Tampa

Florida

United States

North America

Tampa is situated on a small inlet in Western Florida and is the economic hub of the area. The city is well known for its selection of attractions that will keep the whole happy and entertained.

Tampa is situated on a small inlet in Western Florida and is the economic hub of the area. The city is well known for its selection of attractions that will keep the whole happy and entertained. Families will love visiting Tampa thanks to the variety of child-friendly activities such as Lowry Park Zoo, Busch Gardens, and the Glazer Children's Museum. Adults should check out the bars and restaurants of Ybor City for a unique and interesting experience. Wildlife lovers will enjoy the Manatee viewing areas and wealth of well-run animal exhibits at the Tampa Zoo and Busch Gardens.
<h2>1. Busch Gardens</h2>
Spend a day or two exploring this 335-Acre African-themed entertainment and adventure park. There are a number of thrill rides in the park, and the park is well known for its extreme roller coaster. You will find a few rides aimed at small kids so that they don't feel left out of the experience. The other section of Busch Gardens houses a variety of exotic animals in large and well-run enclosures.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/801932100-1024x714.jpg" alt="801932100" width="1024" height="714" /><span class="image-caption">Stephen Barnes / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Museum of Science and Industry</h2>
The Museum of Science and Industry is a truly immersive museum experience that includes a giant game of "Operation" that helps kids to learn about the human body and a full-size model that lets visitors explore NASA's vision of human life in space. The Connectus exhibit shows off new technology before it is launched to the general public. A large ropes course is a great place for older children to burn off excess energy.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/918561164-1024x731.jpg" alt="918561164" width="1024" height="731" /><span class="image-caption">Obradovic / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Tampa Zoo at Lowry Park</h2>
The Tampa Zoo is one of the best zoos in the United States, and it features over 2000 animals in their natural habitats. There is a large aquarium that features three pools used to treat injured manatees rescued from all around the state of Florida. The park features a family-friendly roller coaster, mini-safari, and a zoo train.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/529996695-1024x683.jpg" alt="529996695" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">eli_asenova / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. Florida Aquarium</h2>
The Florida Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the state of Florida and houses a wide variety of marine creatures. The exhibits are carefully designed to recreate the shoreline around Tampa to show off the wide variety of sea life that is found in the area. Behind the scenes tours are offered that allow visitors to meet the African Penguins and swim with sea turtles.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/901017720-1024x576.jpg" alt="901017720" width="1024" height="576" /><span class="image-caption">vojce / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Big Cat Rescue</h2>
One of the top-rated wildlife rescue centers in the world is Big Cat Rescue in Tampa. The non-profit organization is home to more than 60 big cats that have been abused or abandoned. This is not a zoo, so visitors can only view the sanctuary on a guided tour. Here, you will learn about the rehabilitation and treatment of these big cats.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/812998434-1024x683.jpg" alt="812998434" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">faber1893 / Getty Images</span>
<h2>6. Glazer Children's Museum</h2>
The Glazer Children's Museum is focused on learning through play. Children will have a great time playing in all the kid-sized exhibits. These exhibits are based on different jobs such as working in commerce, being a firefighter, working on a cruise ship, and being a vet. These exhibits are very realistic, and children love the museum.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/109714175-1024x678.jpg" alt="109714175" width="1024" height="678" /><span class="image-caption">George Rose / Getty Images</span>
<h2>7. Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center</h2>
The Electric Manatee Viewing Center marine sanctuary is located across the river from the Tampa Electric Power Plant. The manatees are drawn to the area by the warm water that is provided by the power plant. There is an educational building next to the viewing area that provides information on the power plant and the manatees.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/640026820-1024x683.jpg" alt="640026820" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">stammphoto / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Tampa Bay History Center</h2>
The exhibits at the Tampa Bay History Center museum trace the history of the Tampa Bay area going back over 12 000 years. There is a specific focus on the different cultures of the area over the last 500 years and how they have influenced modern day Tampa. A number of traveling exhibits from other areas are showcased in the museum on a rotating basis.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/521126986-1024x683.jpg" alt="521126986" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. Ybor City</h2>
Ybor City is the historic center of the cities Latino Community. The area was once home to the largest cigar factory in the world and once employed over 4000 people. The factory closed during the Great Depression. In recent years the area has seen a revival, and it is now home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/476036457-1024x683.jpg" alt="476036457" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">benedek / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. Sunshine Skyway</h2>
The Sunshine Skyway bridge is a multi-lane bridge and tollway that spans over 12-miles in length at the entrance to Tampa. In the middle section, two giant pylons hold the bridge up to a great height to allow cruise ships to pass beneath the structure. The views from the bridge are beautiful, and it is a popular scenic drive.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/876345718-1024x445.jpg" alt="876345718" width="1024" height="445" /><span class="image-caption">idesignimages / Getty Images</span>

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Tampa

Not only is Tampa one of Florida's premier business centers, but it offers much to do for those who live in Florida's Gulf Coast as well as for those visiting. Downtown Tampa is a city that offers much to do for both young and old alike.

