Things to do & places to visit in Tampa, Florida, United States

Tampa is a laid-back city with a vibrant arts scene and plenty of opportunities for adventure. Busch Gardens offers thrills for families and risk-averse adrenaline junkies, as does the domed IMAX theater of the Museum of Science and Industry. Spend a day touring Tampa’s many art museums, then cheer on your favorite Tampa Bay team at a home game. Get up close and personal with the majestic lions, tigers, and leopards of the Big Cat Rescue animal sanctuary.

Tampa city in Florida, United States. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Sunday, April 28, 2024, 4:52.

Top things to do (26)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Tampa Theatre (714 reviews)
- An enjoyable venue
Sunday: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM Theaters

1926 movie palace is on the National Register of Historic Places and still plays its Wurlitzer organ before shows. See more..
5.0 Horse Power for Kids & Animal Sanctuary (248 reviews)
- Perfect for young children
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zoos • Farms

Animal sanctuary with exotic and livestock species. Farm animals ,exotics, pony rides ,train rides, hayrides, horseback riding all in a farm setting. We are open Thurs-Sunday, please note we are closed Mon-Wed. See more..
5.0 Sacred Heart Catholic Church (158 reviews)
- A Gem in Downtown Tampa!
Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

Stopped in the Church for a beautiful Palm Sunday mass. I stopped in the Saturday Vigil. I am so happy I did. The interior of the church is magnificent and the acoustics is outstanding. The church is surrounded with beautiful stain glass windows and a terrific alter. It was a nice experience to have visiting Tampa. I also enjoyed reading about its history. The Spanish explorers of the 1500s brought Catholicism to the area. In 1859, a little frame church was erected on the site of the present Sacred Heart Church. It was blessed on Trinity Sunday and named St. Louis Parish. The first Catholic parish in the Tampa area. The parish and the Tampa area grew, thanks to Henry Plants railroad, which caused a need for a bigger church. Ground was broken for the new church on February 16, 1898. The new structure was dedicated on January 15, 1905, and its name and that of the parish became Sacred Heart. See more..
4.5 ZooTampa at Lowry Park (4.034 reviews) from $47.75
- Really enjoyed our time.
Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

Experience wildlife like nowhere else! See Florida manatees receiving lifesaving care. Get up-close to a rescued Florida panther. Take a stroll down a shaded boardwalk – where you’ll find native birds, otters, alligators, bears, skunks, and other Florida wildlife – to the thrilling family water adventure Roaring Springs! Then see rare and exciting wildlife from Asia, Africa, and Australia. And so much more! See more..
4.5 Sunshine Skyway Bridge (3.708 reviews)
- Stop at the South pier
Bridges

This bridge, which you'll cross on the drive from St. Petersburg to Bradenton, is one of the longest cable-stayed concrete bridges in the world offering breathtaking panoramic views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Park at the lots at either end of the bridge to capture postcard-worthy photos. The piers are a popular fishing spot—you can rent fishing gear and join in the fun. Stay for sunset and watch as the scene changes when the bridge lights up at night. Sunshine Skyway Bridge is occasionally closed off during inclement weather, so check ahead before you begin your journey. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Big Cat Rescue (2.225 reviews)
- Wonderful Tour of Big Cat Rescue
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Nature & Wildlife Areas • Zoos

Currently we are not having any visitors at the sanctuary. At some point we will resume doing small private tours, but we don’t know when and we plan to be very conservative in making that decision. We don’t know if we will ever resume doing general public tours again. Even after the virus concerns subside, the betrayal by the liars who produced Tiger King, and the lies viewers were told in the series, creates a concern about having visitors we do not know. Fortunately people who already knew the sanctuary quickly recognized the lies in Tiger King and have been wonderfully supportive, both emotionally with your messages and with your donations. There is really no way to convey how much we have appreciated both of these kinds of support. See more..
4.5 Amalie Arena (1.928 reviews) from $86.75
- Really nice venue to see a concert
Arenas & Stadiums

