Best Things To Do in Tampa, Florida

Visit Busch Gardens for thrilling rides and animal encounters. Explore the Tampa Riverwalk for scenic views and cultural attractions.

Tampa, Florida, offers a diverse array of activities for visitors. The city boasts world-class theme parks, vibrant cultural scenes, and stunning waterfronts. Busch Gardens is perfect for adventure seekers with its roller coasters and wildlife exhibits. The Tampa Riverwalk provides a picturesque route along the Hillsborough River, connecting parks, museums, and dining options.

For history enthusiasts, the Ybor City Historic District offers a glimpse into Tampa’s rich past. Water sports, beaches, and local cuisine add to the city’s appeal. With its blend of excitement and relaxation, Tampa ensures memorable experiences for all.

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Explore Busch Gardens

Planning a trip to Tampa, Florida? Make sure to explore Busch Gardens. This thrilling amusement park offers fun for all ages. From exhilarating rides to amazing animal encounters, it’s a must-visit!

Thrilling Rides

Busch Gardens boasts some of the most thrilling rides. Roller coaster fans will love SheiKra. This dive coaster offers a 200-foot drop. Cheetah Hunt is another favorite. It mimics the speed of a cheetah. For a splash, try Stanley Falls Flume. It’s a classic log flume ride with a big drop.

SheiKra: 200-foot drop, dive coaster
Cheetah Hunt: High-speed, triple-launch coaster
Stanley Falls Flume: Log flume ride with splash ending

These rides are perfect for thrill-seekers. Don’t miss them!

Animal Encounters

Busch Gardens is not just about rides. It also features incredible animal encounters. Get up close with majestic animals. The Serengeti Safari offers a unique experience. Ride through open plains and see giraffes and zebras. The Tiger Lodge lets you watch tigers in their habitat.

Animal Encounter	Description
Serengeti Safari	Ride through open plains, see giraffes and zebras
Tiger Lodge	Watch tigers in their natural habitat

Busch Gardens also has a bird garden. See exotic birds from all over the world. This park is a great place for animal lovers.

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Visit The Florida Aquarium

If you’re exploring Tampa, make sure to visit the Florida Aquarium. This attraction offers a variety of activities for all ages. It’s an educational and fun experience for everyone.

Marine Life Exhibits

The Florida Aquarium features many marine life exhibits. You can see sharks, turtles, and colorful fish. Each exhibit is designed to mimic the animal’s natural habitat. This makes the experience more realistic and engaging. Kids will love learning about these amazing creatures.

There are also educational signs at each exhibit. These signs provide interesting facts about the animals. They help visitors understand more about marine life. Don’t miss the coral reef exhibit. It’s one of the most popular sections of the aquarium.

Interactive Touch Tanks

The aquarium also has interactive touch tanks. These tanks allow visitors to touch various marine animals. You can feel the texture of starfish and sea urchins. This hands-on experience is both fun and educational.

Children especially enjoy the touch tanks. They get to interact directly with the animals. This makes the visit more memorable for them. There are staff members available to answer questions. They ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and visitors.

Relax At Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. It offers beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters. Whether you love relaxing or enjoying water activities, Clearwater Beach has something for everyone.

Sunbathing Spots

Clearwater Beach has some of the best sunbathing spots. The wide sandy shores provide plenty of space to lay your towel. You can rent a beach chair or bring your own. The calm waters make it easy to take a refreshing dip. Some popular sunbathing areas include:

North Beach: Quiet and less crowded.
South Beach: Close to shops and restaurants.
Sand Key Park: Ideal for a peaceful day.

Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen! The Florida sun can be strong.

Water Sports

If you love adventure, Clearwater Beach offers many water sports. From jet skiing to parasailing, there is something for everyone. Rentals are available right on the beach. Some exciting water sports to try include:

Jet Skiing: Feel the thrill of riding the waves.
Parasailing: Get a bird’s eye view of the beach.
Paddleboarding: Enjoy a peaceful paddle on calm waters.

