things to do in tampa

Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a variety of attractions to suit all interests. Here are some things to do in Tampa:

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

1. Ben T. Davis Beach: A popular beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
2. Fort De Soto Park: A 1,136-acre park with five interconnected islands, featuring beaches, hiking trails, and historic fortifications.
3. Weedon Island Preserve: A 3,700-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, kayaking, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
4. Tampa Riverwalk: A 2.5-mile pedestrian path along the Hillsborough River, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.

Attractions and Museums

1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: An African-themed amusement park with thrill rides, animal exhibits, and live performances.
2. Florida Aquarium: A non-profit aquarium featuring a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
3. Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): A science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a submarine that you can tour.
4. Ybor City State Museum: A museum showcasing the history and culture of Ybor City, Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter.

Sports and Entertainment

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL): Catch a football game at Raymond James Stadium.
2. Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL): Watch a hockey game at Amalie Arena.
3. Tampa Theatre: A historic theater showing classic films and hosting live performances.
4. Straz Center for the Performing Arts: A performing arts center featuring concerts, plays, and musicals.

Food and Drink

1. Ybor City: Known for its Cuban cuisine, nightlife, and historic architecture.
2. Tampa Riverwalk: Offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes with waterfront views.
3. Cigar City Brewing: A popular craft brewery with tours and tastings.
4. The Columbia Restaurant: A historic restaurant serving Spanish-Cuban cuisine.

Other Attractions

1. Henry B. Plant Museum: A museum showcasing the history of the Tampa Bay area, located in the former hotel of Henry B. Plant.
2. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo: A zoo featuring a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and lions.
3. Tampa’s Museum of Art: A museum featuring a collection of modern and contemporary art.
4. The Florida Aquarium’s Shark Encounter: A unique exhibit featuring a 360-degree acrylic tunnel with sharks and rays.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Tampa. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.