Saw Springsteens concert last night here. There were plenty of ushers to help guide us and plenty of kiosks to get drinks - expensive of course - beer 16.25 , mixed drink 21 I believe , water 5. Lots of food offerings. We had Chase Club seats and I tried to look up if there were options … but only say hockey extras . Early on there was also an option to buy tickets 100+ for a buffet with drinks . Actually the Chase club had its own food and bars ( with chairs) much more relaxed atmosphere. We had already eaten standing up by then - but the food looked of better fresher quality . Seats were comfortable and I would definitely get Chase Club section 8 seats again See more..
4.5 Tampa Riverwalk (1.845 reviews)
- Great outdoor people play zone
Spent 2-3 hours Scenic Walking Areas

This riverwalk is a scenic 2.6-mile-long path along the Hillsborough River where you can discover some of downtown Tampa’s must-sees. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and you'll pass by the Tampa Museum of Art, the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park—perfect for a picnic overlooking the Tampa skyline—and finally the Tampa Bay History Center. You can also bike or take a scooter down the riverwalk. If you need a rest, there's no shortage of rest stops along the way to watch the water taxis sail by. You might even be inspired to take a boat tour on the river yourself! There are also plenty of restaurants and bars for food and drinks with a view. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Lettuce Lake Regional Park (1.080 reviews)
- Easy walk, lots of gators.
Parks

Lettuce Lake Park opened in 1982 and quickly became a hub of activities. The 240-acre site offers something for everyone. Wooded picnic areas and a playground are family favorites. A 1.25 mile bicycle path/jogging trail, complete with a fitness course, meander through the park. Lettuce Lake is also a haven to study nature. An interpretive center, featuring exhibits, leads to a 3,500-foot boardwalk and an observation tower where visitors can view an extensive variety of wildlife. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent to visitors to experience a wholenew side of the Park. See more..
4.5 Bayshore Boulevard (973 reviews)
- Early biking along the bay
Hiking Trails

Home of the world's longest sidewalk. See more..
4.5 Henry B. Plant Museum (824 reviews)
- Bigger and better than expected!
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM History Museums

Since 1933, the Tampa Bay Hotel has been home to the Henry B. Plant Museum and The University of Tampa. The building, renamed Plant Hall, is a National Historic Landmark. The Henry B. Plant Museum holds the distinction of accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums. Its mission is to interpret the Tampa Bay Hotel and the experiences of the diverse individuals who contributed to its success. The Museum ignites thought and transports visitors to another era through exhibits and innovative programs, so that they may be educated and inspired by the lifestyles, times and experiences of Florida’s early tourist industry. Original furnishings and artifacts and a dynamic self-guided audio tour immerse visitors in the opulence of the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel and its rich history. See more..
4.5 Cigar City Brewing (675 reviews)
- Great Local Brewery with Nice Menu and Atmosphere
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

Our home since 2009, the Spruce Street Brewery & Taproom offers 24 Cigar City Brewing beers poured inside the same facility where the very first batches of Jai Alai IPA and other CCB favorites were brewed. A full-service kitchen offers Tampa-inspired cuisine seven days a week, with each menu item designed to complement an offering of CCB ales and lagers which includes many beers only available in our Spruce Street Taproom. Family-friendly and inviting, the Spruce Street Taproom offers an immersive beer experience with flights, pints, growler fills, and packaged beer to go poured by Cicerone Certified Beer Servers alongside CCB apparel, barwear, and merchandise. See more..
4.5 George M. Steinbrenner Field (639 reviews)
- Beautiful field
Sunday: Arenas & Stadiums

George M. Steinbrenner Field is the Spring Home to the New York Yankees and Home to the Single-A Advanced Affiliate, the Tampa Tarpons. The Tampa Tarpons play 70 home games from April through September with ticket prices starting as low as $5 per person. See more..
4.5 Tampa Bay History Center (618 reviews)
- Great Museum!
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours History Museums