Water sports provide a fun way to enjoy the ocean and stay active.

Discover Ybor City

Ybor City is a historic neighborhood in Tampa, Florida. It’s known for its rich culture and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Ybor City has something for everyone.

Historic Sites

Ybor City is filled with historic landmarks. Start your journey at the Ybor City Museum State Park. Here, you can learn about the city’s past and its famous cigar industry. Don’t miss the iconic Jose Marti Park, a tribute to the Cuban national hero. Take a stroll down 7th Avenue, recognized as one of the “Great Streets in America.”

Another must-see is the Columbia Restaurant. Established in 1905, it’s the oldest restaurant in Florida. The building itself is a beautiful piece of history.

Cuban Cuisine

Ybor City is famous for its delicious Cuban food. Start your culinary adventure with a Cuban sandwich. Visit La Segunda Central Bakery, known for its authentic Cuban bread. Enjoy the rich flavors of Ropa Vieja or Cuban black beans at one of the local eateries.

Don’t forget to try a cup of Cuban coffee, known as Cafecito. It’s strong, sweet, and the perfect pick-me-up. For dessert, savor a piece of Guava Pastelito, a delicious pastry filled with guava.

Whether exploring historic sites or enjoying Cuban cuisine, Ybor City offers a unique experience. Its blend of culture, history, and food makes it a must-visit destination in Tampa, Florida.

Stroll Through Tampa Riverwalk

Discover the beauty of Tampa by taking a stroll through Tampa Riverwalk. This stunning waterfront pathway offers a variety of activities. You can explore scenic views, public art, and much more. It is an experience you should not miss.

Scenic Views

The Scenic Views along the Tampa Riverwalk are breathtaking. As you walk, you will see the sparkling waters of the Hillsborough River. The skyline of downtown Tampa is also visible. It is a perfect place for taking memorable photos. You can also enjoy the lush green parks along the way.

There are many spots to sit and relax. Benches are placed at intervals, offering a chance to rest. You can watch boats pass by or simply enjoy the natural beauty. The views are especially stunning at sunset.

Public Art

The Tampa Riverwalk is home to many Public Art installations. These artworks add a creative touch to your walk. You will find sculptures, murals, and interactive pieces. Each artwork tells a unique story about Tampa’s culture.

Here are some notable pieces of public art:

Stay Curious – A colorful mural celebrating Tampa’s diversity.
Riverwalk Totem – A sculpture representing the area’s history.
Under the Sea – An interactive piece featuring marine life.

These artworks are not just for viewing. Many are interactive and engaging. They provide a deeper understanding of Tampa’s heritage.

Art Piece	Location
Stay Curious	Near Water Works Park
Riverwalk Totem	Near the History Center
Under the Sea	Near the Convention Center

Walking the Tampa Riverwalk is more than exercise. It is an adventure filled with beauty and culture.

Enjoy Tampa’s Museums

Tampa is a treasure trove of cultural experiences. The city boasts diverse museums that cater to various interests. Whether you love art or science, Tampa’s museums offer something for everyone. Below are some must-visit museums in Tampa.

Tampa Museum of Art

The Tampa Museum of Art is a haven for art lovers. It features a mix of classical and modern art. The museum’s architecture is a work of art itself. Located near the Riverwalk, the museum offers stunning views. Visitors can enjoy Greek and Roman antiquities.

Modern art enthusiasts will also find rotating exhibitions. Don’t miss the photography and sculpture collections. The museum often hosts educational programs. It’s a great place for kids to learn about art.

Museum of Science & Industry

The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) is perfect for science buffs. It offers interactive exhibits that make learning fun. The museum covers a range of scientific topics. From space exploration to robotics, there’s something for everyone.

One of the museum’s highlights is the planetarium. It offers breathtaking views of the night sky. Kids will love the hands-on experiments. The museum also features a ropes course and a butterfly garden. It’s an ideal spot for a family day out.

