Must-See Dunedin Attractions for RNC Visitors
The GOP Convention, set for Aug. 27 to 30, is expected to draw roughly 50,000 visitors to the Tampa Bay area. Since Dunedin is smack between where national delegates will be lodging in Palm Harbor and Clearwater, Patch put together this handy guide.
Dunedin is positioned to see some increased tourism because of the Republican National Convention next week.
The convention, set for Aug. 27 to 30, is expected to draw roughly 50,000 visitors to the Tampa Bay area, and Dunedin is sandwiched between where national delegates will be lodging in Palm Harbor and Clearwater.
Politics aside, Patch put together a list of some must-see Dunedin attractions for any visitors to the area. Feel free to add your suggestions in the comment section.
1. The Arts. Dunedin's arts and cultural community is an active group. Observe their work while walking the streets or buy it in the shops. You won't want to miss some of these more iconic pieces:
- The "Dogedin" mural at Skip's Bar & Grill
- The "100th Orange" mural at The Institute for Creative Arts
- Dunedin's artistic bike racks
- Places to buy: Stirling Art Studios & Gallery, Painted Fish Gallery, 7 Arches Art Gallery & Boutique, The Institute for Creative Arts, Waterfront Gallery, Dunedin Fine Art Center,
2. Souvenir Shopping. Dunedin has a plethora of shops for those looking for a one-of-a-kind Florida treasure. Try:
- Knot on Main Street, antiques and collectibles from local vendors and artisans.
- Lucie-Mae's Beach House, locally-sourced art, custom-painted furniture
- Erika's Place, Inc., Coastal-inpsired home accessories
- Palm Latitudes, Key West/Caribbean style accessories
- Amanda Austin Fine Antiques & Collectibles
- Suncoast Beach Co., beach accessories, clothing and gifts
3. Food. Some visitors prefer experiencing a new place by eating where the locals eat. Here are some down-home places that are just a little off the beaten path. (Note: It's fair to say the locals eat at all the restaurants in Dunedin, but we couldn't list all of them. Visit our directory for more options.)
- Eli's Bar-B-Que. Eat outside on picnic tables at a place so good it's only open twice a week. (Insider tip: cash only; open Friday and Saturday)
- Olde Bay Cafe & Dunedin Fish Market. Seafood is served as fresh off the boat and as close to the water as you can get in Dunedin. It is a local favorite that also typically has a local craft beer on tap.
- The Black Pearl. If you're looking for a a more elegant, fine-dining experience, this is it. It offers an intimate setting with award-winning meals.
- Sandbar Grill. This is definitely a favorite locals beach hangout on the Honeymoon Island side of town. It serves up something for every one's taste.
- Serendipity Cafe. If you're health conscious, gluten-free or have food allergies, this is the place you can eat and feel at ease. It is the only dedicated gluten-free facility in the area.
- Jolli Mons Grill. It's like an island retreat located right on the Pinellas Trail. (Insider tip: order the wings; you also can't go wrong ordering wings at The Dunedin Smokehouse).
4. Beer. If you're in need of a pint, you're in the right place. Dunedin prides itself on its locally-crafted brews. One of our bars was even named among the top 100 craft beer bars in the United States last year. Check the happy hours specials before you go.
- The Dunedin Brewery
- Seventh Sun Brewing Company
- Dunedin House of Beer
- For cocktails: Chic-a-Boom Room
- Marker 8 Tiki Bar and the waterside bar at Bon Appetit Restaurant
5. Activities. If you prefer to recreate when you're traveling, try some of these trademark Dunedin activities. (Visit our calendar to see what events are planned.)
- Rent a kayak and paddle out to Honeymoon Island State Park or Caladesi Island
- Go to a Dunedin Blue Jays game
- Catch Drag Queen Bingo at Blur Nightclub & Showbar on Tuesdays
Bob Burdewick
11:03 am on Friday, August 24, 2012
You also have the National Armed Services & Law Enforcement Memorial Museum (NASLEMM) located on Douglas Ave. just north of the Blue Jays stadium.
Katie Dolac
10:42 am on Saturday, August 25, 2012
Great suggestion!
Tim Marshall
4:10 pm on Friday, August 24, 2012
Go 7th Sun!