33 Top Fun Things to Do in Tampa (FL)

Braced with world-famous attractions and sunny weather, Tampa is simply one of Florida’s top tourist destinations.

This city records over a million visitors annually. This statistics is expected to surge up in the next decade as more hotels, beachfront properties, casino, and attractions are currently constructed or in the prospect of being built.

Do you wish to visit Tampa or are you wondering what to do when you eventually get there? Then, you are in the right place. Let’s explore the best fun things to do in Tampa.

Top Fun Things to Do in Tampa

1. Meet the Wild at Big Cat Rescue

Big Cat Rescue
Credits: Sarah Quintans / Shutterstock
Big Cat Rescue

You will find many animal sanctuaries and wildlife reserves in Florida, but the Big Cat Rescue is exceptional for its class and its dedication to felines alone.

It was built for big-pawed furry bodies; from tigers to leopards to lions to lynxes.

Majority of the animals here at the Big Cat Rescue are under rehabilitation after they were rescued from neglect and abuse at the hands of hunters, circuses, exotic pet owners, poachers and animal testers.

The aim is to help these poor creatures while creating public awareness about them and their plight.

Guests at the Big Cat Rescue can go on a guided tour to the animal habitats, view the webcams fixed their homes and nests.

If you would be in Tampa for more than a weekend, you can volunteer to care for the cats.

Big Cats Rescue is an attraction that will excite while you spend your money.

Visiting this attraction is an excellent way to enjoy your stay in Florida. So, scruple at the opportunity of saying hello to Manny the Jaguar and Andi the Bobcat.

Address: 12802 Easy St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA

2. Coaster Ride at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens
Credits: TManuZz / Shutterstock
Busch Gardens

America has amazing scattered at different spots in the country. For sure, there are just historic and iconic theme parks in the whole of America. Busch Gardens is only one of the most exciting theme parks in the country.

This park was first opened in 1959 occupies a massive 136 hectares outside the mainstream of the northern Tampa. Its wasn’t this way initially, but following some improvement, the park swelled to this size.

It is famous for merging adrenaline-pumping wildlife exhibitions and rollercoasters, with the iconic Serengeti Plain enclosure. This park is lauded as one of the first in the world to create a mock-up of an original environment for animals to roam about.

Currently, you will see in this park Asian elephants, hippos, rhinos, Caribbean flamingos, reticulated giraffes and wildlife side showcased here.

You can enjoy the rides that include dipping and dropping running at 51 miles per hour, loop-de-loops, the Moroccan-themed Gwazi, jungle zip lines and the new Cobra’s Curse – if you can dare!

Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA

3. Sea Life at Florida Aquarium

Florida Aquarium
Credits: photosounds / Shutterstock
Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is one of the best visits not just in Tampa alone but in America in extension. This location promises to leave you thrilled with exhibitions portraying the wetland habitats of Florida.

Florida Aquarium lays subtle focus on wetland characteristics as you will find snapping gators, mainly is a formidable duo of Burmese pythons and exotic otters.

Some collections reveal the deep waters’ detailed character and other sections devoted to shoreline ecosystems. All these make this aquarium a go-to place in Tampa if you wish to explore the sea.

Other highlights include regular shark dives, where you can get some close call with one of the most awe-inspiring sea predators and organised ‘Swim with the Fishes’ excursions to immerse guests in the surroundings of the Dry Tortugas reefs.

Don’t miss the charming coral garden. This garden is 60-foot long and awash a kaleidoscope of colourful underwater plant life and tropical fish.

Address: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA

4. Explore Ybor City

Ybor City
Credits: Paul Harrison / Shutterstock
Ybor City

Forget its name, Ybor City is not a city. It is an expansive neighbourhood recognised for its rich history and active local culture.

The moment you join a block party, you might have a little feeling of you being outside the larger Tampa area.

Ybor City was initially termed the “cigar capital of the world,” and is filled with the remains of the ancient cigar mills which makes it known on the map.

They’ve currently turned into different kinds of quirky attractions that make Florida a unique vacation destination.

Here, you will find boutiques, food trucks, microbreweries, nightclubs and shops at every corner.

Ybor City has gained fame for its booming Latin American communities. If you desire to dance salsa at a night club or eat exotic dishes, you’ve got the best of Latin America here.

Turn to Ybor City while travelling to Florida. There is a different vibe that makes you feel like you are on your second vacation while still on the first.

You’ll also get to experience some nice arroz con pollo!

5. Movies at Tampa Theater

Tampa Theater
Credits: Matthew Paulson / Flickr
Tampa Theater

The Tampa Theater was initially built in 1926 as a “movie palace” and is one of the most fantastic Tampa attractions which tells the history in Florida.

More interestingly, this theatre is still in good operation today, so do well to add it to your list of things to do in Tampa.

There is an olden glass booth sitting at the forefront of this brick structure where you can purchase a ticket to the Tampa Theater.

Once you’re inside, you will observe that the fluffy red seats are arranged in a semi-circle around the video centre and stage. Feel free to settle in any spot of your choice.

You will also observe the pull-back curtain that shields the screens when they are not in use and then a Wurlitzer organ instead of an original vintage backdrop.

There are no contemporary movies at the Tampa Theater; instead, they play foreign works, independent films and documentaries.

This theatre is one place you can relax in another age while avoiding the entanglement of modern life.

For close to a hundred years, this theatre has been class, and without contradictions, it would be a centrepiece for the next century.

The Tampa Theater gives you nothing less if you are the search for historic fun Tampa attractions.

Address: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA

6. University of South Florida Botanical Gardens

University of South Florida Botanical Gardens
Credits: Sylvar / Flickr
University of South Florida Botanical Gardens

The University of South Florida Botanical Gardens has got something special about it.

It could be the songbirds or the butterflies that constantly flit near that grasses, flowers and trees; or maybe it is about the diversity of their palms, tulips, ginger, bonsai trees, orchids and begonias.

There are over 3,000 species resident in the botanical gardens, so it is just impossible to get a view of all of them in one trip. It will be worth it if you visit more than once during your trip to Tampa.

The University of South Florida Botanical Gardens offers visitors a wide range of activities.

There are yoga classes and beekeeping workshops, also flower and garden festivals – here you can buy paintings, crafts and seeds and pots.

There are programs for both kids and adults. You must not be a nature freak to experience the University of South Florida Botanical Gardens.

Some people visit to get quiet relaxation in nature or just for a special weekend getaway. Whatever be your reason, be sure to add the botanical gardens to your list.

It easily makes one of the top things to do in Tampa.

Address: 12210 USF Pine Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, USA

7. Adventure in Hillsborough River State Park

Hillsborough River State Park
Credits: Piotr Kalinowski Photos / Shutterstock
Hillsborough River State Park

The Hillsborough River State Park is referred to as one of the last wild places in the entire state of Florida.

It booms with trees, vines, swamp, mangroves and bayous and it is not unusual to see gators around the marshes.

For wildlife observers and lovers of nature, it pairs provided enough scrapbook material.

If you like working out till you sweat, you could bike around the forest or canoe down the waterways.

If you like laid-back activities, the interpretive centre is there for you to gain more insight into the Native American tribes that dwelled in and around Florida.

Florida is not the only beautiful state. There are many excellent sites in the US, including Charleston, Denver, Tallahassee and Newport.

But, if you are in specific need of gorgeous sights of Tampa, visit the Hillsborough River, State Park.

Go feast your eyes while soothing your soul.

Address: 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592, USA

8. Horse Racing at Tampa Bay Downs

Tampa Bay Downs
Credits: Kathy / Flickr
Tampa Bay Downs

One of the horse-racing establishments in Florida is Tampa Bay Downs. Although it is located on the outskirts of Tampa city, on the west coast of the state, it’s just worth that extra gas.

Possibly, you might even get your money back when you bet on a good horse! You need not worry if you’ve not been a part of thoroughbred racing.

Tampa Bay Downs’ staff is another thing that makes it as one of the best places to visit in Tampa for newbie horse racers.

Horse racing is a fun thing to do. Most people often see it on television but haven’t attempted to get on it in real life. However, Tampa Bay Downs provides you with that opportunity to jump into action without much to worry about.

The place is very much friendly and will fulfil your fantasy if you’ve ever wanted to bet on a horse race.

Address: 11225 Race Track Rd, Tampa, FL 33626, USA

9. Skating at Skatepark of Tampa

Skatepark of tampa
Credits: lzf / Shutterstock

The Skatepark of Tampa often referred to is one of the most popular skate parks in Florida.

This park has featured almost everything, from MTV documentaries to Tony Hawk video games, so it is virtually a pop culture landmark and should make your list of best places to visit in Tampa.

There are jump points, ramps and rails for learners and professional skaters, and snacks and seats for observers.

You can come with your equipment or hire form the on-site shop; it creates relative ease for people to enjoy themselves irrespective of skill levels.

The Skatepark of Tampa hosts a good number of skating events, and if you are more of a cheering fan than the kickflip-king, you can embrace these.

Events like the annual Tampa Am and Tampa Pro competitions and fundraising activities like Boards for Bros are all examples.

Address: 4215 E Columbus Dr, Tampa, FL 33605, USA

10. One of the Top Places to Visit in Tampa: Tampa Museum of Art

Tampa Museum of Art
Credits: VIAVAL / Shutterstock
Tampa Museum of Art

Designed to model “a jewel box on a glass pedestal”, the Tampa Museum of Art is one place to be.

The museum is built with translucent ceilings, fibre optic lights and stone floors, and is one of the most catchy sites in the whole of Florida even without stepping a foot inside.

The moment you get in, it gets only better. There are art galleries and exhibits, and there are also display rooms and lecture halls.

Are you searching for sophisticated assembly of Roman sculptures or some art station where your kids can have fun with watercolours? The Tampa museum of art provides just that.

There are also special events and fun activities hosted by this museum. From weekend summer camps to morning yoga classes, you will always have some fun to engage yourself in these premises.

Frequently checking the Tampa museum’s calendar is highly recommended because you might not know what will be posted next!

The Tampa museum of art is not only one of the best places to visit in Tampa; it is also one of the best places to visit in entire Florida.

This place’s beauty radiates inside and outside and makes our list of the nicest areas in the city of Tampa. Don’t miss out!

Address: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA

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11. A Drink or Two at Tampa Bay Brewing Company

Tampa Bay Brewing Company
Credits: chucka_nc / Flickr
Tampa Bay Brewing Company

Being one of the oldest breweries in Florida, the Tampa Bay Brewing Company is a popular tourist attraction for anyone in the Tampa area.

If you seek good beer, lovely food and a relaxed company, you should not miss this place.

Though not catchy, You won’t see people drinking from imported wines or playing on fancy cheeses.

The Tampa Bay Brewing Company is a family-owned and operated company specialising in original homebrews that will want more upon tasting. They are the biblical “salt of the earth“ business.

Have a taste of the beers in the taprooms, at special brewing events, or you can place an order with a meal at the patio bar and on-site cafe.

If you are a beer lover, do make the most of your vacation in Tampa by visiting the Tampa Bay Brewing Company.

Florida might not boast of many breweries, but Tampa Bay Brewing is one of the best and deserves to be given the nod.

Address: 1600 East 8th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA

12. Explore Downtown Tampa

Downtown Tampa
Credits: CrackerClips Stock Media / Shutterstock
Downtown Tampa

What about taking a ride on an old-fashioned streetcar that stops with a clang or even going aboard a cruise through the Waterways of Florida or sipping your cocktails while catching the aerial views of this great City from a rooftop bar.

Downtown Tampa provides you with these and more exciting things, once you are open to new experiences.

From museums to bars to cafes to movie theatres, downtown Tampa brims with lots of opportunities.

You will not only enjoy the usual “tourist stuff” like shopping and dining. There are also unparalleled attractions in Tampa.

An instance is a preserved WWII cargo ship positioned in the docks. Maybe, you didn’t know about this.

You will also like the proximity of downtown Tampa to hotels and resorts. And when you are done seeing the city, there are many accommodation options closeby.

One thing is this, downtown Tampa is renowned for having luxury suites and world-class lodgings, so it’s just a case of choosing your bed silk sheets.

Your only disappointment will be its name, not catchy or cool, just downtown Tampa. So, ignore that and just grab some fun of a lifetime.

13. Scenic Views at Tampa Riverwalk

Tampa Riverwalk
Credits: Gabriele Maltinti / Shutterstock
Tampa Riverwalk

Tampa Riverwalk is a pedestrian trail that extends close to three miles through and near the Hillsborough River of Tampa.

The scenic views close to the river make it an excellent spot for sightseeing.

Tampa Riverwalk is also a pass to the attractions in Tampa, as it goes through everything. Starting from the Rivergate Tower, down to the Tampa Museum of Art.

Florida is a beautiful state, and the Tampa Riverwalk permits you to meet anything you missed on your Tampa shortlist.

