50 Best Things to do in Tampa!

Welcome to Tampa in Florida, a vibrant city bursting with exciting attractions and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Tampa has something for all visitors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Tampa, ensuring you have an unforgettable visit to this Sunshine State gem during your visit to Florida.

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1. Historic Attractions

Henry B. Plant Museum

The Henry B. Plant Museum is housed in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel, a grand structure built in the late 1800s by railroad magnate Henry B. Plant. The museum preserves the elegance of the Gilded Age, showcasing original furnishings, artifacts, and stories from the hotel’s past. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the luxurious lifestyle of early travelers and the hotel’s role in the Spanish-American War when it served as a military headquarters. Visitors can use a self-guided audio tour to explore its history and Florida’s early tourism industry at their own pace, allowing for a personalized experience.

Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center showcases the region’s rich past through interactive displays and artifacts. It covers 12,000 years of history, including indigenous cultures, Spanish explorers and Tampa’s cigar industry, which shaped the city’s economy. It features exhibits showcasing maritime heritage, Florida’s cattle ranching traditions, and the lives of early settlers. The Treasure Seekers exhibit highlights conquistadors, shipwrecks and pirate lore, making it one of the museum’s intriguing sections. Exhibits focus on Tampa’s role in Florida’s growth, highlighting industries that shaped the state over time.

Fort Foster State Historic Site

The Fort Foster State Historic Site is a reconstructed fort from the Second Seminole War, originally built in 1836 by Colonel William S. Foster and his troops, the fort was meant to protect a key bridge crossing and it serve as a supply point for soldiers in the field. Today, visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history through guided tours and special events. The site hosts living-history demonstrations, where re-enactors showcase life at the fort, including military drills and daily routines. The nearby Interpretive Center displays over 100 artifacts found at the site, offering deep insights for visitors.

Tampa Firefighters Museum

Housed in a historic fire station built in 1911, Tampa Firefighters Museum served the city for years before being transformed into a space for learning and exploration. The museum showcases firefighting equipment, uniforms and memorabilia, giving visitors a look at how firefighting has changed over time. It also highlights the bravery and dedication of firefighters who have protected the community. One of the key exhibits includes old fire trucks and tools used in past decades. The museum also focuses on fire safety education, helping visitors understand how to prevent fires and stay safe.

Old Hillsborough County Courthouse

The Old Hillsborough County Courthouse was built in 1892 and served as the county’s main courthouse for many years. Architect John A. Wood designed the building with Moorish-inspired architecture, featuring domes resembling those seen at the Tampa Bay Hotel. The courthouse played an important role in the city’s legal history, handling various cases and government functions. As the years passed, the building leads to its demolition in 1953 to make room for a modern courthouse. Today, the site is part of Tampa’s evolving downtown landscape, with modern buildings replacing the old structure.

Ybor City Historic District

In the late 1800s, Vicente Martinez-Ybor, a Spanish businessman, relocated his cigar factories to Tampa, establishing what would become Ybor City Historic District. The area attracted Cuban, Italian and Spanish immigrants, many of whom found work in the cigar industry, influencing the neighborhood’s culture. At its peak, Ybor City earned the nickname “Cigar Capital of the World,” with factories producing millions of cigars annually, making it a major center for cigar manufacturing. The Ybor City Museum State Park showcases the district’s history, including the role of immigrants in shaping the region.

2. Outdoor Activities

Boating & Sailing Tours

Tampa offers a variety of boating and sailing tours, allowing visitors to explore the waters in different ways. Tampa Bay Fun Boat provides scenic cruises from downtown Tampa, offering views of famous homes and wildlife, including dolphins. Boat Life Tampa Charters specializes in private boat rentals, fishing trips and dockside experiences, making it easy for guests to enjoy the water. Pirate Water Taxi provides high-end boat tours in Tampa, allowing guests to relax while exploring the coastline. Staying Afloat Party Boat is a fun option for private group tours, perfect for celebrations and casual outings.

