15 Fun Things to Do in Tampa

You can do anything from parasailing to paddleboat riding while feeling the place’s vibe. Besides wandering along beautiful boardwalks, visitors can also kayak or canoe along waterways; playgrounds and picnic areas also on offer. At the wildlife sanctuary, you can spot over sixty incredible creatures roaming about spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitat. Florida Aquarium admission allows you to skip any lines, and includes the outdoor Splash Pad, where kids can cool off. Several special animal encounters are available, including the opportunity to hand feed kangaroos and giraffes; watch as park staff members tend to their patients at the Animal Care Center; and get up close to some of the favorite residents, including sloths and flamingos. You’ll have the best chance of seeing the manatees when the surrounding water temperatures are cold, dipping below 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re vacationing in Tampa and are looking for a beach close by that offers powdery white sand for lounging, calm water for cooling off and shelters for picnics, then Davis Beach is for you. Besides that, there’s much more in the city. Located just fifteen minutes drive northeast of the center, the park covers a huge area and has ten different zones to explore. But there are many other styles of music as well. You don’t need a huge budget in order to plan a romantic and memorable date night with your partner. If you feel like you graduated to top chef, you can gather all of the ingredients at home and you two can enjoy their cooking classes online. Arts and Entertainment. Season preview: Bucs will win another ring with the GOAT. Celebrate ‘Barktober’ With Special Events and. A must visit for those interested in learning about the city, state and bay’s history, the Tampa Bay History Center is set along the Tampa Riverwalk in the lively Channelside District. It offers great Cuban cuisine, salsa clubs, and flamenco nights to enjoy. By subscribing, I agree to the Terms of Use and have read the Privacy Statement. The 8 Best Things to Do in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Established in 1986, the colorful children’s museum now occupies a state of the art center in the Waterfront Arts District. Pete Beach truly has something for everyone and is frequently named as one of the most popular beaches in the U. Connection Failed or Some Error occurred. As you stroll along the promenade, you can also enjoy fine views over the river and stop off at its numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Parking is nearby at the Channelside garage, or walk to Sparkman Wharf along the Riverfront Trail. The Parks and Recreation Department is working with the AFB to create a trail link along the base fence line between Bayshore Boulevard to lands west of Dale Mabry, approximately 2. If you want to stick to the Tampa side of the bay, hop on an Urban Kai stand up paddle board at the docks outside of Armature Works or r check out Tampa Bay Water Bikes located on the dock at the Tampa Bay Convention Center. You can go to Adventure Island together. Just across the Hillsborough River from the city center you can find the massive and majestic Henry B.

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Big Red Balloon Sightseeing Adventures offers sunrise excursions where you can soar over picturesque lakes and watch deers prancing in open fields, creating what is sure to be a date you’ll never forget. Skye’s expert tip: There’s not much shade, so make sure to have hats, sunscreen and water handy on hot days. Tampa, FloridaHulafrog Profile »Visit Website ». Ybor was a successful cigar baron, who opened what would go on to be the largest cigar factory on earth. Stroll the Tampa Riverwalk or check out one of our world class golf courses. For example, a very romantic activity is doing an evening yacht cruise. For residents and visitors alike, there’s no shortage of family fun in Tampa, whether it’s walking the ecosystems at the Florida Aquarium, enjoying a pro football or hockey game, or riding a thrill coaster at Busch Gardens. Pallavi Luxury Spa is the perfect place to get pampered together.

Tampa Museum of Art

The park is sloped in sections so you can enjoy better views not just of the water but the concerts as well. The bridge itself is also an impressive sight and often photographed by tourists. The path is almost 3 miles long, but there are plenty of spots to stop for a rest and grab a drink or a quick bite along the way. As you navigate along the aquarium, you will be pleased to see the diverse marine life, all up close from where you are standing. You can swim in the freshwater Rainbow River, rent canoes and kayaks, view waterfalls and gardens and enjoy a picnic area with grills, and pavilions. Tops on our list is the Tampa Riverwalk. Held outdoors on the second Saturday of each month from 10am 2pm, the North Tampa Market is a gathering of 70+ vendors selling a variety of goods, handcrafted items, collectibles, baked goods, plants, flowers, and more. Send me exclusive offers, unique gift ideas, and personalized tips for shopping and selling on Etsy. Take a look at the stars and paddle off as swiftly as you can. Read more about Ben T. This is a large indoor ice rink where you can have a lot of fun together. You’ll typically find 15+ food trucks set up at each event, which takes place at the Grand Central at Kennedy. A festival called the Sunsets at Pier 60 is held on the beach during sunset time to bring a celebrating mood among romantic couples. That was supposed fun things to do in south tampa to be an evil laugh. There are still quite a few small cigar shops in Ybor City where you can watch a tabaquero hand roll a custom cigar.

