10 Fun Things to Do in Tampa Florida
Florida was visited by over 111 million Americans and is one of the top vacation destinations within the U.S.
Are you thinking about heading to the Sunshine State but aren’t sure what to do in Florida or which part of the state to visit?
The third-largest city in Florida, Tampa is an excellent option if you visit Florida.
Let’s look at ten super fun things in Tampa, Florida!
1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If you’ve been on the hunt for the best things to do in Florida, it’s crossed your mind to hit up a theme park.
This African-themed animal theme park has nine roller coasters and two water rides to keep you thrilled all day.
Busch Gardens is a great thing to do with animal attractions and tons of smaller rides when you visit Tampa with the whole family.
2. Party on a Yacht
Are you in Florida for a birthday, wedding, anniversary, or to have the time of your life?
If you’re going to visit Tampa, shouldn’t you take advantage of the opportunity to do things that are impossible in your landlocked home state?
No matter the size of your party or the occasion, chartering a luxury yacht is one of the best things to do in Florida. Click here to learn more.
3. The Sunken Gardens
Over a hundred years old, the Sunken Gardens began in 1911 and are located near St. Petersburg.
With over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, the Sunken Gardens is a lush and magical attraction. Considered one of the last roadside attractions in Florida and one of the oldest roadside attractions in the United States, this place is worth checking out!
4. The Florida Aquarium
A classic stop while visiting Tampa, the Florida Aquarium is home to more than 7,000 aquatic animals and plants. Some sea creatures are native to Florida, while others come from worldwide.
This is a fun and educational option if you are solo or with your family in Florida!
5. Suncoast Primate Sanctuary
Located in nearby Palm Harbor, this primate sanctuary is an incredible non-profit organization and place to visit near Tampa. This is a spot where animals can find refuge after retiring from the film industry or the laboratory or are no longer able to be cared for as a pet.
The original sanctuary property was bought in 1954 by a husband and wife who had a traveling vaudeville and magic act. In addition, they had chimpanzees that they cared for that would participate in the shows.
This outdoor facility is only open on certain days of the week, so check out their website to learn about their hours.
With apes, small primates, birds, and reptiles, this is a tremendous educational opportunity for kids and an all-around fun thing to do!
6. Big Cat Rescue
Another fabulous non-profit animal sanctuary, the Big Cat Sanctuary in Tampa, offers guided tours.
This cat rescue was started in 1992 when the founder, Carole Baskin, and her then-husband Don. They bought 56 bobcat kittens to save them from being killed for their fur, and the cat rescue was born.
You’ll see leopards, jaguars, lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars, ocelots, and more!
Make sure you reserve your tickets because the tours fill up fast!
7. The Hindu Temple of Florida
Whether you’re a follower of Hinduism, a spiritual seeker, or just a lover of fantastic architecture, the Hindu Temple of Florida won’t disappoint.
They conduct several religious classes for adults and some for children, too. Not only that, but they also have music, dance, language, and art classes for children.
8. Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center
Check out this excellent Manatee viewing center if you’re in Tampa between November 1 and April 15.
Manatee’s started being spotted in this place in the mid-80s. They naturally flocked to the discharge canal of the power company, which was filled with warm, clean saltwater when Tampa Bay became 68 degrees or cooler.
Don’t know much about this marine mammal? No problem! With interactive exhibits and tons of educational info, you’ll leave Tampa, a manatee expert.
9. Parque Amigos de Jose Marti
Want to step foot in Cuba without leaving the U.S.?
Though it sounds strange, a section of a tiny park in Tampa was gifted to the Republic of Cuba in 1956, three years before the communist revolution.
The park is small so that you can see it in its entirety from outside its gates. However, if you want the whole experience, you’ll have to go when it’s open, Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 1:30 pm.
10. Salvador Dali Museum
A short drive from Tampa in nearby St. Petersburg, the Salvador Dali Museum is home to the most extensive collection of this infamous Spanish Surrealist outside of Europe.
Beyond having an impressive collection (including 7 of the 18 “masterwork” paintings) of Dali’s work, the museum hosts films, performances, lectures, workshops, and more.
You’ll Run Out of Time Before You Run Out of Fun Things to Do in Tampa, Florida
Whether you’re an art lover, an animal lover, a party lover, or all of the above, you won’t run out of things to do in Tampa, Florida.
Ten items are not enough to showcase the various activities possible during your Tampa visit. Whatever you do, you’re going to have a great time!
Did you love this article on what to do when in Tampa, Florida? Check out the rest of our blog for more awesome content!
With over 20+ years of experience in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial environments, Diana has developed a great understanding of Marketing Strategy, Brand Development, Customer Success, Public Relations and Management. Her internal drive for developing others and external brands, has allowed her to work in some of the largest cities in the world including Milan, Paris, NY, Mexico, and the Middle East. This experience has been fundamental to Diana’s success and ability to communicate cross-culturally.