Cycling on Bayshore Boulevard

The Bayshore Boulevard is one of Tampa’s most popular spots for cycling, offering a long, uninterrupted pathway along the waterfront with scenic views of Tampa Bay. It features one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the country, making it a favorite among cyclists, joggers and walkers. As cyclists ride along, they can see historic homes, the downtown skyline, and boats moving across the bay. The boulevard is well-maintained, with designated bike lanes that provide space for safe riding. Along the way, riders will find benches, shaded spots, and small parks to take a break and enjoy the view.

Kayaking & Canoeing

Tampa has many great spots for kayaking and canoeing, offering scenic views and wildlife encounters. Sharkey’s Water Sports provides rentals and lessons at locations like Clearwater Beach and Safety Harbor, making it easy for beginners to get started. ECOmersion Kayak & SUP Rentals takes paddlers through natural areas where they might see dolphins, manatees and birds. Linda’s Kayak Rentals is a local favorite that provides access to Tampa’s waterways without needing personal equipment. More experienced kayakers can take some longer tours through mangrove tunnels and hidden springs.

Skydive City Zephyrhills, Parachute Center

The Skydive City in Zephyrhills is a popular skydiving center located about 45 minutes northeast of Tampa, offering thrilling experiences for jumpers. It has been a top destination for over 30 years, attracting visitors from around the world. First-time jumpers can try tandem skydiving, diving from 13,500 feet with an instructor before deploying the parachute. Those looking to advance can take Accelerated Freefall (AFF) training, which helps build skills for solo jumps. Special events like photo and video packages take place throughout the year, drawing skydivers for competitions and social gatherings.

Croc Encounters

The Croc Encounters is a nonprofit reptile sanctuary in Tampa, dedicated to rescuing unwanted reptiles and educating visitors about these fascinating animals. The facility provides a safe home for alligators, crocodiles, snakes, lizards and turtles, offering guests a chance to learn about them up close. Guided tours allow visitors to explore different species, their natural habitats, and behaviors, while interactive experiences let them safely observe and even feed some of the reptiles. Visitors can join birthday celebrations and educational field trips, providing an interactive way to learn about the animals.

Picnic Island Park

The Picnic Island Park is a peaceful waterfront location that offers a sandy beach where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery, along with a dedicated dog beach where pets can roam and play. A boat ramp and fishing pier provide easy access to the water, making it a great place for fishing or boating. There is a disc golf course for those who enjoy outdoor sports, along with a sand volleyball court. Picnic shelters come equipped with tables and grills, creating a perfect setting for family gatherings and group outings. Canoe and kayak launches allow visitors to explore the water and enjoy the outdoors.

Golfing Courses

Established in 1916, Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club holds the name of being Tampa’s oldest private golf club, recognized for its well-maintained layouts. Rogers Park Golf Course is a public course managed by the Tampa Sports Authority, providing an accessible option for golfers looking for a relaxed yet challenging experience. Rocky Point Golf Course, established in 1911, has a unique history, as it was once used by the military during World War II before being restored as a golf course. Countryway Golf Club offers an 18-hole course with a welcoming space for families and players of all skill levels.

Upper Tampa Bay Trail

The Upper Tampa Bay Trail is a paved scenic route that provides an outdoor experience for cyclists, walkers and runners. Stretching over 7.25 miles, the trail follows an old railroad corridor and runs alongside the Channel A canal, providing water views. It has multiple access points, including trailheads at Memorial Highway, Channel Park, Wilsky Boulevard, Ehrlich Road, Peterson Park and Lutz Lake Fern Road. The trail connects to the Suncoast Trail, allowing for longer rides and extended exploration. Along the way, visitors can enjoy shaded sections, open green spaces, and occasional wildlife sightings.

Cypress Point Park

The Cypress Point Park is a peaceful waterfront space that features a white sand beach with stunning views of Tampa Bay, making it a great spot to relax and watch the sunset. Walking trails passing through shaded areas, providing a quiet escape from the city. Visitors can make use of the playground, a sand volleyball court, or try out the well-kept disc golf course with clearly marked tee pads. Picnic shelters equipped with grills and tables provide a great spot for group outings. A self-service rental station offers stand-up paddleboards, allowing guests to explore the bay and spot occasional dolphins.

