Art and History Museums in Tarpon Springs

20th-Century art lovers should head to Tarpon Springs for the museum gem that is The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art. The museum's extensive collection features works by Expressionists Abraham Rattner and Allen Leepa, plus their contemporaries and friends. Depending on the rotation, you might see the Surrealist works of Rattner, Leepa’s large-scale abstracts, plus works by Chagall and Henry Miller.

Start at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum for a primer on the city’s history and ecology. You'll learn about the area’s Greek heritage, from wedding traditions to sponge-diving, with the help of an interactive kiosk, educational panels and historic pieces donated by the community. The Ecology Wing has plenty to teach about Tarpon Springs’ waterways, wildlife and arbors, and Christopher Still’s murals will steal your attention. But for the ultimate visual, just walk outside. The Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum sits inside Craig Park, overlooking Spring Bayou for which the city is named.

For a glimpse into Florida in the Victorian era, take a tour of the Safford House Museum. Owned by Anson P.K. Safford, one of Tarpon Springs’ original settlers, the quaint veranda swing, period furnishings and memorabilia will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

Built in 1915 as Tarpon Springs’ first City Hall, the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center's beautiful exterior, featuring a period clock tower, isn't the only thing you should check out. Inside you'll find the Gulf Coast Folklife Center, plus art and sculpture exhibits. The Center also hosts music and theater performances--past shows include the staging of Alice in Wonderland and the Pulitzer-prize winning play Doubt.