Queen City to the Coast: Welcome to Paradise

When looking to escape Ohio’s chilly months, or just looking for a vibrant coastal getaway, St. Pete-Clearwater is the perfect destination.

Play soccer on America's Best Beaches

Ohioans, know the beauty of the Midwest—changing seasons, passionate sports culture, and great food. But let’s be honest: winters are long, summers can be unpredictable, and beach days are rare. That’s where St. Pete-Clearwater comes in. Whether you're following FC Cincinnati or another team looking to escape the cold, long days of the offseason or preseason, or just looking for a new favorite vacation spot, here’s why Ohioans love it here.

 

 

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Trade the Snow for Sunshine

Ohio winters can be brutal, with grey skies and icy roads from November through March. Meanwhile, St. Pete-Clearwater boasts an average of 361 days of sunshine per year and temperatures in the 70s even in winter. A quick flight or road trip south means you can trade your winter coat for flip-flops in just a few hours.

Your Favorite Beach

You won’t find beaches like these on the Ohio River. Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach consistently rank among the top beaches in the U.S., with soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants. Looking for something more laid-back? Pass-a-Grille Beach and Honeymoon Island offer a quieter, more natural coastal vibe.

Easy, Affordable Travel from Ohio

Enjoy direct, non-stop flight service to and from Ohio to St. Pete-Clearwater on a variety of airlines, including Allegiant Airlines, which connects directly from CVG to St. Pete Clearwater. Look for other direct flight services to Columbus, Cleveland and Toledo for fast, affordable trips.  

A Year-Round Sports Scene

Ohioans are passionate about sports, and St. Pete-Clearwater offers plenty to enjoy:

  • Tampa Bay Rowdies (USL) – If you love FC Cincinnati, catch a Rowdies match at Al Lang Stadium, one of the most scenic soccer venues in the country. And if you're looking for a USL team to root for, Come On You Rowdies!
  • Spring Training – The Phillies, Blue Jays, and Yankees hold spring training in nearby Clearwater, Dunedin, and Tampa.
  • NFL & NHL – Visit in the fall to catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL) game or in winter for a Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) game.
  • Baseball Season – The Tampa Bay Rays home stadium in 2025 is Steinbrenner Field.

Midwestern Hospitality Meets Florida Vibes

St. Pete-Clearwater is known for its friendly locals and welcoming vibe—something Midwesterners can appreciate. Whether you’re chatting with a bartender, joining a beach volleyball game, or watching soccer at a local pub, you’ll feel right at home. And of course, the local food with feel familiar with a coastal twist - while Florida is famous for fresh seafood, St. Pete-Clearwater also offers plenty of options that Midwestern visitors will love.

A More Affordable Florida Destination

Compared to Miami or Orlando, St. Pete-Clearwater offers a high-quality experience without the high prices. Hotels, dining, and entertainment are often more affordable, and you won’t have to deal with overcrowded theme parks or heavy traffic.

So next time you’re looking for an easy trip out of the Midwest, trade cold and grey for warm and vibrant in St. Pete-Clearwater!