Sponge-O-Rama

Okay, it’s a bit dated and kitschy, but there just isn’t anything else like it. When in Tarpon Springs, you must make a point of visiting Sponge-O-Rama! The film (watch it and you get a discount in the shop) sets the tone for the extensive displays on the history of sponging in Florida, which appear to date back to my youth. The museum opened in 1968.

Despite their age, the displays give a detailed overview of all aspects of the industry and Greek culture and life in Tarpon Springs. Did you know, for instance, that red tide walloped the commercial sponging industry back in 1957? It’s not a new phenomenon on the Gulf.

After you’ve soaked in the history (be sure to stand under the fans), take a gander at the wide variety of sponges available for everything from artists brushes to keeping you clean in the bath. Buy a sponge, support a native Florida industry.

Sponge-O-Rama
510 Dodecanese Blvd, Tarpon Springs
727-943-2164

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Sandra Friend

Author of 45 books, Sandra Friend established FloridaHikes.com in 2006 to expand on the field research she'd completed for her first six hiking guides. She has been honored with lifetime achievement awards from the Florida Trail Association and the Florida Outdoor Writers Association.