Where to Stay in Tampa for Sightseeing

One of the best date ideas in Tampa is going to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Parking is nearby at the Channelside garage, or walk to Sparkman Wharf along the Riverfront Trail. A little bit further, another vacation option from Tampa is to travel about four and a half hours north to reach Tallahassee, which is Florida’s capital and a city filled with interesting attractions to visit. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite free things to do in Tampa Bay, from monthly festivals to art and walking tours, local attractions, and more. You can ride, stop, shop or drink and get back on all day long. See more fun things to do at night in Tampa. When you arrive, you can spend time on the city’s beaches, catch a live art performance, or browse a museum to learn something new. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino– Unwind with a good time at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa. Experience one of the top farmer’s markets in the US right here in St. The Courtyard by Marriott provides guests with proximity to both the city, Clearwater Beach and Busch Gardens. Whether you want to pick up some produce or browse artisan goods, the Beach Market at Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island is a fun addition to a beach day. To buy tickets, visit their site visit their site here. The path traverses the water’s edge for almost 2. A haven for nature lover lovers and bird watchers, the park features an amazing 3,500 foot boardwalk and observation tower where visitors can view a variety of wildlife. The gardens are pet friendly and are open daily from 7am 5pm. A few of our favorite local spots include Davis Islands Beach, Clearwater Beach pair it up with the nightly sunset festival at Pier 60, and Anna Maria Island. It presents foreign and classic films regularly along with specialty concerts and other programs. JG Ranch offers visitors to come to their farm to pick berries, tour their farm and reserve some fresh grass fed beef. When’s the last time you played Nintendo or Atari. Head to Ybor City for a taste of Sicilian at Casa Santo Stephano, set in a recently renovated building with a comfortable atmosphere. You can do this by looking at various artifacts in the building. Bowman’s Travel Brief: Global All InclusivesEric Bowman. This makes your date night in Tampa even better. Guests are encouraged to take their time, and even get to choose their own music via private speakers and a push button selection of tunes. If you’re traveling with young ones, then this kid friendly museum should be an obligatory stop during your Tampa vacation. Several companies offer dolphin tours in the Tampa area, but some highly rated options include Dolphin Quest and A Boat Day.

9 Henry B Plant Museum

Once the sun goes down, Tampa’s party scene heats up. This hostel is all about the good vibes with a fun music theme. Social distancing is requested of all guests and maintained by Jurassic Quest crew. The Sant’Yago is a night parade through the streets of Ybor city, where parade floats toss out treats and beads. Going to this restaurant is one of the best date ideas in Tampa for sure. There are 7 miles worth of hiking trails to enjoy. Each escape room has a certain theme, and all puzzles are in this theme. Florida Aquarium admission allows you to skip any lines, and includes the outdoor Splash Pad, where kids can cool off. You can lay down a blanket, and then have food and drinks on this blanket together. People also liked: friday fun things to do places. The gardens are pet friendly and are open daily from 7am 5pm. It still has that new mall shine and design, and. Located right on Water Street, the exhibit showcases over 50,000 hand crafted pieces that mimic a grocery store.

19 Adventure Island

Get out of Tampa Bay and head out into the Gulf of Mexico on a dolphin sightseeing tour for a chance to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Since 1979, Tampa’s Museum of Art has been the epicenter for the city’s creatives. Besides that, you can find various restaurants, bars, and other venues close to this trail. You can also go fishing or check out the Fort Foster State Historic Site. Marvel at local buildings on an architecture tour through Downtown, Ybor City and Hyde Park. Skye is a freelance writer that adopted Tampa as her hometown over a decade ago and never looked back. They are made by hand, in small batches, and without preservatives. As you pass through the tunnels, you’ll be treated to a synchronized light and sound show as you slide to the bottom 600 feet away.

