Hey there, Tampa explorers! I’m John, a Hyde Park local who’s spent over a decade chasing sunsets, tacos, and hidden gems across Tampa Bay. Whether you’re here for heart-pounding roller coasters, tranquil beaches, or mouthwatering Cuban sandwiches, this guide has 26 unforgettable activities for 2025. Organized by theme and packed with insider tips, it’s your ticket to an authentic Tampa Bay experience. From new attractions to timeless classics, let’s dive into the best things to do in Tampa Bay!
Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay
- Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay
- Outdoor Fun and Natural Escapes
- 1. Tampa Riverwalk
- 2. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
- 3. Kayaking the Hillsborough River
- 4. Bayshore Boulevard
- 5. Caladesi Island State Park
- Cultural & Historical Gems
- 6. Ybor City
- 7. Tampa Theatre
- 8. Tampa Bay History Center
- 9. Henry B. Plant Museum
- 10. Wat Mongkolratanaram Buddhist Temple
- Beaches & Waterfront Fun
- 11. St. Pete Beach
- 12. Pass-a-Grille Beach
- 13. Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach
- Family-Friendly Attractions
- 14. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
- 15. The Florida Aquarium
- 16. Adventure Island
- 17. MOSI’s New Planetarium
- Foodie Wonders and Nightlife
- 18. Ybor City Cuban Sandwich
- 19. Oxford Exchange
- 20. Ulele
- 21. Datz
- New & Noteworthy in 2025
- 22. Wild Oasis at Busch Gardens
- 23. SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium
- 24. Florida Aquarium Advanced Touch Exhibit
- Seasonal Events & Festivals
- 25. Gasparilla Pirate Fest
- 26. Tampa Riverfest
- Plan Your Tampa Bay Adventure
- Frequently Asked Questions
Outdoor Fun and Natural Escapes
Soak up Tampa Bay’s sunshine and waterfront views with these outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
1. Tampa Riverwalk
Kick off your trip with a stroll along the 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk in Downtown Tampa. I love grabbing a coffee at The Attic Café and watching boats glide by—manatees sometimes pop up! Rent an e-bike from Coast Bike Share for a breezy ride or sip a latte at one of the best coffee shops in Downtown Tampa. Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter walk and prime manatee-spotting.
2. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Fuel your adrenaline at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in North Tampa, home to Florida’s wildest roller coasters like Tigris and SheiKra’s 200-foot plunge. The animal encounters—giraffes, cheetahs, and more—are a bonus. I’m obsessed with the Serengeti Plain’s safari vibe! Insider Tip: Buy a Quick Queue pass online to skip lines on busy weekends.
3. Kayaking the Hillsborough River
Glide through the serene Hillsborough River, just outside Downtown Tampa, with Canoe Escape. I’ve spotted turtles, herons, and even alligators among the lush trees. Rentals start at $30, and guided tours add eco-facts. Insider Tip: Book a sunrise tour for cooler temps and active wildlife.
4. Bayshore Boulevard
Take a morning jog or evening stroll along Bayshore Boulevard’s 4.5-mile waterfront sidewalk in South Tampa. The views of Tampa Bay and historic homes are stunning, especially at golden hour. After your walk, check out roller skating venues in Tampa Bay for more outdoor fun. Insider Tip: Stop by The Hyppo for a mango-chili popsicle to cool off.
5. Caladesi Island State Park
Escape to Caladesi Island State Park in Dunedin, a pristine beach reachable only by ferry from Honeymoon Island. I love shelling for sand dollars and hiking the nature trails. Insider Tip: Take the 8 AM ferry to snag a quiet spot and pack a picnic. Caladesi Island State Park.
Cultural & Historical Gems
Dive into Tampa Bay’s vibrant history, from cigar-making roots to Gilded Age elegance, at these iconic spots.
