Local Attractions: Safety Harbor

A Stroll Though Safety Harbor

Shops and stops in one of Pinellas County’s most charming staycation destinations.

By Molly duPont

Having lived in the Bay area much of my life, I have an affinity for places that have changed while staying the same. Many milestone and holiday celebrations over my lifetime have gathered family and friends together at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. Now it’s a very desirable destination for a staycation: You can check in and relax, use the spa, sit by the pool… and get ready to explore Main Street Safety Harbor. A fabulous start is just a couple blocks away at Syd Entel Galleries, where you will find an eclectic mix of art and jewelry as well as an engaging friend in Susan, Syd and Linda. Their knowledge and access in the art world is unmatched, as they have been running their galleries for 40 years. With many featured artist shows, including the artists from neighboring Harborside Studios, you are sure to find something for your walls and your wish list. A really fun stop is Sips Wine Bar. With self-service technology, you can fill your glass with whichever wine(s) you wish — a great way to try something new or fill your glass with your favorite. Live music and build-your-own charcuterie make for a wonderful stop. If you are looking for a full meal, look no further than Water Oak. Local celebrity chef Walt Wickman has done it again. Craft cocktails, local seafood and fresh fish… this indoor and outdoor location is casual enough for family dinner and special enough for date night. Speaking of family, if you are ready to see the area and get some waterfront exercise at the same time, Tocobaga Tours is for you. With paddleboard and kayak rentals, prepare yourself to be taken back in time and learn the history of Safety Harbor from the water. You will have worked up an appetite and can grab a slice of lasagna pizza at The Nona Slice House. Follow up with cheesecake over at Bassano and I believe a good night’s sleep-in is guaranteed. Another fun activity includes the unique and delicious Gigglewaters, a speakeasystyle screening room. The 32-seat theater shows a classic movie daily. No need for an app or QR code; your name will be on the list at the door. Looking for a private showing? Just ask and you can book your group to see the movie of your choice. You can’t go wrong with dinner and a movie at this quaint locale. And last but not least, whether you need to shop or not… hit Main Street’s 800 block. At Seersucker Sassy you will find something perfect to wear. Whether it’s Lilly Pulitzer or a fabulous new handbag, you will leave with any and all bright and colorful accessories that you need to go with your purchase. A hilarious greeting card and some delicious candy, too! Next door at WhiteWood on Main, you can find whatever plant décor suits your style or gift-giving. Even those of us without a green thumb can find an ideal centerpiece to bring to a hostess or keep for ourselves. And take it from me — the variety of succulents is impressive, and even I can keep those alive. One more down is the tried and true staple catering company of my life, The Stuffed Mushroom. Not only can they cater a large or small event, complete with stuffed mushroom appetizers that are out of this world, you can also find all the serving pieces, placemats and candles you need to make your table complete. And don’t forget the bar — beautiful accessories as well as yummy syrups and garnishes. Last but not least, peruse Aerie Lane, a one-stop shop for hostess, birthday and holiday gifts as well as shabby-chic home designs.

MAIN STREET SAFETY HARBOR Aerie Lane Home 319 Main St., aerielane.com Bassano Cheesecake Cafe 507 Main St., bassanocheesecake.com Gigglewaters 737 Main St., gigglewaters.com Harborside Studios/The Arc Tampa Bay 176 5th Ave. N., 727-601-1884 Safety Harbor Resort & Spa 105 N. Bayshore Dr., safetyharborspa.com. Sips Wine Bar 327 Main St., thesipswinebar.com Seersucker Sassy 801 Main St., seersuckersassy.com Syd Entel Galleries 247 Main St., sydentelgalleries.com The Nona Slice House 997 Main St., thenona-slicehouse.com The Stuffed Mushroom 825 Main St., thestuffedmushroom.com Tocobaga Tours, Safety Harbor Marina, tocobagatours.com Water Oak Seafood & Steak Bar 201 Main St., wateroakgrill.com WhiteWood on Main 801 Main St., facebook.com/whitewoodonmain