Deciding to travel to Tampa, Florida? Make the most of your vacation time in Tampa, Florida, we have compiled a list of our favorite things to do in Tampa, Florida. Explore the top attractions and activities in the best places to go in Tampa, Florida, by scrolling down! Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3 travel company that aspires to disrupt the travel industry.
Table Of Content
- Big Cat Rescue
- Busch Gardens Tampa
- Dinosaur World
- Glazer Children’s Museum
- Henry B. Plant Museum
- Hillsborough River State Park
- Hindu Temple of Florida
- HorsePower for Kids
- Museum of Science and Industry
- Not a Clue Adventures
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa
- Tampa Museum of Art
- Tampa Bay Downs
- The Florida Aquarium
- Tampa Bay History Center
- Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center
- Tampa Riverwalk
- Tampa Theater
- Ybor City Museum State Park
- Weedon Island Preserve
- Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Big Cat Rescue
Cat lover? Learn, donate, or just watch your favorite cats in their new home in Big Cat Rescue!
Citrus Park’s Big Cat Rescue is a shelter for native big cats and other exotic cats in need of rescue, rehabilitation, and permanent habitation.
In 1992, Carole Baskin founded it as a non-profit organization in Florida, and the Global Federation of Sanctuaries has acknowledged its legality since 1996.
After being abused and neglected by performers, poachers, animal testers, and keepers of exotic pets, many Big Cat Rescue animals are being rescued.
The rescue aims to educate the public and increase awareness of their condition to aid the animals.
More than a hundred wild cats from eleven different species have found a shelter at Big Cat Rescue.
With a wide range of guided tours, visitors may learn about the facility’s residents, including tigers, wildcats, and more!
Address: 12802 Easy St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA
Busch Gardens Tampa
The Busch Gardens Tampa is one of the top attractions in Florida.
From screaming at the top of your lungs while riding the roller coaster to feeding the birds in the garden, you can do it all in Busch Gardens Tampa!
As one of the greatest activities to do in Tampa, Florida, Busch Gardens Tampa is a famous theme park and one of the most popular attractions in the area.
Busch Gardens Tampa, run by SeaWorld Entertainment, offers a variety of unique park adventures.
Tourists can try their Guided Adventure Tours, Serengeti Safari, live performances, and kid-friendly activities.
Bumper cars, Ziplines, water activities, bird nurseries, and elephant habitats are just some of the fun things to do at this hybrid zoo/amusement park.
Attractions include a Cheetah Run and a Bird Gardens, as well as Jambo Junction and Edge of Africa, where tourists may dine and shop throughout the day.
Additionally, Busch Gardens Tampa is just a few blocks away from Adventure Island, one of the city’s most popular water parks.
Visit the area and hit two birds with one stone!
Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
Dinosaur World
The Dinosaur World is one of the best things to do in Florida.
Take Instagram-worthy selfies with a life-size T-rex in Dinosaur World!
It will seem like you’re in Jurassic Park with numerous life-sized dinosaurs and immersive outdoor exhibitions!
Dinosaur World is a unique entertainment park located north of Tampa.
It allows visitors to wander around an open environment filled with life-size dinosaur replicas.
While hiking the trails and picnicking on the premises, you’ll be seeing all types of extinct animals, from T-rexes to velociraptors.
Other activities are available as well.
When you’re ready to get your hands dirty, try your hand at becoming an archeologist at the Bone Yard and Fossil Dig.
You can keep everything you dig up, including a set of authentic dinosaur teeth!
There are also tombs where guests of all ages may filter through sands and pick up minerals, diamonds, and arrows.
You may bring your pets to this pet-friendly vacation spot as well!
Unless you’re visiting the museum indoors, you’re welcome to roam the park with your well-trained pet along the sidewalks bordered by ancient oak trees.
Address: 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565, USA
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Glazer Children’s Museum
Looking for a fun and interactive way to immerse your kids with history and culture?