Not only is Tampa one of Florida's premier business centers, but it offers much to do for those who live in Florida's Gulf Coast as well as for those visiting. Its downtown area is filled with urban parks, hip venues to hang out in, along with cool restaurants, and incredible restorations of very historic structures. When in Florida, downtown Tampa is one place you don't want to miss.
<h2>Take a stroll on the Tampa Riverwalk</h2>
The riverwalk is an approximately 3-mile trail that traverses the Hillsborough River. You can bike, rollerblade, or look at numerous public art exhibits. When it's lunchtime, there are some quaint restaurants to choose from; to quench your thirst, pick a pub and sip on something cold while enjoying the Tampa sunshine. Situated along the route, too, is the Tampa Aquarium and the Glazer Children's Museum.

[caption id="attachment_34165" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/901300050.jpg" alt="Tampa Riverwalk offers something for everyone." width="1200" height="800" /> Joshua29 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Enjoy a day at the Tampa Aquarium</h2>
Located on the southeastern edge of downtown, the Tampa Aquarium is home to approximately 14,000 animals. It takes almost three hours to see everything this amazing aquatic mecca has to offer. The aquarium offers a multitude of attractions for adults and kids, including a splash pad area, an outdoor area with geysers, dump buckets and spray places.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34503" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/shutterstock_1498033883.jpg" alt="Florida Aquarium in Tampa City. Florida. USA. " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>It's all about children at the Glazer Children's Museum</h2>
If traveling to Tampa with young children, the Glazer Children's Museum is a must-see destination. The museum is a 53,000 square foot space full of permanent and temporary exhibits, as well as interactive displays that teach kids about art and science, and math. There is something for everyone at the museum, whether it's developing a train route, using lego building blocks or designing a perfect paper airplane.

[caption id="attachment_34504" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34504" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/GettyImages-172461398.jpg" alt="Three young girls next to an exhibit in a glass display cabinet, in a museum," width="2121" height="1414" /> <br />urbancow / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Come see the kitties at the Big Cat Rescue</h2>
This venue is much more of a sanctuary than a zoo. Situated on 67 acres, the Big Cat Rescue houses more than 100 animals from more than 14 varying species. The cats usually rest during the day, so if you want to drop by when they are more active, sign up for a feeding or night tour. The mission of this sanctuary community is to end the extinction of big cats in the wild. It also seeks to instill in those visiting the importance of protecting big cats and fostering laws that seek to end the abuse of animals.

[caption id="attachment_34167" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/92210690.jpg" alt="Come see unique and varying types of animals at the Big Cat Rescue." width="1200" height="798" /> zilli / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>History awaits at the Florida History Museum</h2>
The Tampa Bay History Museum is a great resource for those wanting to find out more about Florida's first inhabitants. Situated on Tampa's waterfront, it encompasses 60,000 square feet and showcases 12,000 years of Florida history with exhibits, educational films, and interactive displays. The museum's interactive features will captivate the attention of visitors of all ages.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34505" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/shutterstock_451528999.jpg" alt="Tampa Bay History Center building in Florida which is a museum filled with historic artifacts and documents." width="1000" height="662" />


<h2>Who doesn't like live theater?</h2>
If you are a live theater buff, then a visit to the Tampa Theater is an experience you can't miss. This ornate theater was built in 1926 and is known to be one of the world's most elaborate. While visiting the theater, make sure to take the 90-minute "balcony backstage" tour. You will see a demonstration of the Wurlitzer theater organ, as well as all the details that earned the theater its spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

[caption id="attachment_34506" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34506" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/6864588887_f7ed9a5eb9_b.jpg" alt="Tampa Theatre" width="1000" height="750" /> daneshjai / Flickr[/caption]


<h2>Armature Works is the place to be</h2>
The Armature Works Heights Public Market is a warehouse of retail shops, places to eat, and a rooftop bar. There is also a unique event held called "Show + Tell" Workshop, where there are product demonstrations, cooking classes, and wine tastings. The Armature Market was originally where the city's electric streetcars were stored and maintained; it now offers visitors a wonderful architectural experience.

