30 Things to Do in Tampa, Florida

Tampa invites visitors with its sunny weather, beautiful bay setting, and a vibrant mix of historic charm and modern attractions. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the city offers experiences ranging from thrilling theme parks to serene river walks, and discovering the diverse neighborhoods or relaxing in waterfront parks are just some of the fantastic free things to do in Tampa. This dynamic city provides a welcoming atmosphere perfect for exploration and relaxation.

This guide highlights 30 distinct ways to experience the best of Tampa Bay, covering everything from exciting family adventures and cultural deep dives to outdoor escapes and delicious culinary finds. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline rushes, historical insights, artistic inspiration, or simply want to soak up the Florida sunshine, prepare to uncover the unique spirit of this bustling waterfront city.

Thrills & Family Fun

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Experience thrilling roller coasters, encounter exotic animals in safari-style habitats, and enjoy live entertainment at this African-themed adventure park. Plan your day around shows and animal feedings for the full experience.

The Florida Aquarium: Explore diverse aquatic ecosystems, from Florida wetlands to coral reefs, featuring sharks, sea turtles, otters, and thousands of marine creatures. Touch tanks and the outdoor splash pad make it great for families.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park: Discover animals from Florida and around the globe in naturalistic habitats, including manatees, Florida panthers, and primates. Interactive experiences like feeding giraffes add memorable moments.

Adventure Island: Cool off during warmer months at this water park adjacent to Busch Gardens, featuring numerous water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. It offers hours of splashing fun for all ages.

Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): Engage with hands-on science exhibits exploring weather, space, technology, and the human body. The Saunders Planetarium and ropes course add extra dimensions to the visit.

Glazer Children’s Museum: Spark curiosity in kids with interactive exhibits designed for imaginative play and learning, located downtown next to Curtis Hixon Park. It’s a perfect spot for younger children to explore and create.

History & Culture Hubs

Ybor City Historic District: Step back in time wandering the streets of this National Historic Landmark District, known for its Cuban heritage, cigar factories, roaming chickens, and vibrant nightlife. Take the TECO Line Streetcar for an authentic arrival.

Henry B. Plant Museum: Explore the opulent former Tampa Bay Hotel, a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture, now housing exhibits on Gilded Age tourism. Admire the unique architecture and learn about the hotel’s role in Tampa’s early development.

Tampa Bay History Center: Discover the rich history of the Tampa Bay region, from its earliest inhabitants to modern times, through engaging exhibits located along the Riverwalk. Learn about pirates, pioneers, and the cigar industry’s impact.

Tampa Theatre: Catch a classic film or live event at this beautifully restored 1926 movie palace downtown, renowned for its ornate Mediterranean courtyard design. Check their schedule for unique cinematic experiences.

American Victory Ship & Museum: Tour a fully operational World War II cargo ship docked in the Channelside District. Explore the decks, engine room, and crew quarters for a glimpse into maritime history.

Straz Center for the Performing Arts: See a Broadway tour, opera, concert, or play at this major performing arts complex located on the Tampa Riverwalk. Check the diverse schedule for world-class entertainment.

Tampa Museum of Art: Explore collections of modern and contemporary art, as well as Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities, housed in a stunning building overlooking the Riverwalk. Enjoy diverse exhibitions and waterfront views.

Waterfront Life & Riverwalk Activities

Tampa Riverwalk: Stroll, bike, or jog along the scenic pedestrian pathway connecting parks, museums, restaurants, and attractions along the Hillsborough River downtown. It’s a fantastic way to explore the city center while enjoying waterfront scenery.

Sparkman Wharf: Relax and dine at this popular outdoor waterfront destination featuring diverse food concepts housed in shipping containers, a biergarten, and lawn games. Enjoy live music and views of the cruise ships.

Armature Works: Explore this renovated streetcar warehouse turned bustling food hall (Heights Public Market) offering numerous dining options, bars, and event spaces along the Riverwalk. It’s a vibrant spot for casual dining and socializing.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: Enjoy the large urban park located downtown along the Riverwalk, featuring fountains, a playground, a dog park, and hosting numerous festivals and events. It’s a central hub for community gatherings.

Pirate Water Taxi: Hop on and off this convenient water taxi service connecting various stops along the Hillsborough River and downtown waterfront. It’s a fun way to travel between attractions while enjoying unique river views.

Bayshore Boulevard: Walk, bike, or run along the world’s longest continuous sidewalk, offering beautiful views of Tampa Bay and the downtown skyline. Look for dolphins playing in the water along this scenic waterfront route.

Neighborhood Charm & Exploration

Hyde Park Village: Stroll through this charming, upscale outdoor shopping and dining district known for its beautiful fountains, tree-lined streets, and mix of local boutiques and national brands. Enjoy the relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere.

Seminole Heights: Explore this historic neighborhood known for its bungalow-style homes, independent restaurants, craft breweries, and quirky shops. Discover local culinary gems and a hip vibe.

Channelside District: Discover the area around the cruise port, featuring the Florida Aquarium, Sparkman Wharf, Amalie Arena (home of the Tampa Bay Lightning), and residential developments. It’s a growing hub for entertainment and waterfront living.

Outdoor Escapes Near Tampa

Hillsborough River State Park: Hike scenic trails through forests and along the Hillsborough River, featuring rapids (a rarity in Florida) and opportunities for kayaking or canoeing. Explore the suspension bridge and look for local wildlife.

Lettuce Lake Conservation Park: Walk along boardwalks through cypress swamps and hardwood forests, climb the observation tower for panoramic views, or rent kayaks to explore the lake and river. It’s a great spot for bird watching and nature photography.

Ben T. Davis Beach: Relax on the narrow strip of sand along the Courtney Campbell Causeway connecting Tampa to Clearwater, offering calm waters and convenient access. It’s a popular spot for watching sunsets over the bay.

Caladesi Island State Park (Day Trip): Take a ferry or private boat to this undeveloped barrier island near Dunedin, consistently ranked among America’s best beaches. Enjoy pristine white sands, shelling, and natural coastal beauty.

Food, Drink & Local Flavor

Eat a Cuban Sandwich: Sample Tampa’s iconic contribution to culinary history, traditionally made with roast pork, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed on Cuban bread. Find authentic versions, especially in Ybor City.

Columbia Restaurant: Dine at Florida’s oldest restaurant, located in Ybor City, famous for its Spanish/Cuban cuisine, historic ambiance, and nightly flamenco dance shows. Make reservations for this classic Tampa dining experience.

Cigar City Brewing: Tour the brewery or relax in the tasting room of one of Florida’s most famous craft breweries. Sample their acclaimed beers, including the popular Jai Alai IPA, for a taste of the local beer scene.

TECO Line Streetcar System: Ride the historic replica streetcars connecting downtown Tampa, Channelside, and Ybor City. It’s a fun, affordable way to travel between districts while enjoying a nostalgic transportation experience.