Welcome to Tampa, Florida! Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or a beach bum, Tampa offers a treasure trove of activities to fill your days with excitement and discovery. As you plan your itinerary, you might wonder about the best things to do in Tampa, Florida. Fear not, because this guide will navigate you through the city’s must-see attractions and hidden gems. From swashbuckling adventures at the Gasparilla Pirate Festival to underwater escapades at The Florida Aquarium, Tampa is a playground that caters to both the young and the young at heart. So, slap on some sunscreen, grab a map, and let’s dive into the vibrant mix of activities that Tampa has to offer!
1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
- Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-week in spring or fall to avoid large crowds and enjoy milder weather.
- Advice from Locals: Purchase tickets online in advance for discounts and to skip the long lines at the entrance.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an exhilarating blend of thrill rides, live entertainment, and exotic animal exhibits. Spread across 335 acres, this African-themed park offers something for everyone—from the adrenaline-pumping SheiKra coaster that plunges you at 70 mph to gentler attractions for the little ones. Don’t miss the Serengeti Safari, where you can feed giraffes and see wildlife up close. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or an animal lover, Busch Gardens provides a full day of fun and adventure that’s hard to match anywhere else in Florida.
2. The Florida Aquarium
- Address: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds, especially during school trips.
- Advice from Locals: Check out the special experiences like swimming with sharks or the behind-the-scenes tours for a more immersive visit.
Dive into the aquatic wonders at The Florida Aquarium, where you can explore ecosystems from the wetlands of Florida to the depths of the ocean. This aquarium is home to thousands of marine species, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles, showcased in massive tanks and interactive exhibits. The Wetlands Trail features a mangrove forest while the Coral Reef gallery offers a vibrant display of marine biodiversity. It’s not just about observing; the aquarium’s conservation efforts provide insightful education on marine life preservation, making your visit both fun and enlightening.
3. Tampa Riverwalk
- Address: Along the Hillsborough River, Tampa, FL
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening for a pleasant stroll with beautiful sunset views.
- Advice from Locals: Rent a bike or a water bike to explore the Riverwalk and surrounding areas for a different perspective.
The Tampa Riverwalk is a vibrant waterfront pathway that stretches for 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River and downtown Tampa. This scenic walkway connects major attractions like the Tampa Museum of Art, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Along the way, enjoy public art installations, numerous restaurants, and open-air vendors. The Riverwalk is also a hotspot for special events and festivals, making it the perfect place to experience the pulse of the city’s cultural scene.
4. Ybor City
- Address: Northeast of downtown Tampa, centered around 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon into the evening for dinner and to experience the nightlife.
- Advice from Locals: Visit during the day to explore the shops and historic sites without the crowds.
Ybor City, Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter, is not just a neighborhood but a journey back in time to when Cuban, Spanish, and Italian immigrants came to roll cigars and build a community. Today, it’s a dynamic district filled with eclectic shops, art galleries, and some of the best Cuban restaurants in the state. Walking through Ybor City, you’ll see expert cigar rollers at work, hear live Latin music floating through the air, and perhaps even catch a ghost tour or two. It’s a cultural feast for the senses that no visitor should miss.
5. Tampa Museum of Art
- Address: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons for a quieter experience.
- Advice from Locals: First Fridays of the month often feature pay-what-you-want admission in the evening.
Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art celebrates both modern and contemporary art as well as classical antiquities. With its strikingly modern architecture, the museum serves as a visual landmark along the Riverwalk. Inside, its galleries display a variety of exhibitions from around the world, offering everything from ancient sculptures to avant-garde paintings. The museum also hosts educational programs and social events, making art accessible to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
6. Clearwater Beach
- Address: Clearwater, FL 33767 (about 35 minutes from downtown Tampa)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning to secure a good spot on the beach or late afternoon for a spectacular sunset.
- Advice from Locals: Parking can be challenging, so consider arriving early or using public transportation.
Clearwater Beach is renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit for anyone coming to the Tampa area. Voted consistently as one of the best beaches in the United States, it offers ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports. The beach is also famous for its Pier 60, which hosts daily festivals with crafts, street performers, and live music. Whether you’re looking to relax or seeking adventure, Clearwater Beach provides the perfect seaside escape.
7. Manatee Viewing Center
- Address: 6990 Dickman Rd, Apollo Beach, FL 33572
- Best Time to Visit: Cooler months from November to April when manatees migrate to the warmer waters.
- Advice from Locals: Bring binoculars for better views of the manatees and other wildlife.
