Community Corner

What's the Best Place to Take a Walk in Largo?

As spring arrives, Patch wants to know where your favorite places are to take a walk in town.

Spring has sprung early in Florida, and that got us thinking about the best places to take a walk in the Largo area.

Which local walking destination is your favorite? Cast your vote in the poll below, or let us know in the comments. 

. This is arguably the most beautiful nature spot in the Tampa Bay area, let alone Largo. Chock full of wildlife, plant life, scenic trails and unspoiled natural areas, this Ulmerton Road sanctuary is an ideal place to walk alone or with friends and soak in its natural splendor. The gardens are located at: 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo.

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. Closely connected to the Botanical Gardens is this quaint living history museum filled with historic structures and nature trails. For those who want a little history lesson while taking a walk, Heritage Village offers the perfect blend of early industry and natural beauty. The village is located at: 11909 125th Street N, Largo.

. Conveniently located at Missouri Avenue and East Bay Drive, this family-friendly facility features a number of places to check out while taking a leisurely stroll, including the library, the Cultural Center, the new playground and the veterans memorial. And if you get tired, you can hop on the miniature train that traverses the park on the first weekend of the month. The park is at: 101 Central Park, Largo.

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Indian Rocks Beach. Just a short drive over the Belleair Causeway is this waterfront paradise along the Gulf of Mexico. If you like to walk on the sand, you can’t do any better than starting at this centrally located spot. Go north and you will hit Sand Key; south will take you to Redington Beach and beyond. Plus there are plenty of places to eat and drink just across Gulf Boulevard. The county beach access parking area is at: 1700 Gulf Boulevard, Indian Rocks Beach.

. This brand new nature spot just opened to the public at the end of February following months of dredging and construction. Highlighted by a shimmering manmade lake filled with fish and turtles and surrounded by trees and a paved trail that’s a favorite for walkers, the park serves as a small oasis in the middle of all the development in the area. The park is at: 400 Highland Avenue.

McGough Nature Park. Known as “turtle park” for obvious reasons, this underrated gem located at the end of Walsingham Road is packed with natural wonders and scenic trails, perfect for a long, relaxing walk. Oh, and you’re just about guaranteed to see a turtle or two while you’re strolling. Visit the turtles at 11901 146th Street North, Largo.

. At 156 acres, Taylor Park is one of the largest in the area. And with all that space, there is no shortage of places to visit and things to see. Boasting a ballfield, boat ramp, disc golf course and a 53-acre lake, you can get your fill of people watching or nature watching while taking a walk in this park. Look for the alligators sunning themselves on the banks of the lake, but don’t get too close to the edge! The park is at 1100 8th Avenue SW, Largo.

Update: The votes are in, and the Largo Patch readers' choice for Best Place to Take a Walk in Largo 2012 is , with 46% of the vote. Congratulations!

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