18 Best Things to Do in Tampa

Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city with a mix of history and modern attractions that captivate residents and visitors alike. This city offers various activities that cater to varied interests, from exploring cultural landmarks to enjoying outdoor adventures.

Discover the best experiences in Tampa and uncover what makes this city a must-visit destination for everyone. Whether enjoying a scenic walk, tasting local cuisine, or exploring diverse neighborhoods, Tampa has something memorable for every traveler.

Tampa Riverwalk

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Stretching 2.4 miles along the Hillsborough River, the Tampa Riverwalk offers a blend of nature and urban excitement. Visitors can stroll, bike, or even glide on a Segway while enjoying the stunning views. At Mile Marker 2.4, food lovers find Ulele, where they can savor dishes inspired by native Floridian flavors. Outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy a meal with a river view.

As visitors continue, they can explore various parks and museums. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park hosts events and offers playgrounds for kids. Nearby, the Straz Center and the Tampa Museum of Art provide cultural experiences. Live music, street performers, and public art add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a thrilling destination full of excitement and wonder. The park is renowned for its jaw-dropping roller coasters like Iron Gwazi, which promises an adrenaline rush with steep drops and speed.

For animal lovers, the park offers close-up encounters with exotic animals, making it a unique blend of zoo and amusement park. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy live shows and captivating performances that entertain all ages. The lush gardens and beautiful landscaping provide a serene setting amidst the thrill, creating a perfect backdrop for a full day of adventure and exploration.

The Florida Aquarium

Our Rating: 9.1/10

The Florida Aquarium offers an incredible journey into underwater ecosystems. Visitors can explore various marine life through vibrant exhibits showcasing thousands of sea creatures. For those seeking interactive experiences, don’t miss the chance to engage in live animal encounters. The immersive children’s area is packed with fun and educational activities suitable for families.

Catch a screening in the 4D theater, where educational films bring the ocean to life with captivating visuals and effects. This attraction promises an exciting day for all ages, making it a must-visit on any Tampa itinerary.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Our Rating: 8.9/10

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a vibrant destination for families and animal enthusiasts. Visitors can explore lush, natural habitats home to diverse wildlife, from playful orangutans to majestic manatees. There’s plenty to see and learn.

Guests enjoy engaging experiences like feeding giraffes or riding the kid-friendly Expedition Africa. Weekend evenings in the fall offer Creatures of the Night, ideal for families. Here, adventure awaits at every turn.

Armature Works

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Armature Works, nestled in Tampa Heights, quickly became a beloved spot for locals and visitors. This vibrant marketplace offers an exciting mix of dining options, from mouth-watering local food trucks to various international cuisines like Chinese and American barbecue.

Guests will find live music performances that create a lively atmosphere on the front lawn. Full-service bars provide refreshing beverages, perfect for enjoying the warm Tampa evenings. People can also explore nearby parks, making it a fantastic destination for a fun-filled day.

Ybor City Historic District

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Ybor City Historic District is a vibrant neighborhood filled with culture and history. Visitors can relish riding the historic TECO Line Streetcar, which connects Ybor with the Channelside District and Downtown Tampa. It’s a fun and scenic way to explore parts of the city.

At the heart of Ybor, the Ybor City Museum State Park invites exploration. Housed in an old bakery, this museum allows visitors to step back in time and learn about the area’s past as a hub for cigar manufacturing. Stroll through colorful streets to find unique shops, lively cafes, and diverse restaurants that reflect the neighborhood’s rich cultural blend.

Henry B. Plant Museum

Our Rating: 8.8/10

The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa offers a captivating journey back to the Gilded Age. Visitors can explore the striking architecture of what was once the luxurious Tampa Bay Hotel, marveling at the lavish furnishings and vibrant gardens.

Inside the museum, guests can discover exhibits that highlight the opulent lifestyles of the past. They can stroll through rooms filled with period furniture and intricate décor, providing a vivid glimpse into history. The museum’s location on the picturesque University of Tampa campus adds to its charm. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, offering picturesque views and a rich lesson in Florida’s tourism history.

Tampa Museum of Art

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Tampa Museum of Art, perched on the riverfront, invites visitors with its modern design. Inside, stunning collections of Greek and Roman antiquities await discovery. Art lovers will be captivated by the mix of classical and contemporary exhibits.

After exploring the galleries, guests can relax in the peaceful sculpture garden. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the scenic river views and reflect on the art. Adjacent to the museum, Sono Cafe serves creamy gelato, providing a delightful treat. The museum shop offers unique souvenirs, making it an ideal end to a visit.

Tampa Bay History Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Tampa Bay History Center on the waterfront offers visitors a lively journey through 12,000 years of local history. It highlights interactive exhibits that engage everyone.

Guests can discover Seminole artifacts and learn about Spanish explorers. Over 1,000 historical items bring life to a 1920s cigar store. Perfect for history buffs and families!

