One of the treats if you were up for making the effort was to visit the coast.  Of course Cocoa Beach, Melbourne Beach and the world famous Daytona Beach were always the favourites due to the close proximity and ease of driving.  Clearwater was the only real option on the Gulf coast and despite the beautiful beaches, idyllic sunsets and super relaxed laid back atmosphere it always seemed to be much more of a beach excursion than a chance to really sample and enjoy the Florida culture.

It was just like this for our family that was before we discovered that Tampa Bay had a baseball team and wait for it… the Tropicana indoor dome stadium (the locals call it the Trop) was only minutes away from the beaches of St Petersburg, Pass-a-Grille and Fort De Soto State Park. What is so special about this stadium is that the temperature inside is always comfortable at a fresh 76oF. So before or after the beach, afternoon or evening it is always a pleasant environment to spend a few hours. For years now we have visited the beaches left around 6pm and been in the stadium enjoying a beer, hot dog or nachos in plenty of time for first pitch. 

For anyone has never attended a game it is an American institution and for a miserly 10 dollars you can usually find a seat in 302 section with a perfect view of all the action.  Talking of action there is always plenty of it, from the spectacle of the National Anthem through to the end of the game there is always something happening.  My wife hates sports, of every kind, but she is happy to sit 3 hours in this superb family friendly arena.  Everyone participates and the coverage on the huge screens encourage even first timers to feel part of the family. Throughout the season the innovative team at the Tampa Bay Rays organise free giveaways, family days, kids base running and even Saturday night concerts after the game. 

For years this has been a pleasure for us but when we are next in Florida we will enjoy the pleasure even more knowing we will be watching the team that made it all the way to the world series final in the 2008/2009 season.