Located at Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station, the Manatee Viewing Center is a designated manatee sanctuary where visitors can observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. As manatees seek warm waters during the colder months, this center provides a safe haven and a unique opportunity to learn about these endangered creatures through interactive exhibits and boardwalks. The center’s educational programs emphasize environmental awareness and wildlife conservation, making it an insightful experience for visitors of all ages.
8. Lowry Park Zoo
- Address: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours to see the animals at their most active.
- Advice from Locals: Check the zoo’s schedule for daily shows and feedings for an enhanced experience.
Renamed as ZooTampa at Lowry Park, this 63-acre nonprofit zoo focuses on endangered, threatened, and vulnerable species from around the globe. With habitats ranging from the Florida Wildlife Center to the Asian Gardens, visitors can encounter a diverse array of animals in environments that mimic their natural settings. The zoo not only entertains but also commits to conservation and education, providing numerous interactive experiences like feeding rhinos or giraffe encounters that deepen the connection between humans and the animal kingdom.
9. Adventure Island
- Address: 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months for a refreshing break from the heat.
- Advice from Locals: Purchase the Tampa Bay CityPASS for discounts on multiple attractions, including Adventure Island.
Directly across from Busch Gardens, Adventure Island is Tampa’s premier water park, offering 30 acres of water-soaked fun. With thrilling slides, a wave pool, a children’s water playground, and relaxing cabanas, Adventure Island caters to thrill-seekers and families alike. Don’t miss attractions like Vanish Point, where the floor drops out from under you, or Colossal Curl, a mega-slide that promises heart-pounding excitement. It’s the perfect spot to cool down and enjoy some high-energy fun under the Florida sun.
10. Bayshore Boulevard
- Address: Bayshore Blvd, Tampa, FL
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a pleasant walk or jog.
- Advice from Locals: Join the locals on the first Saturday of the month for a long-distance group bike ride along the boulevard.
Bayshore Boulevard claims the title of the world’s longest continuous sidewalk, offering 4.5 miles of unobstructed views of Tampa Bay. It’s a favorite among locals for walking, jogging, biking, and rollerblading, all with a picturesque backdrop. The boulevard is also the stage for the annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival, transforming into a parade route filled with pirates, floats, and revelry. Whether you’re seeking exercise or leisure, Bayshore Boulevard provides a scenic route that captures the beauty and spirit of Tampa.
11. Tampa Bay History Center
- Address: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-week mornings for a quieter exploration.
- Advice from Locals: Don’t miss the Columbia Cafe inside the museum, where you can enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine.
Delve into over 12,000 years of Florida’s history at the Tampa Bay History Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate museum. This engaging museum offers three floors of permanent and temporary exhibits that cover the diverse cultural history of the Tampa Bay area, including its Native American heritage, its pivotal role in Florida’s cigar industry, and its maritime past. The museum provides a comprehensive view of historical events and figures that have shaped the region, complete with interactive exhibits that make history come alive. It’s a perfect destination for history buffs looking to grasp the historical tapestry of Tampa.
12. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
- Address: 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening for spectacular sunset views over the river.
- Advice from Locals: Attend one of the many free events, such as concerts or outdoor movie nights, offered throughout the year.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the jewel of downtown Tampa, providing a lush green space amid the urban environment. This 8-acre park features dog parks, playgrounds, and interactive fountains and is framed by the Tampa Museum of Art and Glazer Children’s Museum. It’s a hub of activity where locals and visitors alike come to unwind, play, and participate in community events. With its beautiful views of Hillsborough River and Tampa’s skyline, Curtis Hixon Park is not just a park but a vibrant gathering place for all.
13. Glazer Children’s Museum
- Address: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons when it’s less crowded.
- Advice from Locals: Look out for special themed events that offer both fun and educational experiences for children.
The Glazer Children’s Museum is a play paradise designed to ignite curiosity and creativity through its hands-on, interactive exhibits. Located in downtown Tampa, this museum offers a child-centric approach to learning, with exhibits that cover everything from engineering and art to health and finance. Children can role-play in a variety of professional settings, conduct water experiments, or even navigate through a mock city designed just for them. It’s a place where learning is disguised as play, and every visit provides new opportunities to discover and learn.
14. Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
- Address: 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid school group crowds.
- Advice from Locals: Check out the Sky Trail Ropes Course; it’s fun for kids and adults alike and offers a unique view of the museum.
MOSI provides a hands-on approach to science with exhibits that educate and entertain. Visitors can explore topics ranging from physics to human health, see a show in the planetarium, or take part in a science demonstration. One of the museum’s highlights is the Saunders Planetarium, where guests can travel through the solar system. With exhibits that encourage participation and curiosity, MOSI is designed to spark wonder in science enthusiasts of all ages, making it a perfect educational outing.
