Tampa, Florida, is a gem for travelers craving a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Located on Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast, Tampa is packed with everything from wildlife experiences and thrilling theme parks to scenic walks and water adventures. Whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or with family, Tampa’s variety of attractions guarantees that everyone will find something to enjoy. Ready to dive into Tampa’s top highlights? Here are the 15 must-see spots for a truly memorable experience in this sunny city.
Tampa Riverwalk – A Stroll by the Water
Address: Tampa, Florida
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Riverwalk is a key part of Tampa’s urban development, designed to create a pedestrian-friendly area that connects major landmarks and encourages public engagement with nature.
What to Expect: Visitors can expect scenic views of the Hillsborough River, a vibrant downtown atmosphere, and access to parks, museums, restaurants, and various outdoor activities along the path.
Visitor Information: Open daily, the Riverwalk is free to access and easily navigable by foot, bike, or even boat. Parking is available at multiple downtown locations.
The Tampa Riverwalk offers a peaceful, scenic route that stretches for 2.5 miles along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa. Perfect for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or skate, this path connects some of the city’s most popular attractions like parks, museums, and restaurants. Along the Riverwalk, you can enjoy waterfront views, grab a bite at local eateries, or simply relax and watch the boats go by. It’s a must-visit spot for those who want to explore the heart of Tampa.
Busch Gardens – Thrills and Wildlife Combined
Address: 10165 North McKinley Dr.
| Type | Amusement Parks |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Opened in 1959, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has grown from a simple bird garden to a world-renowned theme park blending thrill rides and animal exhibits in a unique setting.
What to Expect: Expect a blend of thrilling roller coasters, live shows, animal exhibits, and lush gardens. The park also offers seasonal events and educational programs for wildlife conservation.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Parking is available, and family-friendly options, including stroller rentals, are provided for convenience.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a one-of-a-kind theme park that seamlessly combines thrilling roller coasters with exotic wildlife. This 335-acre park is home to over 200 species of animals, including tigers, giraffes, and elephants, alongside adrenaline-pumping rides like the Cobra’s Curse and SheiKra. Whether you’re looking for heart-racing thrills or enjoying a more relaxed safari, Busch Gardens offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for those who love nature, animals, and adventure all in one place.
The Florida Aquarium – Dive into Underwater Wonders
Address: 701 Channelside Dr.
| Type | Zoos and Aquariums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1995, the Florida Aquarium aims to educate visitors on marine conservation while showcasing the diverse ecosystems found in Florida’s waters and beyond.
What to Expect: Expect interactive exhibits showcasing marine life, from coral reefs to swamps, along with opportunities to engage in hands-on activities like touch tanks and animal encounters.
Visitor Information: Open daily, with both general admission and special tours available. The aquarium offers parking, a café, and a gift shop for visitors’ convenience.
The Florida Aquarium is one of Tampa’s top attractions, offering visitors the chance to discover the rich marine life of the Gulf Coast. With over 8,000 animals, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays, this aquarium provides a fascinating look at underwater ecosystems. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including coral reefs, swamp habitats, and more. The interactive exhibits, like touch tanks and a play area, make it an educational and fun experience for families and sea-life enthusiasts alike.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park – Fun for the Family
Address: 1101 West Sligh Ave.
| Type | Zoos and Aquariums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: ZooTampa was founded in 1957 and is known for its focus on animal conservation, education, and providing hands-on, immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.
What to Expect: Visitors can expect to see over 1,300 animals from around the world, including African elephants and koalas, along with interactive exhibits that encourage learning about wildlife.
Visitor Information: Open year-round with varying hours. Tickets can be purchased in advance online. The zoo offers parking and amenities like dining, stroller rentals, and accessible pathways.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a fantastic family destination that brings together over 1,300 animals from across the globe. Home to diverse species like African elephants, koalas, and manatees, the zoo offers a variety of interactive experiences that allow visitors to get up close with the animals. Whether you’re feeding giraffes or exploring the immersive exhibits like the Florida Wildlife Center, this zoo provides a memorable experience that’s both educational and fun for visitors of all ages.
Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center – Free and Fascinating
Address: 6990 Dickman Rd.
| Type | Zoos and Aquariums, Free |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: The Manatee Viewing Center, established in the 1980s, helps protect the endangered manatee species by providing a safe haven during colder months when these animals gather in warm waters.
What to Expect: Expect the chance to view manatees up close, especially during winter months. The center also offers educational exhibits on manatee conservation and local wildlife.
Visitor Information: Admission is free, and the center is open daily during the manatee season (Nov-Apr). Parking is free, and there are walking trails and picnic areas on-site for visitors to enjoy.
For a unique, free experience, the Manatee Viewing Center provides the chance to observe these gentle giants up close. Located at Tampa Electric’s power plant, the center is especially popular during the cooler months when manatees gather in the warm waters nearby. The viewing area is equipped with educational exhibits about manatee conservation and local wildlife. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or simply curious about these fascinating creatures, this center offers a heartwarming and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Armature Works – A Hub for Foodies
Address: 1910 N Ola Ave.