The Glazer Children’s Museum is the place to go!
The museum debuted in 2010 and featured over a hundred and seventy engaging displays.
It has a total of twelve themed areas, some of which focus on aquatic life, trains, and dinosaurs.
You can find the children’s museum at Waterfront Arts District in downtown Tampa.
Almost 200 interactive exhibits, varying from ‘Engineer’s Workshop’ exhibits to a ‘Design and Build,’ are housed in 17 thematic regions of the museum, allowing youngsters to get hands-on interaction with each area.
Season-themed daily programs for kids of all ages are also available in the museum.
Make no fear when your tummy begins to rumble! Food and beverages are available for purchase at the cafeteria and refreshment stands.
Make sure to visit the museum for an enjoyable family outing.
Address: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, Florida, USA
Henry B. Plant Museum
Fond of art and history?
Check out the Henry B. Plant Museum!
The Henry B. Plant Museum, once the Tampa Bay Hotel, was built in 1891 by railroad billionaire Henry B. Plant as a lavish 500-room resort.
As a museum now, it displays the opulent lifestyle enjoyed by the hotel’s wealthy guests during the Gilded Age.
You’ll be enchanted by this 19th-century structure before you’ve ever stepped inside!
Its dazzling assortment of ceramics, art décor, artworks, statues, and sumptuous furnishings.
The Grand Hall, the Reading and Writing Room, and the Garden Room, amongst others.
All of these are designed historically and provide a look into Henry B. Plant’s daily routines and interests.
The ancient hotel and its expansive grounds, which include a golf course, racecourse, casinos, heated indoor swimming pool, and bowling alley, are open to the public.
If you’re into art and history, this place will surely be the spot for you!
Address: 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL, USA
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Hillsborough River State Park
If you’re into rigorous activities, Hillsborough River State Park is the place to go!
As among Florida’s earliest state parks, Hillsborough River State Park opened its doors to the public in 1938.
The park is surrounded by the quickly running Hillsborough River. It offers a range of recreational activities to the people, such as angling, paddling, canoeing, trekking, and lodging.
Alligator sightings are not out of the ordinary when it comes to swampland and mangroves in the area.
There are almost seven miles of trekking paths in the park and quiet picnic sites, and a freshwater swimming area available throughout the warmer months.
As a less strenuous option, you may visit the informative center to learn about the Native American groups formerly called Florida home.
An authentic Second Seminole War fort has been recreated at Fort Foster State Historic Site on the park’s eastern end.
Visitors can take ranger-led excursions of the site on Saturdays and Sundays. Be sure to include this on your list!
Address: 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592, USA
Hindu Temple of Florida
The Hindu Temple of Florida is one of the best places to visit in Florida.
If you didn’t visit the Hindu Temple of Florida, you haven’t been to Florida.
This temple is close to the Tampa International Airport and open to the public.
Built from 1989 to 1996, the structure’s elaborate engravings were done between 2000 and 2006.
In terms of height, it is the highest Hindu temple in the country.
Incorporating soaring stairways and falling pyramid towers, the Hindu Temple of Florida is an architectural masterpiece inspired by Indian architecture.
Several walkways lead to shrines and rooftop patios that will leave you in astonishment at its immensity.
To help children become more culturally aware, the organization offers a wide range of programs to local families, such as Sunday school, painting, music, and literature.
Canteen service is available at the temple, which serves traditional vegetarian meals to its members.
Suppose you’re looking for a peaceful way to learn about Tampa and its many religious communities. In that case, this is the place for you.
Address: 5509 Lynn Rd, Tampa, FL 33624, USA
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HorsePower for Kids
Meet your favorite farm animal or ride around with a horse in HorsePower for Kids!
Near Oldsmar and Westchase in Northwest Tampa, HorsePower for Kids is a family-friendly farm focusing on farm animals.
It is a family-friendly farm and petting zoo where visitors may engage with animals and ponies in a variety of ways.
Enable the children to experience the sanctuary’s horses and other animals by teaching them how to ride horses fun and meaningfully.
Horseback and pony rides, horse camp, a unique petting zoo, and group field excursions are just a few of the farm’s informative and exciting offerings for both children and adults alike.
Guests may feed and engage with various ranch animals at the small zoo and horse camps conducted throughout the year.
Other activities include horse care and cleaning, trail excursions, riding instruction, and horse performances.
Visit the place! The kids will love it for sure!
Address: 8005 S. Racetrack Rd, Tampa, FL
Museum of Science and Industry
Skip the zoo and the park!
Take your kids to the Museum of Science and Industry, a much more fun and educational place for them to learn!
The Museum of Science and Industry aims to inspire and encourage curiosity in sciences, technology, and innovation as a community-based museum.
Over 450 engaging and hands-on events and activities await guests at the museum, the region’s biggest scientific center.
It has been acknowledged for its efforts in the scientific industry as one of Florida’s finest organizations.
Among the offerings are a drone and robot area, a 3d printer display, live scientific demos, a functional observatory, and a Bio-Works butterfly conservatory.
The museum also houses the Florida Hospital DOME Theater and Florida’s sole IMAX Dome Theater.
If you’re seeking family-friendly activities to do in Tampa, this is a fantastic choice.
Address: 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617, USA
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Not a Clue Adventures
To get a true sense of Florida, this is the place to go.
All kinds of outdoor pursuits may be enjoyed at this location. These include hiking, camping, kayaking, and angling.
Visitors to the region can design their own itinerary based on what they wish to see and do while they are here.
Sightseeing tours, environmental tours, and more are all available with them.
The staff at Not a Clue Adventures is kind and knowledgeable. They can direct you to a range of intriguing locations in the area.
All of the necessary gear, such as sleeping bags, tents, torches, and other necessities, are provided by the group.
Gather your loved ones and get ready to leave! This is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Address: 3907 Kimball Ave Tampa, FL 33614
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa
If you’re looking for a gambling experience like no other, head to Seminole Hard Rock Casino, one of the biggest in the state.
You may play Buffalo Gold or Dragon Link, two of the most popular gambling machines, whether you’re a novice or an experienced player.
Make the most of the fact that gambling is allowed in Florida and test your capabilities!
In addition to the elegant casino floor, guests may take advantage of the renowned Tampa nightlife by unwinding in a laid-back cocktail bar or listening to live bands.
Consider spending the night at Seminole’s exquisite hotel!
It features huge glass windows and features such as spas, hot tubs, and 24-hour room service to make the most of your evening.
For grownups, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa is a playground, so let it pull you in if you’re in the Tampa region.
Come and see for yourself why it’s one of the top destinations in Florida!
Address: 5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL 33610, USA
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Tampa Museum of Art
Tampa Museum of Arts artworks will feast your eyes from the past to the present!
In addition to being one of Tampa’s most popular attractions, the Tampa Museum of Art has antiques and sophisticated and modern art.
Through a variety of exhibits, fixed and transitory collections, and educational programs, the museum provides an opportunity for people to learn about and appreciate exceptional visual art.
It’s one of the most beautiful sites in Florida before you ever enter the halls, thanks to its stone flooring, transparent ceilings, and optical fiber lighting.
Additionally, the museum offers a wide range of grownup and youngster instructional events, talks, and conferences throughout the year.
The museum also holds a number of special events, making it an exciting place to visit.
You’ll never run out of activities to do on the property, from early yoga sessions to weekend summer programs.
Address: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
Tampa Bay Downs
Place your bets!
Tampa Bay Downs is a popular horse racing venue.
Just a handful of horse-racing tracks may be found on the western coast of Florida.
Even though it’s a little outside of Tampa proper, the extra drive is well worth it.
Even if you’ve never placed a bet on a horse before, there’s no need to panic.