Ballast Point Park

The Ballast Point Park is a relaxing waterfront spot with beautiful views of Hillsborough Bay and downtown Tampa. Established in 1894, it is one of the oldest parks in the area and remains a popular destination for locals and visitors. The 600 foot fishing pier has long been a favorite for anglers and sightseers. Visitors can launch their boats from the ramp, making it easy to head out and explore the bay’s waters. Families can enjoy the splash pad, open grassy areas, and picnic spots scattered throughout the park. Some picnic shelters can be reserved, while others are available on a first-come basis.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Tampa Museum of Art

The Tampa Museum of Art stands as a key cultural destination, showcasing a range of artwork spanning ancient, modern and contemporary styles. It holds an extensive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, making it one of the largest in the southeastern U.S. Visitors can explore exhibits that feature sculptures, paintings and photography. Visitors can explore exhibits, including works from American Impressionists and Cuban artists, giving insight into different artistic styles and historical influences. Guests can enjoy guided tours, which provide deeper insights into the collections and featured artists.

Museum of Science & Industry

The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) is an interactive science center designed to make learning fun through hands-on exhibits and activities. Located in North Tampa near the University of South Florida, MOSI features over 100 experiences related to science, technology, engineering, art and math. Guests can explore space through the NASA-funded Mission: Moonbase, test their balance on the Sky Trail® ropes course, and view stars in the Saunders Planetarium.

The museum also offers exhibits like the bed of nails, optical illusions and brain puzzles, encouraging curiosity and problem-solving. The Dinovations Lab introduces visitors to prehistoric creatures, while workshops and summer camps provide learning opportunities. MOSI hosts science nights and special events throughout the year, making it a great spot for families and students. The space and astronaut exhibits appeal to those interested in space exploration, while engineering-based activities encourage problem-solving skills.

American Victory Ship & Museum

Docked at 705 Channelside Drive, American Victory Ship & Museum is a historic World War II cargo ship, that played a vital role in World War II, Korea and Vietnam, transporting troops and supplies across the ocean. Today, it serves as a museum where guests can tour nine decks, including crew quarters, the wheelhouse, cargo holds, and mess halls. Exhibits feature rare artifacts, medals and photographs, offering insight into the lives of merchant mariners and military personnel. The museum also hosts guided tours, special events, and occasional cruises, allowing guests to see the ship in action.

Tampa Theatre

Built in 1926, Tampa Theatre is a historic movie palace, designed as an atmospheric theater, featuring a Mediterranean-style courtyard, old-world statues, and a ceiling that mimics a night sky with twinkling stars. The theater was one of the first buildings in Tampa to have air conditioning, making it a popular spot for moviegoers at the time. Over the years, it has hosted a variety of films, concerts and special events, becoming a beloved cultural landmark. Today, visitors can enjoy classic and independent films, live performances, and guided tours that showcase its unique design and history of the theatre.

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting important photographic works. It originally opened in 2001 as the Tampa Gallery of Photographic Arts before being renamed in 2006. In 2023, the museum moved to the historic Kress Building in Ybor City, providing a fresh space for exhibitions and community programs. It showcases both historic and contemporary photography, featuring works from worldwide recognized artists. One of its key programs, Children’s Literacy Through Photography, helps young learners develop their storytelling skills through images.

Epperson Lagoon

Nearby Tampa, Epperson Lagoon is a 7.5 acres tropical water attraction, known as Florida’s first Crystal Lagoon, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure for visitors. The lagoon offers sandy beach shores, crystal-clear waters and a range of activities like kayaking, swimming, paddleboarding, and a floating obstacle course for visitors to enjoy. A 30 foot waterslide adds excitement, while a swim-up bar provides refreshing drinks throughout the day. Guests can rent private cabanas for a shaded and exclusive experience, while events such as foam parties, movie nights, and live music create a lively vibe.

