Best Things To Do In Tampa: Discover The Top Attractions!

by Elsie Young World traveler

Are you ready to explore the vibrant heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast? In Tampa, there’s no shortage of excitement, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor planning a trip, you won’t want to miss out on the best things to do in Tampa.

Now, if you’re wondering, “Where to stay in Tampa, Florida?”—fear not because this city boasts a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, from luxurious waterfront resorts to cozy boutique hotels and everything in between, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head after a day of exploring.

So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to uncover the best Tampa offers. Whether you’re strolling along the Riverwalk, exploring the historic Ybor City, or immersing yourself in the city’s thriving arts scene, Tampa promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. Let’s embark on this journey together and create memories that will last a lifetime!

10 Best Things to Do in Tampa

Tampa Bay is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into the 10 Best Things to Do in Tampa, starting with these two fantastic attractions.

1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

This is a world-renowned theme park and animal sanctuary that offers something for everyone. Busch Gardens is where memories are made, from thrilling rides and roller coasters to exotic animals and educational exhibits.

Highlight

World-class roller coasters and thrill rides, such as Cheetah Hunt, Montu, and Kumba
Up-close encounters with exotic animals, including giraffes, lions, tigers, and gorillas
Educational exhibits on African culture and wildlife
Live shows and entertainment for all ages
A variety of dining and shopping options

Things to Do

Ride the Cheetah Hunt, the fastest triple-launch roller coaster in the world.
Visit the Myombe Reserve to see gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates in their natural habitat.
Get up close and personal with African animals on a Serengeti Safari.
Watch a live show, such as the Turn It Up! ice skating extravaganza or the Cirque Electric show.
Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in the park, such as the Zambia Smokehouse or the Pantopia Pizza Kitchen.

2. The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a world-class aquarium that showcases the diverse marine life of Florida and the Gulf Coast. With over 7,000 animals and plants on display, the aquarium is a great place to learn about the underwater world and see some amazing creatures up close.

Highlight

Over 7,000 animals and plants on display, including sharks, penguins, sea turtles, and manatees
Interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about marine life and the environment
Behind-the-scenes tours that offer a glimpse into the aquarium’s operations
Educational programs for all ages
A variety of dining and shopping options

Things to Do

Visit the Wetlands Gallery to see Florida’s diverse wetland ecosystems, including mangroves, marshes, and cypress swamps.
Watch the sharks swim by in the Coral Reef Gallery, home to over 500 species of fish and coral.
Touch a stingray or sea star at the Discovery Zone, an interactive exhibit for all ages.
Take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the aquarium’s operations and see how the animals are cared for.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Waves Cafe, which offers stunning views of Tampa Bay.

3. ZooTampa at Lowry Park

This Park is a 63-acre zoo home to over 1,300 animals worldwide. The zoo is divided into five realms: Africa, Asia, Australia, Florida, and Primates. Visitors can see lions, tigers, gorillas, penguins, and manatees up close. ZooTampa also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for all ages.

Highlight

Over 1,300 animals from around the world
Five realms: Africa, Asia, Australia, Florida, and Primates
Up-close encounters with lions, tigers, gorillas, penguins, and manatees
Educational programs and activities for all ages
A variety of dining and shopping options

Things to Do

Visit the Primate World to see gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates in their natural habitat.
Get up close and personal with African animals on a savanna safari.
Watch the penguins swim and play at the Penguin Encounter.
Visit the Florida Wildlife Center to learn about native Florida animals and their habitats.
Take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the zoo’s operations and how the animals are cared for.

4. Sunshine Skyway Bridge

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge over four miles long that spans Tampa Bay. It offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding area. The Skyway is a popular tourist destination and a major transportation link between Tampa and St. Petersburg.

Highlight

Stunning views of Tampa Bay and the surrounding area
Popular tourist destination
Major transportation link between Tampa and St. Petersburg
Fishing piers on either side of the bridge
Rest areas with picnic tables and restrooms

Things to Do

Drive across the bridge and enjoy the views.
Stop at one of the fishing piers to try your luck at catching a fish.
Have a picnic at one of the rest areas.
Take a walk or bike ride across the bridge.
Visit the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, which offers stunning views of the bridge and the bay.

5. Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian trail along the Hillsborough River. The Riverwalk is a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy the outdoors, take in the city skyline, and visit various attractions.

Highlight

Stunning views of the Hillsborough River and the It’s skyline
A variety of attractions, including parks, museums, restaurants, and shops
Popular spot for walking, biking, and running
Free events and concerts throughout the year
Easy access to many of Tampa’s other top attractions

Things to Do

Take a walk or bike ride along the Riverwalk and enjoy the views.
Visit one of the many parks along the Riverwalk, such as Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park or Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park.
Explore the Tampa Museum of Art or the Glazer Children’s Museum.
Have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants along the Riverwalk.
Attend a free event or concert at one of the many stages along the Riverwalk.

Ready to uncover even more? Click "Hidden gems and must-visit spots in Tampa" to dive deeper into our comprehensive guide! Explore all the best things to do, places to see, and experiences to enjoy in this vibrant city. Don't miss out—let's make your Tampa adventure unforgettable!