning your visit.

8. Westfield Countryside Mall

If you’re looking for places to visit in Clearwater that don’t require any advanced booking or preparation, check out Westfield Countryside Mall. This Clearwater mall is home to shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities. Visit over 100 stores, featuring everything from department stores to smaller and local ones. Grab a snack at one of the many classic mall options, pick up take-out or sit down at one of the location’s restaurants. A visit to Westfield Countryside is great for anyone living in or near the city looking for indoor things to do in Clearwater.

Look into seasonal and pop-up events happening at the mall to add more fun to your visit. You can even catch a movie to add relaxation or excitement to your shopping trip.

9. FlowRider Indoor Surfing

If you can’t head out on the water, head inside for an indoor surfing experience. Find this artificial wave machine along the Beach Walk. Kids will love learning how to ride the waves over the soft riding surface. Meanwhile, adults can shop around Surf Style, where the FlowRider is located. This indoor attraction is a great activity for rainy days or for those who aren’t too skilled with surfing just yet. They can learn the skill with the help of FlowRider’s instructors, who walk every surfer through getting on the board and riding the artificial waves.

10. Spas

Add a bit of relaxation to your vacation with a trip to the spa. Enjoy some alone time or opt for a romantic activity for you and your partner. A spa day is also a great way to spend quality time with close friends or family members.

Whether you’re looking for a facial, massage or full-service day spa, there are plenty of options in the Clearwater area. Some of the top recommended spa experiences include:

Spa Oceana: Voted the best spa in the St. Pete and Clearwater area in 2021, this spa is a must-try. This luxury resort spa has an 11,000-square-foot space overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. From aroma-infused steam rooms to a beautiful rooftop terrace, you can expect a lavish experience.
Botanica Day Spa: Botanica Day Spa offers group services that are ideal for girls’ trips, romantic getaways, and more. In addition to traditional spa services, other treatments are available such as brow and lash tinting and airbrush tanning.
Safety Harbor Resort and Spa: Enjoy Florida’s only Natural Mineral Springs Spa at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. Located in Tampa Bay, this historic location offers several spa treatments, nature trails, three swimming pools, and more.

Many resort-style hotels will have their own spa services, so if you’re looking for ultimate relaxation, stay at one of the various Clearwater area resort hotels and enjoy daily spa treatments.

clearwater outdoor activities

Outdoor Activities in Clearwater, FL

When the weather’s right, you’ll want to spend at least some time outside in Clearwater. The area is home to amazing views and activities galore, giving you endless possibilities once you head outside. From the best beach to things to see in Clearwater, Florida, you can find it all with outdoor adventures in the area. Check out these outdoor things to do in Clearwater that are sure to enhance your visit:

1. Clearwater Beach

It’s not a visit to the area without enjoying the white sand beaches and crystal-clear water that gives the city its name. With time at the beach, you can simply stop by to relax and take in the nice weather and scenery around you. Rent a beach chair, umbrella or cabana to sit in the shade and the sand. If you’re feeling more adventurous, try outdoor activities from water sports to fun in the sand at Clearwater Beach, like:

Beach volleyball
Snorkeling
Jet skiing
Parasailing

No matter what you want to do on your visit, you’ll find something that interests you in the area. In fact, Clearwater Beach was selected as one of the best beaches in the country in 2016, 2018 and 2019. Find free parking downtown and take the Clearwater Ferry for a simple ride to the beach. You can then easily access nearby dining, shopping and entertainment along the coast to enhance your visit.

2. Pier 60

Want to spend even more time outside at the coast? Be sure to visit Pier 60 during your visit to Clearwater Beach. The pier overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, perfect for photo ops or a relaxing stop. Visit in the evening for idyllic sunset views or stop by any time during the day to enjoy the scenery.

There’s even more to do at Pier 60 than take in the amazing outdoor views, as well. Relax in one of the pier’s covered pavilions, look for marine life with the telescopes or do a bit of souvenir shopping. You can also go fishing for snappers, Spanish mackerel, and flounders, depending on the season. Pier 60 has bait houses and spots to rent equipment if you don’t already have your own. With so many options available at the pier, it’s perfect for a day full of activities or a quick stop before exploring more of the area.

3. A Helicopter Tour

For things to see in Clearwater, Florida, why not check out the whole city from a different perspective? Take in the views of crystal-clear water from above with a helicopter tour. Tampa Bay Aviation offers aerial tours of the coastline out of Clearwater Airpark. Take to the skies for unforgettable views that let you see the Clearwater area in a new way.

