Spring is in the air, and with that, means beautiful Florida weather and throngs of visitors to the area. For sports lovers in particular, this is the best time of year because many of the area’s sports teams are in the middle of their seasons. And believe it or not, you can see them all, if you plan accordingly. Here’s a sample program (and a word of warning: this is not for the faint of heart!)
Thursday, March 24: Arrive at Tampa International Airport or St. Pete-Clearwater Airport, preferably in the morning, so you’ll have the afternoon to unpack, relax, and sunbathe on the beach. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Wine Cellar, one of the area’s most unique restaurants located on 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. Then, cross the street to see 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 for Buccaneer history. Who knows? You might even meet the Hall of Famer himself!
Saturday: Travel to downtown St. Petersburg for the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The racecourse is located right on the St. Petersburg waterfront, giving visitors a spectacular view of the area. Afterward, cool off with a drink or ice cream on the pier. Then enjoy dinner at Red Mesa Cantina or 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House.
Sunday – Watch 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. Then stop 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 baseball’s final spring training games and the Phillies’ final game of the year in Clearwater.
Tuesday – Another day to spend at the beach. Why not go on a fishing excursion? There are plenty of fishing charters that depart from John’s Pass, which is right across the street from several Madeira Beach condos. Then in the evening catch the Tampa Bay Lightning vs Ottawa Senators hockey game at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa.
Wednesday: No Florida vacation is complete without a trip to the world-renowned theme park, Busch Gardens. The roller coasters are second to none! Montu is a personal favorite, and Sheikra has had recent updates guaranteed to make your stomach drop! In the evening, retire to her Madeira Beach condo, pack up and get ready to head home, taking with you a lifetime of memories – memories only a sports fanatic can appreciate!
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