cool things to do in tampa
Tampa is a vibrant city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting activities to enjoy. Here are some cool things to do in Tampa:
- Visit the Florida Aquarium: Home to over 20,000 aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: An African-themed amusement park with thrill rides, animal exhibits, and live performances.
- Ybor City: Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops.
- Tampa Museum of Art: A modern art museum with a collection of contemporary and classical art.
- Henry B. Plant Museum: A National Historic Landmark built in the late 19th century, featuring Moorish Revival architecture and stunning gardens.
- Take a stroll along the Riverwalk: A 2.5-mile pedestrian path along the Hillsborough River, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
- Visit the Tampa Theatre: A historic movie palace built in 1926, offering independent films, concerts, and events.
- Go kayaking or paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore Tampa’s waterways, including the Hillsborough River and Bayshore Boulevard.
- Cigar City Brewing: A local craft brewery offering tours, tastings, and live music.
- Attend a sports game: Catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), or Tampa Bay Rays (MLB) game at Raymond James Stadium, Amalie Arena, or Tropicana Field.
- Visit the Glazer Children’s Museum: An interactive museum with hands-on exhibits and play areas for kids.
- Take a day trip to Clearwater Beach: A beautiful beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or dolphin-watching.
- Explore the Tampa Bay History Center: A museum showcasing the region’s history, with exhibits on topics like cigar-making and the Cuban Revolution.
- Go shopping at International Plaza: An upscale mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
- Attend a festival or event: Tampa hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Tampa Bay Margarita Festival, and Outback Bowl.
- Visit the Lowry Park Zoo: A 56-acre zoo with a variety of animals, including primates, big cats, and penguins.
- Take a food tour: Sample the city’s diverse culinary scene, with tours focusing on Cuban, Italian, or Southern cuisine.
- Go hiking at Hillsborough River State Park: A scenic park with trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
- Visit the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): A science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater.
- Enjoy the nightlife in SoHo: A trendy neighborhood with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
These are just a few of the many cool things to do in Tampa. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or entertainment.
