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30 Best Things to Do in Tampa With Kids

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions in Tampa, known for being kid-friendly, much like in the state of Florida. Third in size in Florida behind Miami and Jacksonville, it is located on the Gulf Coast. Thanks to its friendly citizens, everybody is guaranteed a warm welcome in this family-friendly community.

Tampa’s waterfront parks and pathways are highly recommended, especially for those who enjoy being near beaches. Families are also drawn in by the interesting displays of the air-conditioned museums, which offer educational and entertaining experiences. See below for Tampa’s top family-friendly activities. Read on and see the best things you can do with your kids in Tampa. 

1. Have fun with different rides at the Busch Gardens

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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a popular theme park for children of all ages, offering a variety of rides and attractions suitable for families. The park is dedicated to education and conservation, featuring animal exhibits and shows that educate visitors about the natural world. Children can learn about various animals, including lions, tigers, gorillas, and dolphins.

The park also has rides specifically designed for kids, such as the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area, which features rides based on popular characters like Elmo and Cookie Monster. Older kids will enjoy the park’s thrilling roller coasters, such as Cheetah Hunt and Cobra’s Curse. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay caters to all interests and is a great place to create lasting memories with families.

2. Learn about Florida’s marine life 

The Florida Aquarium is a popular destination for children to learn about Florida’s marine life through various exhibits like the Coral Reef Gallery, Florida Wetlands, and Bayshore Touch Tank. Visitors can see sharks, penguins, sea turtles, and other marine animals up close.

The aquarium also offers educational programmes like “AquaTots” for children aged 3-5 and their parents, which include storytime, craft-making, and structured and unstructured play. “SeaTREK” allows older kids to explore coral caves and walk among underwater inhabitants. Other educational programmes include behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.

3. See animals at the Lowry Park Zoo

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Lowry Park Zoo is a popular destination for children to learn about and see over 1,300 animals from around the world. The zoo features interactive exhibits and programmes, such as the “Wild Encounters” programme, which allows kids to interact with animals like giraffes, penguins, and stingrays.

Additionally, the zoo has a petting zoo where they can interact with farm animals. In addition to animal exhibits, the zoo offers other attractions like a carousel, train ride, and splash pad. Children can also enjoy playing in the playground or having a picnic in the shaded areas.

4. Explore the world of science at the Museum of Science and Industry

MOSI is a unique and accessible museum for children to explore science and technology through interactive exhibits such as a planetarium, IMAX theatre, and flight simulator. The museum’s commitment to making science fun and accessible to all ages makes it an ideal destination for children to learn about various subjects.

The “Dinosaurs in Motion” exhibit showcases life-size dinosaur models, while the “Science of Me” programme offers hands-on activities for children aged 3-5 and their parents. The “MOSI After Dark” programme allows older visitors to explore the exhibits without crowds. Other educational programmes include behind-the-scenes tours and workshops. Overall, MOSI is a great place for kids to learn about science and technology in a fun and interactive way, making it an ideal day out with family.

5. Spark your creativity at the Glazer Children’s Museum

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The Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa, Florida, is a hands-on museum designed for children aged 2 to 12, featuring interactive and educational exhibits on science, math, and the arts. The Water Play Area offers children the opportunity to splash around in water, build dams and canals, and learn about water properties. The Construction Zone allows children to use real tools to build structures and learn about engineering principles.

The museum also features an art studio where children can create their own masterpieces, a music room where they can play instruments and learn about music theory, and a theatre where they can put on plays and musicals. The museum’s engaging and educational exhibits are sure to pique children’s curiosity.

6. Learn some history at the Tampa Bay History Centre

The Tampa Bay History Centre is a museum in downtown Tampa, Florida, that focuses on the history of Tampa Bay from its earliest days to the present. It features exhibits on Native American history, the Spanish colonial period, Cuban immigration, and modern-day development.

The “First Floridians” exhibit tells the story of Native Americans who lived in Tampa Bay for thousands of years before European arrival. The “Conquistadors and Colonists” exhibit teaches about the Spanish and colonial periods in Tampa Bay. The “Cubans in Tampa” exhibit tells the story of Cuban immigrants who arrived in the 19th century and their impact on the region. The museum is an engaging and informative place for visitors to learn about Tampa Bay’s past.