Inexperienced gamblers can wager on hundreds of regular races at Tampa Bay Downs and watch from the bleachers or in the lounges equipped with televisions.
After a long day of betting, you may eat at the food stands if you’re hungry.
Several eateries to choose from, including the Silks Bar and Grille and Sports Gallery at the Clubhouse, Skye Terrace Dining Room, and Legends Bar in the Grandstand.
When it comes to horse racing, Tampa Bay Downs is the place to go if you have always wanted to try your hand at gambling.
Address: 11225 Race Track Rd, Tampa, FL 33626, USA
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The Florida Aquarium
Be one with the sea in the Florida Aquarium!
Tampa’s Channel District is home to the Florida Aquarium, which houses about 20,000 aquatic species and vegetation from across the globe.
The displays at the Aquarium are designed to show how a drop of water travels from a freshwater stream in Florida to the Gulf of Mexico’s open sea.
If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend your time in Tampa, this is the place for you!
For newbies, you’ll be able to see anything from underwater domes to a glass atrium filled with artificial swamps.
If you’re a fan of the city’s abundant animals, the Florida Aquarium’s exhibits will make your jaw drop.
Stingray Beach, where guests may pet a bamboo shark and a beautiful coral reef kept in a huge tank, is among the immersive attractions.
Youngsters may enjoy a two-acre open water activity zone with water hoses, geysers, and a mounting pirate ship.
Likewise, adults can go shark diving, swim with fish, or take a Wild Dolphin Ecotour on the Bay Spirit II across Tampa Bay.
Have a fun-filled day with the whole family here at Florida Aquarium!
Address: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
Tampa Bay History Center
Curious about Tampa’s history?
Prepare yourself for a trip in the past at Tampa Bay History Center.
Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, the Tampa Bay History Center is a must-see for history buffs.
The center exhibits the region’s early settlers and the historical individuals who shaped the city’s culture.
As part of the Channelside District’s waterfront revitalization, the museum offers three floors of exhibits covering 12,000 years of Florida history.
Additionally, there is a variety of family-friendly interactives, innovative displays, and state-of-the-art theaters.
Investigate the remains, objects, and writings that remain from the first European explorations of the Americas.
The tales and traditions surrounding the Spanish conquistadors of the New World are retold here.
Moreover, remember to watch fascinating documentaries on Florida’s modern society to round off your journey.
The History Center has all you need for a great day out with the Witt Research Center!
You will find a large map exhibit, a museum shop, and the Columbia Cafe for light refreshments.
Throughout the year, the Tampa Bay History Center is available every day.
The Contemporary Art Museum is a must-see for art gallery enthusiasts.
Address: 801 Old Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
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Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center
Get up close and personal with manatees at Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center!
One of the most important places for manatees to reside and reproduce is the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center.
The Tampa Electric power station is directly across the street from this manatee refuge.
The water temperature from the power plant attracts significant numbers of manatees, which can be observed in great numbers at times.
Visitors may learn about the manatee and its ecosystem and the Big Bend Power Station.
Moreover, it provides power for the region in an ecologically friendly manner at the center’s exhibits and displays.
Also, Manatee viewing platforms, a tidepool with various Florida flora and wildlife, and a tidal pathway are all part of the complex.
Indeed, their facility has a remarkable hurricane simulation to help better understand and prepare for catastrophic storms.
This is one of Tampa’s many free attractions!
Address: 6990 Dickman Rd, Apollo Beach, FL 33572
Tampa Riverwalk
On the hunt for Tampa date suggestions? Check out the Tampa Riverwalk.
On the Hillsborough River in central Tampa, the Tampa Riverwalk is a very relaxing pedestrian route.
It links visitors to the city’s beautiful waterfront and a variety of resorts, galleries, diners, and other recreation facilities.
The Historical Monument Trail that is near the Riverwalk is equally beautiful too.
The trail is composed of stunning metal and stone figures and sculptures that tell the tale of Tampa and Hillsborough County’s rich past.
