Tarpon Springs - http://www.spongedocks.net/

Tarpon Springs is located on the Gulf of Mexico side of Florida.  It is a quaint little town that makes you feel that you have been transported to Greece.  This is also where to this day they still dive for live sponges.  We had a great time.  We went on a boat ride and heard all of the history of Tarpon Springs as well as the sponge diving.  They took as to a small island where we were allowed to dock and look for shells that had washed upon the shore.  It was a 1 1/2 hour boat ride that was $16/per adult and $8/per child. We viewed many wild life and it was a very relaxing boat ride.

The next thing we did was visit the Aquarium that they have.  From the outside I wasn't expecting much, but it was a nice surprise.  Adults were only $7.75 and children under 11 were $5.75.  Upon entering the aquarium they had a small area set up where you could actually pet crabs and some types of fish.  Then you see a 120,000 gallon tank filled with all types of fish and sharks.  There was a grouper (pic below) that was over 750lbs.  A few times a day they have a shark feeding exhibit were you get to see a guy actually feed the fish and it was amazing to see all of the fish as the food hit the tank.  Another area they had gators and also have times where you can watch the gators get fed as well.  Upon meanering through the place you eventually get to the back room where they have interactive exhibits.  We were able to feed the sting rays and baby sharks.  The sharks you had to put the food at the end of the stick, but the kids thought it was really cool. 

For lunch we stopped at one of the many authentic Greek restaurants that completely flood the area.  If you like Greek food this is the place for you.  The aromas fill the air and your plates are overflowing.  The day we went the city was also have a merchant fair so their were many beautifuls hand made items to look at and purchase. 

I have included the city's main website for you to be able to see what upcoming events they are having in this sleepy little town.  Our family really enjoyed this mini day trip and I have a feeling that yours will too.