Clearwater

Known across the nation for its stunning white sand beaches (voted Best Beach in America two years in a row on TripAdvisor), Clearwater is both a bustling city and a relaxing beach town.

Alive with a rich history going back as far as 1835 with the construction of the Fort Harrison, Clearwater is a thriving city that functions as the Pinellas County seat and a regional hub for commerce and activity. Incorporated in 1891, Clearwater entertains year-round locals and seasonal residents alike with world-famous attractions like Clearwater Beach, a three-mile-long barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico just a 2.5-mile walk, bike, drive, or trolly ride from the downtown district over the recently completed Clearwater Memorial Causeway.

A flourishing city in every way, Clearwater’s unemployment rate is lower than the Florida State average, the city demonstrates consistent job growth, and most Clearwater residents own their homes. The city is also home to excellent schools such as Clearwater High School, Davis Elementary, and Pinellas Academy.

Downtown Clearwater has underwent strategic and aesthetic development to create an eclectic diversity of new businesses and residential buildings combined with historic churches and centennial structures. Local restaurants in the Cleveland Street District include Clear Sky, Roxys Clearwater, and the Genuino Italian Cafe. The Wildflower Cafe is a nearby pet-friendly cafe that attracts pet owners and animal lovers. The renowned, 1921-built Bilheimer Capitol Theatre was recently restored to its Roaring 20s splendor, and nearby art galleries and boutique shops thrive in the lively downtown district. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a local icon and the home of Hope, the world-famous dolphin featured in the film “Dolphin Tale 2.”

 

Clearwater is home to many parks, including Moccasin Lake Nature Park, Cliff Stephens Park, Crest Lake Park, and the Pier 60 Park on Clearwater Beach. The popular Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail winds through Clearwater on a primarily north-south course, offering residents and visitors several miles of exercise opportunity and outdoor enjoyment. Clearwater is also home to two marinas (the Clearwater Beach Marina and the Clearwater Harbor Marina). And for those who enjoy a weekend on the fairway, the Clearwater Country Club is an excellent local amenity.

Proud of its popularity and consistent growth, Clearwater hosts events and festivals from the Clearwater Jazz Holiday to the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival. Coachman Park, in downtown Clearwater, hosts regular music shows and art gatherings. The city’s website has frequent schedule updates with an event calendar and an option for locals to submit their email addresses for regular updates.