If you’re itching for a getaway to that European destination you’ve been dreaming about, but the budget is tight, there’s a much closer option that’ll give you a taste of Mykonos! Just north of Tampa — yes, right here in Florida — lies Tarpon Springs, a coastal city that echoes the vibrant culture, distinctive blue and white colors and coastal feel of Greece.
If you were to wander down Dodecanese Boulevard, which is lined with Greek flags, artisan shops and the beautiful riverfront, it could be easy to forget that you’re still in your home state. In fact, Tarpon Springs is known to have one of the largest Greek communities in the U.S.
Housing around 25,000 residents, the city’s Greek history dates back to the late 1800s, when businessman John Cheyney noticed something lying under the surface of the Gulf of Mexico waters: natural sponges. Having found the perfect business opportunity, divers began to make their way to Tarpon Springs, mainly coming from the Dodecanese Islands in the Aegean Sea (hence the street name) and they would go on to transform the city into the “Sponge Capital of the World” it is known today.
Which brings us to the city’s most famous attraction: its sponge docks. All along Dodecanese Blvd, you’ll find the aquatic multicellular organisms tied to ropes on a number of docked boats. Sponges harvested at Tarpon Springs are sold all over the world.
You’ll also find traditional Greek eateries down the street, from heavenly pastries at Hellas Restaurant & Bakery to incredible sunset views at Dimitri’s on the Water and delicious soutzoukakia from Mykonos restaurant. Just remember to save some room for baklava!
Must-do activities in the area include the Replay Museum, where you can play on over 100 vintage arcade and pinball games for just $14, and the Tarpon Springs Aquarium, which is home to over 30 species of fish and sharks. If you prefer to do water activities, you can also go kayaking, sailing, fishing or simply lie on the beach.
An interesting attraction that’s listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places are the St. Nicholas Boat Lines, which will take you down the Anclote River while you get a lesson on the history of sponge diving. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea style, a diver will suit up in traditional gear and demonstrate how sponges are harvested.
Of course, there are famous celebrations held throughout the year such as a seafood festival on the sponge docks, holiday boat parade and an Epiphany celebration that’s the largest outside of Greece.
If you want to road trip to Tarpon Springs from Miami, it takes about five and a half hours to drive there, and it is around 300 miles from Miami. The next time you’re looking for a serene escape away from the city, add it to your list!