7. Take a stroll at the Tampa Riverwalk

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The Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile waterfront walkway in downtown Tampa, Florida, offers stunning views of the city skyline, river, and surrounding area. It’s a popular destination for walking, biking, and scootering, with restaurants, cafes, and bars for food and drink stops.

The walkway also features public art installations like sculptures, murals, and mosaics, making it a great place to spend time with family and friends. Overall, the Tampa Riverwalk is a vibrant and beautiful way to enjoy the outdoors and the city of Tampa.

8. See the city skyline at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is an 8-acre park in downtown Tampa, Florida, offering stunning views of the Hillsborough River and the city skyline. It features amenities like a splash pad, playground, dog park, and performance stage.

The park is a great place to relax, picnic, play with children or dogs, and enjoy the outdoors. It hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and movies. It’s a beautiful and vibrant spot to spend a day or evening with family and friends in Tampa.

9. Visit the historic theatre Tampa Theatre

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The Tampa Theatre, a historic theatre in downtown Tampa, Florida, is a rare example of an Italian Renaissance-style theatre in the United States. Built-in 1926, it has beautiful architecture and an ornate interior. The lobby has a grand staircase, marble floor, and painted ceiling.

The auditorium seats 1,252 and features a proscenium arch, stage curtain, and balcony. The theatre hosts a variety of movies, concerts, plays, and dance recitals. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering a great place to see a movie, enjoy a live performance, or admire the theatre’s architecture.

10. Visit the SS American Victory Mariners’ Memorial and Museum Ship

In addition to exploring the ship’s bridge, engine room, and crew quarters, kids at the SS American Victory Mariners’ Memorial and Museum Ship can also learn about the ship’s role in World War II and the lives of the sailors who served on it through interactive exhibits and educational programmes.

For example, the “Sailor’s Life” exhibit allows kids to experience what it was like to live and work on a World War II cargo ship. The “Battle Stations!” program teaches kids about the different jobs that sailors perform during combat.

11. See manatees at the Manatee Viewing Centre

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The Manatee Viewing Centre is a great place to see manatees up close. The centre is located on a warm-water channel, which attracts manatees to the area. Visitors can watch the manatees swim and play from the centre’s observation deck.

The centre also has a number of educational exhibits and programmes about manatees. For example, the “Manatee Anatomy” exhibit teaches kids about the different parts of a manatee’s body. And the “Manatee Behaviour” programme teaches kids about how manatees live and interact with each other.

12. Visit a sanctuary for cats

Big Cat Rescue is a sanctuary for big cats, such as lions, tigers, and leopards. The sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and caring for big cats that have been abused, abandoned, or orphaned. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and see the big cats up close.

Big Cat Rescue also has a number of educational exhibits and programmes about big cats. For example, the “Lion Exhibit” teaches kids about the different characteristics and behaviours of lions. And the “Tiger Encounter” programme allows kids to get up close to a real tiger.

13. Get active at the Hillsborough River State Park

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Hillsborough River State Park is a large park that offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. The park is also home to a number of historical and cultural sites, such as the Fort De Soto National Historic Landmark.

Hillsborough River State Park also has a number of educational programmes and exhibits about the park’s natural history and cultural heritage. For example, the “Nature Centre” features exhibits on the park’s geology, flora, and fauna. The “Ranger-Led Programmes” teach kids about the park’s natural resources and cultural history.

14. Watch manatees swim and play at Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Centre

Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Centre is another great place to see manatees up close. The centre is located next to a power plant that discharges warm water into the Hillsborough River. Manatees are attracted to the warm water, so they can often be seen swimming and playing near the centre.

In addition to seeing manatees up close, kids at Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Centre can also learn about the centre’s conservation efforts and how to protect manatees in the wild. For example, the “Manatee Conservation Exhibit” teaches kids about the threats that manatees face and how to help protect them. The “Manatee Watch” programme allows kids to watch manatees swim and play in the water alongside a trained biologist.

15. Visit the University of South Florida Botanical Gardens

The University of South Florida Botanical Gardens is a beautiful garden that features a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world. The gardens are divided into different sections, such as the Asian Garden, the Tropical Garden, and the Rose Garden.

Visitors can explore the gardens at their own pace or take a guided tour. The gardens also have a number of educational exhibits and programmes about plants and gardening. For example, the “Garden Sprouts” programme teaches young children about plants and gardening. The “Family Fun Days” programme offers a variety of activities for families, such as nature walks, crafts, and games.