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Free, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Armature Works is a restored historic building originally built in 1910, now serving as a vibrant community space with food, culture, and events that celebrate Tampa’s culinary scene.
What to Expect: Expect a lively food hall with diverse eateries, craft breweries, local coffee shops, and ample seating with scenic views of the Hillsborough River and downtown Tampa.
Visitor Information: Open daily, Armature Works is free to explore. It offers parking on-site, including valet service, and a family-friendly atmosphere with live events and outdoor seating.
Armature Works is a trendy industrial-style marketplace that has quickly become a favorite hangout spot for food lovers in Tampa. Located along the Riverwalk, this food hall offers a variety of local eateries, from gourmet coffee shops and craft breweries to international food stalls. With its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful waterfront views, and lively crowd, Armature Works is the ideal place to try new flavors, relax with friends, or catch live music on weekends. It’s a foodie’s paradise in the heart of the city.
Glazer Children’s Museum – Perfect for Young Explorers
Address: 110 West Gasparilla Plaza
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 1986, the Glazer Children’s Museum is a family-friendly venue focused on inspiring creativity and curiosity in children through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences.
What to Expect: Expect an exciting and educational environment for children with exhibits ranging from science and art to culture and community engagement. The museum also hosts events and educational programs.
Visitor Information: The museum is open daily, with discounted rates for members and special events. It is conveniently located in downtown Tampa, with nearby parking and accessible facilities for families.
The Glazer Children’s Museum offers a fun and interactive environment for kids to learn and explore. With over 170 hands-on exhibits, children can engage in activities that teach them about science, art, culture, and more. From pretending to be a doctor or firefighter to learning about local ecosystems, there’s always something exciting for young minds. The museum is designed to inspire creativity and curiosity, making it the perfect destination for families looking to keep their children entertained and educated at the same time.
Tampa Theatre – A Historic Gem
Address: 711 North Franklin St.
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Tours, Monuments and Memorials |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Built in 1926, Tampa Theatre is a beautifully restored movie palace that has played a key role in Tampa’s cultural history, hosting films, concerts, and live performances for decades.
What to Expect: Expect to see classic films, live performances, and special events in a stunningly ornate theater with historic architecture, including a grand chandelier and intricate details throughout the venue.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, the theater hosts events daily. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office. Parking is available in nearby lots, and the theater provides an accessible environment for visitors.
Tampa Theatre is one of the most iconic and beautiful buildings in the city. Built in 1926, this historic theater has been lovingly restored to preserve its grandeur and charm. Today, it hosts a variety of events, including classic movie screenings, concerts, and live performances. The interior is breathtaking, with intricate details and a grand chandelier, creating a magical atmosphere for any event. Even if you’re not attending a show, stopping by to admire the theater’s architecture is a must for anyone visiting Tampa.
Ybor City – Step Back in Time
Address: Ybor City
| Type | Free, Neighborhood/Area |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Founded in 1886, Ybor City is a historic neighborhood that has been a cultural melting pot, shaped by Cuban immigrants and now known for its nightlife, art scene, and unique architecture.
What to Expect: Expect a lively mix of history and modern-day entertainment, from Cuban restaurants and cigar shops to galleries, nightlife, and street festivals, all set against historic brick buildings and cobblestone streets.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, Ybor City is accessible by car, public transport, and walking. Parking can be challenging, but there are several garages and lots nearby for convenience.
Ybor City, a National Historic Landmark, is a vibrant neighborhood that reflects Tampa’s rich cultural history. Originally founded by Cuban immigrants in the 1880s, this area has become known for its lively atmosphere, art galleries, unique boutiques, and bustling nightlife. Stroll down the historic brick streets, enjoy a Cuban sandwich, or try a traditional cigar rolled by hand at one of the local shops. Ybor City offers a peek into Tampa’s multicultural roots while providing an exciting and energetic vibe for visitors.
Adventure Island – Tampa’s Water Park
Address: 10001 McKinley Dr.
| Type | Water slides, wave pools |
| Time to Spend | Half Day |
History and Significance: Opened in 1980, Adventure Island is Tampa’s premier water park, offering a fun, family-friendly environment with water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers in a beautiful tropical setting.
What to Expect: Expect water-filled fun with thrilling water slides, a lazy river, wave pools, and interactive water play areas for all ages. It’s the perfect spot for cooling off and enjoying family time.
Visitor Information: Open seasonally from March to October, Adventure Island offers single-day tickets, multi-park passes, and group rates. Parking is available, and guests are encouraged to check the website for weather-related closures.
Adventure Island is a fun-filled water park located just across from Busch Gardens. It offers a variety of water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, making it the perfect destination to cool off during the hot Florida summers. From adrenaline-pumping rides like the Colossal Curl to relaxing moments floating down the lazy river, there’s something for everyone. Families, friends, and thrill-seekers alike will love the water-themed fun Adventure Island has to offer. It’s the ultimate spot for a day of excitement and relaxation.
