Choose from 14 Fun Things to Do in Tampa
ShowingFilter 1-14 of 14 listings.
Fort De Soto Park
Located off the coast of St. Petersburg, Fort De Soto Park is not your average ‘park.’ It’s actually 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys) and is the largest park in the Pinellas County park system. With seven miles of waterfront, including almost three miles of beautiful, white sand beaches, Fort De Soto is a popular destination for both visitors and guests to the St. Petersburg area.
There’s plenty to do in Fort De Soto Park. History buffs can explore the historic fort while cyclists and walkers can enjoy seven miles of paved trails that run through the park. For nature lovers, it’s worth noting that the park is the start of the Great Florida Birding Trail (328 species of birds have been documented over 60 years and new species are being added every year) and offers the one of the greatest diversities of bird, sea life, plant and wild life in Florida. The beach is also a nesting ground for the loggerhead sea turtle between April and September. Add in the picnic area, kayak trail, camping areas, dog park and the ferry to Egmont Key State Park and there is plenty to see and explore during a visit to Fort De Soto.
Practical Info
Entry to Fort De Soto Park is located at 3500 Pinellas Bayway S. in Tierra Verde, FL. There is a daily parking fee of $5, but entry is free if you enter on foot or by bicycle. The Fishing Pier is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and a lifeguard is on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from March to September.
Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, Florida 33715, USA
From $ 325
Alafia River State Park
Mountain bikers rejoice! Alafia State Park is the perfect destination for off-road bikers, with unique topography that contributes to some of Florida’s most extreme elevation changes. Located on what was once a phosphate mining site, Alafia State Park is home to 17 miles of bike trails, with difficulty ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Other activities to enjoy at Alafia River State Park include kayaking and canoeing, hiking and geo caching.
Alafia River State Park is also a unique spot to share with your four legged buddies. No, not your dog: your horse. With 20 miles of equestrian trails to explore (hikers can also enjoy these trails), you and Black Beauty can traverse over hills, through the woods and around lakes. At the end of the day, you can even camp with your equine friend. Twelve of the campsites in the campground are equipped for equestrian campers. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, there is no additional fee to stall your horse.
Practical Info
Alafia River State Park is located 10 miles southeast of Tampa on County Road 39. Alafia River State Park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, year-round. Entrance fees are $5 per vehicle, with a limit of two to eight people per vehicle; $4 for a single occupant vehicle; $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists and extra passengers over eight people in cars.
Address: 14326 S County Road 39, Lithia, Florida 33547, USA
Admission: $2-$5
From $ 155
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Tampa’s Busch Gardens combines the thrills of a theme park—replete with myriad roller coasters, ziplines, a white rapids ride, and other rides—with the wonder of a zoo, including more than 12,000 animals from 300 different species. Across its 335 acres (136 hectares), the Africa-themed park also hosts live performances for the whole family.
The Basics
Purchase tickets to Busch Gardens in advance to save money over gate prices—and save time waiting in line. Ticket options include single-day admission to Busch Gardens, combo admission to Busch Gardens and other Tampa hot spots such as SeaWorld, and all-day dining. The Tampa Bay CityPASS gives you access to five attractions, including Busch Gardens, at a deep discount, while other packages roll in admission to area water parks. On extra busy days at Busch Gardens, it may pay to purchase Quick Queue to bypass lines for the most popular rides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Busch Gardens is ideal for families with children visiting the Tampa area.
- A dining pass saves money—and time—if you plan to eat at least two meals at the park.
- There are several dining options available throughout the park, from grab-and-go snacks to buffets and sit-down dining.
- An air-conditioned kennel is available for pets at the front of the park for $10 per day.
- The park is accessible to wheelchair users. Strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters are available to rent.
How to Get There
Busch Gardens is located about 8 miles (13 kilometers) northeast of downtown Tampa, about a 20-minute drive; approximately one hour from Orlando via I-4; and 30 minutes east of Tampa area beaches and the Tampa International Airport. Paid parking is available on-site. An advance-purchase ticket includes free round-trip transportation, through Mears Destination Services, to Busch Gardens from several Orlando area locations.
When to Get There
Busch Gardens is open every day of the year. The most crowded days tend to track with American school holidays—namely summer and spring break. Beat the crowds by visiting the park on a weekday, and arrive at or close to the park’s opening time.
