The Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay: Top Attractions and Activities

Tampa is a city that has it all, attractions, outdoor spaces, history, food and nightlife. Whether you’re a local looking to get to know your city or a visitor looking for an experience of a lifetime, Tampa has something for everyone. From Busch Gardens to the Tampa Riverwalk, Ybor City to Hyde Park Village are the top things to do in Tampa 2025.

Ready to get started? Explore Tampa’s top spots, outdoor activities, landmarks, food and family fun. Whether you’re looking for a weekend or a longer stay, this guide covers you. See the city like never before and make the most of your time with insider tips and local secrets to help you experience the best of Tampa!

26 Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Outdoor Activities and Attractions

Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a must-see. This 2.6-mile path along the Hillsborough River is perfect for walking, jogging or biking. It connects many of Tampa’s biggest attractions, Curtis Hixon Park, Amalie Arena and Sparkman Wharf so you can see the city on foot. Along the way you can stop at cafes, restaurants and parks to rest or grab a bite to eat. The Riverwalk has outdoor art installations so you can add some culture to your stroll. In the evening the Riverwalk is beautifully lit so you can unwind and enjoy the views. Whether you want to see Tampa or just take a leisurely walk with great views the Riverwalk is the way to go.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens is one of Tampa’s top attractions, with a mix of thrill rides and animal encounters. Known for its world class roller coasters like SheiKra and Iron Gwazi, Busch Gardens is a thrill rider’s paradise. But it’s not all about fast rides, the park has thousands of animals from around the world. You can see giraffes, elephants, tigers and more in natural habitats. The park also has live entertainment with shows featuring acrobats to comedy. For families with young children the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area has kid friendly rides and shows. Whether you’re visiting for the rides or to learn about wildlife Busch Gardens has something for everyone for a full day of fun for all ages.

Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a must see for anyone who loves marine life. Located in downtown Tampa it has thousands of animals and plants from Florida’s aquatic ecosystems. The interactive exhibits let you explore wetlands, coral reefs and even the deep sea. One of the most popular exhibits is the large coral reef habitat where you can see sharks, stingrays and tropical fish. They also have hands on experiences like touch tanks where you can gently touch starfish and stingrays. For an outdoor adventure take the Wild Dolphin Cruise where you might see dolphins in their natural habitat. The Florida Aquarium is educational and fun so it’s perfect for families, kids and anyone who loves marine life.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a family and animal lover’s favorite. The zoo has over 1,300 animals including manatees, rhinos, tigers and exotic birds. One of the only places in the world where you can see the endangered Florida manatee up close. ZooTampa is known for its conservation efforts with special programs to help protect and rehabilitate animals. In addition to the animal exhibits they have interactive experiences like giraffe feeding and behind the scenes tours. They also have kid friendly rides and play areas so it’s fun for kids. With animals, hands on experiences and conservation ZooTampa is a day out for all ages.

Adventure Island

When the Florida heat gets too hot Adventure Island is the place to cool off. This water park located near Busch Gardens has water slides, wave pools and a lazy river. Thrill seekers will love the high speed slides like Vanishing Point and Colossal Curl which have fast drops and twists. For a more relaxed experience the Rambling Bayou lazy river is a peaceful float through tropical scenery. They also have kid friendly areas with smaller slides and splash zones so it’s a great place for families. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a chill day in the sun Adventure Island has something for everyone.

Go on a Boat Tour

A boat tour is the best way to see Tampa’s waterfront. There are many types of boat tours from dolphin-watching cruises to sunset sails. You can tour Tampa Bay, learn about the city’s history, and see landmarks from the water. Many tours also have wildlife spotting like dolphins, manatees and seabirds. For a more personal experience private charters are available to relax and enjoy Tampa’s coastline. Whether you’re on a sightseeing tour or want to have a peaceful day on the water a boat tour is a whole new perspective of the city.

Kayak

Kayaking is the best way to get up close and personal with Tampa’s natural beauty. With calm waters and scenic views, Tampa has plenty of kayaking options whether you’re paddling the Hillsborough River or the coastal areas of Tampa Bay. Many rental locations and guided tours are available so beginners and experienced kayakers can enjoy the fun. As you paddle you might see local wildlife like dolphins, manatees and various bird species. Kayaking is a peaceful way to get exercise and connect with nature. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor adventures and want to experience Tampa’s waterways in a fun and eco-friendly way.

Bayshore Boulevard

Bayshore Boulevard is the longest continuous sidewalk in the US, stretching 4.5 miles along the coast of Tampa Bay. It’s a popular spot to walk, jog or bike and offers great views of the water and the downtown skyline. The wide sidewalk is lined with beautiful homes, parks and historic landmarks so it’s fun to explore. Whether you’re looking for a scenic stroll or a more intense workout Bayshore Boulevard has a great backdrop. It’s especially popular in the morning and late afternoon when the temps are cooler. And it’s a great place to catch a sunset over the bay so it’s one of Tampa’s most beautiful outdoor spots.

