What to do in Tampa, FL

Activities, attractions and tours

Tampa Bay showing a river or creek, night scenes and skyline
Tampa
Tampa
Tampa
Tampa

Tampa Attractions

Tampa is a haven for anyone interested in a vacation on the water, or even just some stunning ocean views. Whether you’re on a family-friendly getaway or want to explore what Floridian nightlife has to offer, this coastal city is a great destination. The best things to do in Tampa don’t all involve the water, however. Landlubbers can stay just as busy as seasoned sailors. Whether you explore the local zoo or spend a Sunday at the theater, land-based attractions in Tampa will easily keep you entertained.

Areas & Neighborhoods

More than just a beach city, Tampa is also a haven for art, culture, and loads of live entertainment. The diverse group of neighborhoods in this west Florida city represent the full spectrum of tourism quite well. Whether you want to keep your toes in the tide or stick to drier land, there is a neighborhood in Tampa serving up just the right type of vacation venue.

Downtown — The downtown district is the heartbeat of Tampa’s cultural scene, with contemporary art museums, ethnic eateries, and cultural festivals all a major part of the landscape here. You can also enjoy plenty of fine dining downtown, or marvel at the skyline.

Hyde Park — This neighborhood holds a lot of history, and it also possess some of the most fun things to do in Tampa. Take a run along the world’s longest sidewalk, which just happens to flank the Hillsborough Bay. Spend some cash at a vintage clothing shop, or have a few sips at a wine bar.

SoHo — Visit South Howard Avenue, more commonly called SoHo, within Hyde Park when the sun goes down. This lively neighborhood is known as an entertainment district above all else, teeming with dance clubs and live-music venues.

Southshore — Southshore offers something for land lubbers and seafarers alike. This is where Tampa and the Gulf of Mexico meet, so you can get on the water with a boat charter or enjoy a fine lobster dinner on the shore.

The best things to do in Tampa, FL also extend to the northern boundary, which contains many of the top amusement parks in Tampa.

Things to See in Tampa

Aside from the many sports and tours in The Big Guava, there are plenty of ways to be entertained while you’re in town. The theatrical offerings here are quite impressive, ranging from musicals and family-friendly performances to stand-up comedy. Venues like Carol Morsani Hall and The Straz Center always have something interesting on the stage. For the best photo opportunities in the Tampa area, head to spots like Sand Key Park or the Redington Long Pier.

Things to Do & Attractions in Tampa

On top of boat trips, beach combing, and surfing, Tampa has many appealing attractions. Busch Gardens® covers 300 acres in Tampa, boasting rides and wild animals. The Florida Aquarium™ is also located here, and houses everything from turtles to lemurs. If you’re looking for a bit of quiet time while you’re in town, one of the most relaxing things to do in Tampa, Florida, is walk through the Bok Tower Gardens.


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What to do in Tampa


Discover the most popular places to visit in Tampa

Explore areas of Tampa

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Downtown Tampa

4.5/5(55 area reviews)

Explore top attractions like the Florida Aquarium, Glazer Children's Museum, and Tampa Riverwalk, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife and dining scene in the River Arts District. Easily navigate the area with TECO Streetcar and HART public transportation.

Downtown Tampa
Ybor City

Ybor City

2.5/5(3 area reviews)

Designated as a National Historic Landmark District, this Tampa neighborhood boasts the Ybor City Museum State Park and a variety of attractions like the Cigar Museum. Enjoy Florida's oldest restaurant, Columbia, and vibrant nightlife along 7th Avenue, easily accessible via TECO Line Streetcar.

Ybor City
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Hyde Park

Historic homes and fine dining abound next to Downtown Tampa. Here it’s easy to develop a taste for the finer things in life.

Hyde Park
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Tampa Heights

While Tampa Heights isn't home to many top sights, Port of Tampa and Tampa Riverwalk are some notable places to visit nearby.

Tampa Heights
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Town 'n' Country

If you're spending some time in Town 'n' Country, Tampa Bay and Rocky Point Golf Course are top sights worth seeing.

Town 'n' Country
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Temple Terrace

4/5(11 area reviews)

Rolling landscape, majestic trees, and Hillsborough River views define this Tree City USA, with attractions like Eureka Springs Park and Temple Terrace Golf and Country Club. The area is undergoing redevelopment for a pedestrian-oriented downtown.

Temple Terrace

 

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Day trip destinations from Tampa

Frequently asked questions

Is Tampa worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Tampa is visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Check this major sight off your list, then discover more of this area's coastal beaches and nature.
How do I spend a day in Tampa?
Once you've checked off major attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Tampa Riverwalk, spend the rest of your day exploring Tampa's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Tampa?
You can't leave without checking out Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, rated the top tourist attraction in Tampa.
Is three days enough to stay in Tampa?
You can easily enjoy leading sights like Tampa Riverwalk, Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa at Lowry Park with a three-day break in Tampa. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and head to Clearwater Beach.
Is Tampa a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Tampa. Several key sights, including Tampa Riverwalk and Florida Aquarium, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Tampa's best neighbourhoods, Downtown Tampa is 0.32 kilometres away from downtown, while Ybor City is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Tampa with kids?
Deciding what to do in Tampa with kids has never been so easy. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Tampa for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Tampa, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Cigar City Brewery or Amalie Arena.
Are there free things to do in Tampa?
In Tampa, Tampa Riverwalk is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Tampa.