Straz Center for the Performing Arts

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is a major cultural venue in Tampa, offering a variety of live performances throughout the year. Opened for the public in 1987 under the name Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, later changing to its current name in 2009. The venue includes five distinct theaters, with Carol Morsani Hall being the largest and seats more than 2,600 guests. The venue hosts Broadway shows, concerts, opera, ballet and comedy performances, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The center plays a key role in Tampa’s arts scene, providing entertainment for the community.

Tampa Convention Center

Located along the Hillsborough River, Tampa Convention Center is a large event space, offering 600,000 square feet of flexible meeting areas. The center has a spacious 200,000 square-foot exhibit hall, 52 meeting rooms and a 36,000 square-foot ballroom, providing a versatile space for trade shows, business events and large gatherings. The facility hosts over 100 events per year, including business conventions, entertainment expos, and community gatherings. Originally built on the site of Fort Brooke, a historic military outpost, the center opened in 1990 after a $140 million construction project.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Glazer Children’s Museum

The Glazer Children’s Museum is a lively and engaging place created for kids and families to explore and learn together. It offers hands-on exhibits that make learning fun, covering subjects like art, science and practical life skills. The museum includes themed spaces such as a pretend firefighter station and a water play area, allowing kids to experience real-world exhibits in an interactive way. Children can participate in hands-on activities that improve problem-solving abilities and encourage creativity. The museum’s mission is to create engaging play experiences that support learning and development.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

The ZooTampa at Lowry Park providing visitors a chance to see a variety of animals while learning about conservation efforts. Covering 63 acres, the zoo is home to more than 1,300 animals, including Florida panthers, manatees, primates and exotic birds. Visitors can explore themed sections like Expedition Wild Africa, Asian Gardens, and the Florida Wildlife Center. The zoo offers interactive animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, giving guests unique opportunities to learn about wildlife. Special events like Creatures of the Night and Christmas in the Wild provide special activities for families.

The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a popular destination in Tampa, featuring a variety of exhibits showcasing animals from Florida and beyond. One of its highlights is the Wetlands of Florida habitat, where guests can see river otters, alligators, and native fish in a free-flying bird aviary. The Coral Reef Gallery features a massive 500,000 gallon tank that provides visitors with an up-close view of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, sharks and barracudas.

Guests can enjoy interactive experiences like Moon Bay, Stingray Touch and No Bone Zone, where they can safely learn about different sea creatures. The aquarium also offers unique programs like SeaTREK, an underwater walking tour, and the Wild Dolphin Cruise, which takes guests into Tampa Bay to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. The MORPH’D exhibit highlights animals with unique adaptations, such as electric eels and four-eyed fish, showcasing various species in their natural habitat.

The Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offering a mix of thrilling rides and animal experiences across its 335 acres African-themed setting. Opened in 1959, it has grown into one of Florida’s top attractions, featuring nine roller co asters, including SheiKra, which has a 200 foot drop, and Cheetah Hunt, a high-speed ride that mimics a cheetah’s movements. Animal exhibits showcase giraffes, elephants, exotic birds, with interactive experiences allowing guests to get closer to the animals. Events like Summer Nights and Christmas Town bring special decorations, themed performances, and holiday celebrations.

Adventure Island

The Adventure Island is a 30 acres water park offering a mix of thrilling rides and attractions for visitors. It features high-speed slides like Colossal Curl, which creates a weightless feeling with its twists and turns. The park has family-friendly areas with splash zones and smaller slides designed for kids. A large wave pool and a lazy river provide a relaxing experience for those looking to cool off without the excitement of steep drops. Private cabana rentals offer shades, making it easier to take breaks throughout the day. Events like AquaGlow bring nighttime entertainment with music, lights, and laser displays.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

The Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park offering a mix of open green areas, scenic river views and events. Covering 8 acres, the park sits along the Hillsborough River and connects to the Tampa Riverwalk, making it a great spot for walking and outdoor activities. The Great Lawn provides space for festivals and concerts, while the sloped terraces offer seating with views of the water. The boat dock and Pirate Water Taxi stop give visitors easy access to the river, offering a unique way to explore the city. Events like food festivals, music performances, and seasonal celebrations bring people together year-round.

