I’ll say it. We’re not — Tampa or St. Pete — the quietest cities in the country. I mean, we do love our ear-shattering concerts at MidFlorida and screaming our lungs to shreds at Bolts games.
But after the past month-ish, we’ll take whatever peace and quiet we can get. Luckily, there’s plenty of tranquil options if you know where to look.
Here’s a snippet of the quietest spots in Tampa Bay according to Earth.fm:
Tampa
- The Riverwalk might be a little hectic, but you can’t argue with the magic of a serene sail along the Hillsborough River.
- It’s not hard to find your own quiet spot at Lettuce Lake Regional Park, with 240 acres of trails, boardwalks, and an observation tower.
- Take in a sunset from one of Tampa’s best waterfront parks, Cypress Point. And maybe make a wish on an airplane passing overhead or two.
- Driving across the Courtney Campbell might not be the most relaxing experience, but taking the Trail by foot or bike is much more revitalizing.
- The Upper Tampa Bay Park is an Old Florida paradise complete with mangrove forests, salt marshes, freshwater marshes, coastal hammocks, and pine flatwoods. Bring a camera or a keen eye to spot zebra swallowtail butterflies, bobcats, and gopher tortoises galore.
St. Pete
- It’s been a Sunshine City classic from the start. Even though its parked right off the bustling Fourth Street, the tropical paradise Sunken Gardens offers a tranquil spot to read a book or revel in the moment.
- Locals know this one. Drive right past the St. Petersburg Municipal Marina and you’ll find the quiet pocket of Demens Landing Park. Find a bench and look out at the Pier and the St. Pete skyline — in silence.
- Sawgrass Lake Park is a hidden gem, boasting some of the Gulf Coast’s largest maple swamps on the Gulf Coast. Beware, this serene landscape is also a gator hideaway.
- Whether you’re looking for an early morning hike or bird-watching adventure, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a great option.
