free things to do in tampa
Here are some free things to do in Tampa:
- Visit the Tampa Riverwalk: A 2.5-mile pedestrian path along the Hillsborough River, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
- Tampa Museum of Art’s Free Thursday: Every Thursday, the museum offers free admission from 4 pm to 8 pm.
- Ybor City Saturday Market: Every Saturday, the market offers free admission and features local vendors, food, and live music.
- Fort De Soto Park: A 1,136-acre park with five interconnected islands, offering beaches, hiking trails, and historic fortifications. Admission is free, but there may be a fee for parking.
- Tampa Bay Beaches: Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at one of Tampa’s many beaches, such as Ben T. Davis Beach or Davis Islands Beach.
- Weedon Island Preserve: A 3,700-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, kayaking, and opportunities to spot wildlife. Admission is free, but there may be a fee for parking.
- Tampa Public Library: A beautiful library with a stunning atrium and regular free events, including author readings and children’s storytime.
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: A scenic park with a playground, dog park, and plenty of picnic areas. Admission is free, and it’s a great spot to watch the sunset.
- Ybor City Historic District: Take a self-guided walking tour of this historic neighborhood, known for its Cuban culture, restaurants, and shops.
- Tampa’s Street Art: Explore the city’s vibrant street art scene by taking a self-guided tour of the many murals and graffiti throughout the city.
- Hillsborough River State Park: While there may be a fee for parking, admission to the park is free, and it offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
- Tampa Bay Farmers Market: Every Sunday, the market offers free admission and features local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
- Museum of Science and Industry’s (MOSI) Free Community Day: MOSI offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month.
- Tampa’s Downtown Parks: Visit one of the many parks in downtown Tampa, such as Lykes Gaslight Square Park or Franklin Street Park, which offer free admission and plenty of green space.
- USF Contemporary Art Museum: The University of South Florida’s art museum offers free admission and features a diverse collection of contemporary art.
Please note that some of these attractions may have free admission but charge for parking or other activities. It’s always a good idea to check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm their free admission policies.