Museum	Highlights
Tampa Museum of Art	Classical Art, Modern Art, Riverwalk Views
Museum of Science & Industry	Interactive Exhibits, Planetarium, Ropes Course

Both museums offer unique experiences. Whether you’re into art or science, Tampa’s museums have you covered. Don’t miss these cultural gems on your next visit to Tampa.

Attend Local Festivals

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Tampa, Florida by attending its local festivals. These events showcase the city’s rich history, diverse cuisine, and lively entertainment. Experience the best of Tampa’s community spirit at these renowned festivals.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival

The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is a must-see event. Held annually, it celebrates the legend of pirate José Gaspar. The festival features a grand parade with elaborate pirate costumes, floats, and music.

Visitors can enjoy:

Pirate-themed parades
Live music and performances
Food and drink vendors
Family-friendly activities

This festival is perfect for families and pirate enthusiasts alike. The streets of Tampa come alive with joy and excitement.

Tampa Bay Margarita Festival

For those who love margaritas, the Tampa Bay Margarita Festival is a paradise. This annual event offers a wide variety of margaritas, live music, and delicious food.

Highlights of the festival include:

Over 50 types of margaritas
Live performances by popular bands
Gourmet food trucks
Fireworks display

Relax and enjoy a day filled with refreshing drinks and great music. This festival is a treat for your taste buds and ears.

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Taste Local Craft Beer

Exploring Tampa, Florida isn’t complete without tasting its local craft beer. Tampa’s vibrant beer scene offers a variety of unique brews. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a casual taster, Tampa has something for you.

Breweries Tour

Tampa boasts several acclaimed breweries that are worth visiting. Each brewery offers a unique ambiance and selection of beers. Here are some must-visit breweries:

Cigar City Brewing: Known for its award-winning Jai Alai IPA.
Coppertail Brewing Co.: Offers a fantastic tasting room and outdoor seating.
Angry Chair Brewing: Famous for its rich and flavorful stouts.
Hidden Springs Ale Works: Known for creative and bold flavors.

Many of these breweries offer guided tours. You can learn about the brewing process and enjoy tastings. Some tours include exclusive, limited-edition brews. A brewery tour is a fun way to explore Tampa’s beer culture.

Popular Brews

Tampa’s breweries are famous for their diverse and delicious beers. Here are some popular brews that you must try:

Brewery	Popular Brew	Type
Cigar City Brewing	Jai Alai IPA	India Pale Ale
Coppertail Brewing Co.	Unholy	American Trippel
Angry Chair Brewing	German Chocolate Cupcake Stout	Imperial Stout
Hidden Springs Ale Works	ZFG	American Pale Ale

Each of these beers has a distinct taste and character. Jai Alai IPA offers citrus and tropical fruit notes. Unholy is a strong, complex brew with fruity esters. German Chocolate Cupcake Stout is rich with chocolate and coconut flavors. ZFG is a refreshing pale ale with a hoppy finish.

Tasting these local brews is an essential Tampa experience. Enjoy the unique flavors and support local breweries. Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Top Attractions In Tampa?

Tampa offers many attractions. Visit Busch Gardens for thrilling rides. Explore the Tampa Riverwalk for scenic views. The Florida Aquarium is great for families. Don’t miss the historic Ybor City for nightlife.

Where Can I Find The Best Beaches In Tampa?

The best beaches near Tampa are Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. Both are famous for their white sand and clear waters. They offer various water activities and are family-friendly.

What Family-friendly Activities Are Available In Tampa?

Tampa has many family-friendly activities. Visit ZooTampa at Lowry Park. Explore the Glazer Children’s Museum. Enjoy a day at Adventure Island water park. The Florida Aquarium is also a hit with kids.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Tampa?

The best time to visit Tampa is from September to December. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Avoid the hot summer months and hurricane season for a better experience.

Conclusion

Tampa, Florida offers a wide range of activities for everyone. From stunning beaches to exciting attractions, there’s something for all. Plan your visit to enjoy the best Tampa has to offer. Don’t miss out on this vibrant city. Tampa promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.