<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>A “staycation” is one of the best ways to feel like a tourist without traveling too far away from home. When you’re experiencing a case of wanderlust, look no further than your own backyard and start planning your next weekend getaway at a Tampa Bay area B&B. As a bonus, staying close means you’ll be saving money on gas plus you’ll have more time to explore and enjoy yourself.
Beach Drive Inn
Sitting on the edge of the quaint Old Northeast neighborhood is Beach Drive Inn Bed & Breakfast. The charming B&B is conveniently located a block away from the Tampa Bay waterfront on one of the most bustling streets of downtown St. Pete. The historic house that was built circa 1910 by early St. Petersburg developer, Perry Snell. It became the family home of Amyer Vinoy Laughner and is where the idea for the Vinoy Park Hotel was born.
Begin your stay with a “Wine Welcome” night as you settle in and peruse the property. The four rooms and two suites each feature ensuite bathrooms and a shared pantry that includes a coffee maker, microwave and fridge. The full breakfast includes both a continental breakfast along with your choice of one made-to-order item like a quiche or omelet. The lush terrace is equipped with bbq grills plus guests get one more exclusive perk: access to a guest-only wine and beer bar. Sip your drink in the lounge or while relaxing on the breezy veranda.
Pass the hours walking along Beach Drive, admiring the coastal views and popping into a shop or two. The complimentary bikes offered at the Inn are a perfect way to soak up the relaxed city vibes as you head over to the world renowned Dali Museum.
In the evening, dine al fresco at one of the locally owned restaurants along the strip. Annata Wine has an extensive wine list and a top-notch charcuterie board while Paciugo serves up some of the best gelato around.
532 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
727-822-2244; beachdriveinn.com
The 1910 Inn
Nestled away in the coastal town of Tarpon Springs is The 1910 Inn. Known for it’s Queen Anne style architecture, the home was converted to a bed and breakfast by a local woman who, having passed by this home many times as a child, had always imagined what it looked like on the inside. When the house went up for sale in 2013, she knew it was destiny to follow her dream of running a bed a breakfast. The rest is history.
One of the best features of the Inn is a wraparound porch perfect for sipping your morning coffee while enjoying the full breakfast included in your stay. Each of the four rooms are individually decorated with furniture that compliments the history of the home.
Only a short walk to the Sponge Docks, a mecca for Greek food and rich culture with a sponge diving community that dates back to the 1800s. There are half-day excursions offered daily that give you first-hand experience of the history of sponge diving. Go deep sea fishing or stay close and bring your fishing poles to the Spring Bayou. Dine at one of the many restaurants and be sure to get a pastry from Hellas Bakery before you leave.
32 W Tarpon Avenue, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
727-424-4091; the1910inn.com
The Londoner Bed & Breakfast
The Londoner Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room is located in historic downtown Bradenton, less than an hour south of Tampa. Downtown Bradenton is home to tons of activities, many of them walkable from the Londoner’s central location. Head to Pier 22 for seafood and unparalleled views. A few blocks the other direction you’ll find Motorworks Brewing. Spend some educational time at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, before seeing a show at the Manatee Performing Arts Center. Manatee County’s beaches are about 20 minutes away from downtown.
Choose from six private bedrooms and enjoy gourmet breakfast and afternoon teas during your stay.
304 15th St. W, Bradenton, FL 34205
941-741-4981; thelondonerinn.com