Big Cat Rescue – A Haven for Big Cats
Address: 8013 N Meadowview Cir
| Type | Bobcats, big cats |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1992, Big Cat Rescue is a sanctuary that focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating big cats that have been mistreated or abandoned. The sanctuary promotes conservation and awareness of these majestic creatures.
What to Expect: Expect to see over 40 rescued big cats up close, including tigers, lions, and leopards. Guided tours offer in-depth information about the animals and the organization’s conservation efforts.
Visitor Information: Open daily, tours must be booked in advance, and there are different tour options available. The sanctuary is located in a peaceful, natural setting with designated parking for visitors.
For animal lovers, Big Cat Rescue is a must-see. This sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating big cats, such as lions, tigers, leopards, and bobcats, who have been mistreated or abandoned. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the efforts to protect these majestic animals and the importance of conservation. The sanctuary offers a safe and peaceful environment for the cats, and it’s an opportunity to see them up close while supporting their well-being and preservation.
Tampa Bay History Center – Discover the Past
Address: 801 Water St.
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Tampa Bay History Center, established in 2009, showcases the rich history of Tampa Bay, exploring themes like indigenous culture, Spanish exploration, and the area’s role in trade and industry.
What to Expect: Expect interactive exhibits that detail the history of the region, including pirates, Florida’s natural history, and the story of local communities, along with special rotating exhibits throughout the year.
Visitor Information: Open daily, the center offers guided tours and interactive exhibits for guests of all ages. Tickets can be purchased online, and the museum offers parking nearby for visitors’ convenience.
The Tampa Bay History Center offers a deep dive into the region’s rich history, spanning everything from its indigenous roots to modern times. Located on the Riverwalk, the museum features engaging exhibits on Florida’s natural history, the Cuban influence on Tampa, and the role of pirates in the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Tampa’s past, this museum provides a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
eBoats Tampa – Be Your Own Captain
Address: 333 S Franklin St,
| Type | eBoats Tampa |
| Time to Spend | Half Day |
History and Significance: eBoats Tampa offers eco-friendly boat rentals for those looking to explore the waters of Tampa Bay. The service provides an alternative to traditional boat rentals by giving guests a self-guided experience on electric boats.
What to Expect: Expect a fun, self-guided boating experience, where visitors can explore Tampa Bay’s waters at their own pace. The electric boats are easy to operate and environmentally friendly, making it a unique experience.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, eBoats Tampa offers rentals by the hour. No boating license is required, and reservations are recommended. The location provides convenient parking and is easily accessible from the Riverwalk.
For those who enjoy the water, eBoats Tampa offers a unique way to explore the waters of Tampa Bay. These eco-friendly electric boats allow you to captain your own adventure without needing a boating license. Rent an eBoat for an hour or two and cruise along the bay, enjoying the scenic views of downtown Tampa, the Riverwalk, and more. It’s a relaxing, fun, and affordable way to experience the waterfront at your own pace, perfect for groups or couples looking for a peaceful escape.
Sparkman Wharf – A Waterfront Hotspot
Address: 615 Channelside Dr
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife, Free, Cafes, Neighborhood/Area |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Sparkman Wharf is an innovative redevelopment of Tampa’s waterfront area, blending dining, entertainment, and outdoor spaces with views of the Bay. It has become a key spot for socializing and community events.
What to Expect: Expect a vibrant atmosphere with local food trucks, craft beer options, and outdoor seating by the waterfront. There are often live performances and family-friendly activities in this lively area.
Visitor Information: Open daily, Sparkman Wharf is free to visit and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. There is ample parking available, and the area is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for families and groups.
Sparkman Wharf is an outdoor waterfront venue in Tampa that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, dining, and entertainment. It’s home to a variety of local eateries, craft breweries, and food trucks, providing a great selection of dishes from different cuisines. You can also enjoy live music performances and beautiful views of the water while relaxing in this vibrant and trendy area. Sparkman Wharf is ideal for a casual hangout, offering a laid-back atmosphere that showcases Tampa’s fun and creative spirit.
Tampa Golf Courses – A Golfer’s Paradise
Address: Tampa, FL, USA
| Type | Tournament, Tampa’s courses |
| Time to Spend | Half Day |
History and Significance: Tampa is home to a number of prestigious golf courses, including TPC Tampa Bay, known for hosting professional tournaments and attracting golfers from around the world.
What to Expect: Expect beautifully manicured courses, scenic views, and the challenge of world-class golfing. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the courses offer something for all skill levels, with amenities like driving ranges and pro shops.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, golf courses in Tampa typically offer tee times by reservation. Most courses provide rental equipment, dining options, and parking facilities for visitors.
Tampa is a golfer’s dream with its wide selection of top-tier courses, making it a great destination for both amateur and professional golfers. Courses like TPC Tampa Bay offer a challenging yet beautiful setting, with lush greenery and scenic views. Whether you’re playing for fun or participating in a tournament, Tampa’s courses cater to all skill levels. The city’s pleasant weather year-round makes it an ideal location for a golf getaway, ensuring you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the game in a relaxing environment.