By Kendra Smith

Edited by Linda Ruble

Aren’t we all looking for an adventurous and exciting afternoon? Downtown Dunedin, a small town in central Pinellas County has it all. This charming town is packed-full with exciting things to do and places to eat; visitors never run out of ideas to fill up their afternoon. When in need of a mini vacation, delightful downtown Dunedin has options for every age to enjoy.

Foodies get ready! Downtown Dunedin has a multitude of wonderful restaurants to explore. From upscale seafood restaurants to coffee shops and cafés, even a smokehouse. There is no end to the taste bud-tantalizing selection this small town has to offer.

A wonderful place to begin for a quick bite, hands down, is “Dunedin Coffee,” the town’s own coffee café. This cozy place has the atmosphere of a warm spring day at the beach; guests can almost feel the wind flowing through their hair. The menu features breakfast and lunch options that are all natural and customarily healthy, aside from the delicious custard and pastry favorites. Nonetheless, the taste is never sacrificed. With food combinations such as, The Green Machine ($8.69), with Asiago cheese bread topped with fresh smashed avocado, seasoned with olive oil and lemon, this venue is worth checking out.

Another one of the popular restaurants in downtown, is “Sea Sea Riders,” located at 221 Main Street. This recently renovated 1903 Florida home, with the atmosphere of a Key West paradise, is undoubtedly one that visitors should keep in mind. A recent stop in from Bay News 9’s Kitchen Chefs, featuring the Pecan encrusted Grouper Dinner ($26.50) with a mouthwatering bourbon butter sauce, got a glimpse at the decadent creations Sea Sea’s has to offer.  In addition to a full bar that includes hand crafted drinks like the award winning Blood Orange Margarita ($8.00), guests can’t find a spot like this anywhere else.  

Dunedin doesn’t just stop at outstanding restaurants. This sensational town also has entertainment for people of all ages. A scenic waterfront location is home to Edgewater Park. Dunedin commonly uses this area for small events. The grounds include a walking trail and a playground for the younger guests.  Downtown Dunedin plays host to plenty of street festivals and crafts shows all along Main Street that inevitably bring a crowd. The annual Mardi Gras parade is a perfect example, with a swarm of nearly 20,000 people.  Downtown is also known for its live music selection, and local bands from all around Tampa Bay are scheduled to play at every event, as well as several of the restaurants.

 At last, the after-hour entertainment! Equipped with a night club and plenty of bars open late, Downtown has it all. “Blur Nightclub,” which is also connected to “The Chic a Boom Room” and “Kelly’s,” is a hot spot for adults ready to have a good time. “Blur” has weekly party specials like Karaoke and even Drag Queen Bingo. A D.J. with a fresh music taste ensures that all of these extravaganzas go out with a bang.

Altogether, Downtown Dunedin is an adventurous spectacle visitors never seem to forget. Whether it’s food or something more bazaar, Downtown is sure to give the people what they’re looking for.

Header photo from destinationmainstreets.com