Ruskin FL to Tampa drive: Time, distance & best stops
The distance from Ruskin FL to Tampa by car is 22 miles, with a 35 minute driving time. The best road trip stops on the Ruskin to Tampa drive are Apollo Beach, the Showmen’s Museum and Wat Mongkolratanaram.
Finding the best things to do between Ruskin FL and Tampa
The Ruskin FL to Tampa drive takes you round the eastern edge of Tampa Bay in Florida.
Ruskin FL is a quiet spot on Tampa Bay, with the highlight being the EG Simmons Conservation Park. This 258-acre conservation area is home to extensive native mangrove swamp, where birds such as the bald eagle and roseate spoonbill can be sighted. You can also enjoy two playgrounds, kayak hire and a 700-foot beach.
For walking trails, you’re better off in the nearby Little Manatee River State Park.
Tampa is justifiably one of the most popular holiday destinations in Florida. It’s home to top attractions such as the Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, the Adventure Island water park and Busch Gardens theme park.
Other great Tampa experiences include historic Ybor City food walking tours, seeing the highlights in a street legal golf cart and a Haunted Tampa tour that combines ghosts and pubs.
Also on offer are Segway tours, history cruises, dolphin-watching and celebrity homes tours.
Tampa accommodation is best booked in advance – look for deals here.
Ruskin to Tampa distance and driving time
By car, the distance from Ruskin to Tampa is 22 miles. With favourable traffic, that makes for a driving time of around 35 minutes. Most of the drive is along the US-41.
The best stops to add to a Ruskin to Tampa road trip itinerary are Apollo Beach, the Showmen’s Museum and Wat Mongkolratanaram.
Ruskin FL to Tampa drive: Apollo Beach
Apollo Beach lies on Tampa Bay amongst a maze of waterways. The marina makes it a popular spot for yachts, but the main attractions in Apollo Beach are natural. First up is the Apollo Beach Preserve, which has a sandy beach, nature trail and 37-foot observation tower.
More curious is the Manatee Viewing Area by the Tampa Electric power station. During the winter months, manatees come here in their dozens to bathe in the warmer waters released by the power station.
Find Apollo Beach accommodation deals here.
Best things to do between Ruskin FL and Tampa: The Showmen’s Museum
The Showmen’s Museum in Riverview FL celebrates the travelling shows that once crossed America. This museum covers 54,000 square feet, with exhibits including circus wagons, one of the oldest Ferris wheels in existence and several colorful costumes.
Ruskin FL to Tampa road trip attractions: Wat Mongkolratanaram
Wat Mongkolratanaram – also known as Wat Tampa – is a Buddhist temple with distinctive Thai-style architecture. On Sundays it operates a charity market, selling fruit, vegetable and street food-style meals. On other days, the grounds of the temple are open to the public.
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