Cultural and Historic Experiences

Ybor City

Ybor City is one of Tampa’s most historic and culturally dense neighborhoods. Founded in the late 1800s by Cuban, Spanish and Italian immigrants Ybor City became famous for its cigar factories and Tampa was dubbed “Cigar City”. Today Ybor is a vibrant area where visitors can walk down brick streets lined with colorful buildings, historic landmarks and cigar shops where you can watch cigars being hand rolled. The area is also the hub for Tampa’s nightlife with its mix of bars, clubs and restaurants serving everything from Cuban sandwiches to Latin inspired cuisine. During the day Ybor City gives you a glimpse into Tampa’s immigrant past through its museums and cultural centers and at night it becomes a party district. If you want to experience Tampa’s history and culture Ybor City is the place to start.

Tampa Theatre

The Tampa Theatre is one of Tampa’s most beloved landmarks dating back to 1926. This beautifully restored movie palace is known for its ornate details, starry ceiling and Mediterranean courtyard. The theater shows classic films, independent movies and documentaries. It also hosts live performances, concerts and special events throughout the year. The Tampa Theatre’s historic charm and nostalgic vibe is a must see for anyone who loves the old days of cinema. Even if you’re not seeing a movie guided tours are available to give you a behind the scenes look at the theater’s history and architecture.

Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center is a museum that preserves and presents the history of the Tampa Bay area. Located on the Tampa Riverwalk, the exhibits cover everything from the indigenous people of Florida to Spanish explorers and pirate legends. One of the best parts is the interactive exhibits where you can experience Tampa’s history hands on. They also have a section on Tampa’s cigar industry with artifacts from Ybor City’s cigar making past. Whether you’re a history nerd or just curious about the city’s past the Tampa Bay History Center shows you how it all came to be.

Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)

The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) is Tampa’s science museum, with hands on exhibits for all ages. From space exploration to physics experiments MOSI covers it all. The IMAX Dome Theater shows educational films that will immerse you in amazing visuals and the planetarium lets you explore the stars and planets. MOSI also has a ropes course and zip line to add an adventure to the science experience. Great for families, school groups or anyone who loves science and discovery. The interactive nature of the museum makes it fun for all ages.

Tampa Museum of Art

The Tampa Museum of Art is a modern and beautiful cultural institution on the Tampa Riverwalk. It has a diverse collection of contemporary and classical art with rotating exhibits featuring local and international artists. They are known for their collection of ancient Greek and Roman artefacts so you can see the past while enjoying modern art. The building itself is a work of art with its award winning design and stunning waterfront views. In addition to exhibits the museum offers workshops, lectures and art related events so it’s a hub of culture in Tampa. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious the Tampa Museum of Art is a must see for culture vultures.

Henry B. Plant Museum

The Henry B. Plant Museum is located within the historic Plant Hall on the University of Tampa campus. Once a luxury hotel built by railroad magnate Henry B. Plant in the late 1800s the museum showcases the opulence of the Gilded Age with exhibits of period furnishings, artefacts and photographs that will transport you back in time. The hotel was a major factor in putting Tampa on the map as a tourist destination in the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can explore the lavish rooms and learn about the hotel’s role in the development of the area. With its Moorish architecture and rich history the Henry B. Plant Museum is a must see.

Wat Mongkolratanaram Buddhist Temple

The Wat Mongkolratanaram Buddhist Temple on the Palm River in Tampa is a peaceful oasis. The temple is not just a place of worship for the local Thai community but also a popular stop for visitors especially on Sundays when the temple has its Thai market. You can eat authentic Thai food (pad Thai, spring rolls, mango sticky rice) while sitting by the river. The temple itself is beautiful with golden statues and traditional Thai architecture. Whether you’re there for the food or to learn more about Buddhism, a visit to Wat Mongkolratanaram is a nice and enriching experience.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Sacred Heart Catholic Church is one of Tampa’s most beautiful and historic landmarks. Located in downtown Tampa, the church was built in 1905 and has stunning architecture (large stained glass windows, high ceilings, and detailed stonework). The church is still an active parish and visitors are welcome to attend Mass or just admire the building. Whether you’re religious or not, a visit to Sacred Heart is a peaceful escape from the city. Historic and beautiful, it’s a must see for architecture buffs and those interested in Tampa’s religious history.

Food, Drink, and Nightlife in Tampa Bay

Get a Cuban Sandwich

Tampa is famous for the Cuban sandwich (roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard on Cuban bread). The city claims to be the birthplace of this sandwich and you can find some of the best at local institutions like Columbia Restaurant and La Segunda Bakery. Each place has its spin on the classic but all share the same rich flavors. Whether you eat it as a snack or a sit down meal the Cuban sandwich is a taste of Tampa’s Cuban heritage and a must for any foodie in town.

