15 Attractions & Things to do in Tampa Florida

Welcome to the sunny city of Tampa, Florida! With its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting attractions, Tampa is a destination that never fails to impress. Whether you’re a local looking for something new to do or a visitor planning your next vacation, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy in this bustling city. From thrilling theme parks to world-class museums, Tampa offers something for everyone. Take a stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, catch a game at Raymond James Stadium, or explore the historic Ybor City neighborhood. If you’re looking to escape the heat, head to the Florida Aquarium or the Museum of Science and Industry. And of course, no trip to Tampa is complete without a trip to the beach – soak up the sun at Clearwater Beach or take a sunset cruise on Tampa Bay. With so much to see and do, Tampa is the perfect destination for your next adventure. Let’s dive in and explore all that this exciting city has to offer!

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a popular theme park located in Tampa, Florida. It originally opened in 1959 as an admission-free hospitality facility and beer garden for the Anheuser-Busch brewery. Over the years, it has evolved into a 335-acre, family-friendly attraction that combines thrilling roller coasters, live shows, animal exhibits, and other attractions.

One of the park’s main draws is its combination of thrill rides and animal exhibits, offering a unique experience that appeals to a wide range of visitors. Some of the popular roller coasters and rides include:

• SheiKra: A floorless dive coaster with a 200-foot, 90-degree drop.
• Montu: An inverted roller coaster with numerous inversions and a unique Batwing element.
• Kumba: A steel sit-down roller coaster known for its intense loops and corkscrews.
• Cheetah Hunt: A launched roller coaster that mimics the speed and agility of a cheetah.
• Tigris: A steel launch coaster with a triple-launch system and a heartline roll at its peak.
• Cobra’s Curse: A spinning roller coaster with a unique elevator-style lift and a thrilling layout.
• Falcon’s Fury: A 335-foot drop tower ride, providing a panoramic view of the park before plunging riders to the ground.

Other attractions include a Sesame Street-themed area for younger children called Sesame Street Safari of Fun, and various live shows and seasonal events throughout the year. With its mix of thrilling rides, animal encounters, and family-friendly attractions, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a large and popular aquarium located in downtown Tampa, Florida. Opened in 1995, the facility is committed to conservation, education, and research, as well as providing an entertaining and interactive experience for visitors. The Florida Aquarium is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which signifies its commitment to high standards of animal care and conservation efforts.

The aquarium is home to over 9,000 aquatic animals and plants, representing more than 200 species. The exhibits showcase diverse aquatic habitats and ecosystems, from local Florida environments to faraway places around the world. Some of the main exhibits and attractions at the Florida Aquarium include:

1. The Wetlands Trail: This exhibit replicates Florida’s native wetland habitats, featuring animals like alligators, river otters, and wading birds. It also includes a mangrove forest and a large free-flight aviary.
2. Bays and Beaches: This exhibit showcases local marine life found in Tampa Bay and nearby coastal environments. Visitors can encounter species like stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and various fish species.
3. Coral Reef: A 500,000-gallon tank houses a replica of a Caribbean coral reef ecosystem, showcasing the vibrant colors and diversity of life found in these delicate habitats. The exhibit includes sea turtles, sharks, eels, and a variety of tropical fish.
4. Ocean Commotion: This interactive exhibit introduces visitors to some of the more unusual and lesser-known marine creatures, such as the electric eel and the archerfish.
5. Waves of Wonder: A newer exhibit that highlights the importance of ocean conservation, focusing on the beauty and fragility of the world’s oceans and their inhabitants.

The Florida Aquarium also offers various interactive experiences, including a 4-D theater, a Splash Pad outdoor water play area for children, a touch pool for interacting with stingrays and other animals, and opportunities to swim or dive with sharks for an additional fee.

With its engaging exhibits and commitment to conservation and education, the Florida Aquarium is a great destination for families and anyone interested in learning more about marine life and aquatic ecosystems.

Tampa Bay Brewing Company

Tampa Bay Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Tampa, Florida. It was founded in 1995 by John and Vicki Doble, and it has since become one of the most popular and respected craft breweries in the state of Florida.

The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including year-round staples like Reef Donkey APA, Old Elephant Foot IPA, and Iron Rat Stout, as well as seasonal and limited-edition beers. They also have a restaurant that serves up classic pub fare with a Florida twist, and they offer tours of their brewing facilities.

Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center is a museum located in downtown Tampa, Florida, that is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and culture of the Tampa Bay area. The museum opened in 2009 and has since become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

The Tampa Bay History Center features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that explore the region’s history from prehistoric times to the present day. Exhibits cover topics such as Native American cultures, Spanish exploration and colonization, the cigar industry, the military history of the region, and much more.

The museum also houses a research library and archives that are open to the public and contain a wealth of historical materials, including photographs, maps, and manuscripts.

Feed the beautiful creatures at Big Cat Rescue

Big Cat Rescue is a non-profit animal sanctuary located in Tampa, Florida, that is dedicated to rescuing and providing a permanent home for exotic cats that have been abused, neglected, or abandoned. The sanctuary was founded in 1992 by Carole Baskin, and it is now home to over 80 big cats, including tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars.