Big Cat Rescue

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Big Cat Rescue is a must-visit for animal lovers and adventure seekers. This sanctuary offers a unique chance to encounter majestic felines like tigers and lions up close. Visitors can explore and engage in guided tours to learn about these fantastic creatures and efforts to protect them.

Each tour is not just educational but also thrilling. Witness the cats’ majestic strides and hear their mighty roars echoing through the sanctuary. The guided experience offers enriching insights into their lives and conservation work aimed at ending the private trade of exotic cats.

Amalie Arena

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Amalie Arena is the heartbeat of Tampa’s vibrant entertainment scene. Known for its electrifying events, it hosts everything from thrilling hockey matches to dazzling concerts by top artists. Visitors are drawn to the venue not only for the events but also for the energetic atmosphere.

A short walk from the arena, lively sports bars and restaurants offer exciting pre- and post-event experiences. Places like Splitsville entertain with bowling and dining, while Yard House tempts with its extensive beer selection. Whether catching a game or enjoying a meal, the area around Amalie Arena buzzes with energy and excitement, making it a must-visit spot.

Raymond James Stadium

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Raymond James Stadium is a beacon for sports fans and concert lovers. Known for hosting thrilling NFL games of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the stadium offers an unforgettable atmosphere with cheering crowds and an electrifying vibe.

Beyond football, catch world-class concerts from top artists. The mix of genres draws fans from all over. The state-of-the-art sound system and massive video screens ensure an immersive experience for every seat. For a touch of history, visitors can explore the Buccaneers’ pirate ship during game days. The ship offers a unique view and photo opportunities. It’s not just a venue; it’s an experience waiting to be embraced.

Glazer Children’s Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa is a wonderland for kids of all ages. With its interactive exhibits, children can immerse themselves in playful learning experiences. They can pretend to be a firefighter, cook in a play kitchen, or even run a mini grocery store.

Each corner of the museum sparks curiosity and creativity. Visiting families will find rotating traveling exhibits that add a fresh twist to every visit. Every experience here is designed to captivate young imaginations and make learning an adventure.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a lively hotspot perfect for families and friends. Nestled alongside the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk, it offers stunning views and ample space for relaxation.

Visitors enjoy the modern playground, which is a hit with kids. Splash pads offer a rejuvenating escape from the Florida heat. The park often hosts events ranging from music festivals to yoga sessions on the Great Lawn. Dog lovers can bring their furry babies to the dedicated dog run. With its urban design and eco-friendly features, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a must-see destination in the city.

Adventure Island

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Adventure Island is the perfect spot for a family-friendly day filled with excitement. Visitors can experience thrilling water slides that twist and turn at incredible speeds. The lazy river offers a relaxing ride, gently floating guests through colorful landscapes.

Kids can enjoy splash areas designed just for them, filled with fountains and mini slides. Cabanas provide a comfortable spot to unwind for those seeking a break from the action. This tropical water park is an oasis of fun under the Florida sun.

Lettuce Lake Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled along the Hillsborough River, Lettuce Lake Park offers a serene escape. Visitors can explore a winding boardwalk bordered by lush swamp forests. Canoe and kayak rentals provide an exciting way to navigate the calm waters, offering a close-up view of Florida’s natural beauty.

Families will enjoy the playground and picnic areas, perfect for a sunny day. Biking and jogging enthusiasts can take advantage of the paved paths that stretch through the park. A visit to the Nature Center reveals fascinating insights into the local ecosystem and wildlife. Whether paddling through the river or strolling under the canopy of trees, Lettuce Lake Park promises a refreshing outdoor adventure.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival

Our Rating: 9.2/10

Gasparilla Pirate Festival is a swashbuckling delight. Every year, the city comes alive with vibrant costumes and the thrilling atmosphere of a pirate invasion. As pirate ships sail into Tampa Bay, spectators are treated to an exciting spectacle of cannon fire and colorful flags.

The highlight of the event is the Parade of Pirates. With floats, music, and lively performers, this parade draws crowds who eagerly gather to catch beads and treasures. Families, friends, and visitors can enjoy the fun along the parade route, enjoying a day filled with laughter and excitement. Gasparilla offers an unforgettable blend of history, excitement, and entertainment for all ages.

J.C. Newman Cigar Company

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled in Tampa’s historic Ybor City, the J.C. Newman Cigar Company invites visitors to explore the rich heritage of cigar making. Guests can tour the iconic El Reloj factory, built in 1910. It remains the last operational cigar factory in Cigar City.

Visitors can learn about the intricate process of crafting premium cigars. The experience includes a smoking class, where they can savor different tobacco varieties. Enthusiasts can enjoy a selection of single-leaf puritos, enhancing their cigar expertise. The three-level cigar museum showcases films and exhibits, adding depth to the cigar-making journey. This blend of history and craftsmanship makes the J.C. Newman Cigar Company a must-visit.

Tampa offers diverse activities that cater to every taste, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker. Explore these top spots to experience this dynamic city’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty.