Top 15 Activities in New Port Richey, Florida

Located along the meandering lower stretches of the Pithlachascotee River, this city experienced rapid development during the Florida land boom of the 1920s.

This era was characterized by significant optimism, with New Port Richey being promoted as a winter refuge for Hollywood celebrities. Notably, actor Thomas Meighan frequented the city during this time. During my visit, New Port Richey appeared ready for renewed recognition.

The downtown area boasts numerous dining and entertainment venues, complemented by the picturesque Sims Park. March is undoubtedly the best month to visit for the Chasco Fiesta, an extensive nine-day celebration that first occurred in 1922.

Moreover, the abundant creeks and bayous lining the shore establish New Port Richey as an unparalleled destination for kayaking. Launching directly from downtown is indeed feasible.

1. Werner Boyce Salt Springs State Park

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Situated just north of New Port Richey, a vast expanse of salt marsh, tidal creeks, and mangroves awaits exploration.

On land, you can traverse through oak hammocks and pine flatwoods along the Springs Trail, which guides you to small artesian springs, sinks, and a stunning tidal waterfall visible during low tide.

However, much of this watery expanse is not easily accessible by land. I recommend visiting Salty Dog Kayak Rentals and enjoying a day paddling through the park’s secluded inlets and bayous, brimming with vibrant wildlife.

2. Robert K. Rees Memorial Park

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The sole public beach in New Port Richey is a 45-acre park located on Green Key Island, accessible daily from sunrise to sunset. It is advisable to remain until late afternoon to witness stunning sky views.

As a picturesque destination for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls, a notable feature is the 650-foot boardwalk traversing mangroves and wetlands to an observation tower in the canopy.

From this vantage point, you can observe shorebirds, wading birds, and perhaps a few dolphins in the shallow waters.

3. Sims Park

Established by the city’s founder, George R. Sims (1876-1954), the land for this pristine urban park was generously donated. Located on the Cotee River and integrated with downtown, Sims Park is an extraordinary environment.

Featuring an amphitheater and a segment of riverfront, it serves as the primary venue for the city’s legendary Chasco Fiesta every March.

On the eastern side lies the beautiful Orange Lake, adorned with palms and flowering trees, along with an inviting pier frequented by wading birds such as ibises.

A splash pad is conveniently located near the lake, an essential feature for families with young children on warm days. Additionally, New Port Richey is a haven for kayakers, with an ADA-accessible launch point directly on the river.

If you happen to encounter a rare day with no events scheduled, it is an ideal location for a picnic.

4. Downtown New Port Richey

Remarkably, at the start of the 21st century, downtown New Port Richey resembled a ghost town. Nevertheless, after approximately 20 years, it is far from that description today.

My recent visit showcased clear signs of revitalization. The streetscape featured recently planted palms, and there were no vacant storefronts in sight.

A highlight of any exploration includes the elegant 1927 Hacienda Hotel, reminiscent of the days when early Hollywood stars roamed these streets, and it has recently reopened its doors.

Within a short walking distance, one can find an abundance of dining and drinking establishments, antique shops, and entertainment venues, such as the Richey Suncoast Theater. Among the unique recurring events is “Cars & Coffee,” a morning car show held on the first Sunday of each month.

5. Kayaking

This list would be incomplete without a mention of kayaking, as New Port Richey is notably a paradise for paddlers.

The city is traversed by numerous bayous and creeks, flowing into the Gulf of Mexico. Many of these waterways meander through preserves, showcasing lush mangrove tunnels, wetlands, and hammocks along their edges.

Manatees frequent these waters, particularly during the winter months as they seek warmer temperatures.

You can even begin your kayaking journey downtown along the wide and gentle stretch of the Pithlachascotee River. For those without their own kayak, several rental businesses are available.

Prominent among them are Salty Dog Kayak Rentals located in Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, and Windsong Charters & Boat Rentals at 4927 U.S. Highway 19.

6. Chasco Fiesta

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Spanning nine days, the Chasco Fiesta is one of the area’s most renowned events, featuring entertainment, culinary delights, and family activities.

Initially held in 1922, it has become an annual tradition every March since 1947. For a vibrant experience, visiting New Port Richey during this time is highly recommended.

Partially inspired by local Native American traditions, the festival includes Florida’s second-longest boat parade and the third-longest street parade in the state.

In addition, enjoy a carnival, numerous live musical performances, a vehicle show, delicious local cuisine, a golf tournament, a 5k run, and much more.

The festivities commence each year with the Coronation of King Pithla and Queen Chasco on the first evening, at a ball benefiting local charitable organizations.

7. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

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Venturing inland, you will find this expansive 8,500-acre regional park established on a former cattle ranch.

Partly managed by Pasco County, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is characterized by pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes, cypress domes, and more.

For cycling enthusiasts, the Starkey Trail spans nearly seven miles, connecting to the Suncoast Trail next to the Suncoast Parkway, located on the eastern edge of the park.

There are additional unpaved trails within the wilderness, including 13 miles dedicated to hiking and an eight-mile trail designed for mountain biking.

