Tarpon Springs: Greek Culture in Florida

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A visit to Tarpon Springs, Florida is like stepping into a whole new world. Engulfed in culture, great food, and shopping it makes for a fantastic day!

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LOCATION

If you love the ocean, you will love to take a visit here. Tarpon Springs is located in Pinellas County which is on the Gulf Coast of Florida. You will want to visit Dodeconese Boulevard because that’s where all the action is.

PARKING

When we arrived at Tarpon Springs, we found a great parking spot for free! Well, it’s not necessarily free, but if you go early enough it will be. We arrived at 10:00 am and parked where it said $2.00 for all day parking. This is the cheapest place to park that we found. We were headed to the gift shop to pay when we were told by another gift shop owner that they didn’t open until 11:00 am. By the time we left around noon, I was expecting a note on my car or something similar, but nothing. So, we paid zero $!

SHOPPING

As you make your way down Dodecanese Boulevard, you will notice many vendors in white tents. Don’t forget to visit the shops along the sides as well. There are so many interesting & unique items for sale here. You will definitely want to bring some spending/souvenir money!

WATERFRONT

The waterfront of Tarpon Springs is beautiful, especially on a warm, sunny day! Tarpon Springs is famous for not just its large Greek community & influences, but it is home to the historic sponge docks. Here you can purchase fresh sponges from the ocean. You can also take specialty cruises that last about 1-2 hours.

FOOD

The food here is unbelievably delicious! You can find fast food, snacks, get a drink, or dine in at a restaurant. I loved being able to sit at one of the tables in front of Hellas Bakery and people watch.

HELLAS

Hellas Restaurant and Bakery is one of the most famous Greek eateries in Tarpon Springs. If you are looking for authenticity, this is the place! The bakery has a variety of baked goods and pastries, but you will want to try their most popular dessert…baklava. Just take a look at the photo and see for yourself how flaky and moist it looks. It is delicious!

If you have more time, try their sit down restaurant for an unforgettable experience that will make your taste buds sing for joy! Just check out their extensive menu!