Must See Sights and Landmarks in Indian Shores Area

"Conveniently located close to downtown and adjacent to the Florida Aquarium, the American Victory Ship is one of Tampa's hidden gems. One of only four WWII ships that are fully-functioning, the Ship is a memorial to the dedicated men and women of the American Merchant Fleet. Almost all areas of the Ship are open to investigation, including the bridge, weaponry, galley and mess halls, crew cabins and Captain's quarters, radio and gyro rooms, and much more."

"For a dose of American history, located directly behind the Florida Aquarium, is the American Victory Ship Mariners Museum. Climb aboard one of only four fully operational World War II ships in the United States. It's a perfect sight to see if you have an hour to spare. Visit the engine room, mess hall, flying bridge and the crew cabins and see the historic photographs, medals and uniforms, of this unique period in American history."

"Tampa’s Amalie Arena has played host to a wide variety of exciting events and is a sprawling venue that attracts many people who flock here to watch everything from concerts through to sporting events. This arena is home to the Tampa Bay Storm and Tampa Bay Lightning teams and was once known as Ice Palace. The size of the arena covers 670,000 square feet and visitors can enjoy taking in the massive grounds as well as exploring the history of this arena when visiting."

"There is always something happening at the Amalie Arena, whether you are interested in ice hockey, basketball, arena football games, or music concerts. So it is worth checking their schedule if you are visiting the area. Formerly known as the Ice Palace, the building's naming rights were sold to the St. Petersburg Times in 2002 (which subsequently became the Tampa Bay Times)."

"If you’re after an exciting event to attend when in town then watch Tampa Bay Lightning play a fast-paced ice hockey match at the Amalie Arena. The colossal stadium lies along the Tampa Riverwalk, overlooking the Garrison Channel. Originally known as the Ice Palace, the arena was opened in 1996 and has since hosted countless NHL games."

"Spend the morning fishing on the Skyway Bridge or shopping in Downtown St. Petersburg. While in Downtown, visit the Salvador Dalí Museum, intriguing both inside and out. Catch an evening baseball game with the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, with the required dinner of ballpark hot dogs and cold beers. Alternatively, enjoy seafood and waterfront views at 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House, within walking distance of The Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club, where you should stay for the night."

"Located on the north and south sides of Tampa Bay, the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is based on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge that connects St. Petersburg with Sarasota and provides an excellent fishing venue. While the piers of the bridge are extremely high above the water, accessible areas around the pier offer excellent fishing, and you can find both shallow flats and deep-water channels. Fish species that can be found here include redfish and spotted sea trout throughout the year while the warmer months bring migratory fish such as cobia, tarpon, Spanish mackerel, and kingfish."

"Grab your rod & reel and plonk down at Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. Reaching state park status in 1994, the pier extends four miles into Tampa Bay. Skyway Fishing Pier State Park runs parallel to the massive Sunshine Skyway Bridge."

"Something about the site makes freshens you up the second you arrive – the view overlooking the mirror, the tall palm trees, the picnic tables and the simply but beautifully decorated temple itself. It’s tranquil and peaceful and it’s fascinating to watch the monks go about their business. Services are usually between 1pm and 2pm, and while you’re invited to observe the ...Read more"

"If you’re in Tampa during spring training, see the New York Yankees play at Steinbrenner Field, just east of the airport. Otherwise, walk along Bayshore Boulevard and enjoy the historic homes and shops. Have dinner at the Japanese-inspired Water Sushi, a late-night hangout that has live music almost nightly. Consider sneaking across the street for some heavenly dessert at The Harry Waugh Dessert Room at Bern’s Steak House."

"Why you’ve got to go: If you are a fan of the New York Yankees, this is the spring home of the famous team. This is also home to the Tampa Tarpons. What to do: Enjoy any of Tampa Tarpons 70 home games if you are in town between April and September."

"America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee, espresso, breakfast sandwiches and donuts. Order your Dunkin’ faves via the drive-thru or order ahead of time with the Dunkin’ mobile app for a fast grab and go experience."

"The guy made a blueberry macchiato instead of a blueberry matcha because I guess they were out of matcha. I was not asked about this, I tried it, and it ..."

"Getting its recipes from a former Plant City doughnuteer, this is maybe the most dreamed about doughnut shop in Tampa. Pilgrimages have been made. We are addicted to the doughnuts filled with things here – raspberry filling, blammo, lemon filling, baddabing."

"Jacque Simmons makes “small batch, gourmet donuts” in St. Pete Beach, mostly for weddings and special events. She doesn’t have a brick-and-mortar store. And yet she makes the list for the sheer genius and prettiness of her doughnuts."

"Tampa Bay Downs is the place to be when you’re looking for both live horse racing and simulcasting. Per their website, seasons last from November until June, and they offer 90 days of live racing right here at 11255 Race Track Road in Tampa. Like Derby Lane, you will find no slot machines here, however, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino has you covered with all the electronic games."

"Tampa Bay Downs is one of the only horse-racing establishments on the west coast of Florida. It’s located slightly outside of the city limits of Tampa, but it’s worth the extra gas."

"Rusty’s Bistro offers unique, Caribbean-meets-Southwest-inspired dishes in a luxury setting within the Sheraton Sand Key Resort in Clearwater, Florida. The resort is just off of Gulf Boulevard, and south of Sand Key Park. Visitors can come and enjoy the critically acclaimed “cuisine of the sun” prepared by culinary genius, Chef John Harris."

"What sets Caretta's on the Gulf (at the Sandpearl Resort) a step above all of the other restaurants is the stunning views of the gulf, impeccable service, expertly prepared food, and the elegant ambiance of the restaurant. Try to arrive before sunset so you can enjoy watching the sun go down while you eat, it's part of the experience!. Caretta's on the Gulf also offers a champagne brunch on Sunday's that has rave reviews!"

"Nate was one of the most knowledgeable and confident servers we have ever had and his recommendations completely... (727) 674-4171Order online. Superb214 Reviews4.3"

"432 Poinsettia Avenue, Clearwater Beach, Florida 33767 | 727-240-4799 Dine-in, Curbside Pickup & Delivery. “Ryan’s inspiration for opening his own restaurant stemmed from working with his family in NY as a teenager. Diagnosed with leukemia at 25, Ryan overcame the obstacles and set out to create Ryan’s Island Cafe!"