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And along the way, you can take in beautiful views of the water. Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings see the beach populated by local volleyball players. Get your art fix by embarking on a self guided tour of Tampa Bay’s impressive murals. In February and March, the city comes alive with parades, music festivals, a film festival, a marathon, and a festival of the arts. Dive into Ybor City’s past and experience the rich cultural. If you want to experience one of Tampa’s favorite restaurants without having to make the journey to Ybor City, swing by the Colombia café. The regional park is only 20 minutes northeast of Tampa. Search for authentic fossils and unearth a life size dinosaur skeleton in the park’s boneyard. Since founded in the 1930s, its collection has expanded considerably, and now includes birds and beasts from as far away as Africa, Asia, and Australia. It’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and offers an impressive collection of Class II rapids for adventurous couples. You’ll have the chance to get hands on with invertebrates like starfish and anemones and even visit some land dwelling residents like the lemurs. Though there’s plenty of things to do in Tampa alone, you may want to get out and explore the surrounding beauty with some of these day trip ideas. You can change your mind at any time by clicking unsubscribe on any email you receive or by clicking the link on our website. The zoo also hosts special programs and events throughout the year, and is as popular with locals as it is with tourists. Even though there are high quality zoo and aquarium options in Tampa, they can get pricey if you’re visiting with the whole family.

Family Friendly

At the wildlife sanctuary, you can spot over sixty incredible creatures roaming about spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitat. Tampa might not be as glitzy as Miami or as luxurious as New York. Founded in the 1880s, its red brick factories attracted thousands of immigrants from Cuba, Spain, and Italy. Yes, a sidewalk is one of Tampa’s best attractions. By Julie Landry Laviolette For families traveling with a child on the autism spectrum or with special needs, Tampa Bay, Fla. This is a beautiful golf course that features 18 holes. You can easily fill up an afternoon exploring Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry MOSI. This is the closest beach to downtown Tampa and the locals’ favorite tailgate spot. It was huge and attracts beautiful pipevine” more. Read more about Bayshore Boulevard →. Fun and sun may have brought you here, but the historic architecture, family fun and great food will be what you remember the most. This is a museum where you can see a very large variety of artworks. While you’re there, walk the trail and boardwalk to climb the 50 foot observation tower. Of course, any water sport you can possibly be interested in can be found either in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa Bay, or the freshwater lakes and rivers. While you’re there, do yourself a favor and grab the best grouper sandwich in the state from Big Ray’s Fish Camp or treat yourself to top notch Turkish food at Bayshore Mediterranean Grill. Amalie Arena, home to the Tampa Bay Lightning, is placed in the Channel District a short walk from downtown. Famous ecologist Stephen Leatherman, more commonly known as “Dr. If you’re traveling with young ones, then this kid friendly museum should be an obligatory stop during your Tampa vacation. Exhibits also delve into the history of the hotel and its former owner. Check out the Hyde Park Shopping District, Westshore Mall, or stroll the streets of Ybor City. “Experience 12,000 years of remarkable stories only told at the Tampa Bay History Center on Tampa’s Riverwalk. By Dalia Colon On the internationally culinary scene, the Tampa Bay area is probably best known for Bern’s Steakhouse. And The Florida Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in the world. It’s free to visit but only open when the manatees are around, usually from November to April. This area also has dine in restaurants, and looks out over the water. A major perk of living in the Tampa Bay area is close proximity to the area’s incredible, award winning beaches. You’ll find cooking classes, wine tastings, boutique shops and a rooftop bar to try the local tipple. Built in 1891 by railroad tycoon Henry Plant, the hotel showcases Moorish Revival style architecture with shiny silver minarets and glinting cupolas lining its rooftop.

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Wat Mongkolratanaram of Florida Wat Tampa is a gorgeous waterfront Buddhist Temple that’s free to visit. Here you can visit the graves of local historical figures, including Tampa’s first mayor, Joseph B. Regionally, Tampa Bay encompasses four cities—Tampa, St. Every Saturday morning, the Al Lang Field parking lot in downtown St. You’ll also find splash pads, playgrounds and a dog run throughout the waterfront park. While noted for its dining and nightlife, the area also has some attractive architecture and interesting historic sites to check out. Updated on 1/22/2021 at 6:01 PM. This resides within the center and offers workshops for those interested in the performing arts. Its first exhibition featured 50 iconic black and white photos from a number of private collections. An avid gardener, Plant hired a prominent landscape architect to design the grounds, which are known for their lovely tropical gardens. Once you two order your vintage drinks, you can head over to the screening room where they show new and cult classics. Altitude Trampoline Park Bring out your inner child with a day of fun at Altitude Trampoline Park. Wat Mongkolratanaram of Florida Wat Tampa is a gorgeous waterfront Buddhist Temple that’s free to visit. Nearly every night of the year visitors, street performers, and artisans gather for a lively sunset celebration that’s a must anytime you’re in the area.

