Wesley Chapel Florida Map
If you’re looking for a destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, entertainment, relaxation, and natural beauty, then Wesley Chapel, Florida, is the place to be. This small town located in Pasco County is situated just north of Tampa and offers a wide variety of attractions and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a beach lover, Wesley Chapel has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Wesley Chapel is probably its shopping scene. The town is home to the largest outlet mall in the Southeast, the Tampa Premium Outlets, which features over 110 stores. But Wesley Chapel has much more to offer than just shopping. One of the top attractions in the area is the Saddlebrook Resort, which boasts two Arnold Palmer signature golf courses, a luxurious spa, fine dining restaurants, and tennis and basketball courts. Another must-visit spot is the Florida Hospital Center Ice, a state-of-the-art ice skating facility that offers public skating, figure skating, and ice hockey.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, then head to the Wesley Chapel District Park. This park spans over 140 acres and features a dog park, playground, and various sports fields. You can also take a stroll along the nature trails or have a picnic by the lake. Another hidden gem is the Cypress Creek Preserve, a 7,800-acre nature reserve that offers hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Food Scene
Wesley Chapel has a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. For a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, head to Grillsmith, which serves up delicious pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and seafood specialties. If you’re in the mood for some barbecue, then check out Hungry Harry’s Famous BBQ, a local institution that has been serving up slow-smoked meats and Southern sides since 1985. For a more upscale dining experience, try the steak and seafood at Bern’s Steak House, a legendary Tampa establishment that has been around since 1956.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, then there are plenty of ways to save money in Wesley Chapel. One of the best ways to save is by taking advantage of the free outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. You can also find great deals on food and drinks at Happy Hour specials and lunch menus. Additionally, many of the hotels and resorts in the area offer package deals and discounts for extended stays.
Outdoor Adventures
Wesley Chapel is surrounded by natural beauty and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. One of the most popular activities is kayaking and canoeing along the Hillsborough River, which flows through the town. You can also go fishing, boating, and swimming in the many freshwater lakes and ponds in the area. For a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, try the ziplining and aerial obstacle courses at TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park.
Natural Wonders
One of the most stunning natural wonders in the area is the Hillsborough River State Park, which features over 7,000 acres of forests, swamps, and wetlands. You can hike along the river, take a dip in the swimming hole, or go camping in one of the many campsites. Another natural wonder is the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, which is home to the famous mermaid show and offers kayaking, swimming, and wildlife watching opportunities.
Family-Friendly Activities
Wesley Chapel is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that cater to kids of all ages. One of the top spots is the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a theme park that features roller coasters, animal exhibits, and live shows. Another family-friendly attraction is the Glazer Children’s Museum, which offers hands-on exhibits and interactive activities for kids.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a more unique and unusual experience, then check out the Big Cat Rescue, a sanctuary for big cats that have been rescued from circuses, zoos, and private owners. You can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Tampa Bay Sporting Clays, a shooting range that offers clay pigeon shooting and archery.
Vibrant Nightlife
Wesley Chapel may be a small town, but it still has a lively nightlife scene that caters to all kinds of party-goers. One of the best spots is the Brass Tap, a craft beer bar that features over 300 beers on tap and live music on the weekends. You can also check out the Club Prana, a multi-level nightclub that offers different themed rooms and VIP lounges.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for some local flavor, then head to the Wesley Chapel Farmer’s Market, which takes place every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm. Here you can find fresh produce, artisanal bread, handmade crafts, and live music. Another market worth checking out is the Wiregrass Farmer’s Market, which takes place every first and third Saturday of the month at the Shops at Wiregrass.
Beaches and Mountains
While Wesley Chapel itself is not located on the coast or in the mountains, it is still within driving distance of some of the best beaches and mountains in Florida. One of the closest beaches is the Clearwater Beach, which is about an hour’s drive from Wesley Chapel and features white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants. As for the mountains, the closest range is the Appalachian Mountains, which are about six hours away by car and offer hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
For a taste of the local culture, check out the Tampa Bay History Center, which features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the rich history of the area. You can also visit the Tampa Museum of Art, which features contemporary and classical art from around the world. Another way to immerse yourself in the local culture is by attending one of the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Gasparilla Pirate Festival and the Florida State Fair.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Wesley Chapel is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours that will take you through the town’s history, architecture, and culture. One of the most popular tours is the Ybor City Walking Tour, which takes you through the historic district of Ybor City and showcases the area’s cigar-making history and cultural heritage. Another great tour is the Tampa Riverwalk Walking Tour, which takes you along the Hillsborough River and highlights the city’s landmarks and attractions.
Architectural Marvels
Wesley Chapel has a rich architectural heritage, with many buildings and structures that showcase different styles and eras. One of the most impressive architectural marvels in the area is the Tampa Bay Hotel, a National Historic Landmark that was built in 1891 and features a blend of Moorish, Byzantine, and Gothic Revival styles. Another architectural gem is the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, a historic church that was built in 1914 and features stained-glass windows and a bell tower.
Historical Sites
For a glimpse into the area’s past, check out the Fort Foster State Historic Site, which was a military fort during the Seminole Wars in the 19th century. You can take a guided tour of the fort and learn about the battles and conflicts that took place there. Another historical site worth visiting is the Plant Museum, which is housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel and showcases the history of the hotel and the area’s tourism industry.
Biking Routes
Wesley Chapel is a great destination for cyclists, with plenty of scenic routes and trails that offer a mix of road and off-road cycling. One of the most popular routes is the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, a 7.5-mile trail that runs through the wetlands and forests of the Upper Tampa Bay Park. You can also try the Flatwoods Park Trail, a 7-mile loop that takes you through pine forests and cypress swamps.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, then check out one of the wellness retreats in the area. One of the best options is the Saddlebrook Resort, which offers a range of spa treatments, yoga classes, and fitness programs. You can also try the Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, which offers acupuncture, massage therapy, and other holistic treatments.
Adventure Sports
For the adrenaline junkies, Wesley Chapel offers plenty of adventure sports that will get your heart racing. One of the most popular activities is skydiving, with several skydiving centers in the area that offer tandem jumps and skydiving lessons. You can also try the indoor skydiving at iFLY Tampa, which simulates the experience of freefalling from a plane. Another adventure sport worth trying is the jet ski and parasailing at the beaches