Big Cat Rescue is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the American Sanctuary Association, and it has a strong commitment to animal welfare and environmental sustainability. The sanctuary provides spacious enclosures for its cats, with plenty of room to roam and play, and it offers veterinary care, enrichment programs, and a healthy diet for its residents.

In addition to providing a home for rescued big cats, Big Cat Rescue also works to educate the public about the dangers of owning exotic animals as pets and the need to protect wild habitats and the animals that live in them. The sanctuary offers guided tours to visitors, as well as educational programs for schools and other groups.

Big Cat Rescue is a popular tourist destination in Tampa and has been featured in several documentaries and television programs, including “Tiger King” on Netflix.

Adventure Island water park

Adventure Island is a water park located in Tampa, Florida, that is owned and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. The park first opened in 1980 and has since become one of the most popular water parks in the region.

Adventure Island features a variety of water attractions, including water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and kiddie areas. One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Colossal Curl, a four-person raft slide that takes riders through twists, turns, and drops before ending in a splash pool.

Other popular attractions at Adventure Island include the Aruba Tuba, a multi-person raft ride that winds through a series of tunnels and drops; the Calypso Coaster, a high-speed water slide that takes riders through a series of twists and turns; and the Caribbean Corkscrew, a pair of intertwined water slides that offer a thrilling ride.

Adventure Island also offers several dining options, including a beachside grill, a snack bar, and a pizza restaurant. The park is open seasonally from March through October and offers special events and promotions throughout the year.

Lowry Park Zoo

Lowry Park Zoo, now known as ZooTampa at Lowry Park, is a zoo located in Tampa, Florida. The zoo opened in 1957 and has since become a popular destination for visitors of all ages.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is home to over 1,300 animals representing more than 200 species, including elephants, giraffes, tigers, rhinos, and many more. The zoo is divided into several different habitats, each with its own unique animals and exhibits. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Florida Manatee and Aquatic Center, the Wallaroo Station children’s zoo, and the Safari Africa exhibit, which features an up-close view of African animals like lions, zebras, and hyenas.

The zoo is dedicated to animal conservation and education, and it offers a wide range of programs and events throughout the year. Visitors can attend animal encounters, watch live animal shows, and even take part in behind-the-scenes tours to learn more about the zoo’s animals and their habitats.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park also features several dining options, including a café, a snack bar, and a restaurant that overlooks the African savannah. The zoo is open daily and offers special events and promotions throughout the year.

Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian trail that runs along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa, Florida. The Riverwalk was first proposed in the 1970s but was not completed until 2016, after several phases of construction.

The Riverwalk features several parks, gardens, and public spaces, as well as several cultural and historical attractions. Some of the highlights along the Riverwalk include the Tampa Museum of Art, the Glazer Children’s Museum, the Tampa Bay History Center, and the Florida Aquarium.

Visitors to the Riverwalk can enjoy walking, jogging, or biking along the trail, as well as fishing, boating, or kayaking in the river. The Riverwalk also features several public art installations, as well as a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Throughout the year, the Riverwalk hosts a variety of events and festivals, including the Gasparilla Music Festival, the Tampa Riverfest, and the Mayor’s River O’Green Fest. The Riverwalk is open to the public 24 hours a day, and admission is free.

Hillsborough River State Park

Hillsborough River State Park is a state park located in Thonotosassa, Florida, just northeast of Tampa. The park covers over 2,990 acres and features a variety of outdoor activities and attractions.

One of the main features of the park is the Hillsborough River, which runs through the park and offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The park also features several hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging hikes that offer scenic views of the river and surrounding wilderness.

In addition to outdoor activities, Hillsborough River State Park also offers several historic sites, including the Fort Foster State Historic Site, which features a reconstructed fort from the Second Seminole War, and the Seminole Indian War reenactment, which takes place several times a year.

Other amenities at the park include a large swimming pool, picnic areas, and campsites for both tents and RVs. The park also has a concession stand that offers food, drinks, and souvenirs.

Hillsborough River State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, and admission fees vary depending on the season and the type of activity.

Ybor City

Ybor City is a historic neighborhood in Tampa, Florida, that was founded in the 1880s by Vicente Martinez-Ybor, a cigar manufacturer. The neighborhood was originally settled by Cuban, Spanish, and Italian immigrants who worked in the cigar factories.

Today, Ybor City is a vibrant cultural district that is known for its historic architecture, eclectic shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it has been designated as a National Historic Landmark District.

Some of the highlights of Ybor City include the Ybor City Museum State Park, which offers guided tours of the neighborhood’s history and culture, and the Centro Ybor shopping center, which features a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and theaters.

Ybor City is also known for its nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues catering to all tastes. The neighborhood is particularly known for its live music scene, with venues like the Crowbar, the Orpheum, and the Ritz Ybor hosting concerts and events throughout the year.