14. Tampa Bay Food Tours

Tampa Bay Food Tours
Credits: Tampa Bay Food Tours
Tampa Bay Food Tours

Tampa Bay Food Tours is a company situated in Tampa Bay. As its name suggests, this company simply pokes delicious Tampa cuisines to your face, leaving you with no option other than adding it to your list of activities to do in the city.

The main tour takes about 3 hours and guides you through, say, twelve eateries in the area. Some of these eateries are more refined where you can enjoy fine wines and fancy salads. Others could be casual spots where you eat your weight in lobster pizzas, desert shooters and crab cakes.

The tour guide and locations are subject to change. The schedules can change as well; some excursions could be in the day while others are planned for special holidays or at night.

Tampa Bay Food Tours has only one constant: you will fill your stomach with the best foods that Florida has got.

So, do check them up if you’re looking for things to do in this area. You can add them to your weekend schedule.

15. Explore Adventure Island

Adventure Island Tampa
Credits: rickpilot_2000 / Flickr
Adventure Island Tampa

Adventure Island is one of those fine places where one can come to cool off during the hot summer days.

And at the hip of this park, on Tampa’s northern periphery, is the famous Busch Gardens.

Adventure Island has a tropical theme over it and comes with lagoons settled to mirror the Deep South’s bayous.

There are artificial beaches taking after the Mexican Gulf sands, slides that draw inspiration from the Florida Everglades’ backcountry, and the Calypso Coaster flume Caribbean-flavored attraction with twists and turns.

You will also find the Surfside Café, an on-site eatery along with a mock-up beach which serves chilled beers and iced cocktails.

This makes what to do in Tampa for adventure seekers, do consider an add to your list of places to visit in Tampa, Florida.

Address: 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA

16. Visit The Hindu Temple of Florida

The Hindu Temple of Florida
Credits: The Hindu Temple of Florida/ Facebook
The Hindu Temple of Florida

One of the places you can’t miss out on in Florida is the Hindu Temple of Florida.

This white ancestral temple which rises above northern Tampa attracts thousands of visitors annually. They come for worship, tourism, and observation.

The Hindu Temple of Florida is built-in Indian-style architecture. Everything about this temple is modern amazement, including the descending pyramid towers and rising steps.

You will not only be left in awe of its size, but you marvel at the several pathways leading to rooftop courtyards and prayer rooms.

The Hindu Temple of Florida has no fixed dates and time for worship nor entrance fees. There is not even a staff.

The temple sees religious devotees and volunteers in attendance with people coming and going as they please.

If you are a fan of orderly and well-structured attractions, then maybe Hindu Temple of Florida isn’t for you.

You have the freedom of exploring things yourself. However, it provides you with the opportunity of learning more about Tampa and its emotional wealth of religions.

The Hindu Temple of Florida for sure is one of the top fun things to do in Tampa.

Address: 5509 Lynn Rd, Tampa, FL 33624, USA

17. Some Museum Time at Henry B. Plant Museum

Henry B. Plant Museum
Credits: VIAVAL TOURS / Shutterstock
Henry B. Plant Museum

Henry B. Plant Museum is Sheltered in a noble Victorian mansion – a combo of Baroque, old English and Oriental motifs that once existed on the famous Tampa Bay Hotel’s south wing.

Close to the Tampa University campus, this museum houses series of amazing collections that document the rise of Tampa city as Florida’s premier tours sites over the last 200 years.

Also, this institution has beautiful gardens surrounding it. These gardens ate spotted with carved fountains and honorific statues, one giant old canon from the Spanish-American War, and numerous walking trails crossing the lawns and passing the plane trees.

Address: 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606, USA

18. Things to Do Near Tampa: Weedon Island Preserve

Weedon Island Preserve
Credits: Christopher P / Shutterstock
Weedon Island Preserve

The Weedon Island Preserve is located along the western shore of Tampa Bay. It is a place where you can wind off from the city’s stresses while enjoying the tranquil and scenic scenery of Florida.

There are hiking trails meandering through saltwater ponds and forests. And canoeing and kayaking trails cutting across mangroves, bushes and seagrass flats.

There is a high observation deck which will give you panoramic views of Tampa. There are picnicking sites and boardwalks spread around for tourist to see.

You may even decide to fish on a unique pedestrian pier!

The Cultural and Natural History Center is also settled on this reserve.

Here, all kinds of nature tours and hikes are hosted for both children and adults, making it one of the best things to do.

