Things to do in Clearwater

Start with the beach parks. Pier 60 Park has palm trees, picnic pavilions, and a playground right on the sand. Sand Key Park offers a wide, less crowded stretch of white sand good for picnics and surfing. For a quieter walk, Moccasin Lake Nature Park has oak-lined trails and a wetlands boardwalk. Coachman Park is another option, with paved walkways along the shore and a calendar of concerts and festivals.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a top pick—it’s home to the dolphins from Dolphin Tale and also has sea turtles. For active kids, Tampa Bay Grand Prix has indoor electric go-karts that reach 50 mph, and Celebration Station offers bumper boats, mini-golf, and an arcade. Congo River Golf is another family-friendly stop, with waterfalls and gator feedings alongside the mini-golf course.

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is a longtime local spot known for grouper sandwiches, served in a colorful, festive setting. Crabby’s Dockside serves a mix of seafood and American classics, with outdoor seating and a family-friendly vibe. For something with a view, Crabby’s Beachside Pavilion has picnic tables and gulf views, though it’s a bit more laid-back.

Catch a show at Ruth Eckerd Hall, which hosts music, comedy, and Broadway productions, or see a more intimate performance at the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, an art deco venue with a mix of events. For dinner, try Rumba Island Bar & Grill for Jamaican dishes and live music on a tiki deck, or Kobé Japanese Steakhouse for hibachi cooked at your table. Afterward, head to Wave Nightclub at Shephard’s for dancing.

Yes, the parks are free. Pier 60 Park and Sand Key Park are open to the public, and you can watch the sunset at Pier 60 without spending anything. Crest Lake Park has lakeside trails and a dog park, and Coachman Park is free to walk through, though some events may charge admission. The Clearwater Main Library is another no-cost stop for a quiet break.