Must See Sights and Landmarks in Sunset Beach Area

"For a dose of American history, located directly behind the Florida Aquarium, is the American Victory Ship Mariners Museum. Climb aboard one of only four fully operational World War II ships in the United States. It's a perfect sight to see if you have an hour to spare. Visit the engine room, mess hall, flying bridge and the crew cabins and see the historic photographs, medals and uniforms, of this unique period in American history."

"The SS American Victory is a ship that was in service during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. In 1999, the ship became the American Victory Ship and Museum and it is one of the few remaining WWII ships. Now, visitors can tour the ship and see some unique exhibits and artifacts like a submarine propeller from a German submarine that sunk in 1942 and recreations of some different parts of the boat."

"The American Victory Ship and Museum is one of only 4 fully-operational WWII ships in the country. It is a true American icon and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Come aboard, tour 9 decks of this floating museum, and experience an unforgettable voyage of discovery."

"Tampa’s Amalie Arena has played host to a wide variety of exciting events and is a sprawling venue that attracts many people who flock here to watch everything from concerts through to sporting events. This arena is home to the Tampa Bay Storm and Tampa Bay Lightning teams and was once known as Ice Palace. The size of the arena covers 670,000 square feet and visitors can enjoy taking in the massive grounds as well as exploring the history of this arena when visiting."

"There is always something happening at the Amalie Arena, whether you are interested in ice hockey, basketball, arena football games, or music concerts. So it is worth checking their schedule if you are visiting the area. Formerly known as the Ice Palace, the building's naming rights were sold to the St. Petersburg Times in 2002 (which subsequently became the Tampa Bay Times)."

"Spend the morning fishing on the Skyway Bridge or shopping in Downtown St. Petersburg. While in Downtown, visit the Salvador Dalí Museum, intriguing both inside and out. Catch an evening baseball game with the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, with the required dinner of ballpark hot dogs and cold beers. Alternatively, enjoy seafood and waterfront views at 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House, within walking distance of The Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club, where you should stay for the night."

"Looming across the entrance to Tampa Bay is the four-mile-long Sunshine Skyway Bridge, connecting St. Petersburg to Manatee County on I-275. The bridge was built in the 1980s after the original bridge collapsed after being hit by a freighter during a storm. For a toll of only $1.50, it’s worth the ride to see this architectural wonder and get a high view of Tampa Bay."

"The only surviving plantation house in South Florida as well as the oldest building in Manatee County, The Gamble Plantation Historic State Park features a plantation restored to resemble its original beauty during the mid-1800s."

"Located in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in all of Tampa—Hyde Park—this restaurant is not far from downtown Tampa. It offers Modern American cuisine in an upscale environment. If you are an adventurous foodie, then you’ll enjoy this local favorite. Try the sous vide lobster, oxtail poutine, cornmeal crusted fried quail or one of the artisanal cheese platters."

"If you are a baseball fan, one of the must-dos for the spring season is stopping by LECOM Park to watch the Pittsburg Pirates complete their spring training. The park was initially called McKechnie Field when it was built in 1923, in honor of Bill McKechnie, who was a Pittsburg native and Hall of Fame manager. The park was renamed after receiving new sponsorship from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, shortened to the acronym LECOM."

"Located on the north and south sides of Tampa Bay, the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is based on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge that connects St. Petersburg with Sarasota and provides an excellent fishing venue. While the piers of the bridge are extremely high above the water, accessible areas around the pier offer excellent fishing, and you can find both shallow flats and deep-water channels. Fish species that can be found here include redfish and spotted sea trout throughout the year while the warmer months bring migratory fish such as cobia, tarpon, Spanish mackerel, and kingfish."

"Grab your rod & reel and plonk down at Skyway Fishing Pier State Park. Reaching state park status in 1994, the pier extends four miles into Tampa Bay. Skyway Fishing Pier State Park runs parallel to the massive Sunshine Skyway Bridge."

"Known for serving their sizzling steaks with a pat of soon to be melted butter, Ruth’s Chris is a St. Pete staple. This upscale steakhouse chain is a super popular fine dining restaurant in St. Pete because of their consistent quality in food and service. We love the atmosphere of Ruth’s Chris in St. Pete."

"I thought give this place another chance..big mistake..the server named Dana. No greeting..just what can I get you to drink. Ok..then we asked about just..."

"The Village of the Arts is an eclectic artists community that includes more than 100 homes, art galleries, studios, workshops, restaurants, and cafes for working artists. The village is over 36 acres and has many artist cottages from the 1920s and 1930s that have been restored to their former glory. Many of the cottages have received an artistic upgrade with bright colors that create a truly artistic feel."

"It consists of individual homes over a four block area that have been rehabed and turned into art studios and unique…. Frequently Asked Questions about Bradenton. The top attractions to visit in Bradenton are:"

"5717 18th St. E., Ellenton; 941-722-2391; woodysriverroo.com. Woody’s River Roo, opened in 2003, is the Woodring family’s waterfront sister business of beloved downtown Bradenton bar The Lost Kangaroo. Dubbed “The Roo with the View,” Woody’s offers a charming Old Florida experience on the north bank of the Manatee River in Ellenton."

"This favorite is located in nearby Ellenton on Manatee River. Affectionately known as the Roo, Woody’s River Roo Pub and Grill provides Old Florida-style dining in a fun atmosphere. This family-owned restaurant offers fresh seafood in a casual environment."

"Making their own kind of masterpiece’s is Tryst, located across the street from the Fine Arts Museum. This restaurant’s interior features ensconced hanging lights, tables adorned with candles and flowers, and a massive bar with open windows to serve the outside guest. The outside dining area features table-top canopy’s, views to the inside of the restaurant, and lounge chairs for the guest who just want to sit back and enjoy the surroundings."

"Now, if you want the ultimate in culinary talent and the best selection of drinks, then you’ll want to head on over to Tryst Gastro Lounge. Tryst Gastro Lounge makes our list of the best bars in Saint Petersburg because it excels in fine dining and elevated beverages. The cuisine is splendid and the lounge is absolutely divine."

"Tryst Gastro Lounge gives a modern twist on global eats, specializing on amazing Mediterranean food. Their Victorian inspired bar and restaurant gives a relaxing outpost for drinks and dinner. Their beautiful bar is perfect to meet with coworkers for a night out or for a fancy but chill date night."

"Edison’s visually stunning and modern cuisine will force you to channel your most adventurous self. The kitchen turns out dishes such as buffalo cauliflower with blue cheese dressing atop a carrot, celery and date salad or halibut and goat cheese truffles. All can be accompanied by one of the many craft beers in house, a bottle or glass of wine, or a cocktail from their half permanent half seasonal menu, like the Emerald City cocktail (made and bottled in house)."

"Edison Food + Drink Lab is the popular creation of Chef Jeannie Pierola, a 4X James Beard Best Chef Semifinalist. To say this place is unlike anything else in Tampa is an understatement, from dishes to decor, an industrial science theme invades all aspects of the restaurant. Patrons enjoy an ever-changing menu of "engineered" food "experiments" such as jalapeno Cracker Jacks and a fried oyster and bacon po-boy with kimchee."