The Great Escape Room Tampa

The Great Escape Room Tampa is an interactive escape game, offering a mix of scavenger hunt and puzzle-solving challenges. Teams of up to 10 players are locked in a themed room and must work together to solve clues and escape within 60 minutes. The venue features multiple escape rooms with different themes, including The Haunted Hotel, Poker Night at the President’s Bunker, and Escape the Colosseum, each designed to test problem-solving skills and teamwork. The experience is ideal for team-building events and birthday parties, making it a popular for groups looking for a fun indoor activity.

Water Works Park

The Water Works Park is a scenic riverfront destination featuring open green spaces, shaded picnic areas, and a playground, making it a great spot for families and visitors. Located at 1710 N Highland Ave, the park offers beautiful views of the Hillsborough River and connects directly to the Tampa Riverwalk, providing a perfect place for a relaxing walk. A splash pad allows kids to cool off, while the amphitheater hosts small concerts and community events throughout the year. Visitors can also access the park by boat using the Water Taxi Stop, making it easy to travel to and from downtown Tampa.

TGH Ice Plex

The TGH Ice Plex is a large ice facility with two rinks in Tampa, providing opportunities for hockey, skating and figure skating lessons for all skill levels. It has been serving the community since 1997, providing a space for both recreational and competitive skating. The rink hosts public skating sessions, allowing visitors to enjoy the ice without needing prior experience. Hockey leagues are available for youth and adults, with training programs designed to improve skills and gameplay. The rink is home to Lightning Made Learn to Play, a program that introduces beginners to hockey in an indoor setting.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

The Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is an exciting indoor destination offering a variety of activities including trampoline zones, climbing walls, bumper cars, and a ropes course. The Sky Rider Indoor Zipline lets guests glide across the park for a thrilling experience, while dodgeball courts and slam dunk zones allow visitors to test their skills while bouncing on trampolines. The Warrior Course and Wipeout challenge provide obstacle-based entertainment that encourages teamwork and agility. Families can book birthday parties and private events, making it a popular venue for celebrations.

Brandon Crossroads Bowl

The Brandon Crossroads Bowl is a popular bowling center, featuring 40 bowling lanes, an arcade, and a billiards area. It provides a lively atmosphere for casual outings, birthday parties, and league competitions. The BCB Pub and Grill serves food and drinks, allowing visitors to take a break between games. Visitors can join leagues or take part in cosmic bowling, where dimmed lights and lively music create a thrilling atmosphere for a fun-filled game. The facility hosts private events and group gatherings, while arcade games and billiards add to the entertainment options, ensuring guests have plenty to do.

5. Natural Attractions

USF Botanical Gardens

Established in 1969, USF Botanical Gardens is a 15 acres green space, originally served as a research and education center but has since become a popular destination for nature lovers. The gardens features a large collection of over 3,000 plant species, featuring orchids, cycads, and various medicinal plants. Visitors can explore themed areas showcasing fruit trees and Florida-native vegetation while walking along a one mile nature trail that leads through wooded spaces. Seasonal festivals, plant sales, and workshops, including beekeeping and gardening classes, provide hands-on learning experiences.

Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk stretches 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River, providing a scenic route that links several key spots in Tampa. Visitors can walk, bike, or take a scooter while passing landmarks like the Tampa Museum of Art, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, and the Tampa Bay History Center. The route is lined with restaurants and bars, providing plenty of options to relax and enjoy river views. The path is well-maintained with rest stops where visitors can watch boats and kayakers pass by. Seasonal events like food festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations making the area a lively destination.

