Spring is in the air, and with that, means gorgeous Florida weather and flocks of visitors to the area. For sports lovers in particular, this is the best time of year because so many of the area’s sports teams are in the midst of their seasons. And believe it or not, you can watch them all, if you plan accordingly. Here’s a sample schedule (and warning – this isn’t for the faint at heart!)
Thursday, March 24 – Arrive at Tampa International Airport or St. Pete-Clearwater Airport, preferably in the morning, so then you’ll have the afternoon to unpack, rest, and soak up the sun at the beach. At night, enjoy dinner at the Wine Cellar, one of the area’s more upscale restaurants located in North Redington Beach.
Friday – Drive to Tampa to watch the Pittsburgh Pirates take on the New York Yankees at Steinbrenner Field, one of the most beautiful baseball complexes in the world. Afterwards, walk across the street to check out Raymond James Stadium, the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and USF Bulls. For dinner, check out Lee Roy Selmon’s on Boy Scout Road to get a taste of Buccaneer history. Who knows? You may just even run into the Hall of Famer himself!
Saturday – Travel to downtown St. Petersburg for the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The racetrack is located right on the St. Petersburg waterfront, giving visitors a spectacular view of the area. Afterwards, cool off for a drink or an ice cream cone at the Pier. Then enjoy dinner at Red Mesa Cantina or 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House.
Sunday – Catch the Toronto Blue Jays take on the Baltimore Orioles in Dunedin. Afterwards, check out some of the charming restaurants in downtown Dunedin. Try Cafe Alfresco on Main Street. Afterwards, stop on by the Dunedin Brewery for a drink.
Monday – Travel to Brighthouse Networks Field in Clearwater to see the Philadelphia Phillies take on the Houston Astros in one of the final games of baseball Spring Training, and the Phillies’ final game of the year in Clearwater.
Tuesday – Another day to be spent at the beach. Why not go on a fishing excursion? There are tons of fishing charters that leave right from John’s Pass, which is directly across the street from several Madeira Beach Condos. Then at night, check out the Tampa Bay Lightning vs the Ottawa Senators hockey game at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa.
Wednesday – No Florida Vacation is complete without a trip to the world-renown theme park, Busch Gardens. The roller coasters there are second to none! Montu is a personal favorite, and Sheikra has had recent upgrades guaranteed to make your stomach drop! At night, retreat to your Condo on Madeira Beach, pack up, and prepare to head home, taking with you a lifetime full of memories – memories only a diehard sports fan can appreciate!