Do consider the Weedon Island Preserve if you need fun things to do in Tampa. You are offered a lot in terms of activities and attractions at this gorgeous location.

Address: 1800 Weedon Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702, USA

19. Watch Dolphins in Tampa Bay

Dolphin in Tampa Bay
Credits: Jeff Kinsey / Shutterstock
Dolphin in Tampa Bay

One of the top things to do is at the Tampa Bay. This port’s waters were once lively with commercial shipping activities and is a mirror of marine wildlife.

It provides an exceptional opportunity for sojourners to capture views of wild dolphins in their natural habitat.

Join any of the tours organised by different companies. A good number of them run on catamarans through the park and along the coastal contours of Tampa Bay, thereby providing apt viewing spots from their decks.

The Mexican Gulf waters have dolphin pods in abundance, making most of these operators guarantee your safety when swimming with the dolphins.

You also have a chance to see a collection of sea birds and inhale the cool southern Florida salt air on the way.

20. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa
Credits: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa /Facebook
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa

Can you create this scenario of you eating a five-course meal, relaxing in a hot tub and winning a jackpot all in one night?

It is endless fun at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa, making it precisely one of the best places to visit in Tampa.

For the gamblers, you will love the card tables and slots of the casino. You will also find all of your favourite games, including blackjack, roulette and poker.

You can take advantage of gambling legality in Florida to try your luck.

Would you prefer a more casual environment? Then, stop by one of the restaurants, lounges or bars of the hotel.

This is a constant change to everything, from the comedy shows to the live music to the flowing cocktails. Everything makes the atmosphere more enjoyable.

After you are drained from the fun, return to a cosy suite with access to 24/7 room service, pools and jacuzzis.

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa is just an adult playground, making it one of the top Tampa attractions!

Address: 5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL 33610, USA

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21. Happy Fish Tampa Authentic Peruvian Cuisine

Happy Fish Peruvian Fusion Restaurant
Credits: Happy Fish Peruvian Fusion Restaurant / Facebook
Happy Fish Peruvian Fusion Restaurant, Tampa

Happy Fish Tampa Authentic Peruvian Cuisine stands out as a testament of multi-cultural vibes and unquestionable Latin American influences to the city if Tampa.

Devoted to serving real Pacific Coast Peruvian dishes, it is a favourite spot that has locals visiting regularly.

The chefs boast of a chicken and potato stew menu, juicy Palomilla steaks, grilled pork chuletas fritas, and fresh in-house ensaladas.

One of the top highlights is the Peruvian ceviche, while you’ll see a list of South American beers to help wash down the lot!

22. Empower Adventures Tampa Bay

Empower Adventures Tampa Bay
Credits: Empower Adventures Tampa Bay / Facebook
Empower Adventures Tampa Bay

Are you in need of fun things to do in Tampa? Do you want to laugh while facing danger? Empower Adventures Tampa Bay is just the place for you.

Empower Adventures Tampa Bay is situated in the heart of Tampa and is an adventure centre established to give you unforgettable vacation memories.

Enjoy everything from suspended rope bridges to zip lines in obstacle-filled courses, which are designed to give your heart a real pump.

You might want to know about age and weight restrictions or even call in for reservations.

Empower Adventures Tampa Bay provides good thrills to seekers and is one of the best things to do in Tampa.

Just anyone can take photos of the skyline in Florida, but only a few can say they captured that moment from a height of hundreds of feet.

Put a special tick on this attraction if you are still thinking about what to do on your trip.

Address: 423 Lafayette Blvd, Oldsmar, FL 34677, USA

23. Rhinos at Lowry Park Zoo

Rhino's at Lowry Park Zoo
Credits: Nicole Glass Photography / Shutterstock
Rhino’s at Lowry Park Zoo

Lauded as one of Florida’s most family-friendly attractions, Lowry Park Zoo, since the 1950s showcases exotic critters and other animals to Tampa’s residents.

In the last years, the zoo has grown massively and currently has exhibitions like the Safari Africa enclosure – you can watch out for African penguins and meerkats below the acacia trees’ boughs.

Others include the Asian Gardens (anticipate sloth bears, Komodo dragons, white tigers, and more) and the Primate World, featuring the likes of lion tamarins, lemurs and black-and-white colobuses moving around the place.

Additional activities are a chance to go on a ride, join feeding programs and get close to the endangered tortoise.

