Largo, Florida, not to be confused with Key Largo, in the Florida Keys, is a great town located in the Tampa Bay area. To give a bit of perspective of where it’s located, Clearwater is just north of Largo and it’s southwest of Tampa Bay. Largo, Florida is in the heart of Pinellas County and what makes this a cool place to visit is how central it is to the Tampa Bay area and the Orlando area.
There are so many things to do in Largo, Florida, that you may plan to spend more than a day in the area. Largo’s history is deeply rooted in citrus farming, and as the city works to attract visitors, it reclaims its Old Florida feel. The downtown shops and restaurants provide a great place to explore, shop, and eat. What I was surprised about was how many parks there are to visit and that so much to do in the area is free. This is a great spot to spend time away from theme parks and spend time exploring Florida’s natural habitat.
If you thought Largo was actually Key Largo, don’t feel bad… I thought the same thing at first. But, if you want information about Key Largo, we will provide some ideas on things to do while visiting Key Largo and the Florida Keys.
Shall we explore the top things and best places in Largo? Here’s our list of things to do while in the Largo area…
Florida Botanical Gardens
Open daily from 1am to 5pm, admission is free to the public and leashed pets are welcome. This 100 acre park showcases flora, fauna, and natural resources found in the area. Traveling with kids? Then check out the Children’s Trail. You can also explore the Butterfly, Cactus, herb, native plant, palm, tropical fruit, and other gardens.
Largo Central Park
Located in the heart of Largo, this 70 acre park offers a lot to do. During the Holiday season, it has a great Christmas light display. Best of all… it’s free.
Pinellas County Heritage Village
Heritage Village is free and open to the public. This open air historical village and museum has historic structures that date back to the early 1900s.
McGough Nature Park
Also known as “Turtle Park” for its abundant aquatic turtle population. This park has 26 acres and is located along the Intercoastal Waterway. The Nature Center houses live animal exhibits, including some that were rescued. The nature trails, include a comfortable rubberized walking trail and are a great way to see the natural beauty of Florida.
Walsingham Park
This 354 acre park is divided by Walsingham Lake. Here you can boat, fish, enjoy the children’s playground, use the 6 mile shared use trail, picnic, and even have Fido enjoy the dog park .
Pinellas Trail
We love to bring our bikes with us when we explore Florida and love the trail system. The Pinellas Trail extends from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs.
Sky Zone – Clearwater
This is the world’s first indoor trampoline park. Come for a great workout and have awesome fun too! Experience the different activities and the pure joy of flying!
Eagle Lake Park
Originally owned by the Taylor family, pioneers in Pinellas County. They used the land for cattle grazing and as a citrus grove. Today there are boardwalks you can stroll over restored wetlands, catch and release fishing a dog park, playground, picnic shelters, and restrooms.
John S. Taylor Park
Here you can play disc golf, boat, picnic, walk the trail and let the kids play on the playground. Note, the restrooms are open on weekends and holidays only (closed Monday through Friday)
Highland Family Aquatic Center
This family friendly mini waterpark provides a wide variety of fun and play for all ages. There is a corkscrew water slide, a 3 story speed slide, snack bar and so much more.
John R. Bonner Nature Park
This is Largo’s best kept secret. It is on the Great Florida Birding Trail, so if you are married to a birder (like I am), this is a must stop because of the migratory bird population. The park features picnic tables, nature trails, a playground, and a covered pavilion.
Largo Central Park Nature Preserve
This 31 acre park is surrounded by water. Home to over 130 species of birds, otters, red fox, American alligator, marsh rabbits, wild turkey, and bats. Hop on your canoe or kayak to experience the 5 mile route that ends at Park Boulevard. There are interpretive displays, an observation tower, boardwalks, and even a butterfly garden.
AMD Produce
I love to check out farmer’s markets no matter where I visit. This is a place you need to check out. They have a wide variety of produce from local farmers as well as from around the world. They pride themselves on offering fresh food at an affordable price.
Bayhead Action Park
This park offers lighted sand volleyball courts, a large lake, a pond, lighted basketball courts, a 7000 square foot lighted concrete skate, and a freestyle park with bowl. Plus a dog park.
Southwest Recreation Complex
This complex is the place for fitness and recreation. The complex features an Olympic size swimming pool, the Largo Tennis Center, fitness center, and programs for all ages. Planning to be in the area for a while? Then take advantage of the programs and activities this place has to offer. Perfect for any snowbird!
Arkane Aleworks
If you know me, I will always mention a local brewery you must check out… and this is no exception. Arkane Aleworks is the perfect place to grab a cold beer after exploring all of what Largo offers. They have been voted Best Small Brewery in Florida (2018 and 2019), so plan a trip to enjoy their local brews.
Escape Rooms
There are many escape rooms in the area. If you are looking for a rainy day idea, or a way to escape the summer heat then check out these places:
Gulf Coast Airboat Charters
Gulf Coast offers visitors a real airboat experience. See exotic birds, turtles, manatees, dolphins, and alligators all in their natural habitat. Glide through the mangrove forests, then hit speeds of 55 mph atop the water where you will have the best water experience in West Central Florida. Want to do more than sightseeing? Then book a fishing trip with them or book an alligator hunt.
Just for Laughs Dinner Theater
Enjoy dinner, a show, and it’s BYOB. What a way to enjoy an evening after seeing all of Largo. Click the link to see the latest shows and to make a reservation.
Gift Shops
Best shopping in Largo? Check out these places:
Pinot’s Palette -come sip some adult beverages and paint.
London Pride – all things British
Liberty Lanes
Want to sharpen your bowling skills? Then play a few rounds with those you love.
Bars
Here are some bars and pubs you should check out while in Largo. Enjoy live music, fresh seafood, and great food.
Aging Still Bar & Grill
Spas
Largo Massage & Skin Care Center
Want to explore more of the area? Be sure to check out these nearby ideas. If staying in Largo, each of these is easily a day trip. If water sports are your thing, there are many many options in the Tampa Bay and Clearwater areas.
Near By:
Clearwater Beach
If you thought Largo was actually Key Largo, located in the Florida Keys, well, no worries. Here are few suggestions for you too- (much longer than a day trip… it’s about a 5 hour drive but well worth the trip!)
African Queen – come take a ride on the actual African Queen from the movie starring Humphrey Bogart.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State park – come explore the park’s coral reefs teeming with marine life on a glass bottom boat tour or head into the water to go scuba diving or snorkel.
Harry Harris Park
Want more information about the Dive Capital of the world? Then check out our other posts all about the Florida Keys and Key West.