FL Gulf Coast to Tampa POI?

Next week I'm driving to Tampa for a software conference (assuming the Hurripocalypse spares the west coast.) Co-worker and I are planning on hanging a right off 75 somewhere in the Gainsville area and going south down the coast just for scenery and a change of pace. We don't have a lot of time to kill but if there are any killer local eats to be had or places we should stop for a stretch between Ingliss and Tampa down the 98 corridor, post them here.

I know we've got some people along this route. Wish I had time to do meet-ups and hangouts but it's probably not in the cards.

There are some cool little older FL towns in that area but I have only driven through when 75 is locked down and I needed an alternative route. If you take 24 straight through you end up in Cedar Key which is a sleepy little fishing village with some restaurants on the Pier. Nothing special food wise though.

In Crystal River you could get Karl LaFollette to take you out on his boat to show you Manatees and his weird automotive collection. He's literally right off 19/98. Joshua and Dyintorace are both in G-ville and could probably give you some ideas for the Archer/Williston/Raliegh area. Some pretty roads out there.

19/98 South from Cedar Key turnoff is really pretty boring and you do not want to stay on 19 South of where 98 splits off. Ugly, slow and too many traffic lights.

You'd be better off hitting the coast and then coming back across on 41 through Brooksville. As you get closer to Tampa 41 and 98/301 all start getting fairly congested with strip malls and chain restaurants. There are gems in there but not a ton that is pretty to see.

Just South of Ocala on 75 is the Don Garlits museum. You will never need to see another Hemi powered car in your life.

I hit the Garlits museum a couple years ago on my last Tampa run. It was AWESOME. Thanks for the words of wisdom.

EDIT: I see what you mean on Google Earth. Now I'm thinking mayb over to 19/98 then take 98 into Brooksville and south 41 into Tampa.

If you really want to see some cool FL go for a paddle with the Canoe Escape. Great paddle that is actually within the Tampa city limits. You will see awesome birds, turtles and more gators than you believe. Truly a beautiful way to spend a few hours.

If you need food recommendations in Tampa, let me know. Some great stuff around here these days.

Sure, drop some names. I know we'll be tied up with vendors most nights but I might be able to slide in a recommendation.

You staying downtown? Any type/style/$$ preferences? Do you like microbrews?

We're staying at the Holiday Inn Westshore I think? Company's paying the bill, so not crazy $ but it's also not my pocket. I love microbrews but stomach issues keep me from indulging. Good whiskey on the other hand seems to be fine. Strange, but I'll take it. I do like funky local stuff, and of course seafood is great, including sushi.

Lots of good stuff near you.

Seasons 52 - Chain but really good food and nice bar. Perfect for business dinner.

WestShore Plaza, 204 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33609

Ava - Italian wood fired

718 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

Ceviche - Tapas restaurant

2500 W Azeele St, Tampa, FL 33609

Soho Sushi

3218 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33609

Fodder & Shine - Southern Comfort Food

5910 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604

The Refinery - Nationally recognized foodie place. Great food.

5137 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603

Start there.. If you need more, let me know.

If you have time in tampa, cigar city brewing.