1. Visit the Tampa Bay History Center

Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, the Tampa Bay History Center is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of the region. The museum offers interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that explore the diverse cultures and influences that have shaped Tampa Bay.

Visitors can learn about the indigenous people who first inhabited the area, the early Spanish explorers who arrived in the 1500s, and the development of Tampa Bay into the modern-day city it is today.

The Tampa Bay History Center also features galleries dedicated to the cigar industry, the development of the Port of Tampa, and the impact of the military on the region. There are also exhibits on the natural history of Tampa Heights including the diverse ecosystems and wildlife that call Tampa Bay home.

One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of the “The Benoist XIV” seaplane, the first commercial airline in the world, which made its inaugural flight from Tampa to St. Petersburg in 1914. This exhibit showcases the important role that Tampa Bay played in the development of aviation history.

In addition to the exhibits, the Tampa Bay History Center offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events throughout the year. The museum also has a museum store where visitors can purchase books, souvenirs, and gifts related to the history of Tampa Bay.

Whether you’re a history buff, a local resident, or just passing through, the Tampa Bay History Center is a fascinating and educational destination that offers a unique perspective on the history and culture of the region. It’s a great way to learn about the people, events, and influences that have shaped Tampa Bay into the vibrant city it is today. 

2. Explore Ybor City

Located just northeast of downtown Tampa, Ybor City is a historic neighborhood known for its lively nightlife, Cuban-influenced cuisine, and colorful streets lined with vintage brick buildings. The neighborhood is home to several popular restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as the Ybor City Museum State Park, which offers a glimpse into the area’s history as a major cigar-manufacturing center.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the historic district, visit the museum to learn more about Ybor City’s history, or simply stroll through the streets and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. It is definitely a part of Tampa that you do not want to miss! In addition to its nightlife and dining scene, Ybor City is also known for its annual events and festivals, including the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce’s Fiesta Day, which celebrates the neighborhood’s Latin heritage with live music, food and drink vendors, and a vibrant street parade.

The area was founded in the 1880s by Vicente Martinez Ybor and was originally home to thousands of Cuban, Spanish, Italian, and Jewish immigrants who worked in the cigar industry. The neighborhood’s rich multicultural history is evident in its architecture, which features a mix of Moorish, Victorian, and Italianate styles.

Today, Ybor City, a registered national register of historic places, has a diverse and eclectic vibe, with street performers, art galleries, and a range of entertainment options that appeal to locals, visitors and those looking to visit Tampa alike. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a night out on the town, learn more about Tampa’s history, or simply take in the sights and sounds of a unique and vibrant neighborhood, Ybor City has something for everyone. 

3. Take a stroll through the Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.4-mile pedestrian path that winds along the Hillsborough River, offering beautiful views of the water and the city skyline. A popular spot at night due to the lights that come on along the pathway for some breathtaking views.

Along the way, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, parks, and other attractions, including the Tampa Bay History Center and the Florida Aquarium. The Riverwalk is a great place to take a leisurely walk, bike ride, or rollerblade, or to simply sit and relax and enjoy the scenery.

Tampa’s Riverwalk also hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and outdoor fitness classes adding to the plethora of Tampa attractions. It’s a vibrant and lively area that truly captures the essence of Tampa’s waterfront lifestyle.

Whether you’re a visitor to the city or a longtime resident, the Tampa Riverwalk is a must-visit destination. It’s a great place to spend time with friends and family, take in the sights and sounds of the city, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Hillsborough River. Plus, with so many dining and entertainment options along the way, you can easily spend an entire day exploring everything the Riverwalk has to offer.

Overall, the Tampa Riverwalk is a beloved gem of the city, providing a picturesque and enjoyable experience for all who visit. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike can come together to appreciate the beauty of Tampa’s waterfront and create lasting memories. 

4. Visit the Florida Aquarium

Located in the Channel District of downtown Tampa, the Florida Aquarium is home to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals, including sharks, rays, otters, and alligators. The aquarium offers a variety of interactive exhibits and experiences, such as a simulated dive with sharks and a behind-the-scenes tour of the animal care center.

