Whether you’re visiting Tampa for the weekend or planning your move to Florida, you’ll find plenty to do in the area. Here are the top seven spots to explore in Tampa, including museums, food courts, beaches, and more!
Table of Contents
1. Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens, a family-friendly theme park in Tampa, contains diverse attractions. In Busch Gardens, you’ll find animal exhibits, roller coasters and rides, and seasonal events. These events include shows and exhibits like the winter Christmas Town, the spring Food & Wine Festival, and the Halloween Howl-O-Scream.
In addition, Busch Gardens is right across the street from the Adventure Island water park, where you’ll find water slides, pools, restaurants, shopping, and more! This is a great second stop for any family looking to fill a weekend in Tampa, FL.
2. ZooTampa
Another great family-friendly attraction in Tampa is ZooTampa at Lowry Gardens. The zoo features animals like manatees and primates, as well as exhibits dedicated to animals from Asia, Australia, Africa, and the local Florida environment.
The zoo hosts a variety of events, including seasonal offerings like Christmas in the Wild and Zoobrews, summer camps, and educational events. Lastly, the zoo also has a reputation as a leader in conservation efforts.
3. Riverwalk
If you’re looking for something to do over the weekend in Tampa, FL, give the Riverwalk a shot! The Tampa Riverwalk spans 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River, taking you through key Tampa spots, including parks, museums, and splash pads.
On an average day, you can explore wildlife, the Tampa Riverwalk art tour, and the historic monument trail.
Moreover, you can catch some great seasonal Riverwalk events at any time of year. The May Riverfest features family-friendly attractions, food, and music. You can also stop by the July 4th Boat Parade and Winter Holiday Spectacular.
4. Armature Works
Once you’ve worked up an appetite in Tampa, FL, stop by the Armature Works. Located in Tampa’s Heights neighborhood, this 1910 streetcar warehouse now functions as a public market. You’ll find a variety of food options, bars, shopping, live entertainment, and more at Armature Works. Whether you’re in the mood for Korean, Southern barbecue, or ice cream, Armature Works has you covered!
5. Ybor City Museum State Park
A great attraction to help you get to know Tampa, FL is the Ybor City Museum State Park. Ybor City, the former Cigar Capital of the World, has a rich history.
The Ybor City Museum, located in a historic bakery, details this history, including the founding of the area, the cigar factory, and the Latin community that emerged. Near the museum, you can walk historic streets and see homes of former cigar factory workers.
6. Florida Aquarium
Yet another thing to do in Tampa is visit the Florida Aquarium. At the Aquarium, you can see species from sharks to otters and sea turtles. Thus, taking a trip to the Aquarium is a great way to get to know local wildlife. The Aquarium also contains exhibits highlighting Madagascar species, reefs, and more, and includes one of the few moon jelly touch habitats.
The Aquarium hosts a variety of events, including seasonal events and educational opportunities. Lastly, it runs two conservation programs, including caring for coral and rehabilitating sea turtles.
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7. Beach
While you’re in Tampa, stop by the beach! Tampa has a variety of nearby beaches, including Clearwater Beach, which is about thirty minutes from Tampa by car.
Clearwater Beach has made several best beach lists. Aside from beautiful sandy shores, this beach offers plenty of chances to see animals like dolphins and sea turtles. You can also rent parasails and kayaks, and enjoy fresh seafood at nearby restaurants.
Another option for ocean recreation is Fort De Soto Park, which is thirty minutes to an hour from Tampa. The Park consists of five keys and is a great place to explore local plants and animals. Along with three miles of sandy beaches, this park offers camping, picnic shelters, trails, fishing piers, and ferries. Thus, this beach is a great spot for a day trip from Tampa!
Conclusion
Now you’re prepared for your stay in Tampa, FL, whether you’re in town for the weekend or planning a move to the area. There’s no shortage of things to do in the area. Stop by the theme park Busch Gardens, ZooTampa, and the Florida Aquarium for family-friendly activities. Visit the Riverwalk, Armature Works, and Ybor City Museum State Park to get to know the area better. Lastly, take a weekend trip to the beautiful beaches nearby for sunshine and relaxation!
FAQs
Tampa has many attractions, including the Busch Gardens amusement park, ZooTampa, and the Florida Aquarium. You can also get to know the area by exploring the Riverwalk, Armature Works, Ybor City Museum State Park, and local beaches.
Some great family-friendly attractions in Tampa include the Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa. You also can’t go wrong with a beach day at Clearwater Beach or Fort De Soto State Park!
Sophie Pollack-Milgate has a day job as a research assistant. In her free time, she likes to read 10% of the library books she checks out, complain about how either ice or heat are ruining her runs (depending on the season), and modify recipes beyond recognition.
