Downtown Clearwater, FL, is a diverse and lively city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From its thriving arts scene and shopping districts to its beautiful beaches and captivating historical landmarks, Clearwater has something for everyone. Join us as we embark on a day trip to explore the hidden gems of Downtown Clearwater, showcasing the heart of this vibrant city.
Explore Downtown Clearwater with its vibrant arts scene, shopping and dining options, historical landmarks and beach life.
Enjoy Pier 60 for fishing, entertainment and daily sunset celebrations as well as a variety of watersports activities.
Experience events such as the annual Jazz Holiday festival at Coachman Park or monthly Blast Friday street party in Downtown Clearwater along with seasonal festivities to celebrate local culture.
Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Clearwater is renowned for its waterfront living and urban ambiance, with numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment options. From the bustling streets of downtown to the serene shores of Clearwater Beach, there is no shortage of captivating experiences to be had.
Downtown Clearwater is a cultural hub rich in arts, history, and vibrancy. Get ready to dive into the dynamic arts scene, discover distinctive shopping and dining venues, and explore historical landmarks that narrate the city’s intriguing story.
The arts scene in Clearwater is impressive, characterized by a profusion of theaters, galleries, and public art installations reflecting the city’s creativity. Notable art galleries include:
Each offering a unique and inspiring artistic experience. ARTours Clearwater offers a unique experience - a self-guided augmented reality (AR) walking tour through downtown Clearwater. Along this 0.7 mile route, visitors can enjoy four vibrant murals.
The historic Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, opened in 1921 as a vaudeville theatre and movie house, is another gem that Clearwater proudly hosts. After facing financial difficulties and undergoing restoration, the theater is now an important part of downtown Clearwater, hosting a variety of performances such as:
concerts
symphony orchestra performances
tribute shows
Broadway musicals
magic shows at the Ruth Eckerd Hall.
Shopping and dining in Downtown Clearwater cater to a variety of tastes and interests, offering a diverse selection. Some unique local boutiques include:
At The Beach Boutique
These boutiques provide a delightful shopping experience for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures. Some may be nearby the city not within.
When it comes to dining, visitors can indulge in a wide array of cuisines, ranging from seafood and American to French and Mexican, at popular eateries like Clear Sky on Cleveland, Jimmy’s On The Edge, Rumba Island Bar & Grill, Sea – Guini, and Crabby’s Dockside. Moreover, Downtown Clearwater also offers vegan and vegetarian-friendly dining options at establishments like Seaweed, Poke Havana, Ryan’s Island Cafe, Bangkok Express, and The Green Table Restaurant.
The rich history of Clearwater is reflected in its numerous historical landmarks, providing a window into the city’s past. Significant landmarks include:
The 1908 Gingerbread House
Heritage Village & Historical Museum
Cleveland Street Gas
The Capitol Theater
The Lokey Building
The Capitol Theatre, for instance, has a fascinating history dating back to 1921, evolving from a vaudeville theater and movie house to one of Florida’s oldest operating theaters and a cultural gem in downtown Clearwater. Another noteworthy historical site is the Fort Harrison Hotel, which opened in 1926 and has been a landmark in Clearwater for nearly a century.
For those interested in delving deeper into Clearwater’s history, guided tours such as the Safety Harbor Ghost and History Tour or the 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour offer an engaging way to explore the city’s past.
For sun, sand, and surf enthusiasts, Clearwater Beach stands as the city’s prime attraction. With its soft white sand and sparkling turquoise waters, it’s no wonder Clearwater Beach is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the United States. Visitors can partake in a variety of beach activities, from lounging on the sand to trying their hand at exciting watersports.
Pier 60 is a must-visit attraction at Clearwater Beach, offering a lively atmosphere with entertainment, shopping, and stunning sunsets. Beyond Pier 60, Clearwater Beach offers a plethora of watersports and beach activities, guaranteeing enjoyment for all.
As a bustling hub of activity on Clearwater Beach, Pier 60 offers a variety of unique experiences for visitors. From fishing and dining to shopping and entertainment, Pier 60 has it all. One of the most popular attractions at the pier is the nightly sunset celebration, where visitors can:
Admire the breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico
Enjoy live music from local musicians
Browse and purchase unique crafts and artwork from local artisans
In addition to the sunset celebrations, Pier 60 also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival and various holiday celebrations. With its lively atmosphere and endless entertainment options, Pier 60 is the perfect place to spend an unforgettable day at Clearwater Beach.