16. Visit the Lettuce Lake Regional Park

Lettuce Lake Regional Park is like a big, awesome playground for kids who love nature. There’s a huge boardwalk where you can walk and check out cool animals in the wetlands. The nature centre has fun stuff to learn about plants and animals, and there are trails that take you to cool spots like ponds and groves. You can do exciting things like scavenger hunts and crafts, and there’s even a special place to go swimming. And guess what? There’s a playground, too! It’s not just a fun place to play – it also helps you love nature forever.

17. For kids who are imaginative, visit the Fantasy of Flight

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The fantasy of flight is like an amazing adventure for kids who are into aeroplanes. They’ve got a bunch of really old planes, cool exhibits you can play with, and super fun flight simulators.

The museum shows off how smart and creative people were when they first started flying, and you can even do things like build your own model aeroplane or mess around with wind tunnels. The flight simulators are top-notch; you feel like you’re really flying over famous places and doing crazy tricks. This whole experience makes you love flying forever.

18. For young hockey lovers, visit Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena in Tampa is more than an ice rink; it’s a place filled with exciting energy and experiences that will inspire young hockey fans. The energetic vibe, with the crowd cheering, lively music, and bright lights, makes for an exciting show. The Tampa Bay Lightning showcase skillful moves, impressive speed, and intense competition on the ice, captivating kids.

Besides hockey games, Amalie Arena hosts various family-friendly events throughout the year, ensuring something for everyone. Whether it’s concerts with dazzling lights and pulsating music, imaginative performances, or spirited community events, children will be inspired. 

19. If you like a historic city, visit Ybor City

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Ybor City, a historic district in Tampa, is a lively centre of culture, flavours, and experiences that will capture children’s imaginations. Children can stroll along cobblestone streets lined with distinctive shops and enjoy diverse cuisines, ranging from Cuban to Spanish.

When the sun sets, Ybor City turns into an entertaining place with street performers and live music. Families can explore the exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Centre or join a ghost tour to discover tales within historic buildings. Ybor City is where cultures mix, flavours excite, and entertainment sparks joy, making it a memorable destination for families seeking adventure.

20. Visit Tampa Bay Down for horse riding

Tampa Bay Downs, a really cool horse racing place, is not just for watching fast horses; it’s a super fun experience that will make kids really excited. The sound of horse hooves, the horses running really fast to the finish line, and the cheering crowd make it a super exciting place for kids. Besides the races, Tampa Bay Downs has lots of fun events for families, like pony rides, face painting, and cool exhibits.

And if you want to try betting (in a supervised way), there’s a special kids’ club where children can have fun while their parents enjoy the races. Tampa Bay Downs is a place where families can have a great time watching horse races, learn about the history of the sport, and make memories that will be remembered for a long time.

21. See animals at Lowry Park

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a fascinating zoo that’s like a door to a world of animals and cool learning adventures for curious kids. They can explore different places, like the African savanna and Asian rainforest, and meet animals from all over the world.

Kids can see big elephants walking in the savanna, watch colourful macaws flying in the rainforest, and enjoy watching meerkats play in the desert. But it’s not just about looking—ZooTampa lets kids do fun stuff and learn about taking care of animals. There are hands-on exhibits, educational programmes, and chances to meet zookeepers.

22. Go for an event at Tampa’s Children’s Gasparilla Parade 

Tampa’s Children’s Gasparilla Parade is a yearly celebration of creativity and fun that welcomes families to join in the excitement. Everyone can cheer for lively floats, marching bands, and characters in costumes. The parade honours Tampa’s history and culture, making sure it’s a safe and enjoyable time for everyone.

Kids are encouraged to dress up as pirates, cowboys, or other characters. The floats pass by, throwing beads, coins, and trinkets to the crowd, adding to the fun and creating lasting memories. Families looking for a safe and inclusive event with lots of entertainment should definitely check out this parade.

23. For passionate scientists, visit Mad Science of Tampa Bay

Mad Science of Tampa Bay is a top-notch provider of hands-on science programs for kids. They’re all about sparking curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through fun and interactive experiences. Safety is a big deal for them, and they have certified instructors who create a supportive learning environment.

Mad Science’s programmes are enjoyable and work for kids with different learning styles. They show the cool side of science with demos, experiments, and interactive exhibits. They’ve got programmes for kids of all ages and interests, covering a wide range of topics. The passionate team of educators ensures that each child gets personalised attention, helping them develop a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom.