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The 27 Best Things to Do in Miami. This makes it ideal for a romantic stroll together with your partner. The Treasure Collection brings together a dozen modern downtown hotels. After a long day of perfecting your swing, you can kick back at the Innisbrook Golf Resort, a 900 acre luxurious property with plenty of luxury on site amenities. No alcohol, glass containers or smoking are allowed in the coach. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite free things to do in Tampa Bay, from monthly festivals to art and walking tours, local attractions, and more. This beach is perfect for a relaxing, laid back day or an event filled day. About UsStart HereWork With UsContact. Check the website for the latest updates. It’s worth coming here just for the Florida Keys vibe. The park has some rides as well, including a safari ride through the African habitat, a mini train ride, and a family friendly roller coaster. The very essence of Tampa can be felt in the famous Clearwater Beach, a hot spot for romantic couples. Enjoy eight attractions, including the Florida Aquarium and Glazer Children’s Museum, along the Riverwalk. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando. FYI: there is a $2 admission fee per vehicle if arriving by car. It also passes Hyde Park. On arrival, make your way to the Visitor Center where you can get the lowdown on the best adventures along with the park’s resident wildlife and flora. Isn’t that what dates nights or days are all about. The Glazer Children’s Museum is packed with interactive exhibits that will help your children take part in an experience that is equally fun and insightful. Due to its multicultural population, the city has several different neighborhoods each with its own identity. © 2022 Trips To Discover. Winding red brick paths lead you through the park and past open green spaces which serve as the perfect location for setting up a picnic. The Wahoo Remix is an audio assault on your senses. The gardens are free for all visitors and are another top spot for a romantic picnic or family gathering. Volunteers are present to help you get set up and learn the rules of the game. Things to Do With Teenagers. See also: Where to Stay in Tampa. Pack up some gourmet cheese, meats and snacks and set up your own DIY feast with a scenic park as your backdrop.

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Read our full guide to the Ringling Museum and Ca’ d’Zan. From Contributor separated by comma. Welcome to Florida Lives, your guide to exploring the Sunshine State. In addition to vendors you’ll find live music and all the charms of Hyde Park Village that are always there. 510 Water Street, Tampa FL 33602. Very educational and interactive. There are nine intense water slides spread around Adventure Island, each one more terrifying than the last. In the north of town is where you can find many of Tampa’s enticing animal attractions and amusement parks with the world famous Busch Gardens being the city’s standout tourist attractions. Find dozens of vendors set up at Coquina Beach select days of the week from 10am 4pm. For further detail on our data policy and protection. There are multiple activities to do within the Ringling Grounds: The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion and beautiful grounds to walk around. Clearwater Beach is the best vacation spot to chill out in Tampa, Florida. If you are looking for something with a bit more of an adrenaline rush, head next door to iFLY Tampa. Six trailheads provide access depending on where you want to kick off your ride, and a connection meets up with the Suncoast Trail for a longer ride. This is a placeholder. Beat the heat in the Florida Aquarium, filled with 20,000 plants and animals, and know that you can pre book tickets to scuba dive in its coral reef gallery. Six dining and drinking venues from Miami’s uber popular Coyo Taco Group include Marisquería Como Como, a seafood restaurant and raw bar, open air rooftop.

Reconnect and Take a St Pete Coffee Break

Experience one of the top farmer’s markets in the US right here in St. Bayshore Boulevard is a beautiful road to explore on foot or by bike. Things to Do in Tampa for Labor Day Weekend. It’s also the location of our most important celebration, the annual Gasparilla parade in late January. One photo per family included in ticket purchase. Including Busch Gardens, two aquariums, museums, and boat tours, buying the CityPASS will offer you discounted entry fees to some of the best activities in Tampa. This building used to be the Tampa Bay Hotel. Check out our post on the Best Places to Watch a Tampa Bay Sunset Together for more ideas. There are also feeding opportunities and fun night tours to embark on. Another great beach is Ben T Davis Beach. © 2022 Tampa Bay Date Night Guide. Be sure to try one of the bowls of fine, locally sourced, fare. Inject a bit of healthy competition into date night by playing bar trivia. You and your date can explore the white sands and ride a stallion or two. However, this is a special sidewalk. You may find out after reviewing the names of the waterslides: Vortex, Aruba Tuba, Caribbean Corkscrew, Colossal Curl, Vanish Point, Water Moccasin, Calypso Curl, and Riptide. You can go to Adventure Island together. Don’t worry if you’ve never swung a club, it’s more than just a place to hit a golf ball. While there is a gondola and a train to help negotiate the distances, be prepared to walk in order to explore all areas of the park. Whatever you do, don’t miss a stop over at La Segunda Central Bakery, a century old bread factory that bakes Cuban bread for outlets across the country, not to mention its iconic Ybor neighbor Columbia Restaurant. The historic building’s tiled floors and walls, balconies, chandeliers, historic photos, and daily flamenco shows, create a one of a kind atmosphere. New in 2022 are the Rapids Racer and the Wahoo Remix. Visitors to Tampa will find a treasure trove of fascinating attractions and adventurous activities. Gasparilla is the celebration of legendary pirate José Gaspar and his mythical invasion of Tampa Bay. The first thing you’ll want to do in Tampa is visit a Tampa car rental location. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota is a 15 acre garden that is the only one in the world devoted to epiphytes.