Address: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604, USA

24. Tampa Bay History Center

Tampa Bay History Center
Credits: Matthew Paulson / Flickr
Tampa Bay History Center

Tampa Bay History Center proves that there is more to the attractive restaurants and glitzy casinos in Tampa.

This centre displays over 10,000 years of history of not only Tampa but other surrounding regions of Florida.

Explore the artifacts, relics and preserved texts given to the Americans by early European voyages.

Get educated through the stories of myths and legends surrounding the New World Spanish conquerors. Then, conclude your tour with knowledgeable modern civilisation videos of Florida.

There were many people (from peaceful settlers to who contributed to shaping Tampa to its current state. To learn who they are, what they achieved and its potential effect tomorrow, visit the Tampa Bay History Center.

We don’t always need flashy things; they can be subtle and yet fun. The Tampa Bay History Center is one good example.

Address: 801 Old Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA

25. Dine at Oystercatchers

Oystercatchers
Credits: Oystercatchers / Facebook
Oystercatchers Tampa

The Oystercatchers is merged to the elegant Hyatt Hotel at the side of Old Tampa Bay. It is a stylish seafood lounge with a high reputation for offering the best evening views while dining in the city.

One can settle down on the alfresco deck to get a panoramic view. Here, you get a blend of sleek modern furnishings and the Mexican Gulf’s flavours while watching the sunset dip down the horizon.

On the dinner menu is a mix of hollandaise-doused oysters, shrimp and scallop cakes, mahi-mahi cuts, key lime mussels done with coconut, lobster mac, yellowfin tuna, cheese and more.

For real, it is where American seafood meets fantastic views of the Florida coast.

Address: 2900 Bayport Dr, Tampa, FL 33607, USA

26. Visit Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach
Credits: Gabriele Maltinti / Shutterstock
Clearwater Beach

Its is exciting that you can always find a beach in Florida. Even Gainesville and some other landlocked cities have sandpits and water parks designed to mimic the shores of coastal cities.

Tampa is positioned on the Gulf of Mexico, meaning you can enjoy natural beaches at ease.

Some of them are quiet spaces where you can watch the evenfall over the water or cuddle with your lover while others are vibrant places featuring volleyball games and bonfires.

If you are open to travelling just outside of Tampa, Clearwater Beach is definitely the best beach. It exists some 25 miles west of Tampa Bay and is as everything you could want from a beach.

You can swim, surf the waves, jetski, parasail and paddleboard at Clearwater Beach.

With pink cocktails, blue waves and white sands, it is a tropical paradise a few miles from Tampa. This makes what to do in Tampa, FL for some beach time, consider an addition to your bucket list of fun things to do in Tampa, FL.

27. Visit De Soto National Memorial Park

De Soto National Memorial
Credits: De Soto National Memorial / Facebook
De Soto National Memorial, Tampa

The De Soto National Memorial Park is a park established to preserve the memories of those locals who were tortured, imprisoned or killed by Hernando De Soto and his army in 1539.

There is a nature trail in this park, guided by park rangers and then, camp Uzita where some volunteers share historical tales about the De Soto expedition. These stories would cause you goosebumps.

Guests can also swim, go boating or just cool off and chill at the De Soto point beach.

Address: 8300 Desoto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, FL 34209, USA

28. Must-See Tampa Attractions: Museum of Science and Industry

Museum of Science and Industry,Tampa
Credits: Jared / Flickr
Museum of Science and Industry,Tampa

Let’s just say you want to teat your kids to a more intellectually challenging place other than a playground or zoo.

You just need to consider the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in Tampa.

MOSI Tampa is one of Florida’s foremost institutions and is recognised for its scientific community efforts.

Its is also a place to get proper STEM learning padded with fun!

The kids and adults alike will enjoy the exhibits, tours, games, activities and interactive sessions it offers.

There were previous exhibits like “Imagination Playground ” – a station for building everything from robots to smaller cities.

Current exhibits include “Mission: Moonbase,” – a simulated lunar base that teaches you about the moon’s surroundings and atmosphere.

And the “Slippery Science,” – a hockey showcase where you can learn about the significance of aerodynamics and friction.

MOSI Tampa is not only for children, and there is something for everyone. An adult can pick a leaf too!

And that’s one unique thing about science; it applies to all ages.

Address: 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617, USA

29. Little Manatee River Park

Little Manatee River Park
Credits: Rick Schwartz / Flickr
Little Manatee River Park

Little Manatee River Park is a stunning park located by the little Manatee River. It is one of the most pristine areas in Tampa.

