Discover Largo, Florida: A Hidden Gem in Pinellas County
One major attraction that Pinellas County, Florida boasts is its Gulf beaches, renowned as some of the finest in the state. Clearwater, Indian Rocks, Madeira Beach, and Treasure Island are just a few of the many stunning beaches in the area. Positioned on three sides by the waters of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the appeal of this region is evident.
Interestingly, one of the largest municipalities in Pinellas County, Largo, remains relatively unknown. Covering just under 15 square miles and housing approximately 85,000 residents, Largo offers a quaint small-town charm despite its size.
Getting to Largo
Largo is conveniently located in Pinellas County. Major thoroughfares like Highways 686 (Roosevelt Boulevard and East and West Bay Drive) and 688 (Ulmerton Road) traverse Largo, providing easy access to nearby Belleair and Indian Rocks beaches.
Best Beaches
While Largo is situated centrally, some magnificent beaches are just a short drive away. Indian Rocks Beach, located south of Largo, provides a tranquil environment with minimal commercial development. Just further south, Indian Shores Beach features condos, hotels, and timeshares, attracting larger crowds to its inviting surf.
Further south, North Redington, Madeira Beach, and Treasure Island cater to different types of beachgoers. North Redington is perfect for those seeking a lively beach scene filled with shopping and dining opportunities, including charming beach boutiques and waterfront eateries.
If you’re visiting with family, Madeira Beach offers amenities such as bathrooms, showers, picnic areas, and playgrounds right by the water. It’s also home to St. John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk, an outdoor shopping area designed to resemble a quaint fishing village.
For those hoping to unwind, Treasure Island presents an idyllic, low-key atmosphere, allowing for relaxation and enjoyment of the beach’s beauty.
Where to Stay
Although Largo may not be the top tourist destination in Florida, its location is strategically beneficial for exploring the surrounding areas. Accommodations nearer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater typically offer more variety.
Nonetheless, if you choose to stay in Largo, consider the Hampton Inn & Suites, located at the city’s center. This hotel provides essential amenities and is conveniently close to downtown. Additionally, options like Holiday Inn Express and The Rainbow Village of Largo are available for travelers.
What to Do
Largo offers easy access to many attractions, including beautiful parks ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. While it may not be a primary vacation hotspot, those visiting Pinellas County’s pristine beaches should consider a stop to explore Largo’s Pinewood Performing Arts Center or Central Park.
Another must-visit locale is the Pinewood Cultural Park, where nature, art, and history converge. The park is home to The Florida Botanical Gardens and Heritage Village, spanning nearly 200 acres of natural beauty.
The Heritage Village is a living history museum featuring 28 meticulously restored historic structures set amidst a picturesque landscape. Guests can learn about Florida’s rich past through engaging stories of its early residents. Among these structures, visitors can explore the oldest buildings in Pinellas County, including a one-room schoolhouse and an early neighborhood store.
The Visitor Information Center houses exhibits showcasing Florida’s historical industries and household items from yesteryears, inviting younger generations to discover the joys of simpler times.
The adjoining 150-acre Florida Botanical Gardens offers a diverse selection of native and tropical plants across beautiful landscapes and various themed gardens, along easy-to-navigate paved pathways. The gardens also collaborate with the University of Florida to provide educational classes and workshops focused on landscaping techniques.
Though Pinewood Cultural Park is equipped with handicap-accessible facilities, visitors using wheelchairs may find some paths challenging, as the terrain can be uneven.
Largo also boasts an impressive 640 acres of parks, with Central Park being the largest. This 70-acre hub, located in downtown Largo on a former fairgrounds site, features lovely open spaces, a striking clock tower, and fountains, alongside a children’s playground and inviting picnic spots.
Centrally located, the Largo Performing Arts Center hosts over 150 live performances annually, making it a vibrant cultural spot.
For outdoor enthusiasts, The Pinellas Trail is perfect for exploration, providing a 34-mile scenic corridor that caters to skaters, joggers, and cyclists. As one of Florida’s premier greenways, it offers a stunning, traffic-free environment for your outdoor adventures.
Families will enjoy the Highland Family Aquatic Center, a modern facility that ensures a fun-filled day with features such as water slides, a splash zone, and plenty of shaded lounging spots. Swim lessons and water aerobics sessions make this aquatic center a delightful destination for all ages.
