A small coastal city that sits along the Gulf of Mexico, New Port Richey is known for its Old Florida vibes, lush landscapes, and outdoor adventures. The largest city in Pasco County, the riverfront area of New Port Richey offers a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and Spanish-revival architecture, all within easy access to the popular attractions in Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Pete. From catching a theatre show to basking in the sunshine at a wilderness park, here are the best things to do in New Port Richey.
Escape to Anclote Island
What Is It? Home to the 403-acre Anclote Key Preserve State Park, Anclote Island offers idyllic landscapes of blue gulf waters that highlight the four miles of beach space.
Why Do It? It’s a tranquil place to unwind and relax, watch as dozens of bird species, and sometimes sea turtles, roam the area.
Good to Know: It’s also a nice destination to cool off with a summertime swim, as its remote location offers a secluded setting for primitive camping under the stars.
Hike the Trails at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
What Is It? Boasting a long list of recreational opportunities, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is an 8,300-acre gem in Pasco County.
Why Do It? A protected watershed and park area where nature enthusiasts can spend an afternoon hiking on the 13 miles of trails, biking or rollerblade on the 6 miles of paved trails, or bird watching on a nature trail.
Good to Know: Those who want to extend their adventures overnight will also find camping sites available.
Catch a Show at Richey Suncoast Theatre
What Is It? One of the area’s most significant landmarks, the Richey Suncoast Theatre is considered a historical icon.
Why Do It? Opening as a movie house in 1926, here you can mix history with culture by attending one of the live shows produced by the local community theater group.
Good to Know: From the musical comedy “The Addams Family”, to the thrilling “Catch Me If You Can”, and the horror drama “Jekyll and Hyde”, you’re sure to have a memorable night at this family-friendly attraction.
Unwind at Green Key Beach
What Is It? A small and uncrowded stretch of sand, Green Key Beach is part of the Robert K. Rees Memorial Park.
Why Do It? The only public beach in New Port Richey, here you’ll find plenty of opportunities to sunbathe, swim and fish, while the kids will delight in a stroll down the picturesque boardwalk that winds through the mangroves.
Good to Know: An oasis of sun, fun, and relaxation, this hidden gem is the perfect place to listen to the quiet surf roll in.
Spot Wildlife at Key Vista Nature Park
What Is It? Although Key Vista Nature Park isn’t in New Port Richey, it’s just a short drive away and it’s definitely worth visiting. This natural resource park is a great place to take the entire family.
Why Do It? With 101 acres of land, you’ll have plenty of room to stretch your legs and explore, as the park’s boardwalk connects to the Anclote Gulf Park and offers a quarter-mile of nature trails.
Good to Know: Surrounded by scenic natural beauty, you can spot an array of local wildlife here, from birds to squirrels and even peacocks.
Explore the Wilderness at James E Grey Preserve
What Is It? New Port Richey offers plenty of places to enjoy nature, but none are like James E. Grey Preserve.
Why Do It? Here you’ll find a shaded canopy of palm trees, towering pines, and stately oaks that rise up from a river, creating a canopy of Spanish moss that is a haven for wildlife such as eagles, owls, manatees, and deer.
Good to Know: Perfect for a sunny day, take a kayak out on the Pithlachoscotee River and explore the 80 acres of pristine Florida wilderness.
Step Back in Time at West Pasco Historical Society
What Is It? A great place to get acquainted with the unique history of this area, the West Pasco Historical Society Museum and Library offers insight into New Port Richey.
Why Do It? It features an array of permanent displays, including information on early businesses in the area, a typical early 1900s Pioneer Parlor and items of early origins that were donated by local residents.
Good to Know: You can meander exhibits and find Seminole and Timucuan Indian artifacts, along with Mayan items in the Indian Gallery.
Cool Off at Big Storm Brewing Co.
What Is It? There’s nothing like cooling off with a cold beverage on a warm sunny day in Florida, and the beers on offer at Big Storm Brewing Co. in Odessa fit the bill perfectly.
Why Do It? One of the fastest-growing independent craft breweries in Florida, beer aficionados will be impressed with the innovative creations they have on offer here.
Good to Know: Winning a variety of awards for their beers, they brew more than 20 different beers using local ingredients like citrus and wildflower honey.
Turn the Lights Out at LaneGlo Bowl
What Is It? Offering a fun family night out for all, LaneGlo Bowl is the place to be for budget-friendly entertainment.
Why Do It? Experience the magic of Cosmic Bowling, where laser lights, disco lights, black lights and runway lights enhance your bowling adventures.
Good to Know: This high-energy event includes haze machines pumping out fog, loud music and the bowling lanes even glow in the dark, making it impossible to not have a good time.
Discover Local Gems with Island Paradise Charters
What Is It? Offering an up-close look at New Port Richey, Island Paradise Charters offer visitors the chance to explore some of the area’s best-kept secrets.
Why Do It? You get to choose your adventure, from a relaxing day on a white sandy beach, to snorkeling or fishing for underwater treasures or seeing Port Richey’s famous Stilt Houses at sunset.
Good to Know: For a truly unique experience, you can also have an island cookout on the secluded islands of North Anclote Key.
Attend the Chasco Fiesta
What Is It? One of the biggest festivals in Pasco County, time your visit with the popular Chasco Fiesta to enjoy a day of family fun, music and entertainment.
Why Do It? From a lively street parade to amusement park rides, golf tournaments and an authentic pow wow, this cultural event that celebrates the area’s rich Native American heritage is not to be missed.
Good to Know: Held along the banks of the Pithlachoscotee River, this historic event has been running continuously since 1947.