Set sail with explorers and pirates in the History Center's Treasure Seekers gallery, journey through the everglades with Florida Seminoles, ride along with a cattle drive, and roam the brick streets of Ybor City with immigrant cigar rollers. Located on the Tampa Riverwalk, the Tampa Bay History Center features three floors of interactive exhibits, theaters and displays, a museum store and waterfront dining at the Columbia Cafe. See more..
4.5 Straz Center for the Performing Arts (549 reviews)
- Carmen!!!!
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Theaters

The Straz Center began as a dream by visionary citizens of Tampa who persevered to bring to reality one of the finest performing arts centers in the nation. It is many things to many people and it’s more than just a building, more than just a performing arts center. It is a presenter, a producer, an educator, a community partner and an economic engine for the Tampa Bay area. It is a cornerstone of the Tampa Bay community. The Straz Center creates a regional economic impact of more than $100 million each year. To our local economy it can mean more tourists staying in hotels, eating in restaurants, shopping in stores and visiting other venues when they are here. At both the local and national level, it provides access to more than 700,000 people of all ages, abilities and cultures each year. It also provides jobs for artists and other professionals who have a passion for the arts and for our mission. See more..
4.5 Glazer Children's Museum (494 reviews)
- Glazer Children's Museum
Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Children's Museums

Children need play now more than ever. It offers respite, promotes wellness, and deepens family connections. We have you covered with fun and imaginative experiences to keep your child learning and engaged! Ideal for ages 0-10. See more..
4.5 TECO Line Streetcar System (481 reviews)
- Nice free ride in tampa
Trams

The TECO Line Streetcar System is a 2.7-mile line serving the dining and entertainment destinations in Ybor City, the Channel District (including the Port of Tampa and Channelside Bay Plaza) and Downtown Tampa. Operating until late on Fridays and Saturdays, the TECO Line Streetcar features 11 stations, each equipped with ticket vending machines. The TECO Line Streetcar is a fun, historical trip that is more than just getting you to your destination! See more..
4.5 International Plaza and Bay Street (437 reviews)
- Loved it here!
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Shopping Malls

International Plaza and Bay Street, an enclosed, two-story regional shopping center with an adjacent outdoor lifestyle center, is located on the southeast edge of the Tampa International Airport. It features 200 specialty stores and 15 restaurants, plus Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Dillard's and Renaissance Tampa Hotel International Plaza. See more..
4.5 Yuengling Brewery (375 reviews)
- We had the best escort on our tour
Breweries

This was a really great trip I took a group of senior citizens there. Going into the new section they had an elevator for those needing one. There is some walking, we were lucky we went around 9am and it hadn't gotten hot yet. The only sections air conditioned were the lab and the tasting room. Make sure you wear closed toed shoes. Our escort really knew her business inside and out. We all felt we had come away with a little more knowledge about the brew business. One thing, on the bottom of your can are some numbers first 2 are the year, the next 3 are the Julian date the beer was produced. Good to know when you want to have a good cold tasting beer. We were told the beer is not produced until it is sold. Yuengling wants to sell a quality product See more..
4.5 Wat Mongkolrata Temple (340 reviews)
- Gorgeous place!
Religious Sites

We love this temple. We attend the Sunday brunch and market in addition to the "Kathina festival" and other events. We always have a wonderful time and enjoy the walk along the river. The monks keep the gardens beautiful. And if you're looking to purchase orchids I highly recommend you go to the Sunday Market. See more..
4.5 Hyde Park (184 reviews)
- A Beautiful Church!
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

A historic part of town filled with interesting homes from the early 20th century. See more..
4.5 Ybor City Museum State Park (171 reviews)
- Terrific Museum on the History of Ybor City
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM History Museums

The Tampa enclave's colorful history unfolds here. See more..
4.0 Busch Gardens (18.2k reviews) from $124.29
- Good park, lots to do
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ultimate family adventure, combining world-class thrill rides, live entertainment and more than 12,000 animals. Challenge a 335-foot drop tower, Falcon's Fury, or race like a cheetah on Cheetah Hunt. Busch Gardens' newest attraction, Cobra's Curse puts a spin on family thrills with this one-of-a-kind spin coaster. See more..
4.0 The Florida Aquarium (5.645 reviews)
- Best for small children
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Aquariums