Check Out a Speakeasy

Tampa has jumped on the hidden, Prohibition-era speakeasy trend and it’s a fun and mysterious twist on a night out. Speakeasies like Ciro’s in Hyde Park require a password to get in, adding to the intrigue. These small bars serve expertly crafted cocktails, often with unusual ingredients and presented in a classy, old school way. Going to a speakeasy is not just about the drinks, it’s about the experience of going back in time to an era of secrecy and luxury. Whether you’re out for a romantic night or just looking for something different, Tampa’s speakeasies are a memorable and stylish night out.

Experience the Nightlife Scene

Tampa’s nightlife is wild and crazy, there’s something for everyone. Ybor City is the epicentre of nightlife, with a mix of clubs, bars and live music venues that are packed every night of the week. Whether you like to dance, live music or just hang with friends Ybor City has it all. For a more chill vibe downtown Tampa and SoHo (South Howard Avenue) have upscale lounges and rooftop bars where you can sip cocktails and see the city. Night owl or just looking for a fun night out, Tampa’s nightlife won’t let you down.

Sports and Entertainment

Tampa Bay Sports Scene

Tampa is a sports lover’s paradise, home to several major professional teams that keep the city’s sports scene hot all year round. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the city’s NFL team and their games at Raymond James Stadium are always electric, especially with the pirate ship in the stadium. If hockey is your thing the Tampa Bay Lightning play their NHL games at Amalie Arena where the energy is crazy, especially during playoffs. If you’re a baseball fan the Tampa Bay Rays play at Tropicana Field. Even if you’re not a big sports fan attending a live game is a great way to experience the local vibe and energy. From football to hockey to baseball Tampa’s teams make the city a must see for anyone looking to catch top level sports action.

Check Out a Sporting Event

Tampa is a sports hotbed and there’s always something going on no matter the time of year. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Lightning and Tampa Bay Rays are the city’s three major teams each offering a different kind of live sports experience. Raymond James Stadium is where the football magic happens, Amalie Arena is where the hockey action is and Tropicana Field is where you can chill for some baseball. In addition to the big three Tampa also hosts other sports like soccer, minor league baseball and even wrestling. Watching a live game in Tampa is a fun and exciting way to get into the city’s sports culture.

See a Show at One of Tampa’s Iconic Establishments

Tampa has several landmarks where you can catch live shows from concerts to theater. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is one of the largest performing arts centers in the country, with everything from Broadway shows to ballet. The Tampa Theatre is another must see, showing indie films, documentaries and live performances in a historic beautifully restored building. For music lovers Amalie Arena hosts concerts of all kinds. Whether you want to see a Broadway musical, a live concert or a classic film Tampa’s venues have something for everyone.

Shopping and Relaxation

Hyde Park Village

Hyde Park Village is Tampa’s most adorable shopping and dining destination. An upscale experience in the middle of the city. Open-air shopping center with high end boutiques, local shops and popular chain stores. Spend the afternoon browsing for clothes, accessories or home goods. Hyde Park Village has plenty of outdoor cafes and restaurants where you can sit and eat or get a coffee and just enjoy the scene. Whether you’re looking for fashion, unique gifts or just a place to take a walk, Hyde Park Village is a stylish and chill shopping experience in one of Tampa’s most beautiful neighborhoods.

Go Shopping

Tampa has shopping for all tastes and budgets. For high end shopping go to International Plaza and Bay Street where you’ll find luxury brands, department stores and trendy restaurants all in one place. For local and handmade go to the Tampa Indie Flea or one of the city’s many farmers markets where you can find handmade crafts, vintage clothing and unique gifts. For a more casual shopping experience go to Westshore Plaza and University Mall where you’ll find a mix of popular retail stores and local eateries. Whether you’re looking for designer clothes, unique gifts or just a souvenir, Tampa has shopping for everyone.

Sparkman Wharf

Sparkman Wharf is a waterfront destination that has become one of Tampa’s hottest spots for food, fun and relaxation. Located in the Water Street District, Sparkman Wharf has food trucks, craft beer stands and outdoor seating where you can grab a casual bite or drink with friends. The area often has live music, outdoor games and special events so it’s a great place to hang out on weekends or evenings. With waterfront views and a chill vibe, Sparkman Wharf is perfect for locals and visitors to enjoy the sunshine while sitting by the water. Whether you’re there for a meal, drinks or just to enjoy the scene, Sparkman Wharf has food, fun and relaxation.

Have Some Classic Fun

Looking for old school fun? Tampa has plenty of classic activities to bring out your inner child. Go to Splitsville in Channelside and bowl in a retro cool environment while you eat. Topgolf Tampa is another hot spot where you can play golf inspired games while you eat and drink with friends. If you like a little more speed check out the Tampa Bay Grand Prix for go-kart racing. Tampa has entertainment for everyone, whether you like bowling, mini golf or racing so you’ll have a fun day no matter what you choose.