Activities
Exploring Tampa
Tampa is a dynamic city known for its beautiful waterfront, rich cultural history, and a wealth of activities that cater to both locals and visitors. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa enjoys warm weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly fun. The city’s unique blend of modern attractions and historic charm creates an inviting atmosphere that appeals to travelers of all ages and interests.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tampa is during the fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s numerous attractions without the intense heat and humidity of summer.
Getting There
Tampa is easily accessible via Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is just a 15-minute drive from the city center. The city is also well-connected by major highways, making it easy to reach by car. Public transportation options include the TECO Line Streetcar System, buses, and ride-sharing services, all of which make getting around the city convenient.
The Top 10 Must-Do Activities
Description: The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic, 2.6-mile-long trail along the Hillsborough River, offering a perfect blend of nature, art, and city life. It’s ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying views of the river and downtown skyline.
Physical Level: Easy, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Unique Features: The Riverwalk is lined with public art installations, historical markers, and access points to some of Tampa’s top attractions, including the Tampa Museum of Art and the Florida Aquarium.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Duration: 1-2 hours, depending on pace and stops.
Cost: Free
Location: 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Amenities: Restrooms and water fountains are available along the Riverwalk. Nearby dining options include Ulele and Columbia Café, both offering great views and local cuisine.
History: Opened in phases starting in 2010, the Riverwalk has become a central hub for community events and a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Advice: Rent a bike from Coast Bike Share stations located along the Riverwalk for a faster and more comprehensive tour.
Description: Busch Gardens is a renowned theme park that combines thrill rides with up-close animal encounters in an African-themed setting. It’s perfect for families, adventure seekers, and animal lovers alike.
Physical Level: Moderate, with options ranging from relaxing animal exhibits to high-intensity roller coasters.
Unique Features: The park’s Serengeti Plain allows you to see giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife roaming in a naturalistic setting. Thrill rides like SheiKra and Montu offer adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during the fall and spring to avoid peak crowds.
Duration: Full day
Cost: $89.99 – $109.99 per ticket, with discounts available online.
Location: 10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612
Amenities: On-site parking ($25), numerous dining options, gift shops, and stroller rentals are available. Restrooms are conveniently located throughout the park.
History: Opened in 1959, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has evolved from a brewery tour with a few animal exhibits to a world-class theme park and zoo.
Advice: Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and time. Consider adding a Quick Queue pass to skip the lines on popular rides.
Description: The Florida Aquarium offers a journey through various aquatic ecosystems, from Florida’s freshwater springs to coral reefs. It’s an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
Physical Level: Easy, wheelchair accessible.
Unique Features: The aquarium’s Wetlands Trail replicates Florida’s natural environment, complete with free-flying birds, alligators, and otters. The Coral Reef Gallery offers an immersive view of vibrant marine life.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Cost: $28.95 for adults, $23.95 for children (ages 3-11).
Location: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Amenities: Parking ($10), café, gift shop, and restrooms. The aquarium is located near Sparkman Wharf, where you can enjoy additional dining and shopping options.
History: Opened in 1995, the Florida Aquarium is dedicated to marine conservation and education, with a focus on Florida’s aquatic ecosystems.
Advice: Check out the behind-the-scenes tours or animal encounters for an enhanced experience. Advance booking is recommended for these add-ons.
Description: Ybor City is Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and iconic cigar shops. Walking through Ybor City feels like stepping back in time.
Physical Level: Easy, with leisurely walking.
Unique Features: The neighborhood’s historic brick streets are lined with cigar shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving Cuban and Spanish cuisine. Ybor City is also home to the Ybor City Museum State Park.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings for dining and nightlife; mornings for a quieter experience and museum visits.
Duration: 2-4 hours
Cost: Free to explore; museum admission is $4.
Location: E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Amenities: Parking is available in several public lots and garages. The area is walkable, with restrooms and dining options like Columbia Restaurant and La Teresita.
History: Founded in the 1880s by Cuban immigrants, Ybor City became known as the “Cigar Capital of the World.” Its multicultural roots are still evident in its architecture and culinary offerings.
Advice: Join a guided walking tour to learn more about Ybor City’s history and its role in Tampa’s development.
Description: The Tampa Museum of Art offers a mix of classical and contemporary art in a stunning modern building overlooking the Hillsborough River.
Physical Level: Easy, wheelchair accessible.