Visitors can also take a stroll through the outdoor nature trail, where they can see a variety of Florida wildlife up close. One of the best Aquarium’s in the USA. The Florida Aquarium also offers educational programs and conservation initiatives aimed at raising awareness about marine life and promoting environmental sustainability.

Additionally, the aquarium, one of the exciting activities in Tampa, hosts special events and activities for visitors of all ages, making it a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

With its commitment to conservation, education, and providing a memorable experience for visitors, the Florida Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for anyone in the Tampa area. Whether you’re interested in learning about marine life, exploring outdoor exhibits, or simply enjoying a fun day out, the aquarium offers something for everyone. 

5. Check out the Tampa Museum of Art

Located in downtown Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art showcases contemporary and modern art from around the world, as well as rotating exhibitions of works by local artists.

The museum is also home to a sculpture garden and a popular restaurant with outdoor seating. Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent collection or check out one of the many special exhibitions on display. The Tampa Museum of Art is dedicated to providing a diverse and inclusive space for the community to experience and appreciate art. The museum also offers educational programs, including workshops, artist talks, and family-friendly activities, to engage visitors of all ages.

The museum’s permanent collection includes a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and decorative arts, with a focus on 20th and 21st-century art. The museum’s collection includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as contemporary artists from around the world.

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by both established and emerging artists. These exhibitions at the Tampa Museum of Art cover a wide range of styles and themes, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to see amongst the Tampa local arts scene.

The museum’s sculpture garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of downtown Tampa, featuring a variety of outdoor sculptures set amongst lush landscaping and stunning views of the Hillsborough River. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy some fresh air before or after exploring the museum.

After a day of exploring the museum, visitors can visit the onsite restaurant, which offers a diverse menu of gourmet cuisine and cocktails. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area provides a scenic spot to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in views of the river and downtown Tampa.

Overall, the Tampa Museum of Art offers a rich and vibrant cultural experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art, local talent, or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, the museum of Tampa has something for everyone. Tampa attractions are not just limited to museums! 

6. Spend a day at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Located just outside of Tampa, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a popular theme park that offers thrill rides, live entertainment, and the chance to see exotic animals up close. The park is home to many animal habitats, including a flamingo pond and a savannah where you can see giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife. In addition to the rides and animal exhibits, Busch Gardens also offers a variety of dining options and live performances.

This is the place to go for a day trip, sit back and relax with some music, or for the thrill seekers jump on one of the many rollercoasters. Some of the park’s most popular attractions include the Cheetah Hunt, a high-speed roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, and the SheiKra, a 200-foot tall dive coaster that offers a 90-degree drop. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the Serengeti Express train provides a leisurely tour of the park’s animal exhibits.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a great option for families, as there are plenty of activities for children, including a kids’ play area and special animal encounters. The park also offers educational programs and animal shows, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about wildlife conservation and the animals that call the park home.

Overall, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a fun and exciting destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping rides, up-close animal experiences, or a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, this theme park has something for everyone. 

7. Go on a brewery tour

Tampa has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings. Some popular options include Cigar City Brewing, Coppertail Brewing Co., and 7venth Sun Brewery. Visitors can take a tour of the breweries to learn about the brewing process and taste a variety of beers, ranging from traditional styles to experimental brews. Cigar City Brewing is known for its unique and flavorful beers, such as the Jai Alai IPA and the Maduro Brown Ale. They also offer special releases and collaborations with other breweries, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

Situated in the historic Ybor City neighborhood, Coppertail Brewing Co. offers a variety of styles, including lagers, ales, and stouts, making it one of the best places for beer enthusiasts in Tampa. They also have a taproom where visitors can sample their latest creations and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

7venth Sun Brewery, with locations in both Tampa and Dunedin, is known for its innovative and experimental beers. Coppertail Brewing Co. and Tampa Electric have joined forces! They frequently release new and exciting energy-infused brews, such as sours, barrel-aged beers, and IPAs, making it a great spot for those looking to try something different.

