Things to Do in Tampa Bay
Discover Tampa's top attractions, activities, and entertainment options for visitors and locals alike.
By Sam Kasimalla, Tampa Real Estate Consultant
Theme Parks
These cost anywhere from $100-250 per person per day. Here are some theme parks within a 1-2 hour driving distance of Tampa:
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Located in Tampa, this African-themed amusement park offers a variety of roller coasters, live shows, and animal exhibits.
Adventure Island
Also in Tampa, this water park features numerous water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
Orlando Area (1.5 hours from Tampa)
Walt Disney World Resort
- • Magic Kingdom
- • Epcot
- • Disney's Hollywood Studios
- • Disney's Animal Kingdom
Universal Orlando Resort
- • Universal Studios Florida
- • Universal's Islands of Adventure
- • Universal's Volcano Bay (water park)
SeaWorld Orlando
Marine-themed park with rides, shows, and animal encounters.
Legoland Florida Resort
Located in Winter Haven (1 hour), centered around the Lego brand, suitable for younger children.
Aquatica Orlando
SeaWorld's water park featuring water slides and a lazy river.
Discovery Cove
Unique park offering interactive marine animal experiences, including swimming with dolphins.
Beaches
Here are some beaches within a 2-hour drive from Tampa:
Clearwater Beach
30-40 minutes from Tampa
One of the most popular beaches with beautiful white sand and clear waters.
St. Pete Beach
30-40 minutes from Tampa
Wide sandy shoreline with various water activities.
Honeymoon Island State Park
40 minutes away
Perfect for nature lovers with trails and wildlife.
Caladesi Island State Park
Ferry from Honeymoon Island
Known for natural beauty and calm environment.
Fort De Soto Park
45 minutes from Tampa
Beaches, historic sites, and nature trails.
Treasure Island
35-40 minutes away
Wide beach with restaurants and shops.
Pass-a-Grille Beach
40 minutes from Tampa
Quaint, historic atmosphere with beautiful sunsets.
Anna Maria Island
1 hour 30 minutes from Tampa
Known for its relaxed vibe and stunning beaches.
Siesta Key Beach
1 hour 20 minutes from Tampa
Famous for its fine, white sand and clear waters.
Lagoons
MetroLagoons' journey:
Epperson Lagoon
Opened in 2019
The first lagoon in the USA and MetroLagoons' first location!
Southshore Bay Lagoon
Opened in 2021
MetroLagoons' second location.
Mirada Lagoon
Latest location
The largest man-made lagoon in the USA, MetroLagoons' third and grandest location.
Local Tampa Attractions
Tampa Riverwalk
A scenic 2.6-mile waterfront path connecting downtown Tampa's attractions, parks, museums, and restaurants.
The Florida Aquarium
Interactive exhibits with marine life including sharks, rays, and otters.
Tampa Bay History Center
Showcases the rich history of the Tampa Bay area with interactive exhibits and engaging displays.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Wide range of animals from local wildlife to exotic species with interactive experiences.
Ybor City
Historic neighborhood with vibrant nightlife, Cuban culture, and the Columbia Restaurant (Florida's oldest restaurant).
Amalie Arena
Home to the Tampa Bay Lightning NHL team, hosting concerts, shows, and other events.
Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)
Hands-on exhibits and an IMAX theater, great for families and science enthusiasts.
Henry B. Plant Museum
Located in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the late 19th century.
Big Cat Rescue
Sanctuary for rescued big cats with guided tours to learn about these majestic animals.
Tampa Theatre
Historic movie palace with ornate architecture and classic film screenings.
Sparkman Wharf
Waterfront destination with dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities, perfect for a relaxed day out.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Downtown park with green spaces, interactive fountains, and beautiful views of the Hillsborough River.
Commercial Establishments
Main Event
Big kid arcade with indoor zip line, bowling, laser tag, and bar. Perfect for all ages!
Vertical Ventures
Indoor rock climbing gym suitable for all skill levels.
Topgolf Tampa
Modern driving range with high-tech game experience for all skill levels.
Skatepark of Tampa
For skateboarding enthusiasts, this renowned skatepark offers a place to practice tricks and meet fellow skaters.
Shopping Malls
International Mall
West Shore Mall
Wesley Chapel Outlets
Brandon Mall
Sarasota Mall
Adventure Activities
State Parks & Hiking
- • Hillsborough State Park - suspension bridge and hiking trails
- • Florida Adventure Sports
Mountain Biking Trails
- • Balm Boyette - Advanced trails with double diamonds (15-20 foot drops)
- • Alafia State Park - Advanced trails with double diamonds
- • Morris Bridge Trail - Basic mountain bike paths
Hip & Fun Places
Wesley Chapel
Modern shopping and dining destination.
Disney Springs (Free)
Formerly Downtown Disney. Great for families who miss big city vibes like NYC/SF. Usually crowded but enjoyable for walking around.
Special Events & Venues
Cultural Venues
- • Straz Center
- • Ruth Eckerd Hall
- • Palladium
- • Mahaffey Theater
Sports Venues
- • RJ Football Stadium (NFL)
- • Tropicana Field (MLB)
- • Amalie Arena (NHL)
Natural Springs
Three Sisters Springs
📍917 Three Sisters Springs Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429
One of the most breathtaking springs in Florida, perfect for kayaking and swimming.
Pro Tip: They offer shuttle service, walk-in, and bicycle-in access, but you can't park at the springs!
Crystal River
📍915 North Suncoast Blvd, Crystal River, FL 34429
Perfect for seeing manatees! Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and peaceful fishing.
Pro Tip: Explore the community of shops and restaurants for fresh seafood!
Weeki Wachee Springs
📍6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee, FL 34606
Famous mermaid shows since 1947! Features the Mermaid Theater and Buccaneer Bay water park.
Pro Tip: Plan extra time for Buccaneer Bay water park!
Rainbow Springs
📍19158 SW 81st Place Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432
First-magnitude artesian springs with ornamental gardens and waterfalls.
Pro Tip: Walk through lush hammocks then cool off in the springs!
Rock Springs
📍30601 County Road 433, Sorrento, FL 32776
Perfect for outdoor lovers! Explore 17 miles of trails for hiking and camping. You can even rent a horse for trail adventures.
Pro Tip: Enjoy 17 miles of trails on bike, foot, or horseback before cooling off!
Sunken Gardens
📍1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704
Explore 4.5 acres of lush gardens with over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, flamingos, and cascading waterfalls. Perfect for dates or family fun!
Our recommendation: Open for tours, educational programs, and special events. One of the cheapest attractions in Tampa Bay!
