Intro: Welcome to the beautiful city of Tampa, Florida, where sunshine and smiles are in abundance! If you’re planning a family trip to Tampa and wondering about the best things to do with your kids, you’re in the right place. Tampa offers a wide range of activities and attractions that will keep the little ones entertained and create unforgettable memories. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in Tampa with kids, ensuring your family adventure is filled with fun and excitement.
- Visit the Glazer Children’s Museum
Our first stop on the list of things to do in Tampa with kids is the Glazer Children’s Museum. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, this interactive museum is a haven for young minds. The museum features a variety of exhibits designed to engage, educate, and entertain children of all ages. From a pretend grocery store and an interactive water play area to a climbing structure and art studio, there’s something to spark the curiosity of every child. It’s a great place for both fun and learning!
- Explore the Tampa Bay History Center
For a dose of history and culture, take your kids to the Tampa Bay History Center. This museum offers a hands-on experience with exhibits covering the rich history of the Tampa Bay area. Children can immerse themselves in the past by exploring a replica 1920s cigar store, stepping inside a pioneer-era cabin, and discovering the secrets of pirates who once roamed these waters. It’s an educational adventure that the whole family can enjoy.
- Discover the Florida Aquarium
One of the most popular attractions in Tampa is the Florida Aquarium. This world-class facility is not only educational but also incredibly fun for kids and adults alike. Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks and other marine life, get up close and personal with playful otters, and marvel at the vibrant colors of the coral reef exhibit. The Florida Aquarium offers an unforgettable underwater adventure that your kids will talk about for years to come.
- Take a Trip to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If your kids love thrills and excitement, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the place to be. This theme park is a perfect blend of thrilling rides and wildlife encounters. From roller coasters that will make your heart race to animal exhibits where you can get close to exotic species, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out Sesame Street Safari of Fun, an area designed especially for younger children with kid-friendly rides and play areas.
- Enjoy a Day at ZooTampa at Lowry Park
For an animal-filled day of fun, head to ZooTampa at Lowry Park. This zoo is home to over 1,300 animals from around the world and provides a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife conservation. You can see everything from tigers and elephants to playful manatees and curious lemurs. Don’t miss the interactive animal encounters and the chance to feed giraffes, which is a highlight for many young visitors.
- Stroll Along the Tampa Riverwalk
For a more relaxed outing with kids, take a leisurely stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk. This scenic pathway runs along the Hillsborough River and offers beautiful views of the city skyline. There are several parks and playgrounds along the way, making it a great spot for a family picnic. You can also rent bicycles or take a water taxi for a unique perspective of Tampa.
- Visit the Manatee Viewing Center
Tampa Bay is home to a unique and gentle giant – the manatee. The Manatee Viewing Center, located in Apollo Beach just outside of Tampa, is a great place to introduce your kids to these fascinating creatures. During the winter months, manatees gather in the warm waters of the power plant’s discharge canal, providing an up-close and personal encounter with these lovable mammals. Educational displays and a tidal walkway add to the experience.
- Splash Around at Adventure Island Water Park
When the Florida sun is scorching, Adventure Island Water Park is the perfect place to cool off. With thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, this water park promises hours of fun and excitement. It’s a fantastic way to beat the heat and create lasting memories with your kids. Be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated!
- Take a Pirate Water Taxi
For a unique perspective of Tampa and its waterfront attractions, hop on a Pirate Water Taxi. Kids will love the pirate-themed adventure as you cruise along the Hillsborough River, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Tampa Bay History Center, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the Florida Aquarium. The friendly crew provides entertaining commentary along the way, making it a fun and informative ride for the whole family.
- Experience MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry)
If your children are budding scientists or just curious about the world around them, MOSI is the place to be. This interactive science museum offers a wide range of hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and even a ropes course for the more adventurous kids. With topics ranging from space exploration to robotics, MOSI makes learning a blast.
- Enjoy a Day at the Beach
Tampa Bay is surrounded by beautiful beaches, and a day at the beach is always a hit with kids. Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Fort De Soto Park are all within a short drive from Tampa and offer pristine white sands and calm, shallow waters that are perfect for families with young children. Build sandcastles, swim in the Gulf of Mexico, or simply soak up the sun while the kids play.
- Attend a Tampa Bay Rays Game
If your family enjoys sports, catch a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game at Tropicana Field. The lively atmosphere and family-friendly promotions make it a great outing for kids. Don’t forget to indulge in classic ballpark snacks like hot dogs and popcorn while cheering for the home team.
- Visit the Lowry Park Children’s Playground
Located adjacent to the Lowry Park Zoo, the Lowry Park Children’s Playground is a fantastic spot for kids to burn off some energy. This playground features creative and imaginative play structures, including a giant spider web, climbing walls, and swings. It’s a great place for kids to run, jump, and explore in a safe and stimulating environment.
- Explore the Tampa Bay Gardens and Parks
Tampa is home to several beautiful gardens and parks where you can enjoy nature with your kids. The Tampa Bay Gardens include the University of South Florida Botanical Gardens, which feature diverse plant collections, and the Sunken Gardens, a historic garden in St. Petersburg. These serene spaces are perfect for a leisurely family walk or a relaxing picnic.
- Discover Big Cat Rescue
For a unique and educational experience, visit Big Cat Rescue, a sanctuary for rescued big cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards. Guided tours offer insight into the lives of these magnificent creatures and the importance of wildlife conservation. Kids will be fascinated by the stories of the rescued cats and their road to recovery.
Conclusion: Tampa, Florida, offers an abundance of family-friendly activities and attractions, ensuring that your trip with kids will be filled with excitement, learning, and fun. Whether you’re exploring interactive museums, getting up close to wildlife, enjoying thrilling theme park rides, or simply relaxing on the beach, Tampa has something to offer every member of the family. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this vibrant and sunny city!