Other popular attractions in Ybor City include the annual Guavaween festival, which takes place around Halloween and features live music, food, and a parade, and the Ybor City Saturday Market, which features local vendors selling produce, crafts, and other goods.

Explore the University of South Florida

The University of South Florida (USF) is a public research university located in Tampa, Florida. It was founded in 1956 and is now one of the largest universities in the state, with more than 50,000 students enrolled.

USF offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 14 colleges, including business, engineering, education, arts and sciences, and health sciences. The university is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Florida Center for Cybersecurity, the Institute for Advanced Discovery & Innovation, and the Moffitt Cancer Center.

USF has a diverse student body and a strong commitment to community engagement and service. The university offers a variety of programs and resources to support student success, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services. USF also offers a wide range of student clubs and organizations, as well as varsity sports teams that compete in the American Athletic Conference.

In addition to its main campus in Tampa, USF has satellite campuses in St. Petersburg and Sarasota-Manatee, as well as several international partnerships and study abroad programs. The university is known for its innovative research, commitment to sustainability, and vibrant campus life.

Oystercatchers

Oystercatchers is a waterfront seafood restaurant located in Tampa, Florida, that is known for its fresh seafood, stunning views, and upscale atmosphere. The restaurant is located at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay and overlooks the bay and the mangrove islands.

The menu at Oystercatchers features a wide range of seafood dishes, including fresh oysters, crab cakes, lobster tails, and grilled fish. The restaurant also offers non-seafood options, such as steak and chicken, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options.

The atmosphere at Oystercatchers is elegant and sophisticated, with a focus on natural elements that reflect the beauty of the surrounding bay and islands. The restaurant features an open-air dining room, a covered patio, and a private dining room that can accommodate up to 40 guests.

Oystercatchers is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it also offers a Sunday brunch buffet. The restaurant has won several awards and accolades, including being named one of the “Top 100 Best Al Fresco Dining Restaurants in America” by OpenTable.

Try Peruvian foods at Happy Fish Tampa Authentic Peruvian Cuisine

Happy Fish Tampa is a Peruvian restaurant located in Tampa, Florida, that is known for its authentic Peruvian cuisine and casual atmosphere. The restaurant is owned and operated by a Peruvian family who are dedicated to bringing the flavors of Peru to Tampa.

The menu at Happy Fish Tampa features a variety of Peruvian dishes, including ceviche, lomo saltado, arroz con pollo, and papa a la huancaína. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of Peruvian desserts and drinks.

The atmosphere at Happy Fish Tampa is casual and welcoming, with bright colors and Peruvian decorations. The restaurant also features a small outdoor patio area for dining al fresco.

Happy Fish Tampa is open for lunch and dinner, and it also offers takeout and catering services. The restaurant has received numerous positive reviews for its delicious food, friendly service, and affordable prices.

Wild dolphins

Wild dolphins can be spotted in the waters around Tampa, Florida, particularly in the Tampa Bay area. While it is possible to see dolphins from the shore, one of the best ways to see them up close is by taking a dolphin watching tour.

Several tour companies in the Tampa area offer dolphin watching tours, including the Dolphin Quest Tour, the Dolphin Racer Speedboat Tour, and the Dolphin Watch Nature Sightseeing Cruise. These tours typically last 1-2 hours and take visitors out into the bay or along the Gulf of Mexico to see dolphins in their natural habitat.

During the tour, visitors may see dolphins swimming, jumping, and playing in the water. The tour guides are typically knowledgeable about the local dolphin population and can provide information about their behavior and habitat.

It’s important to note that while dolphins are wild animals, they are protected by federal law, and it is illegal to harass or feed them. Visitors on a dolphin watching tour should keep a safe distance from the dolphins and follow the guidelines provided by their tour guide.

Several major cruise lines operate out of Port Tampa Bay, including:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Offers a variety of Caribbean and Mexico itineraries.
• Royal Caribbean International: Offers a variety of Caribbean and Mexico itineraries.
• Holland America Line: Offers a variety of Caribbean and Mexico itineraries.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers a variety of Caribbean and Mexico itineraries.
• Celebrity Cruises: Offers a variety of Caribbean and Mexico itineraries.
• Princess Cruises: Offers a variety of Caribbean and Mexico itineraries.

Henry B. Plant Museum

The Henry B. Plant Museum is a historic museum located in Tampa, Florida, on the campus of the University of Tampa. The museum is housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel, which was built in 1891 by railroad magnate Henry B. Plant.

The Tampa Bay Hotel was one of the grandest hotels of its time, with over 500 rooms, 13 elevators, and state-of-the-art amenities like electricity and air conditioning. Today, the hotel has been restored and transformed into the Henry B. Plant Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Gilded Age in Florida.

The museum features a variety of exhibits, including original furnishings, art, and artifacts from the hotel, as well as exhibits on the history of the hotel and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the hotel’s grand public spaces, including the grand lobby, the music room, and the dining room, as well as the guest rooms and suites.

The Henry B. Plant Museum also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and children’s activities. The museum is open daily, and admission fees vary depending on age and membership status.