Hillsborough River State Park

Covering 3,383 acres, Hillsborough River State Park offers a mix of nature trails, wildlife viewing, and water activities. One of its highlights is the Class II river rapids, which are rare in Florida and provide a scenic backdrop for hiking and paddling. Visitors can explore 7 miles of trails, including the Wetlands Restoration Nature Trail, which passes through diverse ecosystems. Camping is a popular activity, with 112 campsites featuring water and electricity hookups, along with primitive group camping options. Kayaking are available along the Hillsborough River, with rental stations providing access to the water.

Lettuce Lake Park

The Lettuce Lake Park is a 240 acres nature preserve, offering visitors a scenic escape with trails and wildlife viewing. A 3,500 foot boardwalk passing through wetlands, cypress domes and hardwood forests, offering visitors a chance to spot alligators in their natural habitat. The observation tower along the boardwalk offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape. A 1.25 mile paved exercise trail runs through the park, making it a great spot for jogging or walking. The Audubon Resource Center, inside the visitor center, provides educational exhibits about local ecosystems and wildlife.

Eureka Springs Park

Established in 1938 by botanist Albert Greenburg, Eureka Springs Park started as a private garden featuring rare tropical plants. In 1967, Greenburg gifted the land to Hillsborough County, establishing it as the only botanical garden within the county’s park network. Covering 31 acres, the park has a variety of plant life, including the largest publicly owned collection of ferns in Florida. Visitors can explore the rose garden, orchid room, and greenhouse, which showcase different plant species. Interpretive trails provide educational signs about the region, helping visitors learn about Florida’s local ecosystem.

Ybor City Museum State Park

The Ybor City Museum State Park highlights the cigar industry, which played a major role in shaping Ybor City, earning it the nickname “Cigar Capital of the World”. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the lives of early immigrants who worked in cigar factories and built the neighborhood’s unique culture. The museum has self-guided tours, allowing guests to learn about the area’s history through displays, photographs, and artifacts. The ornamental garden provides a space to relax, and guided tours of restored casitas (small homes of cigar workers) offer insight into daily life in the early 1900s.

Brooker Creek Headwaters Nature Preserve

The Brooker Creek Headwaters Nature Preserve is a 1,121 acres of protected area featuring wetlands, pine forests, and grassy meadows. The preserve serves as the starting point for Brooker Creek, a water way that eventually makes its way to Lake Tarpon. A 4.3 miles hiking trail leads through oak hammocks, cypress swamps and fields, with three connection points to the Upper Tampa Bay Trail. Visitors can explore the landscape while spotting native wildlife and birds. Seasonal flooding can impact certain trails, especially during rainy months, so checking conditions before visiting is recommended.

Weedon Island Preserve

The Weedon Island Preserve is a 3,190 acres natural area on Tampa Bay, and is known for its mix of aquatic and upland ecosystems, offering guided tours for visitors to explore Florida’s coastal environment. The preserve has boardwalks and trails that passes through mangrove forests, providing great opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The South Paddling Trail, a 4 miles self-guided canoe and kayak route, takes guests through mangrove tunnels and open waterways. The Cultural and Natural History Center features exhibits on the area’s Indigenous history, archaeology, and local wildlife.

Flatwoods Park

The Flatwoods Park is a great outdoor space for biking, hiking, and nature walks, offering visitors a mix of paved and off-road trails within the Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve. The park has 7 miles paved loop that is popular with cyclists and runners, providing a smooth ride with multiple rest stops and water kiosks along the route. A paved 2 miles path links the loop to Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, providing easy access for visitors traveling from various locations. Off-road bike trails passes through forested areas, offering a rugged experience for those looking to explore beyond the main path.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Clearwater

Start a day trip from Tampa and drive about 45 minutes to reach Clearwater, offers a great way to experience Florida’s Gulf Coast. Clearwater Beach is the main attraction, known for its soft white sand and clear blue water. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim, or take part in water activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. The Pier 60 Sunset Celebration is a lively event where visitors can shop goods from local vendors, watch street performers, and enjoy sunset views. Boat tours are a popular way to explore the area, with options like dolphin-watching cruises and sunset sailing trips.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Planning a day trip to Weeki Wachee Springs State Park takes about an hour drive from Tampa. The park is famous for its crystal-clear springs, live mermaid shows, and the scenic Weeki Wachee River, where visitors can kayak or paddleboard. Buccaneer Bay, the spring-fed water park, offers slides and swimming areas for family fun. The iconic mermaid performances, a tradition since 1947, take place in an underwater theater where guests can watch swimmers gracefully perform in the spring. The park also features picnic areas, nature trails, and boat tours, providing unique ways to explore the region.

