Here are some of my current top recommendations for things to do around Tampa
1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
A classic spot in Tampa Bay that never disappoints, with both animal encounters and roller coasters! If you’re a local, annual passes are worth it for a few hours here and there, the annual Beer Fest, and summertime concerts.
2. Drip Ybor
Drip has an amazing vibe and offers a unique experience for the creative minds! The staff were very nice and patient, teaching our group of kids how to create their own pottery pieces. Join a class, or bring your own group. Also BYOB if you’re 21+. Make sure to stop by the iconic Columbia for lunch while you’re in Ybor.
3. The Florida Aquarium
Voted one of the best in America, the Aquarium gets better each year with new and engaging exhibits for all ages. We’ve been going here for ages.
4. Sports Games
Tampa is home to many amazing professional sports teams, lucky us! I make an attempt to go to at least one game a year for the Tampa Bay Bucs and Tampa Bay Lightning. The best part about the Lightning games is that they’re indoor! Club Seat at Bucs games are the way to go since you get to use the indoor facilities and concessions.
5. Tampa Bay Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is 2.6 miles long and has so many different types of activities along it, from beautiful parks, museums, and restaurants. We love taking our scooters and bikes to enjoy the amazing views of the Hillsborough River when the weather is nice.
6. TreeToppers
Zipline over natural Florida with friends and family. This place is perfect for a day trip, birthday parties, team building or anyone looking for outdoor adventure.
7. SkyZone or UrbanAir
While not a personal parent favorite, my kids get so excited coming to these bounce places! The great thing about them is that they’re air conditioned and the perfect way to get a couple hours of wild boy energy out!
8. Biking or walking the parks
Two favorites are Alderman Ford in Lithia and Lettuce Lake Park. Both parks offer trails, boardwalks, and playgrounds.
9. Sparkman Wharf
An open-air space with food vendors, a play area, and occasional family-friendly events. Grab food from all the vendors and catch a band playing at sundown. Don’t let the day pass without getting a few friends to help you with the Giant Ice Cream challenge at Hampton Chocolate Factory.
10. Rooftop Restaurants
Not only does Tampa have some amazing restaurants, we have great rooftop options as well! I think these make for some fun family outings or celebrations. We recently visited Casa Cami at the Current Hotel and enjoyed delicious Mexican food before exploring the small beach area. The Tampa Edition, Marriott off Water Street, and Casa Santo Stefano all have beautiful rooftop areas for your next dinner out.
11. Outdoor Dining
Water Street is lined with outdoor dining tables at Boulon and Predalina. Ulelle on the Riverwalk, or Salt Shack on the bay are two of Tampa must try restaurants with outdoor seating!
12. Breweries
Tampa is home to several breweries, and a Brewery Tour is making our bucket list. Sample flights of craft beers brewed at the unique facilities, many painted with bright street art, plus food menus. Book your tour with City Brew Tours
13. Hyde Park Village
This area is growing by the month with more options for good eats, drinks, and shopping. When the kids get bored of shopping, spend an hour monkeying around at the nearby Anderson park, then grab some popsicles at The Hyppo to cool off.
14. Hit up the beach!
You can’t talk about Tampa without mentioning the many nearby beaches. A day spent at the Don Cesar or Sandpearl is my kind of day!
15. Catch flights!
Not that you ever need to leave Tampa without checking off all the above, but TPA is the best airport to catch flights at!