How to Use Child Swap
Like many other major theme parks, Busch Gardens offers Child Swap for parents who are with a child too small to ride an attraction. This allows one adult to ride alone or with an older child, while the other adult waits with the small child; then they swap so the waiting adult can ride, relieving both adults from having to wait in line.
Address: 3000 East Busch Blvd., Tampa 33612, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 99
Sunshine Skyway Bridge
This iconic Florida bridge is a testament to humankind’s architectural prowess and mother nature’s sheer beauty. Officially known as the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge (named after the former Florida governor), it was built in 1954 and spans Tampa Bay with a 1,500-foot cable-stayed main span. The bridge’s height, expansive views of the surrounding bay and modern design landed it the No. 3 spot on the Travel Channel’s list of top bridges in the world. Those traveling to Tampa shouldn’t miss the chance to be impressed by this architectural wonder and the amazing views of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico it provides.
Practical Info
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is located on Highway 275 and Interstate 19. Toll is $1.25 for passenger cars.
Address: Highway 275 and Interstate 19, Tampa, Florida, USA
Admission: $1.25
From $ 64
North Straub Park
Right on the waterfront of downtown St. Petersburg, North Straub Park offers a quite respite from the city. The small 4.8-acre park features trails, picnic spots and a stage where community events are held. Locals recommend visiting the park during holidays, like Christmas, when it’s lit up with lights and decorations, or on the Fourth of July and New Years, when it offers a great vantage point for fireworks shows. At the southern end of the park, you’ll find the local Museum of Fine Arts and the St. Petersburg Museum of History, and nearby Wheel Fun Rentals is a good spot to rent a beach cruiser or surrey.
Practical Info
North Straub Park is easy to visit while exploring downtown St. Petersburg, as it sits along the waterfront, between Beach and Bayshore Drives, within walking distance of local museums, shopping and restaurants.
Address: 400 Bayshore Drive NE, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701, USA
From $ 55
Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens is a four-acre botanical garden located in the heart of St. Petersburg, Florida. At more than 100 years old, it’s recognized as St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum and is home to over 50,000 tropical plants, representing more than 500 species, along with flamingos and other exotic birds.
Look for various areas like a Japanese garden, cactus garden, butterfly garden, and the Chilean flamingo garden. Stop at scenic points like the Wishing Well, Photo Ring, waterfall, and the Wedding Lawn. Don’t miss the Growing Stone, a fossilized limestone rock has a sign that says: “Legend has it that ‘he who sits upon the ancient stone shall be granted tranquility, inner harmony and the talent to make things grow.’”
Sadly, the flamingo population at Sunken Gardens has dwindled. There is a non-profit fundraising campaign currently underway to raise money in order to bring 20 more flamingos to Sunken Gardens. Flamingos thrive (and breed) in flocks; therefore breeders typically only sell them in lots of 20 or more. The city has already agreed to design and finance new housing for the flamingos as well.
Practical Info
Sunken Gardens is open Monday through Saturday from 10am until 4:30pm, and on Sunday from noon to 4:30pm. The garden is located at 1825 4th Street North in St. Petersburg. Note: gardens may be closed unexpectedly due to inclement weather.
Address: 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg 33704, USA
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-4:30pm
Sunday 12pm-4:30pm
Admission: Adults $8, Seniors $6, Children $4
From $ 70
Florida Aquarium
The perfect place to take the entire family for an afternoon, the Florida Aquarium offers exciting views of nature within the comfort of an air-conditioned building. Home to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals, the aquarium offers 200,000 square feet (23,000 square meters) worth of fun and adventure.
If just walking around the expansive building and enjoying the amazing wildlife isn't enough, the aquarium also has additional opportunities for more in depth exploration. Some of these family friendly attractions include a Swim with the Fishes Tour, Penguins : Backstage Pass opportunity, and a Wild Dolphin Ecotour.
If you ever want to head outside, the 2-acre "Explore a Shore" water adventure zone provides opportunities for the kids to cool off with water games while parents can relax under the shade of the Tampa Tribune Cantina bar and grill.
Practical Info
For those extra daring, the Florida Aquarium offers a unique opportunity to go diving with sharks! Certified SCUBA divers can dive into the enormous Shark Bay, home to different species of sharks and sea turtles. Enjoy the stunningly clear, warm water that allows perfect viewing opportunities, without the hassle of having to take a boat trip to complete the dive!
The aquarium is about a 10-minute drive east from downtown Tampa.
Address: 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa 33602, USA
Hours: Open daily 9:30am - 5pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
Admission: Adults: US$19.95, Children (under 12yrs): US$14.95. Separate fees for tours
From $ 25
Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum
Created on the site of what was once a miniature golf course, the Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum is now home to more than 500 palms and cycads, representing more than 150 different species from around the world. Starting with just 60 palms representing 10 different species, the two-acre park has continuously expanded since its 1977 dedication. From massive specimens that are too big to fit in private yards to popular types that can be found along Florida’s beaches, the Palm Arboretum is an ever-changing, never-ending project that grows and expands organically. Take the time to stroll down the pathways, learning about the specimens, or simply perch on one of the conversation benches and enjoy the peace of the palms.
Practical Info
The Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum is open daily from 30 minutes prior to sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Parking is available; adjacent parking is free of charge.
Address: 11th Ave NE, St Petersburg, Florida 33701, USA
From $ 70
Little Manatee River State Park
Even though it's just 30 minutes from urban, bustling Tampa, Little Manatee River State Park can make you feel like you've stepped back in time to a day when these lands were just trees, water, wildlife, and blue sky. Rent a canoe or kayak and cruise the Little Manatee River, or lace up your boots for a 6-mile (9.7-km) hike that loops through the heart of the park. You'll likely see deer as they trot through the bush or turtles sunning on a log, and keep an eye out for alligators that come up to rest and lie on the banks. There are also 12 miles of equestrian trails for exploring the park on horseback, as well as picnic pavilions set right on the forested riverbank. There's a decent chance you could spot a manatee coming up to the bank for a feed, or herons silently stalking fish in the shade of the sand pine and oak. Bobcats, nine-banded armadillos, and river otters also call the park home.
All the animals in the state park are wild and in their natural environment, so it's important to keep a safe distance and enjoy their beauty from afar.
Insider Tip: Winter is the best time for spotting manatees since they're drawn to the river's warm waters.
Practical Info
Little Manatee River State Park is located off US 301 on Lightfoot Road, five miles (eight kilometers) south of Sun City. It is about a 30-minute drive south from Tampa, and a 90-minute drive southwest from Orlando (take exit 246 off Interstate 75). The park is open year-round, from 8am to dark every day. There is an entry fee of $5 per vehicle for two to eight people, and $4 for single-occupant vehicles.
The park is nearly 40 miles (63 km) long and covers 2,600 acres (1052 hectares). It is a popular spot for canoe rentals, pavilion rentals, as well as back country camping. Picnic pavilions can be reserved with a fee, and unreserved ones are first come, first serve. There are restrooms located by the picnic pavilions, but none available on the loop trail.
Address: 215 Lightfoot Rd, Wimauma, Florida 33598, USA
Hours: Daily 8am"“dark
Admission: $5 per vehicle, $4 Single Occupant Vehicle, $2 Pedestrians
From $ 205
Downtown Tampa
The central business district of this popular Florida destination is known by both travelers and locals as Downtown Tampa. This part of the city is ripe with a diverse arts and culture scene, as well as lively night life, dozens of museums and a handful of historic performances spaces. Visitors can spend the afternoon exploring the impressive Florida Aquarium or the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. The Glazer Children’s Museum, next to the Tampa Museum of Art, offers up plenty of interactive fun for the family set, and a stroll along the scenic river walk showcases striking views of the Tampa city skyline. Travelers who prefer an evening out on the town will find what they’re after in the Uptown District, where some of the city’s best restaurants and bars are located, while those in search of an urban escape can enjoy the outdoors in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.
Practical Info
The easiest way to navigate Tampa is by private car or hired taxi. But the city does have its own metro system known as HART, as well a streetcar system known as TECO for travelers who prefer to the convenience of mass transit.
Address: Tampa, Florida, USA
From $ 70
Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
The ideal destination for curious people of all ages, the Museum of Science & Industry offers numerous exhibits and attractions designed to pique one's scientific interest.