[caption id="attachment_34507" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34507" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/GettyImages-1011879958.jpg" alt="Making a Toast with Some Friends" width="2121" height="1414" /> <br />SolStock / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Busch Gardens awaits you</h2>
Who wouldn't love a day at Busch Gardens? This 297-acre space of fun and frolic awaits the arrival of those visiting Tampa. Busch Gardens is home to 12,000 animals, restaurants for every taste, roller coasters, and other fun amusement activities. There is something for everyone at this fun spot. If you love animals, thrill-seeking, and educational opportunities, then a visit to Busch Gardens is a must.

[caption id="attachment_34170" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/172713923.jpg" alt="There is something for everyone at Busch Gardens." width="1200" height="803" /> nojustice / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Come see a manatee</h2>
Another venue for animal lovers is the Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center. The tidal walk is one of the main attractions of the center, where visitors are able to admire a wide variety of animal and plant life. At the end of the walk, you can look at the manatees in the warm waters surrounding the power station. If you are looking for a wonderful break in a busy itinerary, then a visit to see the manatees is just what you need.

[caption id="attachment_34171" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/937584106.jpg" alt="Come and see the manatees!" width="1200" height="675" /> Janos / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Henry B. Plant Museum</h2>
If you are a lover of antiques, architecture, and want to experience the Gilded Age, you need to visit the Henry B. Platt Museum. Located on the University of Tampa campus, the museum resides in the infamous Moorish Revival Tampa Bay Hotel. It contains many permanent exhibits in the refurbished rooms of the old hotel, equipped with artifacts and architectural amenities that reflect the Victorian Era origins of the facility. There is also a wonderful "Christmas Stroll" that takes place every December, where the museum is decked out in holiday trimmings.

[caption id="attachment_34172" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/182794184.jpg" alt="Come visit the Gilded Age at the Henry B. Plant Museum" width="1200" height="800" /> jganser / Getty Images[/caption]

There Is More To Downtown Tampa Than Just Beaches

Whether you want to relax on the beach, ride some class II rapids, or visit the Sponge Capital of the World, there is something in Tampa for everyone.

Tampa, Florida, is located along the Gulf Coast and is a surprisingly diverse place to visit. There are world-class beaches, of course, but Tampa is also home to parks, festivals, and some of the oldest coastal towns in the county. Whether you want to relax on the beach, go to a Scottish festival, ride some class II rapids, or visit the Sponge Capital of the World, there is something in Tampa for everyone.
<h2>1. Tampa Riverwalk</h2>
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile-long paved trail following the Hillsborough River through downtown. Most of the trail runs through the arts district, providing easy access to the Tampa Museum of Art, Glazer Children's Museum, and Curtis Hixon Park. While the Riverwalk is a great way to get to some of the city's best attractions, it's also an experience in its own right. It's lined with trees, cafes and restaurants, water bikes and taxis access, and bronze busts of more than a dozen influential figures from the city's history.

[caption id="attachment_31739" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/531083571.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/531083571.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/531083571-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="River Walk Night" width="1200" height="800" /> AppalachianViews / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Hillsborough River State Park</h2>
Hillsborough River State Park is the perfect place to escape the city life. The park offers RV and tent camping with hot showers and laundry facilities. If you want to rough it up, hike to the primitive camping area on the other side of the river. There's a lot to do here, including nature trails, bike trails, playgrounds, a swimming pool, and a cafe. This park is also home to class II rapids, which are hard to come by in Florida.

[caption id="attachment_31740" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1161058876.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1161058876.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1161058876-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Hillsborough River State Park" width="1200" height="800" /> James Robert Smith / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Ybor City</h2>
Ybor City is Tampa's historic Latin quarter and was at one time the Cigar Capital of the World. Check out the Cuban restaurants, Tampa Bay Baseball Museum, Ybor City Museum State Park, and grab a beer at the local brewery during the day. If you really want to see this district come to life, stick around into the evening. Ybor City is home to numerous nightclubs and bars, including LGBT bars, dance clubs, and college bars. If this isn't your scene, don't worry—you can always grab a hamburger at Mary's Bar &amp; Grille or people-watch at the Carne Chophouse.

