Tampa Thrills and Family Delights

Experience the perfect family adventure in Tampa, where fun and memories await!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Tampa, United States offers an array of exciting activities for all ages. Explore the captivating wonders of the Florida Aquarium, where kids can get up close with marine life and even swim with gentle sharks. Visit the famous Busch Gardens theme park, known for its thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live shows, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Wacky Water Adventures

  • Start your day with a splash at Adventure Island, Tampa's ultimate water park. From thrilling slides to lazy rivers, there's something for everyone in the family.
  • Experience the weird and wonderful at the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), where you can explore a 3D printing lab and even ride a bicycle on a tightrope!
  • Take a stroll along Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic path that offers stunning views of the city skyline and access to parks, restaurants, and even a pirate ship playground.
  • Refuel with a visit to Columbia Restaurant, Florida's oldest restaurant. Feast on their famous "1905" Salad, fresh seafood, and delicious Cuban-inspired dishes.
  • End the day with a twilight kayaking adventure at Lettuce Lake Park, where you can paddle through serene waters, soaking in the magic of the Florida sunset.
Day 2

Animal Encounters Galore

  • Get wild at the Lowry Park Zoo, one of Tampa's must-visit attractions. Meet adorable manatees, playful orangutans, and majestic lions as you explore the zoo's immersive habitats.
  • Unleash your inner detective at the Glazer Children's Museum, where little ones can solve mysteries, build robots, and let their imaginations run wild.
  • Take a fascinating journey through The Florida Aquarium, where you can dive into a coral reef, touch stingrays, and watch as sharks gracefully glide overhead.
  • Grab a bite at Ulele, a trendy waterfront restaurant famous for its innovative Native-inspired cuisine and craft beers brewed onsite.
  • Wrap up the day with a thrilling sunset dolphin cruise, where you can spot these intelligent creatures leaping and playing in the glittering Tampa Bay.
Day 3

Historical Havens and Sweet Send-offs

  • Explore the beautiful grounds of the Henry B. Plant Museum, a former luxury hotel turned museum. Marvel at its exquisite architecture and immerse yourself in the opulence of the Gilded Age.
  • Embark on a time-traveling adventure at the Tampa Bay History Center, where you can learn about the city's fascinating past through interactive exhibits and captivating storytelling.
  • Devour a scrumptious lunch at The Sail, a scenic waterfront eatery offering tasty treats ranging from seafood to delicious burgers.
  • Spend some quality family time at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a thrilling amusement park featuring exhilarating rides, live shows, and close encounters with exotic animals.
  • Bid farewell to Tampa with a sweet ending at Dough Nation, a unique bakery where they transform cookie dough into edible masterpieces. Indulge in flavors like s'mores and peanut butter bliss!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tampa by plane is to fly into Tampa International Airport, located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Tampa. Major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United all offer multiple flights to Tampa from major cities across the United States.

Car

The best way to get to Tampa by car is to take either I-75 or I-4, both of which connect Tampa to other major cities across the United States. Tampa is located about an hour and a half southeast of Orlando on I-4, and about four hours southwest of Jacksonville on I-75.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Tampa. However, if you are traveling from other cities in Florida, Amtrak offers several routes that go through nearby cities such as Orlando and Miami, with connecting bus service to Tampa.

Boat

While there is no direct way to get to Tampa by boat, there are several nearby ports such as the Port of Tampa and the Port of St. Petersburg that offer cruise ship service to destinations throughout the Caribbean and Mexico. Tampa is located just a short drive from both ports, making it a popular pre- and post-cruise destination for many travelers.

Bus

The best way to get to Tampa by bus is to take Greyhound, which offers multiple daily buses to Tampa from cities across the United States. The Tampa Greyhound Station is located in downtown Tampa, just a few blocks from popular attractions such as the Tampa Riverwalk and Amalie Arena.

More travel plans

Two-Day Tampa Tour: Beaches, Food, and Adventure

Tampa, located on the west coast of Florida, offers a range of attractions for tourists including museums, theme parks and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the rich cultural history of the city through the Tampa Museum of Art or the Cuban-themed Ybor City. Adventure seekers can experience thrilling rides and animal encounters at Busch Gardens or relax on the beaches of Clearwater.

3-Day Adventure Guide: Tampa Bay, USA

As a tourist in Tampa, visitors can explore the beautiful beaches, cultural museums, and vibrant nightlife. A popular destination is the Busch Gardens amusement park, which offers thrilling roller coasters and animal encounters. Additionally, visitors can savor delicious seafood and experience the city's rich Cuban cuisine.

4 Days to Tampa Bay Bliss on a Budget!

Tampa offers ample opportunities for budget-conscious travelers, from strolling along the scenic riverwalk to exploring the city's many art galleries and museums. With affordable options for lodging and dining, visitors can enjoy everything the Florida city has to offer without breaking the bank. Don't miss the chance to soak up some sun on the area's world-famous beaches and take advantage of free outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing.

Tampa Tango: A Thrilling 4-Day Family Adventure

Tampa, located on the scenic Gulf Coast of Florida, offers an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip. With its beautiful sandy beaches, exciting theme parks like Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, and a range of family-oriented attractions such as the Florida Aquarium and Lowry Park Zoo, there's no shortage of fun-filled activities for everyone. Explore the vibrant downtown area, indulge in delicious seafood, and create lasting memories in Tampa's warm and welcoming atmosphere