Fort De Soto Park

Located 45 minutes from Tampa, Fort De Soto Park spans 1,136 acres across five linked islands and well-known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and outdoor activities. Visitors can relax on North Beach, which has been ranked among the best beaches in the U.S. The park offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, with rental options available for those who want to explore the water. The Fort De Soto Historic Site features remnants of a military fort from the late 19th century, providing insight into the area’s past. Camping is available, with 238 sites offering amenities like electricity and water hookups.

Alafia River State Park

From Tampa, a day trip to Alafia River State Park takes about 30 minutes drive, and offers a great way to enjoy outdoor activities. Covering 6,000 acres, the park is known for its mountain biking trails, which were built on former phosphate mining land, creating steep hills and unique terrain. Visitors can explore hiking trails, including the Old Agrico Trail, which leads through forests and wetlands. The Alafia River runs through the park, gives a chance for kayaking and canoeing, with rental options available nearby. Horseback riding is available, with equestrian trails designed for riders of different skill levels.

Anna Maria Island

A day trip to Anna Maria Island takes around 1.5 hours drive from Tampa, with scenic views along the way. One of the best spots to visit is Bean Point, offering stunning views where Tampa Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico. The island is home to three towns — Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach, each has a variety of restaurants, shops and beachfront spots for visitors to enjoy. The Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum provides insight into the island’s past, with exhibits on early settlers. For outdoor activities, kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing are popular, with rental options available.

Honeymoon Island State Park

Planning a day trip to Honeymoon Island State Park takes about 45 minutes from Tampa, the park offers 4 miles of beaches and 3 miles of hiking trails passing through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, swim in the clear waters, or explore the Rotary Centennial Nature Center, which provides information about the island’s history and wildlife. The park is home to gopher tortoises, dolphins, manatees, osprey, and over 100 species of birds. A ferry service runs from Honeymoon Island to Caladesi Island, another beautiful and remote beach destination.

How to Reach Tampa

Tampa is easy to reach by air, road, and rail, making it a convenient destination for travelers. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is the main airport, offering direct flights to cities across the U.S. and international destinations. Nearby airports like St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) provide additional flight options. For those traveling by train, Amtrak’s Silver Star service connects Tampa to Miami and New York City, with the Tampa Union Station serving as the main rail hub.

Bus services like Greyhound, Megabus, and RedCoach operate routes to Tampa from cities across Florida and beyond. Driving to Tampa is simple, with Interstate 275 running through the city and connecting to I-75 from the north and south, and I-4 from the east. Once in Tampa, visitors can use HART buses, streetcars, and water taxis to get around the city. Renting a car is another option, offering flexibility for exploring nearby attractions.

Local Transportation

Getting around Tampa is easy with several transport options available. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) operates trolleys, streetcars and buses, offering a budget-friendly way to travel around the city. The TECO Line Streetcar connects downtown Tampa to Ybor City, making it a convenient way to explore historic areas. For those traveling from Tampa International Airport, shuttle services like Blue One Transportation and Tampa Airport Elite Shuttle offer private rides to hotels and attractions.

RedCoach Luxury Bus provides long-distance travel between major cities in Florida, offering comfortable seating and onboard amenities. Visitors can also use rideshare services, taxis, and rental cars for flexible transportation. The Pirate Water Taxi is a fun way to travel along the Hillsborough River, stopping at key locations like the Tampa Convention Center and Armature Works. Biking is another option, with Coast Bike Share stations located throughout the city.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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