Tampa Bay's FREE Hidden Treasures Part 1

From the Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach to the CASS Contemporary Art Space & Studio in South Tampa, Tampa Bay delivers some priceless gems. And since your number one property and association management company, we at Condominium Associates want to share with you some of Tampa Bay's FREE Hidden Treasures!

Manatee Viewing Center

You'll get front row seats to view these delightful creatures in their natural habitat. Who could resist checking out these adorable "sea cows"? Hurry, though! These majestic creatures will migrate north after March 31st.

For over 16 years, Big Bend Power Station delivered reliable electricity to the community. In 1986, people started seeing manatees aggregating in in the power station's discharge canal, where saltwater – taken from Tampa Bay flowed, clean and warm, back to the bay. When Tampa Bay reached 68 degrees or colder, the manatees would seek out this new refuge. Since the manatees returned each year, The Manatee Viewing Center was born. Today, Big Bend's discharge canal is a state and federally designated manatee sanctuary that provides critical protection from the cold for these unique, gentle animals. To learn more, go here.

CASS Contemporary Art Space & Studio

Do you enjoy fine art? Then it would be best if you considered checking out the CASS Contemporary Art Space & Studio located in South Florida. This gallery specializes in modern, collectible art pieces from local, regional, national, and international artists. CASS rotates exhibits throughout the year, so you’ll always learn something new when you are there. Also, emerging and established artists come together to offer lectures and workshops on various artistic techniques. CASS's mission is "to provide a space for individuals to view and appreciate an array of art and engage in the art community." Be sure to check their website for upcoming FREE events!

Bayshore Blvd Linear Park

If you've ever ridden down Bayshore Boulevard, then you've seen the breathtaking views of Tampa's skyline. And while you may imagine that you are driving along the longest sidewalk in the nation, in reality, you are! You can also see one of Tampa's iconic landmarks, the Gasparilla ship floating alongside Bayshore Boulevard Linear Park. Whether you spend your time at Linear Park on foot or on wheels, be sure to pay attention to the water because you may see a pod of dolphins!

Tampa's Firefighter Museum

Are you looking for something FREE and educational? Then take a trip to the Tampa Firefighters Museum! This museum is a tribute to the firefighters who bravely served Tampa Bay. Stop and get a photo with an old fire engine. Then, learn valuable fire safety tips! If you go on a weekend, you may get to see a wedding reception or bridal photoshoot--the museum is one of Tampa's sizzling spots for tying the knot. On your way out, stop by the gift shop to pick up your Tampa Fire Department souvenirs!

More FREE Tampa's Treasures Coming Soon!

Stay tuned for more suggestions about Tampa's FREE Treasures! In the meantime, please share with us your favorite FREE Tampa treasure, and we can feature it on the blog. We would also love to hear about your experience with one of the places you visited after reading this post.

Advice, Tampa Bay, TravelingGuest UserFebruary 13, 2020tampa bay, destinations, free, family fun, travel, advice