Craig Park
A serene bayou park known for manatee sightings, historic Victorian homes, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for manatee sightings
Craig Park
Best Time
Best for manatee sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene bayou park known for manatee sightings, historic Victorian homes, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.
"Craig Park is an absolute gem! Whether you’re there to fish, let the kids enjoy the playground, or hit the tennis courts, there’s something for everyone."
🐾 Manatee Etiquette
Observe manatees from a distance; never touch or feed them. Respect their space! :wave:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Paved paths are great for walks, so wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manatee & Dolphin Watching
Spring Bayou
Spot gentle manatees and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. A truly magical wildlife experience!
Victorian Homes & History
Surrounding Spring Bayou
Admire beautiful Victorian architecture and learn about the area's rich history.
Playgrounds & Recreation
Various locations within the park
Enjoy family fun at the playgrounds or hit the lighted tennis courts for some active recreation.
Seasonal Events
Various locations within the park
Experience festive events like the Viva Pumpkin Patch or Christmas decorations.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Manatee Sightings
Park Access & Activities
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Manatee Etiquette
Observe manatees from a distance; never touch or feed them. Respect their space! :wave:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Paved paths are great for walks, so wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Shade & Seating
Plenty of shaded areas and benches to relax and enjoy the bayou views. :sunwithface:
🛶 Kayak/Paddleboard Launch
Public boat ramp available for water activities. :kayak:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Manatee Etiquette
Observe manatees from a distance; never touch or feed them. Respect their space! :wave:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Paved paths are great for walks, so wear comfy shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Shade & Seating
Plenty of shaded areas and benches to relax and enjoy the bayou views. :sunwithface:
🛶 Kayak/Paddleboard Launch
Public boat ramp available for water activities. :kayak:
🎃 Fall Fun
Check out the Viva Pumpkin Patch for pumpkins, games, and bounce houses!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Craig Park is widely praised as a gem in Tarpon Springs, offering a serene escape with abundant wildlife, particularly manatees in Spring Bayou. Visitors love the well-maintained grounds, historic charm, and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and walking paths. Some note the lack of railings near the bayou as a caution for those with very young children.
"Wonderful park with beautiful Victorian homes surrounding the bayou where if you’re lucky you may see some manatees playing or relaxing in the spring and possibly some dolphins hunting the sea wall. It has a public boat ramp and a cultural center, bathrooms, tennis courts, playgrounds and more. Great place for dogs and families. Great place for kayaking or paddle boarding whether you go on a guided tour or on your own. Just please remember to follow all the laws regarding the manatees! Don’t miss out on this gem of a park!"
Julie T
"Took the paws on a walk for sunset
3/8 went today for the tarpon springs fine arts festival $5 entry, saw a manatee and dolphin yay!
7/4/25 Picnic in the Park for 4th of July!"
Dani MCDonald
"Craig Park in Tarpon Springs is an absolute gem! Whether you’re there to fish along the peaceful bayou, let the kids enjoy the playground, or hit the tennis courts, there’s something for everyone. The park is beautifully maintained with plenty of shaded areas, walking paths, and benches to relax and take in the view. One of the highlights is spotting manatees in the water—especially during the cooler months! It’s a relaxing, scenic place that truly captures the charm of Tarpon Springs. Highly recommend for a peaceful day outdoors or a family outing!"
Carson O
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Craig Park is located at 3300 N. State College Blvd. It's accessible by car, with parking available within the park.
Information on public transportation routes to Craig Park can be found on local transit authority websites.
The primary entrance is off North State College Boulevard.
Yes, ample parking is available throughout the park, including near the boat launch and recreational areas.
Absolutely! Craig Park features a public boat ramp for easy access to the bayou.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General park admission is typically free. However, special events like the Viva Pumpkin Patch or festivals may have separate admission fees or activity costs.
Park hours can vary, but it's generally open from early morning until dusk. Specific event hours, like the Viva Pumpkin Patch, are posted seasonally.
Yes, you purchase one ticket for 3 hours of unlimited jump time at The Big Bounce America. The castle area has designated time slots.
The public boat ramp at Craig Park is generally accessible, though specific fees may apply. It's best to check with park management for current rates.
While the park itself doesn't offer guided tours, you can find local operators for kayaking or paddleboarding tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy wildlife viewing (manatees, dolphins), walking paths, playgrounds, tennis courts, kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting the cultural center.
Yes, it's a great family spot with playgrounds and open spaces for kids to enjoy.
Craig Park is a dog-friendly location, perfect for walks with your pets.
Restrooms are available within the park for visitor convenience.
The best time to see manatees is during cooler months, especially in Spring Bayou. Observe them from the sidewalks or by kayak.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Craig Park itself does not have on-site restaurants, but food vendors are often present during special events like the Viva Pumpkin Patch.
Yes, Craig Park is an excellent spot for picnics, with many shaded areas and benches available.
Tarpon Springs offers a variety of restaurants and cafes just a short drive from the park.
The Viva Pumpkin Patch typically features food options and carnival treats.
Park rules regarding alcohol consumption should be checked with local authorities or park management.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of manatees, dolphins, historic Victorian homes, and the serene bayou.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Viva Pumpkin Patch, but be mindful of other visitors.
Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. Check with park authorities for specific rules.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful lighting for photography, especially for wildlife.
You can photograph the exteriors of the historic homes from public areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the fall, the Viva Pumpkin Patch event is a must-do, featuring bounce houses and carnival games that kids will love.
+1 While observing manatees, ensure children understand the importance of keeping a safe distance. Be mindful that some areas around the bayou may not have protective railings, so close supervision is recommended for young children. 🐾 Pet Owners
Remember to keep your pets on a leash at all times and clean up after them. While dogs are welcome, they should not disturb wildlife, especially the manatees. Enjoy a scenic stroll with your pet and take advantage of the beautiful bayou views.
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
Anglers can try their luck fishing from the shore or from their boats. Remember to be aware of and adhere to all local fishing regulations and licenses. The park's location offers a pleasant environment for a day out on the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: Manatees and Dolphins
In addition to manatees, you might also be lucky enough to spot dolphins playing in the bayou, especially near the sea wall where they sometimes hunt. The presence of these marine mammals adds to the park's charm and offers a fantastic opportunity for nature photography and observation.
Pro Tip: Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the most serene viewing conditions, with fewer boats and a more tranquil environment for wildlife.
Exploring Craig Park's Recreational Offerings
The park's layout includes paved walking paths that wind around Spring Bayou and through scenic areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. Many of these paths are lined with benches, offering ample opportunities to sit, relax, and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
Craig Park also hosts various seasonal events, such as the popular Viva Pumpkin Patch in the fall, which includes carnival games, bounce houses, and hay mazes, and festive Christmas decorations during the holiday season.
+1 These events add an extra layer of excitement and community spirit to the park experience.A Glimpse into History and Architecture
The park itself is named after Edward Craig, and its history is intertwined with the development of Tarpon Springs. A cultural center within the park provides further insights into the local history and heritage. The park is also a significant site for local traditions, such as the annual Epiphany Cross Retrieval Dive.
For those interested in local lore, the park is a focal point for community gatherings and celebrations, including the 4th of July Picnic in the Park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit