Things to do in Tampa based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Tampa
Overview: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a world-renowned theme park combining thrilling roller coasters, live entertainment, and one of North America’s largest zoo-style wildlife collections.
History: The park was developed by Anheuser-Busch as a hospitality attraction that blended African-themed experiences with animal conservation.
Since When: It officially opened to the public in 1959.
Review: Visitors consistently praise its high-adrenaline rides, well-maintained animal habitats, and diverse attractions for all age groups.
When to Go: Weekdays and cooler months from October to March are ideal for shorter lines and comfortable weather.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-share from downtown Tampa via I-275.
What to Do: Enjoy roller coasters, attend animal encounters, watch live shows, and explore themed safari areas.
Free or Paid: Paid.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park, Tampa
Overview: ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a family-friendly zoo focused on conservation, education, and close-up animal experiences.
History: Originally opened as Lowry Park Zoo, it evolved into ZooTampa with expanded conservation and rescue programs.
Since When: The zoo first opened in 1938.
Review: Guests appreciate its clean layout, interactive exhibits, and strong emphasis on wildlife rescue.
When to Go: Morning visits are best to see animals active and avoid afternoon heat.
How to Go: Located north of downtown Tampa, reachable by car or taxi.
What to Do: Explore themed habitats, attend animal talks, and enjoy splash zones and rides for children.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Honeymoon Island State Park, Tampa
Overview: Honeymoon Island State Park is a pristine coastal park known for its white-sand beaches, nature trails, and birdwatching opportunities.
History: The island gained fame in the 1930s as part of a honeymoon marketing campaign before becoming a protected state park.
Since When: Designated as a Florida State Park in 1981.
Review: Visitors love its unspoiled beaches, peaceful environment, and scenic sunsets.
When to Go: Early mornings or weekdays offer quieter beach experiences, especially during winter and spring.
How to Go: Accessible by car via Dunedin Causeway from Tampa Bay.
What to Do: Swim, sunbathe, hike nature trails, kayak, and spot wildlife.
Free or Paid: Paid (small park entrance fee).
The Florida Aquarium, Tampa
Overview: The Florida Aquarium is a major marine attraction featuring immersive aquatic exhibits and conservation-focused experiences.
History: Built as part of Tampa’s waterfront revitalization, it was designed to promote marine education and preservation.
Since When: Opened in 1995.
Review: Visitors enjoy its interactive exhibits, shark tanks, and family-friendly layout.
When to Go: Late mornings on weekdays are ideal to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located downtown near the Channel District, accessible by car, streetcar, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore marine exhibits, touch tanks, behind-the-scenes tours, and educational shows.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Busch Gardens, Tampa
Overview: Busch Gardens Tampa is a premier amusement and animal park offering a mix of extreme rides and safari-style wildlife viewing.
History: Developed as part of Busch Gardens’ expansion, it built on the original brewery-based attraction concept.
Since When: Operating under the Busch Gardens name since 1959.
Review: Guests highlight its world-class roller coasters and immersive themed zones.
When to Go: Cooler seasons and weekdays are best for ride comfort and reduced wait times.
How to Go: Reachable by car or ride-share from anywhere in Tampa Bay.
What to Do: Ride thrill attractions, explore animal habitats, and enjoy dining and live entertainment.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Benchmark International Arena, Tampa
Overview: Benchmark International Arena is a modern indoor sports and events venue in Tampa designed to host professional competitions, concerts, and large-scale community gatherings.
History: The arena was developed as part of Tampa’s broader investment in sports infrastructure and event-hosting facilities.
Since When: It has been operating since the early 21st century as a multipurpose indoor arena.
Review: Visitors commend its contemporary facilities, good seating visibility, and efficient crowd management during events.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during scheduled sporting events or concerts, typically in the evenings or weekends.
How to Go: It is accessible by car, taxi, or ride-share services within the Tampa metropolitan area.
What to Do: Attend live sports matches, entertainment shows, exhibitions, and special ticketed events.
Free or Paid: Paid, depending on the event.
Armature Works, Tampa
Overview: Armature Works is a vibrant waterfront food hall and cultural space offering dining, shopping, fitness, and community events.
History: The site was originally a historic streetcar warehouse before being transformed into a mixed-use lifestyle destination.
Since When: It reopened as Armature Works in 2017 after extensive redevelopment.
Review: Visitors love the variety of food options, river views, and lively social atmosphere.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are popular, while weekday afternoons are quieter.
How to Go: Located along the Hillsborough River, it is reachable by car, ride-share, bike, or riverwalk access.
What to Do: Eat at the food hall, attend fitness classes, shop local vendors, and enjoy riverfront walks.
Free or Paid: Free entry, paid for food and activities.
International Plaza and Bay Street, Tampa
Overview: International Plaza and Bay Street is Tampa’s premier upscale shopping and entertainment complex featuring luxury brands and fine dining.
History: The mall was developed to complement Tampa International Airport and elevate the city’s retail experience.
Since When: It opened to the public in 2001.
Review: Shoppers praise its elegant design, high-end stores, and diverse dining options.
When to Go: Weekday mornings or early afternoons are best to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Conveniently located near Tampa International Airport and accessible by car or taxi.
What to Do: Shop luxury and mainstream brands, dine at Bay Street restaurants, and enjoy cinema and nightlife.
Free or Paid: Free entry, paid shopping and entertainment.
Adventure Island, Tampa
Overview: Adventure Island is a tropical-themed water park offering high-speed slides, wave pools, and family-friendly water attractions.
History: It was developed as a sister park to Busch Gardens to expand Tampa’s amusement offerings.
Since When: The water park opened in 1980.
Review: Guests enjoy its thrilling water rides, lazy river, and fun atmosphere for all ages.
When to Go: Summer mornings and weekdays are ideal for shorter lines.
How to Go: Located next to Busch Gardens and accessible by car or ride-share.
What to Do: Ride water slides, relax in pools, float the lazy river, and enjoy cabana rentals.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa
Overview: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a scenic urban park along the Hillsborough River offering open green spaces and city skyline views.
History: The park was developed as part of Tampa’s downtown revitalization and Riverwalk project.
Since When: It officially opened in 2010.
Review: Visitors appreciate its clean design, event hosting, and relaxing waterfront atmosphere.
When to Go: Early mornings and evenings are best for cooler temperatures and sunset views.
How to Go: Easily accessible on foot from downtown or by car, bike, and public transport.
What to Do: Relax on the lawn, attend festivals, walk the Riverwalk, and enjoy outdoor events.
Free or Paid: Free.
Sand Key Park, Tampa
Overview: Sand Key Park is a spacious coastal park near Tampa offering wide sandy beaches, picnic areas, and scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
History: The park was established to preserve the natural barrier island environment while providing public beach access.
Since When: It has been open to visitors since the late 20th century as a protected recreational area.
Review: Visitors appreciate its clean beach, calmer atmosphere compared to busier beaches, and family-friendly facilities.
When to Go: Early mornings and weekdays are ideal for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
How to Go: It is easily accessible by car via the Clearwater Memorial Causeway with on-site parking.
What to Do: Swim, sunbathe, picnic, bird-watch, and enjoy beach walks.
Free or Paid: Paid parking, free park access.
Manatee Viewing Center, Tampa
Overview: The Manatee Viewing Center is a seasonal wildlife attraction where visitors can observe manatees gathering in warm waters.
History: It was created in partnership with environmental agencies to protect manatees and educate the public.
Since When: The center has been welcoming visitors since the 1980s.
Review: Guests enjoy the close-up wildlife viewing and informative educational displays.
When to Go: Best visited during winter months when manatees seek warm water.
How to Go: Accessible by car from downtown Tampa with clearly marked visitor parking.
What to Do: Watch manatees, explore nature trails, and learn about marine conservation.
Free or Paid: Free.
Largo Central Park, Tampa
Overview: Largo Central Park is a large urban green space featuring landscaped gardens, walking paths, and an outdoor performance venue.
History: The park was developed as part of Largo’s downtown revitalization plan.
Since When: It has been open to the public since the late 1990s.
Review: Visitors praise its peaceful environment, seasonal events, and well-maintained grounds.
When to Go: Late afternoons and evenings are popular, especially during festivals or concerts.
How to Go: Easily reachable by car with ample parking and nearby public transport options.
What to Do: Walk, relax, attend concerts, and enjoy community events.
Free or Paid: Free.
Florida Botanical Gardens, Tampa
Overview: Florida Botanical Gardens is a beautifully curated garden showcasing native plants, tropical species, and themed landscapes.
History: The gardens were developed to promote conservation, education, and appreciation of Florida’s plant life.
Since When: They have been open to the public since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors love the serene atmosphere, informative signage, and colorful seasonal blooms.
When to Go: Spring and fall are ideal for mild weather and peak flowering.
How to Go: Accessible by car with free parking near the main entrance.
What to Do: Explore themed gardens, take photographs, and attend gardening workshops.
Free or Paid: Free.
The Great Escape Room Tampa, Tampa
Overview: The Great Escape Room Tampa offers immersive, puzzle-based escape room experiences designed for groups and team-building.
History: It was established as part of the growing interactive entertainment trend in Tampa.
Since When: The venue has been operating since the mid-2010s.
Review: Participants enjoy the creative storylines, challenging puzzles, and friendly staff.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are most popular, while weekdays offer more availability.
How to Go: Located within the city and easily accessible by car or ride-share services.
What to Do: Solve puzzles, work as a team, and complete themed escape challenges.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa
Overview: The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is Tampa’s premier cultural venue, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, opera, ballet, and theatrical performances year-round.
History: It was developed as part of Tampa’s downtown revitalization to establish a major hub for performing arts and culture.
Since When: The center has been operating since 1987.
Review: Visitors consistently praise its world-class performances, excellent acoustics, and professional organization.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends during scheduled performances are ideal, especially during Broadway seasons.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transport near downtown Tampa with nearby parking garages.
What to Do: Watch live performances, attend cultural events, and explore pre-show dining options nearby.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, Tampa
Overview: Empower Adventures Tampa Bay is an outdoor adventure park offering ziplining, aerial obstacle courses, and team-building activities.
History: The park was established to promote outdoor recreation and personal development through adventure-based experiences.
Since When: It has been open to visitors since the early 2010s.
Review: Guests enjoy the thrilling courses, safety-focused staff, and confidence-building challenges.
When to Go: Mornings and cooler months are best for comfortable outdoor activity.
How to Go: Reachable by car from Tampa with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Zipline, complete aerial courses, and participate in group challenges.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Cypress Point Park, Tampa
Overview: Cypress Point Park is a waterfront park offering beach access, picnic shelters, and scenic views of Tampa Bay.
History: The park was created to preserve shoreline access while providing recreational space for residents and visitors.
Since When: It has served the public since the mid-20th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate its peaceful atmosphere, sunset views, and convenient location near the airport.
When to Go: Late afternoons are ideal for cooler temperatures and waterfront sunsets.
How to Go: Accessible by car with free on-site parking near Tampa International Airport.
What to Do: Picnic, walk along the shore, watch planes, and relax by the water.
Free or Paid: Free.
Al Lopez Park, Tampa
Overview: Al Lopez Park is a large urban park featuring lakes, walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
History: Named after baseball legend Al Lopez, the park honors his contribution to Tampa’s sports heritage.
Since When: It has been open to the public since the late 1970s.
Review: Locals value the park for its open spaces, shaded trails, and family-friendly environment.
When to Go: Early mornings and evenings are best for exercise and outdoor relaxation.
How to Go: Easily reached by car with ample free parking available.
What to Do: Walk, jog, picnic, fish, and enjoy playgrounds and sports fields.
Free or Paid: Free.
Lettuce Lake Park, Tampa
Overview: Lettuce Lake Park is a nature-focused park offering boardwalks, wildlife viewing, and access to the Hillsborough River.
History: The park was developed to protect wetlands while providing environmental education and recreation.
Since When: It has been welcoming visitors since the 1980s.
Review: Visitors praise its scenic boardwalk, birdwatching opportunities, and educational exhibits.
When to Go: Morning hours are ideal for wildlife sightings and cooler weather.
How to Go: Accessible by car from downtown Tampa with a designated entrance and parking area.
What to Do: Walk the boardwalk, kayak, observe wildlife, and enjoy nature photography.
Free or Paid: Paid parking, free park access.
Topgolf Tampa, Tampa
Overview: Topgolf Tampa is a modern entertainment complex combining a high-tech driving range with food, drinks, music, and social gaming for all skill levels.
History: It was developed as part of Topgolf’s global expansion to bring interactive golf entertainment to major cities.
Since When: Topgolf Tampa has been operating since 2020.
Review: Visitors rate it highly for its fun atmosphere, friendly staff, and suitability for groups and families.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are popular, while weekday afternoons are quieter and more relaxed.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car from downtown Tampa with ample on-site parking available.
What to Do: Play interactive golf games, enjoy food and drinks, and socialize in climate-controlled bays.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Ballast Point Park, Tampa
Overview: Ballast Point Park is a scenic waterfront park offering panoramic bay views, a fishing pier, and family-friendly recreational spaces.
History: The park was created to preserve Tampa’s shoreline and provide public access to Hillsborough Bay.
Since When: It has been open to the public since the early 20th century, with major renovations completed in recent decades.
Review: Visitors appreciate its peaceful setting, playgrounds, and beautiful sunset views.
When to Go: Late afternoons and early evenings are ideal for cooler weather and scenic views.
How to Go: Reachable by car or rideshare from downtown Tampa with free parking available.
What to Do: Walk the pier, picnic, fish, relax by the water, and let children enjoy the playground.
Free or Paid: Free.
Tampa Riverwalk, Tampa
Overview: The Tampa Riverwalk is a pedestrian-friendly waterfront pathway connecting parks, museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues along the Hillsborough River.
History: It was developed as a major urban revitalization project to enhance downtown Tampa’s public spaces.
Since When: The Riverwalk officially opened in phases, with full completion in 2018.
Review: Visitors love its walkability, vibrant atmosphere, and access to multiple attractions.
When to Go: Early mornings and evenings are best for walking, jogging, and enjoying city views.
How to Go: Accessible on foot from downtown, by bike, or via nearby parking garages and public transport.
What to Do: Walk, bike, dine, attend events, and explore nearby museums and parks.
Free or Paid: Free.
Museum of Science & Industry, Tampa
Overview: The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) is an interactive science museum offering hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and educational experiences.
History: MOSI was established to promote science education and innovation for all ages.
Since When: It has been serving the public since 1962.
Review: Families and students praise its engaging exhibits and educational value.
When to Go: Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid crowds, especially during school holidays.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car from central Tampa with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Explore interactive exhibits, watch planetarium shows, and participate in science activities.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Hyde Park Village, Tampa
Overview: Hyde Park Village is an upscale open-air shopping and dining district blending boutiques, restaurants, and community events.
History: Originally developed in the early 2000s, it was designed to complement Tampa’s historic Hyde Park neighborhood.
Since When: The village has been operating since 2001.
Review: Visitors enjoy its stylish atmosphere, quality dining options, and walkable layout.
When to Go: Late afternoons and evenings are ideal for shopping, dining, and events.
How to Go: Accessible by car, rideshare, or public transport with nearby parking facilities.
What to Do: Shop at boutiques, dine at cafes and restaurants, and attend seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Free entry, paid shopping and dining.
Glazer Children’s Museum, Tampa
Overview: Glazer Children’s Museum is an interactive learning space designed for children to explore science, culture, and creativity through hands-on exhibits.
History: The museum was created to support early childhood education and family learning in downtown Tampa.
Since When: It has been open to the public since 2010.
Review: Families praise it for its engaging exhibits, educational value, and clean, well-organized spaces.
When to Go: Weekday mornings and early afternoons are best to avoid crowds, especially during school breaks.
How to Go: Located along the Tampa Riverwalk and easily accessible by car, rideshare, or walking from downtown.
What to Do: Let children play, learn through interactive exhibits, and participate in themed activities and workshops.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Gamers Excape Tampa – Escape Rooms, Tampa
Overview: Gamers Excape Tampa offers immersive escape room experiences that challenge teams to solve puzzles and complete missions within a time limit.
History: It was established as part of Tampa’s growing interactive entertainment and gaming scene.
Since When: The venue has been operating since the late 2010s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the creative room designs, logical puzzles, and friendly staff support.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are popular, while weekdays offer more availability.
How to Go: Accessible by car with nearby parking options in the Tampa area.
What to Do: Work as a team to solve clues, escape themed rooms, and enjoy group challenges.
Free or Paid: Paid.
Tampa Bay Downs, Tampa
Overview: Tampa Bay Downs is a thoroughbred horse racing track offering live races, simulcast betting, and dining experiences.
History: The venue was built to establish Tampa as a destination for professional horse racing.
Since When: It has been in operation since 1926.
Review: Guests appreciate the exciting races, well-maintained facilities, and classic track atmosphere.
When to Go: Racing season from winter to early spring offers the best experience.
How to Go: Reachable by car from Tampa with ample on-site parking available.
What to Do: Watch live races, place bets, enjoy trackside dining, and attend special racing events.
Free or Paid: Paid entry on race days.
Water Works Park, Tampa
Overview: Water Works Park is a riverside urban park featuring green lawns, splash areas, and scenic views along the Hillsborough River.
History: The park was developed as part of Tampa’s Riverwalk revitalization project.
Since When: It has been open to the public since 2014.
Review: Visitors love its relaxing atmosphere, open spaces, and proximity to downtown attractions.
When to Go: Early mornings and evenings are ideal for walking, picnicking, and relaxing.
How to Go: Easily accessible by foot from downtown, bike, or car with nearby parking.
What to Do: Relax by the river, let children play in the splash area, and enjoy outdoor events.
Free or Paid: Free.
Escapology Escape Rooms, Tampa
Overview: Escapology Escape Rooms offers premium escape room adventures with cinematic themes and high-quality puzzles.
History: It was launched as part of the international Escapology brand known for immersive escape experiences.
Since When: The Tampa location has been operating since the late 2010s.
Review: Players commend the realistic themes, challenging puzzles, and professional customer service.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends are popular, while weekdays are quieter and easier to book.
How to Go: Accessible by car or rideshare with convenient parking near the venue.
What to Do: Solve puzzles, complete missions, and enjoy team-based problem-solving experiences.
Free or Paid: Paid.