What to Do in Tampa Florida With Family
Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy. From beautiful beaches and thrilling theme parks to educational museums and wildlife encounters, Tampa has something for everyone. If you’re planning a family trip to Tampa, here are some must-do activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
1. Busch Gardens: This famous theme park combines thrilling rides with up-close animal encounters. From the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to the Serengeti Safari, where you can feed giraffes, there’s no shortage of excitement here.
2. The Florida Aquarium: Dive into the depths of the ocean at the Florida Aquarium. With over 20,000 aquatic plants and animals, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles, this is an educational and captivating experience for the whole family.
3. ZooTampa at Lowry Park: Spend a day exploring the award-winning ZooTampa, home to over 1,300 animals from around the world. Don’t miss the Safari Africa exhibit, where you can observe majestic lions, giraffes, and elephants up close.
4. Clearwater Beach: Just a short drive from Tampa lies Clearwater Beach, known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Spend a day building sandcastles, swimming, or simply relaxing under the sun.
5. Glazer Children’s Museum: Designed for children ages 0-10, this interactive museum offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities, allowing kids to learn through play. From a fire station to a vet clinic, there’s something for every little explorer here.
6. Big Cat Rescue: Get up close and personal with rescued big cats at the Big Cat Rescue sanctuary. Take a guided tour to learn about the conservation efforts and stories of these majestic creatures.
7. Adventure Island: Beat the Florida heat at Adventure Island, Tampa’s water park. With thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, it’s the perfect place to cool off and have fun with the family.
8. Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): Ignite your curiosity at MOSI, where science comes to life. With interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a ropes course, this museum guarantees a day of educational entertainment.
9. Tampa Bay History Center: Learn about the rich history of Tampa Bay at this interactive museum. From the indigenous peoples to the cigar industry and pirates, there’s much to discover about the city’s past.
10. Lowry Park: Enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll at Lowry Park, a beautiful waterfront park with playgrounds, walking trails, and even a mini water park for the little ones.
11. Tropicana Field: If you’re a sports-loving family, catch a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game at Tropicana Field. Cheer for the home team and experience the excitement of America’s favorite pastime.
FAQs:
1. Is Tampa, Florida, a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Tampa is a family-friendly destination with a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for all ages.
2. Which theme park is better for families: Busch Gardens or Adventure Island?
Both parks offer different experiences. Busch Gardens combines thrilling rides with animal encounters, while Adventure Island is a water park. Choose based on your family’s preferences.
3. Are there any free activities for families in Tampa?
Yes, many parks and beaches in Tampa are free to visit. Some museums also offer free or discounted admission for children.
4. How far is Clearwater Beach from Tampa?
Clearwater Beach is approximately a 30-minute drive from Tampa, depending on traffic.
5. Can we bring our own food to the attractions?
Most attractions allow visitors to bring their own food and beverages, but it’s always best to check their policies beforehand.
6. Are there any indoor activities in case of bad weather?
Yes, Tampa has several indoor attractions, such as museums, the Glazer Children’s Museum, and the Florida Aquarium.
7. Are there any special events for families in Tampa?
Tampa hosts various family-friendly events throughout the year, including festivals, parades, and holiday celebrations. Check the local event calendars for upcoming activities.
8. Can we rent bikes or kayaks in Tampa?
Yes, there are several rental companies that offer bikes, kayaks, and other recreational equipment for families to enjoy.
9. Is it safe to swim at Clearwater Beach?
Yes, Clearwater Beach is known for its safe and clean swimming conditions. Lifeguards are present on duty, and the beach is regularly monitored.
10. Are there any age restrictions for the activities mentioned?
Most activities have age restrictions for certain rides or exhibits. Check the websites or contact the attractions directly for specific information.
11. Can we purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred dates and avoid long queues at the attractions.
In conclusion, Tampa, Florida, is a fantastic destination for a family vacation. With its diverse range of attractions, from theme parks and museums to beautiful beaches and wildlife encounters, there’s no shortage of things to do to keep the whole family entertained. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for a memorable adventure in Tampa!