Clearwater Beach has an array of thrilling watersports and activities that cater to all ages and skill levels. Popular options include kayaking, sightseeing boat tours, speed boat rides, family-friendly pirate ship excursions, and romantic sunset cruises. For the more adventurous, there’s tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing.
To make the most of your beach adventure, there are several equipment rental options available, such as Fin’s Jet Ski Tours & Pontoon Boat Cruises, BouYah Watersports, and Beach Jet Ski Rentals. Additionally, guided tours and lessons for watersports can be found at locations like the Little Toot Dolphin Adventure at Clearwater Beach and the Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat.
Considering a stay in Clearwater? The city presents various beachfront accommodations from luxury hotels to relaxing resorts, suiting your needs. Some options include:
Sandpearl Resort
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach
Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
Hilton Clearwater Beach
If you’re looking for more family-friendly or budget-friendly options, consider staying at:
Shephard’s Beach Resort
Winter The Dolphin’s Beach Club
Palm Pavilion Inn on Clearwater Beach
Pier House 60
No matter your preference, you’re sure to find the perfect beachfront accommodation to make your Clearwater stay a memorable one.
Thanks to various transportation and parking options, getting around Downtown Clearwater is straightforward. From trollies and water ferries to convenient parking solutions, getting around the city has never been easier.
Take advantage of the trolley service in Downtown Clearwater, which operates from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. with service provided every 15 minutes, and until midnight at 30-minute intervals after 8 p.m.. For a more scenic experience, consider using the water ferries, which offer service to Clearwater and Dunedin, with stops at Downtown Clearwater, Clearwater Beach Marina, and various restaurants.
Thanks to an array of parking solutions, locating convenient parking in Downtown Clearwater is straightforward. Here are the options available:
On-street parking: $0.50 per hour, with a 5-hour time limit.
Parking lots: $0.50 per hour, with unlimited time during enforcement hours.
Former Clearwater City Hall: Located at 112 S. Osceola Ave, offers over 100 spaces free of charge.
To further simplify the parking experience, consider using the ParkMobile app, which allows users to pay for parking effortlessly using their smartphone or mobile device. With a variety of parking solutions at your disposal, exploring Downtown Clearwater has never been more hassle-free.
Public transportation in Clearwater provides a convenient and affordable way to discover the city. Some of the transportation options available include:
Trolley service
These services offer reliable car transportation options throughout the city.
Fares for public transportation in Clearwater are affordable, with the following options:
Regular fare: $2.25
Reduced fare for eligible residents: $1.10
Discounted fare for seniors aged 65 and older: 40 cents when riding the county’s public buses
With a variety of public transportation options at your fingertips, navigating Clearwater, FL has never been easier.
With pedestrian-friendly streets and attractions, Downtown Clearwater offers an environment that encourages exploration on foot. The city has a Walk Score of 42, with areas such as Northwood, Clearwater Beach, and Island Estate being especially pedestrian-friendly.
Safety measures for pedestrians in Downtown Clearwater include:
Clearly marked crosswalks on intersection corners
Necessary safety lighting and pedestrian signals
Designated pedestrian zones that prioritize pedestrian safety and accessibility
These measures ensure a comfortable and enjoyable walking experience throughout the city, covering the right distance for all pedestrians.
A variety of beautiful parks and green spaces in Clearwater offer a plethora of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts across all age groups. From the picturesque waterfront of Coachman Park to the tranquil trails of Moccasin Lake Nature Park, there is no shortage of outdoor adventure to be had.
Dogs are welcome in Clearwater too, with several dog-friendly parks available for your furry friends to play and socialize. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, explore local wildlife, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Clearwater’s parks and green spaces are sure to delight.