[caption id="attachment_31741" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/512129523.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/512129523.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/512129523-768x603.jpg 768w" alt="Ybor City History" width="1200" height="942" /> WGCPhotography / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Clearwater Beach</h2>
While there are a lot of beaches in the Tampa area, Clearwater Beach is one that you just can't miss. The smooth white sand and clear shallow water make it the perfect place to swim in the Gulf, or sit in the sand and soak up the sun. If you're ready for some shade, head to Pier 60 and admire the long sandy beach through the telescopes on the wharf. Stick around for the daily Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival to check out local artisans, street performers, and, of course, breathtaking sunsets.

[caption id="attachment_31742" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/184884977.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/184884977.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/184884977-768x510.jpg 768w" alt="Clearwater Beach Sand" width="1200" height="797" /> bluehill75 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Fort De Soto Park</h2>
Fort De Soto Park is located on five interconnected islands in the southwest corner of Tampa Bay. It has just about everything an outdoor lover is looking for: nature trails, fishing, boating, camping, and beautiful white, sandy beaches. Not to mention, it's stunningly beautiful, especially at sunset. This group of islands also has quite a military history. It was once home to a post that consisted of 29 buildings, concrete sidewalks, and a narrow-gauge railroad. Only two coastal defense mortars remain.

[caption id="attachment_31743" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/910976002.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/910976002.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/910976002-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Fort De Soto Park" width="1200" height="800" /> JackVandenHeuvel / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Dunedin</h2>
Just west of Tampa along the Gulf Coast is Dunedin, one of the oldest coastal towns in Florida. The historic downtown area is frequently described as "charming" and the laid-back lifestyle and waterfront views are addicting. Take part in seasonal events like the lighted holiday boat parade, Oktoberfest, and the annual Scottish celebration, or head off the coast to explore Honeymoon Island and Caladesi State Park.

[caption id="attachment_31744" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/645485082.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/645485082.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/645485082-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Dunedin Waterfront Boats" width="1200" height="800" /> CampPhoto / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. The Florida Aquarium</h2>
There's a lot to see at the Florida Aquarium, which is probably why it's one of Tampa's most popular attractions. The Coral Reef tank is one of the aquarium's most impressive draws and the unique Wetlands Trail gives you an up-close and personal view of free-flying birds, alligators, and cypress swamps unique to the state. In addition to observing ocean life, you can also take behind the scenes tours, go on a dolphin cruise, and even snorkel with sharks!

[caption id="attachment_31755" align="alignnone" width="1800"]<img class="size-full wp-image-31755" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/GettyImages-144366827.jpg" alt="Florida aquarium " width="1800" height="1200" /> AmoreBrittigan / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Tarpon Springs</h2>
Tarpon Springs is located about 30 miles northwest of Tampa and has one of the most interesting histories of all the towns in the area. This city is home to more Greeks than any other US city. The downtown area is listed in the National Register of History Places and is full of Greek shops, restaurants, and cruises. But that's not all Tarpon Springs is known for, as it's also the sponge capital of the world. While you're there, stop by Spongeorama, which boasts the world's largest selection of natural sponges.

[caption id="attachment_31745" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/486832702.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/486832702.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/486832702-768x415.jpg 768w" alt="Tarpon Springs Sunset" width="1200" height="649" /> benedek / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Lettuce Lake Park</h2>
Lettuce Lake Conservation Park is one of the most popular in the Tampa area, likely because it's also one of the most peaceful. Most of the park is made up of the Hillsborough River's natural floodplain and the rest is largely pines and hardwood swamps. This is a great place to get out and enjoy nature and a great spot for birdwatching. Follow the 1.25-mile paved exercise trail, walk the 3,500-foot long boardwalk, and climb the observation tower for some amazing views. Canoes and kayaks are also available to rent on-site.

[caption id="attachment_31746" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/942933490.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/942933490.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/942933490-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Lettuce Lake Park" width="1200" height="800" /> BrianLasenby / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Indian Rocks Beach</h2>
For those who want something a little less crowded and a little more isolated, Indian Rocks Beach is a must-see. Located just west of Tampa on the Gulf Coast, this beach is a quaint, lovely escape. Enjoy the welcoming white sand and warm waves without the commercialism present at some of the more popular beaches. There are a few restaurants and shops along the coast, but most of the commercial area is laid back and friendly.

[caption id="attachment_31747" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1186674411.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1186674411.jpg 1200w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1186674411-768x512.jpg 768w" alt="Indian Rocks Beach" width="1200" height="800" /> Mariakray / Getty Images[/caption]

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