Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Zephyrhills, FL

Initially settled in 1888, the city of Zephyrhills acquired its distinctive name in the early 20th century, reflecting the region’s gentle rolling hills and warm zephyr breezes.

Established by Union veterans, Zephyrhills was recognized primarily as a retirement community for many years. However, the city has experienced significant growth in the years preceding this list’s composition.

Positioned as a suburb of Tampa Bay, the population has surged to over 20,000, resulting in a lively downtown area that hosts various entertaining events.

Since 1990, the local airfield has served as home to one of Florida’s premier skydiving schools; on any given day, you are likely to observe parachutes in the sky.

1. Skydive City

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Zephyrhills is a prominent destination for skydiving, attracting enthusiasts from all 50 states and more than 80 countries internationally.

This popularity can be attributed to Skydive City, which was established in 1990 and recognized as Florida’s Best Skydiving School at the time of writing this article.

If you seek to learn solo skydiving or are a certified skydiver in need of a drop zone, Skydive City is the perfect choice. Additionally, they offer tandem skydiving for first-time jumpers who wish to experience the adventure alongside an experienced instructor.

Each year, thousands partake in their initial freefalls with Skydive City. Given the focus on experiencing breathtaking aerial views of the Tampa Bay region, the process is efficiently organized.

As the thrilling experience can pass quickly, many participants opt for video packages to capture their memorable moments.

2. Zephyr Park

Located adjacent to the downtown district, this public park is a delightful retreat. The park features a large lake surrounded by a three-quarter-mile paved walking path.

This scenic trail is enhanced with benches, picnic areas, and open grassy spaces, along with exercise stations placed at regular intervals, all offering breathtaking views of the lake.

I have a particular appreciation for the live oaks within Zephyr Park, and I learned that some of the largest trees date back to the Civil War era.

The park also includes a tennis court, a playground, handball courts, horseshoe pits, and a splash pad, which will be discussed later.

3. Founders’ Day & Heritage Festival

Source: Zephyrhills Free Press / Facebook

Zephyrhills commemorates its founding with a lively one-day festival. Each year features a unique theme for the Founders’ Day & Heritage Festival, which occurs in early March.

This period marks the prime weather of Central Florida, and the citizens eagerly anticipate this event annually.

The festival showcases food vendors, parades, and live performances in downtown Zephyrhills, alongside a dedicated children’s area and themed tours, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.

4. Zephyr Hills Military Museum

The Zephyrhills Municipal Airport (ZPH) originated in 1942 as a military site. For approximately two years, it served the Army Air Forces School of Applied Tactics (AAFSAT).

During this time, numerous fighter pilots came to Zephyrhills to hone their skills prior to deployment.

Today, the museum resides in the base’s former infirmary, which is the only remaining structure from that era. While the initial exhibits focused on WWII, the collection has since expanded to include artifacts from the Civil War, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Among the intriguing items on display are archival photos of the 10th Fighter Squadron, ration coupons, original jerry cans, and a 48-star flag.

5. Waterplay at Zephyr Park

Source: Zephyrhills Free Press / Facebook

For an enjoyable inexpensive children’s activity during hot days, the splash pad is an excellent option.

Open from mid-March to mid-December, this facility features shaded benches for parents, along with various sprinklers, jets, and fountains designed to keep children entertained for hours.

Nearby, restrooms and a magnificent grove of live oaks can be found, as well as two large picnic shelters. The water park is located near the 4th St parking lot in the park’s northeast corner.

6. Zephyrhills Brewing Company

Established in 2014, this location marked East Pasco County’s first microbrewery. Zephyrhills Brewing Company has become a cornerstone in the revitalizing downtown area of Zephyrhills.

Housed in a renovated bank building, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of beers and hard ciders, with nearly 30 options available during my visit.

The offerings included a diverse array of styles, such as IPAs, Blonde Ales, Golden Ales, Lagers, and several Porters.

The brewery is innovative with its ciders, incorporating flavors like pineapple, passion fruit, cherries, berries, orange, and guava. Food trucks commonly set up nearby, serving delectable items like mac and cheese bowls or Korean street food.

7. Hillsborough River State Park

Located less than ten minutes south of Zephyrhills on US 301, this park encompasses nearly 3,500 acres of lush live oak hammocks along the Hillsborough River.

Interestingly for Florida, portions of the river feature fast currents and rapids. These picturesque spots are best enjoyed from a kayak or canoe, rather than simply from the banks.

Visitors can rent vessels near the riverbank through FloVibez Adventure Tours, where one can observe alligators, turtles, and towering cypresses lining the terrain.