In addition to these popular breweries, Tampa also has a number of smaller, independent breweries that are worth exploring. Some notable mentions amongst Tampa’s local breweries include Angry Chair Brewing, Hidden Springs Ale Works, and Brew Bus Brewing registered on the national register of historic places. With so many options to choose from, visitors to Tampa can easily immerse themselves in the local craft beer scene and discover a wide range of flavors and styles. 

8. Take a walk through the Tampa Bay Preserve

The Tampa Bay Preserve is a protected natural area located just outside of Tampa that is home to a variety of plant and animal species.

The preserve offers hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and fishing. Visitors can explore the preserve’s ecosystems, which include pine Flatwoods, mangrove forests, and salt marshes, and see a variety of wildlife, such as alligators, turtles, and over 200 species of birds. In addition to enjoying the natural beauty of the area, visitors can also participate in educational programs and guided tours to learn more about the diverse habitats and wildlife found within the preserve.

The Tampa Bay Preserve is also committed to conservation and offers volunteer opportunities for those interested in helping protect and maintain the natural environment.

The preserve is open to the public and is a great destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, wildlife observation, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, the Tampa Bay Preserve has something to offer for everyone. It’s a great place to connect with nature, learn about Florida’s ecosystems, and appreciate the importance of conservation. 

9. Visit the University of Tampa

Located on the east side of the Hillsborough River, the University of Tampa is a beautiful campus that is home to several historical buildings, including a castle-like structure that dates back to the early 1900s. The campus also offers a number of cultural and recreational activities, including art exhibits, concerts, and sporting events.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus, attend a performance or event, or simply enjoy the peaceful and picturesque surroundings. Also, a popular spot if you are into photography-Many professional photos are taken here with the beautiful campus as the background.

In addition to its stunning architecture and scenic river views, the University of Tampa also boasts a variety of amenities for students and visitors alike. The campus features modern facilities such as state-of-the-art classrooms, a fitness center, dining options, and outdoor spaces for studying or relaxation.

The atmosphere at the University of Tampa is vibrant and diverse, with students from all over the world coming together to study and socialize. The campus of University of Tampa is also a popular venue for events and conferences, offering a range of services and accommodations for visitors, adding to the list of activities in Tampa.

Whether you’re a prospective student, a history buff, or simply looking for a tranquil and inspiring place to spend the day, the University of Tampa campus has something to offer amongst the best Tampa attractions. Its mix of historic charm and modern conveniences make it a truly unique destination in the heart of the city. 

10. Go to a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game

Raymond James Stadium, located just outside of Tampa, is home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a professional football team that competes in the National Football League (NFL). Attending a Buccaneers game is a great way to experience the excitement of live football and get a taste of Tampa’s sports culture. The stadium offers a variety of seating options, from club-level suites to general admission, as well as a variety of food and beverage options.

Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just looking for a fun outing, a Buccaneers game is sure to be a memorable experience. If you are planning to go to a game, you will need to plan ahead.

Bucs fans are serious and the stadium gets pretty full. Get the best ticket deals here! So, you can have more cash in your hand to explore the rest of Tampa. In addition to football games, Raymond James Stadium also hosts other events such as concerts and college football games, making it a versatile venue for entertainment. The stadium is also conveniently located near downtown Tampa, so you can easily explore the city before or after the game.

If you’re a sports enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Tampa Bay Sports Store at the stadium, where you can pick up Buccaneers gear and memorabilia to commemorate your visit. And if you’re feeling hungry, the stadium offers a wide range of food options, including traditional game day fare and local favorites.

Overall, attending a Buccaneers game at Raymond James Stadium is a great way to immerse yourself in the excitement of football and experience the vibrant sports culture of Tampa. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to cheer on the Buccaneers and enjoy everything the stadium has to offer!  

Top 10 Things To Do In Tampa Wrap-Up