Situated in the heart of Clearwater, Coachman Park is a popular destination for events, concerts, and waterfront relaxation. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including:
Free yoga classes
Leisurely strolls around the picturesque pond
A splash pad and playground for children
Plenty of open space for picnics and outdoor games
Coachman Park is also home to the annual Clearwater Jazz Holiday, a four-day music festival featuring world-class artists. With its rich history and stunning waterfront location, Coachman Park is a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Discover the natural beauty of Moccasin Lake Nature Park, a 51-acre nature preserve in Clearwater. The park offers a variety of walking trails, wildlife exhibits, and an interpretive center, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
At Moccasin Lake Nature Park, visitors can encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, various species of birds of prey, and other Florida wildlife. The park’s native garden showcases plants like alligator flag around Moccasin Pond, providing nectar for the local wildlife.
Experience the serene beauty of this hidden gem and reconnect with nature in the heart of Clearwater.
Clearwater is a dog-friendly city, providing several parks for your furry friends to play and socialize. Some of the most acclaimed dog-friendly parks include:
Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park
Enterprise Dog Park
Crest Lake Dog Park
Edgewater Drive Park
Doggie Days Dog Park
These parks offer amenities such as:
Dog agility poles and tunnels
Waste receptacles
Cleaning stations
Walking trails
Ensuring a fun and safe environment for both dogs and their owners. With designated off-leash areas and plenty of space to roam, Clearwater’s dog-friendly parks are a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors with your four-legged companions.
Clearwater showcases its lively atmosphere and diverse culture by hosting a variety of vibrant events and festivals throughout the year. From the annual Clearwater Jazz Holiday to the monthly Blast Friday street party, there’s always something happening in this bustling city.
In addition to music festivals, Clearwater also offers seasonal events such as holiday celebrations, cultural festivals, and local traditions that bring the community together and provide unique experiences for visitors. No matter the time of year, Clearwater’s events and festivals are sure to make your visit an unforgettable one.
Held annually in the fall, the Clearwater Jazz Holiday is a four-day music festival that attracts tens of thousands of visitors to Coachman Park in Clearwater. With the Gulf of Mexico serving as a picturesque backdrop, the festival features performances by both legendary and relevant musical artists, attracting a diverse fan base and breaking racial boundaries since its inception.
The upcoming Clearwater Jazz Holiday is scheduled to take place from October 19th to October 22nd, 2023, and promises to be an unforgettable experience for jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike. With world-class performers, stunning waterfront views, and a lively atmosphere, the Clearwater Jazz Holiday is a must-attend event for anyone visiting the city.
Blast Friday is a free monthly street party in Downtown Clearwater that features live music, food, and entertainment for all ages. Since its inception in 2009, the event has grown in popularity and now attracts thousands of visitors each month.
At Blast Friday, attendees can enjoy:
Live concerts featuring local and national touring artists
A range of food vendors offering specialty food items and refreshments
Live entertainment such as cosplay showcases, costume contests, and performances from various bands
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Blast Friday is a fun and exciting way to experience the vibrant culture of Clearwater.
Clearwater’s seasonal events include:
Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival
Dunedin Celtic Music and Craft Beer Festival
Honeymoon Island Bluegrass Festival
Clearwater Beach Chalk Art Festival
These events are a testament to the city’s diverse culture and community spirit, and there’s always something happening in this dynamic city.
During the holiday season, Clearwater hosts a variety of celebrations, including the Clearwater Yacht Club Annual Holiday Boat Parade, Motowners Christmas Kickoff, and various events in Downtown Clearwater. These events provide a festive atmosphere and unique experiences for visitors of all ages, making Clearwater a truly special place to visit year-round.
From its lively arts scene and bustling shopping districts to its beautiful beaches and captivating historical landmarks, Downtown Clearwater offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant arts, culture, and history, or simply relaxing by the water, Clearwater’s hidden gems are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags, gather your friends and family, and embark on a day trip to discover the heart of Clearwater, Florida.
Yes, Clearwater FL has a vibrant downtown area with an array of activities and attractions that draw in over two million visitors annually.
Downtown Clearwater is highly walkable, with waterfront parks, great dining options, and an aquarium that houses two of the world's most famous dolphins.
Yes, Clearwater does have a boardwalk known as Pier 60. It hosts a daily sunset festival and is a must-see when visiting Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Cleveland Street is the main street in Clearwater Beach, featuring retail shops, entertainment venues and restaurants, as well as wide palm tree-lined sidewalks to accommodate pedestrians.
Experience Downtown Clearwater's arts scene for yourself by visiting its theaters, galleries, and public art installations, as well as taking the ARTours augmented reality walking tour.
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