Bargain Hunters, Look No Further Than Tampa Premium Outlets

The lights transition from electric blue, hot pink, violet, and red every evening. Petersburg’s Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, EDGE District, Grand Central District and the Warehouse Arts District stay open from 5 9pm for an epic art walk. You can go to Splash Harbour Water Park. There are also plenty of rest spots along the way where you can enjoy a beverage or a bite to eat. Combine this park with a visit to Florida Cane Distillery which is less than a 5 minute walk away. Public collections can be seen by the public, including other shoppers, and may show up in recommendations and other places. Constructed in the seventies, the pretty pedestrian path has helped to rejuvenate and revitalize the city’s waterfront with parks, public artworks, and playgrounds lining the route. Kids learn about everything from banking and commerce at the museum’s Central Bank exhibit to engineering at the Engineers’ Workshop. Other exhibits include life as a veterinarian and a ship captain along with learning about worldwide cultures. Now home to the University of Tampa, Plant’s accomplishment is made all the more amazing when you realize that when it was built, the hotel was surrounded only by swampland. If you feel like making a side trip to the beach, you can follow another pedestrian trail across the Dunedin Causeway for a visit to Honeymoon Island State Park. For outdoors and adventure seekers who want to hike, bike, paddle or see wildlife, hit one of the Tampa area’s many parks and preserves, such as Hillsborough River State Park in Thonotosassa or Lettuce Lake Park in north Tampa. The Courtyard by Marriott provides guests with proximity to both the city, Clearwater Beach and Busch Gardens. There are dozens of parks located in and around Tampa, so if you’d like to enjoy a park near where you’re staying, be sure to check out the Tampa City Parks and Hillsborough County Parks websites. There are also many ways to navigate the Riverwalk which accommodates walkers, joggers and bikers. If nothing lines up with your dates, why not check out the Patel Conservatory. There is something for kids of all ages at this world class park. There is also a boat dock and ramp. So if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Tampa, I’d definitely recommend going here. If you’re after an exciting event to attend when in town then watch Tampa Bay Lightning play a fast paced ice hockey match at the Amalie Arena. Event Location JupiterBoca Raton. Here, you can experience the sensation of skydiving in the safety of a vertical wind tunnel. You can attend a magic show together at the Zubrick Magic Theatre. The Straz is one of the largest performing arts centers in the American south and presents a rich calendar of events.

Fresh Gulf Seafood is the Star at Oystercatchers

Step inside and gaze around this former industrial building, and it’s hard to believe that it’s been transformed into the hip and happening place it is today. Decided to relocate to Tampa to pursue his dream of producing a premium cigar line. This is a wonderful family educational thing to do in Tampa, and it’s free. Skye says, “Don’t leave Tampa without exploring the downtown Riverwalk, people watching in historic Ybor City, and sampling the best Cuban food you can find outside Cuba. One of the best places for escape rooms is Tampa Bay Escape Room. If marine life is more your speed, visit The Florida Aquarium. If you happen to be in town on the second Wednesday of the month, head over in the evening for the monthly Heights Night Market. You can find mouthwatering dishes, from hearty mains to gelato and ice cream. You and your date deserve to be pampered. The beach is well lit with its native wildlife and nighttime cameo. Tampa is known for being a great city for all ages and tastes, offering places to stay that fit any budget and catering to everyone, including families, outdoor adventure seekers, and foodies and wine connoisseurs. Franklin Street is the pedestrian center of downtown Tampa where you will find plenty of shopping, restaurants, and things to do. This is much more than a run of the mill food court; the dining options here are home grown, varied, and innovative. Jaunt to nearby Weedon Island Preserve, where you can roam the protected, 3,000 acre labyrinth of mangroves, sandbars, and “real Florida” wildlife. Try something new by joining the St. You can even earn rewards if you sign up for the Avis Preferred membership, making your car rental experience that much better.