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Tampa is known for being a fantastic destination for families, animal lovers, and convention attendees. But even if you don’t fall into any of those categories, Tampa still has something special to offer you. This lovely city by the bay has more than just amusement parks, an aquarium, and a convention center (although Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium are still great places to visit). Tampa has a rich history, too. Did you know that Theodore Roosevelt and his Rough Riders actually made a stop here on their way to Cuba during the Spanish-American War? You’ll also discover some fascinating museums, like the Museum of Science & Industry. And let’s not forget about sports! Tampa is home to the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning. It’s also where the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team comes from, and several other major league teams choose this city as their spring training base. When you’ve explored all that Tampa has to offer, you can take a short 25-mile drive south to St. Petersburg for some upscale dining or head to Clearwater and enjoy its stunning sandy beach.
If you’re planning a trip to Tampa, the best time to go is from September to December. During these four months, hotels often offer discounted prices to attract visitors. On the other hand, May to August is the busiest period with many people visiting the area attractions, and the weather can be uncomfortably humid. If you prefer cooler temperatures, January to April is an option, but keep in mind that it may be more expensive to plan your trip during this time.
Here are some of our recommended things to do while visiting Tampa. Choose away!
During the final years of World War II, numerous ships were constructed, primarily for transporting goods. One of these ships, called the SS American Victory, was launched in May 1945. Despite being built in a remarkable 55-day timeframe, it played …
Tampa’s favorite destination for food enthusiasts and architecture lovers is the Armature Works Heights Public Market. This impressive industrial market spans 22,000 square feet and resides in a building that dates back to 1910. Originally used as a …
The beautiful Bok Tower Gardens got its name from Edward W. Bok, a talented Dutch author and humanitarian who won the prestigious Pulitzer Prize. When Bok was just a child, he moved to the United States. As he grew up and achieved success as a …
Busch Gardens is a fantastic destination to enjoy a fun-filled day under the sunny skies of Tampa. Covering 335 acres, this expansive park offers an abundance of attractions for visitors to explore. With over 200 different animal species, live …
In Florida, you can explore the fascinating world of ancient creatures that lived before cougars and birds. Dinosaur World is an exciting place where you can discover their story while encountering life-size dinosaurs all around you. This …
On the southeastern edge of downtown Tampa, you’ll find the Florida Aquarium. It’s home to over 8,000 marine animals, as confirmed by recent records. People who have been there before mention that it usually takes around three hours to explore the …
Glazer Children’s Museum If you’re visiting Tampa with young children, there’s a great place you should check out: the Glazer Children’s Museum. While Tampa offers plenty of attractions for kids, most of them are outdoor activities that can be …
The Henry B. Plant Museum is a popular destination for travelers who appreciate both its location and what it holds inside. Situated in the elegant Moorish Revival Tampa Bay Hotel on the University of Tampa campus, this museum not only preserves the …
Hillsborough River State Park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and residents in Tampa. Located approximately 20 miles northeast of downtown, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. One unique feature of …
At Legoland, you’ll find a fantastic mix of attractions all centered around the beloved Lego theme. Get ready for an exciting adventure with over 50 rides, shows, and attractions that will keep you entertained throughout your visit. If water fun is …
If you’re longing for an international safari adventure but have a limited budget for domestic travel, Safari Wilderness in Lakeland, Florida, is the perfect destination for you. Spanning over 260 acres, this extraordinary safari park is home to a …
Make sure to include a visit to the Tampa Bay History Center in your Florida itinerary if you want to delve into the state’s earliest inhabitants. Located conveniently on Tampa’s waterfront, this Smithsonian-affiliated center covers an expansive …
Explore the beautiful coastal area of Tampa by taking a boat tour around its bay. There are plenty of options to choose from, such as sunset sails, half-day trips, and dolphin cruises. If you’re already planning to visit the Florida Aquarium, make …
Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center Tampa has a treat for animal lovers who are willing to spend some money to see adorable and unique creatures. Most places like science centers, zoos, and aquariums charge an entrance fee, but there’s one …
Tampa is an excellent destination for golf enthusiasts due to its pleasant climate throughout the year. One of the top-rated golf courses in the city is TPC Tampa Bay. For over two decades, it has been the host of the PGA Tour Champions event. The …
The Hillsborough River is accompanied by the Tampa Riverwalk, a delightful 2.5-mile-long paved trail. This trail offers a variety of activities to visitors, including walking, biking, rollerblading, and admiring public art. Along the route, there …
Make sure to visit the Tampa Theatre, even if you’re not in town for a film screening or performance. This stunning venue was constructed in 1926 and was known as one of the most extravagant theaters worldwide. Renowned architect John Eberson …
Northeast of Tampa lies a charming enclave called Ybor (pronounced ee-bore), which has a rich history in coffee manufacturing and hand-rolled cigars. In the past, millions of cigars were meticulously crafted by factory workers here. Today, Ybor is a …
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a large and diverse zoo that covers nearly 60 acres. It offers various natural habitats, entertaining shows, interactive animal encounters, water play areas, and even rides for added fun. The zoo is home to a wide range of …