6. Ybor City
Step into the Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influences of Ybor City, just east of Downtown Tampa. Stroll 7th Avenue and soak up the nightlife—Saturday evenings are electric! Check out the best Cuban restaurants in Tampa for more spots to savor the local flavor. Insider Tip: Visit the Ybor City Museum State Park for a quick history lesson.
7. Tampa Theatre
Experience a starry Mediterranean dream at Tampa Theatre, a 1926 movie palace in Downtown Tampa. Catch a classic film or live show—the Wurlitzer organ is magical. I bring friends for Sunday matinees. Insider Tip: Book a balcony tour for behind-the-scenes stories. Tampa Theatre.
8. Tampa Bay History Center
Discover Tampa’s past at the Tampa Bay History Center in Channelside, from Seminole tribes to pirates. The interactive exhibits keep kids engaged, and I love the old maps. Pair it with a coffee break at one of the best coffee shops in Downtown Tampa. Insider Tip: Pair with lunch at nearby Ulele. Tampa Bay History Center.
9. Henry B. Plant Museum
Housed in the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel in Downtown Tampa, the Henry B. Plant Museum showcases Gilded Age opulence. The Victorian furniture and Henry Plant’s story always impress me. Insider Tip: Visit in December for festive holiday displays. Henry B. Plant Museum.
10. Wat Mongkolratanaram Buddhist Temple
Find serenity at Wat Mongkolratanaram Buddhist Temple in North Tampa, a Thai temple by the river. The Sunday market (9 AM–1 PM) serves authentic pad Thai for $5–$10. I love meditating in the gardens. Insider Tip: Arrive by 9 AM to beat the market crowds. Wat Tampa.
Beaches & Waterfront Fun
Tampa Bay’s Gulf Coast beaches deliver soft sand, warm waves, and epic sunsets—perfect for a family day or solo chill.
11. St. Pete Beach
Soak up the sun at St. Pete Beach in St. Petersburg, ideal for swimming or paddleboarding. I grab fish tacos at The Toasted Monkey after a dip. Insider Tip: Park before 10 AM to avoid the rush. Visit St. Pete/Clearwater.
12. Pass-a-Grille Beach
Tucked at the tip of St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille Beach is a quiet gem. Fish off the pier or explore the historic district’s shops. I love the calm vibes here. Insider Tip: Grab coffee at Paradise Grille for a morning boost. Visit St. Pete/Clearwater.
13. Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach
Catch a free sunset festival at Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach, with live music and crafts. I love watching performers while sipping a smoothie. Insider Tip: Arrive by 5 PM for the best sunset spot. Clearwater Beach.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Keep the whole family entertained with Tampa Bay’s zoos, aquariums, and water parks packed with hands-on fun.
14. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Meet manatees, elephants, and baby rhinos at ZooTampa in Seminole Heights. My nephew loves the carousel and splash pad. For more family fun, check out the best bowling alleys in Tampa. Insider Tip: Check the feeding schedule for animal encounters. ZooTampa.
15. The Florida Aquarium
Dive into marine magic at The Florida Aquarium in Channelside, with shark tunnels and touch tanks. The coral reef exhibit’s colors are stunning. Insider Tip: Book the dolphin cruise for a memorable add-on. The Florida Aquarium.
16. Adventure Island
Zoom down thrilling slides like Colossal Curl at Adventure Island in North Tampa, a water park next to Busch Gardens. I love the lazy river for chilling! Insider Tip: Bring water shoes for hot pavement. Adventure Island.
17. MOSI’s New Planetarium
Explore the cosmos at MOSI’s new planetarium, debuting in 2025 in North Tampa. The immersive shows are perfect for curious kids and adults. Insider Tip: Pair with MOSI’s hands-on science exhibits for a full day. MOSI.
Foodie Wonders and Nightlife
Tampa’s food scene blends Cuban classics, creative eats, and vibrant nightlife—perfect for foodies and night owls.