Hillsborough River State Park was established in the 1930s and features numerous structures created by the Civilian Conservation Corps, most notably the suspension bridge that traverses the river and canopy.

8. Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area

A substantial expanse of natural beauty lies just minutes from Zephyrhills. Along both banks of the Hillsborough River, east of the city, over 5,000 acres of accessible public land await exploration.

The Upper Hillsborough Wildlife Management Area includes primarily swampy regions along the water, transitioning to a mixture of longleaf and slash pine with gallberry and palmetto in the understory on higher ground.

I appreciate the convenient access to main trails just minutes from Zephyrhills, which begin next to CR 54 and lead through pine flatwoods before shifting in landscape as you head southeast.

Wildlife such as armadillos, white-tailed deer, feral hogs, and northern bobwhites may make occasional appearances.

9. Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center

Source: Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce / Facebook

Visitor information centers and local chambers of commerce serve as excellent initial stops for travelers unfamiliar with the area and seeking guidance on attractions and activities.

While the internet has made researching ahead of time relatively easy, an actual physical center staffed by knowledgeable locals is an invaluable resource for helping you navigate your visit.

The center is well-stocked with travel brochures, local maps, and business directories, all available for free to visitors. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these resources and inquire with the staff about their recommendations.

10. Pin Chasers

If you are contemplating evening entertainment in Zephyrhills, consider visiting the impressive bowling alley located adjacent to the Zephyrhills Cinema 10.

A member of a small local chain, Pin Chaser features 32 lanes equipped with modern ball return systems, large flat-screen monitors, and was in excellent condition during my visit.

The bowling alley hosts various events throughout the week, including unlimited pizza and bowling for just $12.99 on Tuesdays, as noted during my time there.

The energy escalates on weekend evenings with Cyber Bowling, where lively music and vibrant lighting create a more intense atmosphere.

11. Zephyrhills Cinema 10

Although Zephyrhills is relatively small, there’s no need to travel far for moviegoing, as the Zephyrhills Cinema 10 is conveniently located just off US 301 in the northern part of town.

Opened in the early 2000s, the cinema was subsequently expanded to ten screens. Upon arrival, I noted that the entrance and lobby conveyed a nostalgic 20-year-old ambiance.

This perception does not reflect the auditoriums, which had undergone recent renovations to incorporate luxurious leather recliners typical of larger cinema chains. Paired with stadium seating, this setup provides a superior viewing experience.

12. Krusen Park

Situated near the airport on the city’s southeast side, this park spans over 30 acres and is primarily designated for sports. Krusen Park features a baseball/softball diamond, basketball courts, a football field, an inline hockey rink, and a soccer field.

In addition, there is a concession stand open during sporting events.

Nearby lies the municipal golf course and Zephyrhills Skatepark, together making Krusen Park a favored place for families to enjoy a sunny afternoon.

Within the park, you will find an attractive stand of pine trees, numerous picnic shelters, a playground, and a barbecue grill.

13. Festival of Lights

Source: Main Street Zephyrhills / Facebook

Each December, Zephyrhills embraces a festive spirit during the delightful Festival of Lights. While it may not embody a traditional Christmas setting for out-of-state visitors, this event is undeniably charming.

Live entertainment, delicious food, and various vendors showcasing arts, crafts, prepared food items, clothing, and other locally produced goods enhance the atmosphere.

The pinnacle of the Festival of Lights is the annual parade, which occurs on Main Street around 7:00 PM, featuring a different theme each year alongside the rest of the celebration.

14. Halloween Howl

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The annual Halloween festival in Zephyrhills takes place at Zephyr Park, featuring a thrilling array of family and kid-oriented activities.

This complimentary event, Halloween Howl, includes a haunted house, a haunted forest, hayrides, and a safe, illuminated area for trick-or-treating.

Costume parades and contests are conducted, with each child participant guaranteed a prize, alongside a variety of carnival games and rides that contribute to the festive atmosphere.

Local food vendors typically offer delicious fare such as burgers, hot dogs, and boardwalk fries. During my visit, an additional warm-up event downtown featured a scavenger hunt, vendors, and raffles.

15. Annual Music & Motorcycles

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For approximately 20 years, Zephyrhills has hosted an annual event centered around live music and motorcycles. Although it may be one of the newer annual events, the Annual Music & Motorcycles has become a biker haven.

Taking place in mid-April on Main Street, the event features exhilarating live music, tempting street food, an array of adult beverages, and numerous motorcycle contests.

The motorcycle contests span diverse categories, including choppers, customs, imports, baggers, old school, best paint, everyday rider, and street cruiser.