Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Clearwater, FL
Clearwater Beach is Florida's award-winning Gulf Coast beach with access to Caladesi Island, Pier 60, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Caladesi Island and the sunset festival at Pier 60 are Clearwater essentials.
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Popular Interests
or browse all12 destinations near Clearwater
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Sarasota, FL 34243
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.8 by 9.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 11 min from Clearwater · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge & Visitor Center
Crystal River, FL 34429
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 34 min from Clearwater · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Croom Mystery Spot
Brooksville, FL 34602
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.7 stars) · 1 hr 30 min from Clearwater · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota
Sarasota, FL 34236
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 6.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 18 min from Clearwater · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Silver Springs State Park
Silver Springs, FL 34488
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 12.9k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 9 min from Clearwater · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Myakka Canopy Walkway and Observation Tower
FL 34241, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 26 min from Clearwater · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
Williston, FL 32696
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.5k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 18 min from Clearwater · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Homosassa, FL 34446
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 9.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 24 min from Clearwater · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
Crystal River, FL 34429
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 38 min from Clearwater · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Three Sisters Springs
Crystal River, FL 34429
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 4.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 35 min from Clearwater · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Monkey Island
FL 34448, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 31 min from Clearwater · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Crystal River Preserve State Park
Crystal River, FL 34428
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 40 min from Clearwater · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Clearwater, FL?
The best day trips from Clearwater include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Clearwater?
Most great day trips from Clearwater are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Clearwater?
Many of the best day trips near Clearwater are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Clearwater?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Clearwater, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Clearwater?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Clearwater make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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