The park is a habitat for wildlife like the oxbow wetlands and some scarce plants like the oak scrub and sand pine.

There are lits of hiking trails in this park, thereby providing an open space for tranquillity and exercise. Examples are the Oxbow nature trail and the nature trail.

Visitors can choose to go biking, hiking, horseback riding or even canoeing. You may decide to take some rest under the tree shades while enjoying a picnic with your family or loved ones.

30. International Plaza and Bay Street

International Plaza and Bay Street
Credits: International Plaza and Bay Street / Facebook
International Plaza and Bay Street

The International Plaza and Bay Street provides over a million sq ft of retail space and is one of the best things to do in Tampa when your pocket needs to be lighter.

It has hundreds of restaurants and stores, so you can quickly fill your shopping bags with varieties of shoes, clothes, toys, snacks, travel accessories and souvenirs.

Its location close to the Tampa International Airport is another great thing about the International Plaza and Bay Street. So, whether you are starting or wrapping up your trip to Florida, you can browse some stuff you need.

And finally, the International Plaza and Bay Street is a confined shopping centre, so you shouldn’t bother about bad weather and its eventualities.

Be it day or night, rain or shine, you can walk into this Tampa shopping centre and engage yourself in traditional retail therapy.

The International Plaza and Bay Street is the biggest mall in Tampa, though it is unlikely to be the largest in Florida, but has everything you need in terms of essentials and luxuries.

Address: 2223 N Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33607, USA

31. Arts at the Morean Arts Center

The Morean Arts Center
Credits: CityofStPete / Flickr
The Morean Arts Center

Started up in 1917 as an art club, the Morean arts center has grown to an impressive centre.

Here, you’ll find a collection of artworks done by numerous international and national artists. On display are paintings of artists like Peter Max, Jasper Johns, Babs Reingold and Jun Kaneko.

You can hone your skills through the multiple art classes organised by the center.

There are different artworks housed here, but the most popular ones include the tumbleweeds and the ruby red icicle chandelier.

Address: 719 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA

32. Explore Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World
Credits: Richard Elzey / Flickr
Dinosaur World

Situated only a few miles away from Tampa, Dinosaur World is an impressive theme park where one can walk through a habitat of dinosaur models.

This is an excitement for dinosaur admirers and an excellent time for excavators, palaeontologists, and archaeologists.

Dinosaur World is known for its main attraction, the life-sized dinosaur models.

You will explore everything kind of extinct species from skulking velociraptors to towering T-rexes. It could be while you hike the trails, take pictures to your satisfaction or enjoy your picnic.

The kids can give on monitored “fossil digs” as they try to find stingray barbs and shark teeth.

Guests of all ages can be a part of “excavations”. Here, you dig and examine the sand to separate minerals, arrowheads and gems. You can even keep your findings!

Don’t forget to purchase a ticket for a vacation story and a wild weekend in Tampa.

Address: 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565, USA

33. Visit the Manatee Viewing Center

Manatee Viewing Center
Credits: Manatee Viewing Center / Facebook
Manatee Viewing Center, Tampa

Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Florida as a whole is visiting the Manatee Viewing Center.

This is an excellent place to know more about Florida’s Manatee’s habitat. The centre is open from November to mid-April and also plays host to lots of interactive programmes.

Some of these activities include swimming sessions and exhibitions that teach about manatees’ nature and life cycle.

All through the year, manatees do swim in this area, so you could join in swimming or watch the manatees swim. However, spotting them in the offseason could be less.

Every part of the area would delight your eyes. From the peak of the 50-foot viewing tower, you will get an absolutely classic view of the area.

You may as well explore the butterfly garden and the mangrove exhibit.

Address: 6990 Dickman Rd, Apollo Beach, FL 33572, USA

Map of The Top Fun Things to Do in Tampa, FL

Here is a map of the fun things to do in Tampa, FL, this will aid you to get around during your stay in Tampa, Florida.

Explore other cities of Florida, here is a tourist guide through Fort Lauderdale, Destin, Pompano Beach, and Ocala.

Plan Your Trip To Tampa

If you’ve been considering what to do in Tampa, Florida, for fun, you are saved with just these few of the best.

However, this itinerary depends on your vacation specifics, covering a wide range of interests, including yours.

So, why not start now to make plans and preparations for your next vacation in Tampa. You are sure to have an adventurous trip and will definitely find lots of fun activities for you.