15. Armature Works
- Address: 1910 N Ola Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening to enjoy dinner and catch the lively vibe.
- Advice from Locals: Visit during the weekend for the full experience with additional pop-up vendors and live music.
Armature Works is a fully restored mixed-use building that breathes new life into the historic Tampa Heights neighborhood. This premier destination for dining and entertainment features the Heights Public Market, a variety of restaurants, event spaces, and co-working areas. The market offers food options ranging from gourmet pizza to Asian street food, making it a foodie’s heaven. The building’s industrial architecture and riverside location provide a unique backdrop for a day or evening out in Tampa.
16. Hyde Park Village
- Address: 1602 W Snow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
- Best Time to Visit: Weekend mornings for leisurely shopping and brunch.
- Advice from Locals: Don’t miss the monthly Fresh Market on the first Sunday of each month.
Hyde Park Village offers a charming local shopping experience in one of Tampa’s most exclusive neighborhoods. This outdoor shopping district features top-brand retail stores, local boutiques, and a range of dining options. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique gifts, or a delicious meal, Hyde Park Village provides a relaxed and refined shopping environment. The area’s tree-lined streets and upscale atmosphere make it a pleasant place for a day of shopping and dining.
17. Tampa Theatre
- Address: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best Time to Visit: Attend an evening show for a night out in historic surroundings.
- Advice from Locals: Participate in the backstage tour offered before some shows to see the historic secrets of this movie palace.
The Tampa Theatre is more than just a place to watch a film; it’s an iconic piece of architecture that offers a portal back to the golden age of cinema. Built in 1926, this historic movie palace features a lavish, Mediterranean-inspired design complete with a starlit ceiling. It hosts more than movies, including film festivals, concerts, and special screenings. Watching a movie here is a throwback to a bygone era, making it a must-visit for lovers of film and history alike.
18. Big Cat Rescue
- Address: 12802 Easy St, Tampa, FL 33625
- Best Time to Visit: Cooler months for more active big cats.
- Advice from Locals: Book a guided tour in advance as they tend to sell out quickly, especially the feeding tours.
Big Cat Rescue is an accredited sanctuary dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of abused and abandoned big cats. This educational sanctuary provides a safe home for lions, tigers, leopards, and other exotic cats and is committed to ending the private trade and ownership of these animals. Visitors can learn about the challenges these magnificent creatures face in the wild and in captivity, making it not just an opportunity to see big cats up close but also an educational experience that raises awareness about wildlife conservation.
19. Henry B. Plant Museum
- Address: 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for a quieter, more reflective experience.
- Advice from Locals: Check for special events, especially during the holiday season, when the museum is spectacularly decorated.
The Henry B. Plant Museum, located in the former Tampa Bay Hotel, showcases the opulent turn-of-the-century lifestyle of its guests with original furnishings, photographs, and artifacts. The museum’s architecture and exhibits reflect the extravagant Gilded Age, and visitors can explore the expansive grounds and learn about the hotel’s role in Tampa’s development. The museum not only offers a glimpse into the luxurious past but also tells the story of how Tampa emerged as a destination in the late 19th century.
20. Gasparilla Pirate Festival
- Address: Bayshore Blvd, Tampa, FL
- Best Time to Visit: January-February during the annual festival.
- Advice from Locals: Dress up as a pirate to fully immerse yourself in the festivities and enjoy the parade to its fullest.
The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is Tampa’s most famous event, drawing crowds from all over the country with its pirate-themed celebrations. Inspired by the legend of José Gaspar, a mythical Spanish pirate, the festival includes a mock pirate invasion by the fully-rigged pirate ship “Jose Gasparilla,” followed by a large parade and a host of related community events. It’s a time when the entire city embraces its nautical history with a fun and festive spirit, offering a unique experience that captures the imagination of both young and old alike.
Conclusion
As our sun-drenched journey through Tampa comes to a close, it’s clear that the city is brimming with activities that can charm any type of traveler. With our list of the top 20 things to do in Tampa, Florida, you’re well-equipped to explore the rich tapestry of experiences from the serenity of the Tampa Riverwalk to the wild encounters at Busch Gardens. Tampa is not just a destination; it’s an experience that invites you back time and again. So, whether you came for the pristine beaches or the lively Ybor City, leave with memories of a city that truly knows how to entertain. Until next time, keep that adventurous spirit alive, and remember, Tampa is always just a pirate ship away from your next great adventure!