The Vinoy, a mediterranean revival-style hotel situated on the edge of the Tampa Bay, also hosts Marchand’s Bar & Grill. For $10 per person the hotel offers a hour-long tour led by a docent or $27 for the tour plus three-course lunch in their “stunning, historic dining room.” For reservations contact the tour navigator at 727-824-8005. Courtesy of Kristen Hare
By Brianna Rodriguez
There are endless spots to visit throughout Tampa Bay that even some locals may overlook, and author Kristin Hare’s book, “100 Things to Do in Tampa Bay Before You Die: Second Edition,” aims to bring attention to those places.
The first edition was released in 2014. The second edition was released this month, with more than 30 new adventures for readers to explore. Hare visited all of the locations featured in the book — some even multiple times.
Each location was chosen with specific criteria. Hare says that the location had to be affordable, good for to one to four people and within a one hour and a half drive.
Hare found herself revisiting Medard Park, 6140 Edward Medard Parkway, in Plant City.
“It is just gorgeous, and as far as you can see in both directions, there’s this root jungle,” she said in an interview with The Crow’s Nest. “I love going there. It is a fantastic place to hike.”
Hare found that this book has brought her closer to the community.
“Getting to connect with people over our community hasn’t been a way to escape reality, but it’s been a way to recenter my perspective and to remember that there’s more than just this,” she said.
Hare recommended places for students to go, depending on the occasion.
Best Dates
Go to Paradise Grill at Pass-A-Grille beach, 900 Gulf Way. There, she recommends watching the sunset and listening to the Sunset Bell for a romantic evening on the beach.
Visit the Alafia River, 4419 River Drive, Valrico, and canoe with your significant other. Canoes can be rented for $25 for the day.
Attend an Ybor City Ghost Tour, which is $25 per adult, with special pricing on Tuesdays.
When your parents visit
Hare recommends going to Bern’s Steakhouse, 1208 S Howard Ave., Tampa.
Tour the Vinoy, 501 Fifth Ave. Northeast, St. Petersburg, and have brunch.
Rent an EBoat, 333 S Franklin St., in Tampa and explore Harbor Island, Davis Island and downtown Tampa by water.
Fun with friends
Check out local breweries. She recommends taking the brewery bus or the peddle hub.
“My personal favorite is Leaven, so take a trip out to Leaven in Riverview,” Hare said in the interview.
Go to Brocante Vintage Market, 2200 Second Ave. S, St. Petersburg, the first weekend of each month. Hare recommends going to brunch after.
“It’s only once a month, and it’s different every time,” she said in the interview.
Visit Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N Ashley Drive in Tampa, at night and check out the installation at the Tampa Museum that lights up after dark.
More recommendations can be found inside of Hare’s book along with festivals and annual events around Tampa Bay. “100 Things to Do in Tampa Bay Before You Die: Second Edition” can be purchased wherever books are sold.