The Florida Aquarium is an educational and fun-filled wonderland, home to thousands of animals and plants. Kids will especially enjoy the stingray petting area or the SeaTREK, where they’ll have to wear a wetsuit to walk among the underwater inhabitants and explore coral caves. It’s an immersive learning journey for the whole family. If you’re visiting on a hot day, pack your swimsuit for a splashing good time at the outdoor water play zone. Skip the line by booking your tickets online or, even better, become a member to enjoy unlimited visits and other privileges. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.0 Ybor City (3.073 reviews)
- Lovely Dinner with Family
Historic Sites • Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

Ybor City, once the cigar capital of the world, is a vibrant neighborhood in Tampa that boasts an exciting nightlife and delicious food. You can explore the historic district on a walking tour to learn more about the architecture and immigrant history, or indulge in a food tour that takes you to Latin and soul food restaurants. As the sun sets, the area transforms into a lively entertainment district where you can do a pub crawl, dance the night away, or catch some live music. To get there, you can hop on a free streetcar from downtown. There's also a weekly local flea market. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.0 Raymond James Stadium (1.114 reviews)
- Wrestlemania
Arenas & Stadiums

Home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, USF Bulls, Outback Bowl, Monster Jam, Supercross, Super Bowl XXXV & XLIII, 2017 CFB Playoff National Championship, Concerts and more! See more..
4.0 SS American Victory Mariners' Memorial and Museum Ship (389 reviews)
- A great experience brought by a mostly volunteer team
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Military Museums • Ships

We took a guided tour that incidentally started just five minutes after we got in around opening time on Memorial Day. They keep just a few people on payroll, and the rest are volunteers. We had George guide us, a Navy veteran whose informative and straightforward we appreciated greatly. This museum ship is a converted Liberty cargo ship, saved before being put for scrap some decades ago when container shipping made these vessels mostly obsolete. You get a real sense for life on the ship and what it must have been like for sailors to live here. I have visited other WWII-era ships in the past, and this one was right up there with the others in terms of value for my money. I recommend it to anyone who feels they would enjoy this sort of thing. See more..
3.5 Seminole Hard Rock Casino Tampa (2.703 reviews)
- Had to leave early Child passed
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Casinos

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is the premier entertainment destination of Central Florida and the place where celebrities love to stay and play. This electrifying casino is one of the most successful and largest casinos in the world, and features high stakes table games along with thousands of the hottest slot machines. The casino offers a valet service or free, self-parking. We welcome reviews about the casino experience, but we do have a hotel and amenity specific page so be sure to leave your review on the right page so we can best respond to your comments. See more..
3.5 Museum of Science and Industry (1.284 reviews)
- Very interactive attraction
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Science Museums

Explore a World of Possibilities at Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry with more than 150 hands-on activities, Gaze into the starry night sky in MOSI’s Saunders Planetarium, and don’t miss exploring Mission: Moonbase where you can preform missions with iterative exhibits that lead to colonizing the Moon! There is also CONNECTUS, an area that showcases the technology behind many modern devices we use in our everyday life, plus get a rush from MOSI’s Sky Trail® Ropes Course. There is all of this and more at MOSI! See more..
3.5 Adventure Island (1.160 reviews) from $55.99
- Fun but hard for small children
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Water Parks

Located right across the street from Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, Adventure Island® is 30 acres of water-drenched fun in the sun featuring the ultimate combination of high-speed thrills and tropical, tranquil surroundings for guests of all ages. Within a soothing Key West atmosphere await slides, corkscrews, water falls, a wave pool, children’s water playground and other family attractions. Choose to race down rapids, dig your toes into the sand or relax all day in a private cabana. Hurtle high and experience a feeling of weightlessness on Colossal Curl™, Adventure Island’s newest family thrill slide. See more..