Be sure to book your tour before visiting to ensure you have a spot and can enjoy the sky’s view of the city. You can even select romantic add-ons if you’re looking for a fun and unique date night in Clearwater. The tours have a two-person minimum, so tour with your partner for a unique date or treat a friend or family member to a day in the sky.

4. A Boat Ride

If you’d prefer to take your tour of the area on the water, Clearwater offers plenty of cruises along the coastline. Sail, cruise or get on the water in other vessels to have a unique and beautiful experience. A boat ride along the coast is perfect for a date night, a family outing or a fun time with friends. You’ll find various boat ride options for fun things to do in Clearwater, including:

Dolphin tours: Witness these majestic marine animals with Little Toot Dolphin Adventure tours. These up-close explorations of Clearwater Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico take place on the company’s “tug boat,” which creates a wake dolphins can’t resist jumping and playing in. Adults and kids alike will enjoy this outdoor activity, and you’ll learn about the area with a narrated tour.
Buffet cruises: Dine with lunch and dinner cruises available through StarLite Cruises. Hop aboard the colorful Calypso Queen, a triple-decked cruise ship with two indoor dining levels and an open-air deck. For an unforgettable dining experience accompanied by on-the-water views of white sand beaches and lovely skylines, head to the ship’s home port of Clearwater Beach Marina.
Sunset cruises: Clearwater Beach is stunning during the day, but things are spectacular at night, as well. Take an environmentally responsible boat tour with a two-hour sunset cruise by Schooner Clearwater. A small crew guides the traditionally rigged staysail schooner through the water as the sun goes down and creates amazing colors in the sky.

5. Watersports

Looking to get active on the water? Try one of the various watersports the Clearwater-area beaches have to offer. Some of the top watersport activities recommended include:

Kayaking or canoeing: Enjoy the calm waters with a kayak or canoe trip. Special trails with various points of interest are available to help guide you along the coast. Guided tours are also available as well as kayaking paths through dense mangrove tunnels.
Paddleboarding: Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) continues to rise in popularity. Give SUP a shot and rent a paddleboard pretty much anywhere you can rent a kayak or other watersports equipment.
Jet skiing: Take your watersports up a notch by renting a jet ski. Race along the coast and enjoy a thrilling day on the water when you rent a jet ski for yourself or, even better, when you rent a few for a fun group outing.

6. Parks

For things to do in Clearwater this weekend, consider enjoying a nature walk through the great outdoors. Visiting a nature park is a great activity for a last-minute trip since no reservations or pre-trip planning is required. Nature lovers can find a lot to do at the parks around, so plan a visit to natural spots like these in the Clearwater area:

Sand Key Park: Beach views and park amenities combine at Sand Key Park. Cabanas and bathhouses create a luxurious visit, while a dog park and playground make the location suitable for a family outing. Sand Key Park features white sand beaches and welcomes endangered animal visitors like sea turtles and birds.
Moccasin Lake Nature Park: Check out natural exhibits and camps for kids if you’re visiting this tranquil park with family. If you’re just stopping by to enjoy some scenery, walk this 51-acre nature preserve. Moccasin Lake Nature Park includes nature trails and a boardwalk to explore.
Crest Lake Park: Find playgrounds and picnic areas in Crest Lake Park, which makes it great for a family visit. You can also stop by with friends to use the lakeside trails or fishing areas. Bring your dog along to play in the 3-acre dog park, which has fenced play areas and double-gated entrances.

6. Hiking and Biking

Feel like enjoying a few more outdoor activities? The parks and other natural areas throughout the city of Clearwater offer opportunities for hiking and biking. Explore these trails in the Clearwater area:

Ream Wilson Clearwater Trail: This off-road trail goes from Clearwater Beach to Tampa Bay’s Safety Harbor.
Clearwater Memorial Causeway Greenway Trail: Explore over 2 miles of this back trail that’s suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Druid Road Trail: Enjoy over 4 miles of this paved and accessible trail that residents of the Clearwater area often use.
Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail: This pathway is a unique urban trail that’s among the most popular to walk and bike on in Florida.

Enjoy One of the Top Things to Do in Clearwater, Florida, at Tampa Bay Grand Prix

When you’re looking for fun places to go in Clearwater, Florida, it doesn’t get better than Tampa Bay Grand Prix. Visit with a group or a few close friends, and enjoy adrenaline-filled races at our Clearwater/St. Petersburg location. With indoor, year-round tracks, Tampa Bay Grand Prix is the perfect activity for rainy evenings or days when you want to get out of the sun. You can even save when you race with our weekday specials, from Ladies Night to specials during lunch hour.

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