The park is also a prominent birding site, with nearly 180 different species having been documented in these diverse habitats, including a birding trail leading to a blind situated by Grassy Lake, established by Pasco Audubon.

8. West Pasco Historical Society

Operating in the afternoons from Friday to Sunday, this museum offers insight into the area’s history, situated on the northern side of Sims Park.

The building carries its own narrative, having served as the Seven Springs schoolhouse, constructed around 1915 and active for a decade.

Visitors can explore various topics; a particular highlight is the Native American exhibit, showcasing a Deptford vessel, pottery, and arrowheads from the Timucuan and Tocobaga tribes.

Additionally, the museum provides information about the early 20th-century citrus industry, pioneer life, ranching, sponge diving, shipbuilding, and the many movie stars who graced the area in the 1920s.

9. Brasher Park

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Located just five minutes away, Brasher Park in Port Richey is small and secluded, resulting in less visitor traffic. This hidden gem is cherished by many locals who prefer to keep it to themselves.

Brasher Park is a favored launching point for kayakers and paddle boarders aiming to explore the local creeks and bayous. Launching during low tide allows for paddling to Salt Springs, situated a short distance to the north.

Available amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, and a playground for children. Personally, I could spend hours here enjoying the sunset and watching for dolphins.

10. James E. Grey Preserve

Just upstream from downtown New Port Richey, the Pithlachascotee River reveals a much more untamed landscape.

Unexpectedly, amidst residential developments, you’ll discover a wilderness of swamps and upland hammocks.

One of the Preserve’s most captivating features is the boardwalk, which follows the meandering path of the river for over a mile.

From November through April, this area provides an excellent vantage point for observing manatees. At the far end, a fishing pier offers a clear view of a significant bend in the river.

It is not surprising that remarkable paddling opportunities exist within the preserve, with a variety of amenities available near the parking area, including picnic shelters, restrooms, and a playground.

11. Anclote Key

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This uninhabited island is located just a few miles off the Gulf Coast. Accessible only by boat, Anclote Key offers a serene escape, especially for those seeking relief from the area’s more crowded and commercialized attractions.

The beach is a favored aspect, renowned for its excellent shelling opportunities; various exotic and pristine shells and sponges can be found here that are seldom seen elsewhere.

Visitors can also expect to see dolphins, an historic lighthouse (built in 1887), and a rich variety of birdlife, particularly nesting shorebirds like piping plovers.

If you do not own a boat, ferries are available from New Port Richey via Island Paradise Charters or Windsong Charters.

12. Richey Suncoast Theatre

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Since the mid-1920s, the Richey Suncoast Theatre has stood as a local entertainment landmark. This restored Mediterranean Revival structure hosts a diverse array of live performances, including dramatic plays, comedy acts, and Broadway-style musicals.

One cannot help but admire the venue’s vintage charm, complete with solomonic columns and Art Deco lighting fixtures.

In addition to its theatrical and comedy seasons, the theater presents a plethora of one-off concerts and special events, including sing-along screenings of cult classics such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

The theatre also offers a Vintage Movie Series throughout the year, alongside educational initiatives that include workshops and masterclasses.

13. Gill Dawg Tiki Bar & Grill

This establishment located along the banks of the Cotee River has much to offer. In fact, it merits its own dedicated article.

Firstly, its riverside setting, nestled among striking live oaks, provides breathtaking sunset views from the deck.

The menu features signature cocktails with tropical influences, alongside an array of seafood options (such as the grouper sandwich or mahi-mahi fish tacos), bar snacks, and burgers.

Every weekend, the venue transforms into a live music hub, featuring a continuous lineup of tribute acts performing on a purpose-built outdoor stage.

Furthermore, during the day, this establishment is another location where kayak and pontoon boat rentals are available.

14. Eagle Point Park

New Port Richey’s intricate coastline is dotted with charming parks, one of which is Eagle Point Park, located just south of the Trouble Creek estuary.

This 15-acre park, enveloped by mangroves, is situated on the site of a formerly proposed residential development. Remnants of these plans can still be observed in the form of two parallel canals traversing the park.

There are a couple of small piers from which visitors can gaze out over Trouble Creek. The sheltered waters and rich natural surroundings make this another fantastic location for kayaking or canoeing.

Additionally, away from the water’s edge, Eagle Point Park features exercise equipment for adults, alongside a newly renovated playground for children.

15. Cotee River Brewing Company

Established in 2018, this craft brewery has quickly become a cherished gathering place in downtown New Port Richey.

Despite its relatively recent origin, the taproom exudes a strong sense of community, with rustic decor and historical photographs depicting New Port Richey from past eras. Visitors can expect to find up to ten beers available on tap at any given time.

Most of the beers are brewed on-site, complemented by guest beers sourced from local breweries. If you must choose just one, I recommend the Market Fresh Wheat Beer, infused with herbal tea. As a lover of darker ales, the Smoked Porter has certainly captured my appreciation.

Additionally, the brewery offers unique sangrias crafted with wine from the local Aspirations Winery in Clearwater.