The Florida Aquarium, the World WAR II American Victory Ship, and the Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park are some of the most popular attractions on the riverwalk.
Indeed, this lovely riverwalk is a nice area to take in the city’s scenery.
Apart from this, it is also a convenient entryway to the city’s many tourist destinations.
It goes from the Rivergate Tower to the Museum of Art, so you can tick some off your Tampa travel list before you depart.
Address: 200 N Ashley Dr. Tampa, FL 33602
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Tampa Theater
Enjoy motion pictures and live shows, or take a preview of this awesome theater backstage!
The Tampa Theater, constructed in 1926 as a “movie palace,” is one of Florida’s most historic landmarks.
Its courtyard is designed in a classical style and is the center of more than 600 annual events.
Even more astounding, it’s still in the whole operation, so put it on your bucket list for Tampa.
Photographers will love this backdrop with stone gargoyles and floral arrangements beneath an incredible night sky painting.
Furthermore, there is a glass kiosk at the front of the brick structure where guests can purchase tickets to see a show.
The luxurious crimson chairs are placed in a semi-circle around the stage and multimedia center.
Keeping with the period, a Wurlitzer organ is used as a centerpiece.
No other historic Florida destination compares to Tampa Theater as a family-friendly historical experience.
Address: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
Ybor City Museum State Park
Immerse in Tampa’s history in Ybor City Museum State Park!
You may learn about the town’s rich cultural history at Tampa’s Ybor City Museum State Park.
In fact, the museum includes the district’s status as a National Historic Landmark.
The Historic Ferlita Bakery building houses the museum.
It tells the narrative of Ybor City’s rise as a cigar-producing region and its continuous expansion.
There is also an authentic casita, or cigars laborer’s residence, and exquisite Eastern landscapes in the state park Ybor City Museum State Park.
If you’re looking for a more urban experience, go to the Ybor City Historic District, where you’ll find a secluded urban sanctuary.
Educational events, lectures, and lectures are available at the museum.
Likewise, it aims to help visitors learn about the heritage of the area and its status as the “Cigar Capital of the World.”
It has a distinct feeling from Tampa that you’ll feel like you’re on a separate holiday while on the first.
Address: 1818 Ninth Avenue, Tampa, Florida, USA
Weedon Island Preserve
Tired of the noises in the city? Take a breather and relax in Weedon Island Preserve!
North St. Petersburg, Florida’s Weedon Island Preserve is a 3,000-acre nature reserve on the waters of Tampa Bay open to visitors.
It is primarily made up of maritime environments, although some highlands are also in it.
This location has been occupied by indigenous groups of people, including those from the Weedon Island Cultural Period.
Trails wind through woodlands and saline ponds as they zigzag around the area.
Hunting, mangroves, and seagrasses may be found in paddling and kayaking pathways.
Furthermore, there are many boardwalks and picnic places for visitors to enjoy the views of Tampa from a high observation platform.
It’s also possible to go fishing from a separate dock for pedestrians!
The Weedon Island Preserve is a great place to visit if you’re seeking activities to do around Tampa Bay.
Address: 1800 Weedon Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702, USA
Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Volunteer at a local animal shelter. Many animal shelters are run by groups that are non-profit in nature, so they depend on donations, gifts, and adoption fees to keep going. Any help you can give, whether it’s food, newspapers, or even your time, would be very much appreciated.
Not only will you be helping others by volunteering with animals, but research has shown that spending time with pets has significant health benefits for people. Petting a cat or dog relieves stress and anxiety and has also been shown to lower blood pressure.
Some volunteering ideas include: walking dogs at a local shelter, teaming up with a rescue organization to foster kittens, doing clerical work like stuffing envelopes for an organization with a good cause, helping with fundraising or organizing events benefiting local animal charities, and participating in local events aimed towards raising awareness about animal welfare– just to name a few!
Check out the list of animal shelters in Tampa, Florida where you can help animals in need. Lend a helping hand today!
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