With over 450 hands-on attractions, MOSI offers a unique interactive experience to its visitors. Feel free to lie down on a "bed of nails," allow a butterfly to land on your shoulder in the "Bioworks Butterfly Garden," enjoy an astronomy show in the Saunders Planetarium, or take a ride on the famous "High Wire Bike," suspended on a cable 30 feet (9 meters) above the ground. No matter how daring you are or how interested in science, the museum offers engaging opportunities designed to draw in visitors of all ages.
"Kids in Charge!,"the largest children's science center in the United States, is the perfect place to bring those in the 12-and-under crowd. The attractions there emphasize the value of learning through play by bringing together science and creative thinking, and inspiring the imagination. MOSI is also home to Flordia's only IMAX Dome theater. The Dome regularly shows both educational and popular commercial films.
Practical Info
MOSI is about a 20-minute drive north from downtown Tampa.
Address: 4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa 33617, USA
Hours: Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm (until 6pm on weekends)
Admission: Adults: US$20.95, Children (2-12yrs): US$16.95
From $ 13
Ybor City
Known for over a century as Tampa's Latin Quarter, Ybor City is a sumptuous feast for the senses. Founded in the 1880s by Vincente Martinez-Ybor as a cigar-manufacturing center, the neighborhood welcomed thousands of immigrants, mainly from Spain, Cuba, and Italy, over the next 50 years.
Today, the neighborhood is one of Florida's most distinct cultural landmarks. While strolling down its narrow brick streets, allow your senses to take in the sights, sounds, and smells that give the area its unique flavor. Enjoy the various ethnic foods, relax with a cup of cafe con leche as you people watch, and allow the Latin music that wafts down the streets at night to sweep over you. With such a vibrant culture, Ybor City is both perfect for a daytime stroll and known as one of Florida's hottest night spots. Its red brick buildings and wrought iron balconies offer an escape into old warm charm, away from Florida's strip malls and beaches. It is one of only two National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida.
Practical Info
Ybor City is only a few minutes from the main downtown area of Tampa. It is located in the east part of Tampa.
Address: Tampa, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Lowry Park Zoo
Home to a vast array of animals ranging from native Florida species to African wildlife, the Lowry Park Zoo is a must see for all animal and nature lovers. Rated the No. 1 zoo in the United States by Parents Magazine and the No. 1 child-friendly zoo in the US by Child Magazine, the Lowry Park Zoo is an ideal place for families with kids.
The zoo features numerous exhibits including several hands on attractions. Kids and adults alike can share in the experience of petting sting rays, feeding giraffes, or riding a camel. The zoo also recently expanded to include several kids' rides including a merry-go-round.
Practical Info
The Lowry Park Zoo is about a 15-minute drive north from downtown Tampa.
Address: 1101 West Sligh Avenue, Tampa 33604, USA
Hours: Daily 9:30am–5pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
Admission: Adults: US$20.95, kids (3-11yrs): US$15.95
From $ 37
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) was opened in 1972 as a marine biology learning center in Clearwater, Florida, about 40 minutes from both Tampa and St. Petersburg. Over the years, it has grown and expanded into a center for public education and animal care (their motto is "rescue, rehab, release") while retaining its focus on marine research.
CMA is perhaps most famous for one of its residents, a dolphin named Winter who, at three months old, got tangled in a crab trap line and was unable to escape. She was rescued and brought to CMA for rehabilitation, but her injuries were so serious that her tail had to be amputated, along with two vertebrae. The story has a happy ending, though. Through collaboration with a human prosthetics company, a marine veterinarian and the folks at CMA, Winter now has a prosthetic tail and she’s doing well. The film Dolphin Tale (2011) was based on Winter’s story; she still lives at CMA and can be visited at Winter's Dolphin Tale Adventure (WDTA), located just a short (free) trolley ride away from CMA.
Practical Info
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage in Clearwater, Florida. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Some exhibits are located outside, so in the case of inclement weather, certain exhibits may be temporarily closed throughout the day without notice. Admission is $21.95 for adults ages 13 to 59; $19.95 for seniors 60 years of age or older and $16.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are free.
Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, Florida 33767, USA
Admission: Adults: $21.95; Children: $16.95
From $ 107