24. Visit marine animals at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium

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Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a non-profit group that saves, heals, and sets free marine animals. They teach people about taking care of the sea and keeping the balance in ecosystems through their mission and exhibits. The team at the aquarium takes really good care of the animals, with vets and specialists giving them special treatment.

CMA’s displays let you get up close to different marine animals like dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and reef fish. There are hands-on displays and programmes that make learning about the sea super interesting, helping people value and understand marine life better. CMA is like a guiding light for making sure the marine world stays healthy and protected.

25. Travel back in time to the Henry B. Plant Museum

The Henry B. Plant Museum in Plant Hall in Florida showcases Victorian-style furniture and artefacts, transporting visitors to Gilded Age America. Designed for all artefacts, exhibits feature intricate decor, ornate furniture, stained glass windows, and mosaic ceilings.

Children can imagine living in the grand mansion, envisioning lively gatherings and elegant dinners. Interactive displays and hands-on activities, such as playing period games and trying on Victorian costumes, make learning fun. The museum sparks imagination and creativity in young minds, fostering appreciation for the beauty and craftsmanship of the Victorian era.

26. Take a walk through the Sunken Gardens 

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Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a calm and pretty spot for families who want to have fun and learn something new. It’s got tall palms, cute flowers, and the sounds of nature all around. You can walk through the greenery, see waterfalls, and watch animals. There are signs that tell you cool stuff about plants and why they’re important.

Sunken Gardens also lets you get close to nature with fun activities like feeding animals and bird shows. The gardens started in the 1930s when people needed jobs, turning an empty quarry into this awesome place. It’s perfect for making memories, loving nature, and understanding how everything in nature is connected. Sunken Gardens makes plants exciting for kids with its cool atmosphere, fun things to do, and chances to learn.

27. Make learning fun at the Challenger Learning Centre

The Challenger Learning Centre in Tampa is a super cool place for kids to have fun and learn at the same time. They have awesome space-themed activities that make science exciting. Kids can pretend to be astronauts, experience liftoff, and work together on space missions. The centre is all about making learning fun, with hands-on activities, engaging displays, and nice teachers.

It’s a great spot for kids who love space or want to learn more about it. They even have a special club where kids can do fun activities while their parents enjoy the space missions. The Challenger Learning Centre is the perfect place for kids to have an out-of-this-world adventure and have fun while doing it.

28. Have an adventure at Adventure Island

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Adventure Island is a fun water park surrounded by greenery and clear waters, making it a great place for families. Kids can have a blast with water slides, fountains, and lazy river floats. Brave ones can try exciting rides like the Caribbean Cyclone and Gulf Stream Raging Rapids.

If you want to relax, there’s a tropical pool with a relaxing vibe. And it’s not just about water – there’s land fun too, with a mini-golf course, carousel, and arcade games at Buccaneer’s Run. Adventure Island is like a paradise for families looking to have an awesome day of adventure and make memories together.

29. Ride a bike at Bayshore Boulevard

Bayshore Boulevard is a beautiful coastal area in Tampa, Florida, known for its lovely views and lively atmosphere. Bordered by tall palm trees and overlooking Tampa Bay’s calm waters, the boulevard is a fantastic spot for easy walks, jogging, and biking.

With well-kept green spaces, it’s a peaceful place to escape the city’s hustle. People, both locals and visitors, come to Bayshore Boulevard to enjoy stunning bay views, watch boats go by, or just relax by the water. Its natural beauty and recreational features make it a favourite spot for outdoor lovers, showcasing Tampa’s coastal charm.

30. Go for rock climbing at the Vertical Ventures

Vertical Ventures is a fantastic indoor rock climbing gym in Florida, and it’s not just for adults; it’s a blast for kids too! With colourful climbing walls and routes designed for various skill levels, it’s an exciting and active playground for young climbers. The gym’s lively atmosphere makes it a fun place for kids to challenge themselves and build confidence.

Whether they’re trying climbing for the first time or honing their skills, Vertical Ventures offers a welcoming space for children to enjoy the thrill of climbing in a safe and supervised environment. It’s the perfect spot for families seeking an adventurous and entertaining indoor activity that keeps the little ones active and smiling.

If you get to visit Tampa or if you live there, please don’t forget to save this list and if you haven’t created a bucket list then this would be the best time to do so.