18. Ybor City Cuban Sandwich
Savor a classic Cuban sandwich at Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, open since 1905. The crispy bread, pork, and pickles are perfection. Hungry for more? Explore the best Cuban restaurants in Tampa. Insider Tip: Add extra mustard for a zesty kick. Columbia Restaurant.
19. Oxford Exchange
Brunch like a local at Oxford Exchange near Downtown Tampa, a bookstore-café with avocado toast and lavender lattes. The vibe is Instagram-worthy. Craving more local flavors? Check out Tampa’s must-try tacos. Insider Tip: Reserve a table for weekend brunch—it’s packed. Oxford Exchange.
20. Ulele
Dine riverside at Ulele in Tampa Heights, serving Native-inspired dishes like alligator bites. I love sipping a craft beer at sunset. For more foodie adventures, try Tampa’s must-try tacos. Insider Tip: Stroll the Riverwalk after dinner. Ulele.
21. Datz
Indulge at Datz in South Tampa, a foodie haven with mac-and-cheese-stuffed meatballs and wild milkshakes. The Cheesy Todd burger is a game-changer. Insider Tip: Split a milkshake—it’s huge! Datz.
Image Tip: A colorful milkshake topped with whipped cream.
New & Noteworthy in 2025
Get excited for Tampa Bay’s 2025 lineup, with fresh thrills and marine adventures.
22. Wild Oasis at Busch Gardens
Launch into adventure at Wild Oasis, opening in 2025 at Busch Gardens in North Tampa. This jungle-themed zone features new rides and animal habitats. I’m pumped for the interactive trails! Insider Tip: Check the site for opening dates. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
23. SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium
Explore vibrant fish and jellyfish at SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium, opening in 2025 in Channelside. It’s a quick, kid-friendly stop. Insider Tip: Pair with the Florida Aquarium for a full marine day. The Florida Aquarium.
24. Florida Aquarium Advanced Touch Exhibit
Get hands-on with stingrays and starfish at The Florida Aquarium’s new touch exhibit in Channelside, launching in 2025. It’s a thrill for all ages. Insider Tip: Wear quick-dry clothes for the splash zone. The Florida Aquarium.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
Tampa Bay’s festivals bring pirates, food, and music to life for unforgettable celebrations.
25. Gasparilla Pirate Fest
Join the pirate party at Gasparilla Pirate Fest in South Tampa every January, with parades and costumes. I love the Bayshore Boulevard energy! Insider Tip: Arrive early for a prime parade spot. Gasparilla Pirate Fest.
26. Tampa Riverfest
Celebrate spring at Tampa Riverfest in Downtown Tampa, with food trucks and live music along the Riverwalk. I grab a craft beer and chill by the water. Insider Tip: Bring a blanket for a comfy picnic. Tampa Riverfest.
Plan Your Tampa Bay Adventure
Tampa Bay in 2025 blends old-school charm with fresh adventures. Mix and match these activities for a perfect trip, whether you’re here for a weekend or a week. Pro Tip: Flying in? Book long-term parking at Tampa International Airport for hassle-free travel. Want more local tips? Follow The Local Tampa on Instagram, sign up for our newsletter for exclusive guides, or explore related posts like Tampa’s must-try tacos, best bowling alleys in Tampa, and hidden gems in Ybor City.
Frequently Asked Questions
When’s the best time to visit Tampa Bay?
Spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) offers mild weather and fewer crowds. January’s Gasparilla Pirate Fest is a wild time to visit!
What are the top family-friendly spots in Tampa Bay?
ZooTampa in Seminole Heights, The Florida Aquarium in Channelside, and Adventure Island in North Tampa are hits. MOSI’s new planetarium, opening in 2025, is great for curious kids.
What foods should I try in Tampa Bay?
Grab a Cuban sandwich at Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, try Datz’s epic burgers in South Tampa, and savor Oxford Exchange’s brunch near Downtown Tampa. For dessert, snag Key lime pie at Bern’s Steak House in SoHo.