Unique Features: The museum’s collection includes Greek and Roman antiquities, as well as modern and contemporary art. The building itself is an architectural highlight.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter experience.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost: $15 for adults, $7.50 for students and seniors.
Location: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602
Amenities: Parking is available in nearby garages. The museum has a gift shop and a café, and restrooms are located within the building.
History: Established in 1979, the Tampa Museum of Art moved to its current location in 2010, where it continues to be a key cultural institution in the city.
Advice: Check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and events. Consider attending one of the museum’s special programs or workshops.
Description: Lettuce Lake Park is a natural oasis on the outskirts of Tampa, offering hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking in a serene environment.
Physical Level: Easy to moderate, depending on the activities chosen.
Unique Features: The park’s boardwalk and observation tower provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly bird species like herons and egrets. The park also offers kayak rentals for exploring the Hillsborough River.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for wildlife viewing.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Cost: $2 per vehicle entry fee.
Location: 6920 E Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33637
Amenities: Parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds are available. Kayak rentals are offered on-site.
History: Opened in 1982, Lettuce Lake Park has become a favorite spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Tampa.
Advice: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wear insect repellent. The park is also a great spot for a picnic, so pack lunch and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Description: The Henry B. Plant Museum is housed in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel, offering a glimpse into the opulence of the Gilded Age.
Physical Level: Easy, with guided and self-guided tour options.
Unique Features: The museum’s Moorish Revival architecture and lavish interiors transport visitors back to the late 19th century. Exhibits focus on the hotel’s history and its role in Tampa’s development.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer visitors.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Cost: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $5 for children (ages 4-12).
Location: 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
Amenities: Parking is available on-site. The museum has restrooms and a small gift shop.
History: Built in 1891 by railroad magnate Henry B. Plant, the Tampa Bay Hotel was a luxurious resort for the wealthy. Today, the museum preserves this history for visitors to explore.
Advice: Attend one of the museum’s special events, such as Victorian Christmas Stroll, for a unique experience. Photography is allowed, but without flash.
Description: ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a family-friendly destination featuring a wide range of animal exhibits and interactive experiences.
Physical Level: Easy to moderate, suitable for all ages.
Unique Features: The zoo is home to a variety of species, from Florida manatees to African elephants. Interactive experiences include feeding giraffes and petting stingrays.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Cost: $42.95 for adults, $32.95 for children (ages 3-11).
Location: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
Amenities: On-site parking ($10), multiple dining options, gift shops, and restrooms. Stroller and wheelchair rentals are available.
History: Established in the 1950s, ZooTampa has evolved into a leading facility for animal care and conservation, particularly for Florida’s native species.
Advice: Purchase tickets online in advance to save time. Consider adding an animal encounter to your visit for a more interactive experience.
Take a Cruise from Tampa Bay
Description: Embark on a sunset cruise or a dolphin-watching tour from the Tampa Bay waterfront. These cruises offer a relaxing way to experience the beauty of Tampa Bay and its marine life.
Physical Level: Easy, suitable for all ages.
Unique Features: Tampa Bay’s calm waters and stunning sunsets make it an ideal location for boat tours. Dolphins are commonly spotted on these cruises, adding to the excitement.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for sunset cruises, midday for dolphin tours.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Cost: $25-$50 per person, depending on the tour.
Location: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602 (departure from Tampa Convention Center docks)
Amenities: Parking is available at the Tampa Convention Center. Restrooms are on board, and some cruises offer snack bars.
History: Tampa Bay has a long history as a maritime hub, and today’s cruises continue this tradition by offering visitors a chance to explore the bay’s waters.
Advice: Book your cruise in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the views.
Enjoy a Day at Clearwater Beach
Description: Clearwater Beach, located just a short drive from Tampa, is one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Physical Level: Easy, with activities ranging from lounging on the beach to parasailing.
Unique Features: Clearwater Beach offers a variety of water sports, dining options, and Pier 60, which hosts nightly sunset celebrations with live music and local artisans.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best beach experience.
Duration: Full day
Cost: Free entry, parking fees vary.
Location: Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, FL 33767
Amenities: Parking, restrooms, showers, beach rentals, and numerous dining options.
History: Clearwater Beach has been a popular destination for decades, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and top-rated beach amenities.
Advice: Arrive early to secure parking and a good spot on the beach. Don’t miss the sunset at Pier 60, where the daily celebration adds a festive atmosphere to your visit.
