Things to do in Tampa
Tampa packs a lot into one Gulf Coast city. You can spend a morning at the Florida Aquarium, an afternoon on the Tampa Riverwalk, and an evening catchi…
Neighborhoods
Tampa packs a lot into one Gulf Coast city. You can spend a morning at the Florida Aquarium, an afternoon on the Tampa Riverwalk, and an evening catching a show at the Straz Center. The mix of family attractions, waterfront parks, and historic venues means there’s usually something worth doing, whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just looking for a new spot close to home.
For families, the big draws are Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and ZooTampa at Lowry Park, both with rides and animal encounters. Outdoors, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Water Works Park offer riverfront green space and splash pads. Food ranges from Cuban classics at La Teresita to newer spots like Armature Works, a food hall in a restored building. History buffs can tour the Henry B. Plant Museum or the American Victory Ship, and nightlife runs from live music at Crowbar to the eclectic scene at The Castle.
Frequently asked questions about Tampa
What are the best outdoor things to do in Tampa?▾
The Tampa Riverwalk is a great starting point—it’s a paved path along the water with views and easy access to parks. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park sits right on it and hosts events. For a quieter option, Lettuce Lake Park has a boardwalk, canoeing, and a fishing dock.
What can families do with kids in Tampa?▾
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and ZooTampa at Lowry Park are the biggest draws, but the Glazer Children’s Museum and Museum of Science & Innovation (MOSI) are also kid-friendly. For a wet day, Adventure Island is a water park with slides and a wave pool.
Where can I get Cuban food in Tampa?▾
La Teresita is a family-run spot that’s been serving Cuban and Spanish standards for years. It’s casual and homey, with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also find Cuban influences at places like Ulele, which focuses on native Floridian fare.
What are some historic places to visit in Tampa?▾
The Henry B. Plant Museum is a landmark building with exhibits on Florida’s early tourism. Centro Asturiano de Tampa, a 1902 Spanish social club, is on the National Register of Historic Places. The American Victory Ship is a restored WWII warship that’s now a museum.
Where can I go for live music or nightlife in Tampa?▾
Crowbar is a downtown spot for live music and DJs, while The Orpheum features independent artists. The Castle is a multilevel dance club with a Goth-to-fetish crowd, and Club Prana has different music on each floor. For comedy, Funny Bone Comedy Club is an option.
Upcoming events
“Give Thanks, Give Back” by Hanna Rachocka (Online Exhibit & Auction)
Holiday Trees Display & Auction
“Liberated Primate” by Mathew McCabe
Intermediate/Advanced Wheel Throwing
Rehearsal: Carrollwood Jukebox Big Band
Live Music
Carrollwood Market
Family Story Time
Family Story Time
Lake and Sea Curiosities
Music & More from Down Under and Beyond:: Digeridoo World Music Concert!
Exploring the World of Flags! : America's 250th Edition
Coding with Ozobots
Build Your Own Board Game
Library eBooks and Audiobooks
Rooted Learning Open House
Film Screening: Night at the Museum. Battle of the Smithsonian (PG)
Art Cards: Collage
Beehive Benefits: Honey, Pollen & Beeswax
Party Pupils Presents: Yacht House @ 1920 Ybor
Franz Mantini, piano
Nine Days
The Faint
2ND SATURDAYS-OLD SCHOOL MEETS NEW SCHOOL MUSIC
“Give Thanks, Give Back” by Hanna Rachocka (Online Exhibit & Auction)
Holiday Trees Display & Auction
Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes Due
Sunday morning Thrive Cafe
Core Groups (Sunday School)
Small Space, Big Harvest: Growing Food in Fabric Grow Bags
The Carrollwood Winds present “Roots & Rhythms”
Taste of Pride
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Things to do in Tampa
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Bulla Gastrobar Tampa
Contemporary bar with made-to-order sangrias, plus Spanish & Catalan small plates.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Large, grassy park provides fenced-in areas with drinking bowls for pets & free monthly concerts.
Florida State Fairgrounds
International Plaza and Bay Street
Indoor mall with name-brand stores & high-end designers, plus a mix of casual & upscale restaurants.
Benchmark International Arena
Huge, snazzy indoor venue hosting pro hockey & arena-football games, plus concerts & more.
Adventure Island
Thrill rides drench visitors at this outdoor water park that also offers a wave pool & lazy river.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Venerable theme park with thrill rides, African animals, live entertainment & kiddie attractions.
Bahama Breeze
Laid-back chain eatery featuring Caribbean entrees & tropical cocktails amid beachy decor.
Ulele
Rustic-chic site for native Floridian fare, with barbacoa grilling & house-brewed beers.
Armature Works
Striking mixed-use event space offering an upscale food court, bar & lounge in lofty, historic digs.
Whiskey Joe's | Tampa
Rustic hangout with a party vibe that serves casual American chow & booze right on the beach.
La Teresita Restaurant
Family-run eatery serving a menu of Cuban & Spanish standards in homey surroundings.
via Google MapsWalmart Supercenter
Columbia Restaurant
Traditional Spanish restaurant, a branch of a long-standing local chain dating back to 1905.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Celebrated zoo offering giraffe feeding, educational programs & a water play area.
Citrus Park Town Center
Keke's Breakfast Cafe
Local chain serving American breakfasts & comfort-food lunches in a modern diner with booth seating.
The Florida Aquarium
Aquarium with sharks, penguins, stingray touch tanks, a wild dolphin cruise & a water playground.
Walmart Supercenter
Dave & Buster's Tampa - Brandon
Family-friendly chain offering a sports-bar-style setting for American food & arcade games.