Tampa, Florida is a vibrant Gulf Coast city bursting with energy, culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, foodie, nature enthusiast, or history buff, there are countless fun things to do in Tampa Florida that cater to every interest and age group. Many of these activities are perfect for group celebrations, especially if you’re planning a full Tampa Florida bachelorette party, this comprehensive guide showcases the best experiences Tampa has to offer in 2025.
1. Take a Boat Tour
Tampa offers various boat tour options for experiencing the city from the water:
- Hop-on, hop-off service with 14 stops
- Narrated tours along the Riverwalk
- All-day pass: $25 adults, $15 kids
- Perfect for exploring downtown
Private Charters
One of the most popular group experiences is a boat rental in Tampa, which combines music, drinks, and views of Tampa Bay.
- The Salty mermaid beach boats (up to 40 people)
- Pink Cruises (up to 6 guest)
- Sunset cruises
- Dolphin watching tours
2. Walk the Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic 2.6-mile paved pathway along the Hillsborough River, connecting some of downtown Tampa's must-see attractions. This is one of the best free fun things to do in Tampa Florida!
What You'll Find:
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
- Tampa Museum of Art
- Sparkman Wharf dining and entertainment
- Water Works Park
- Armature Works food hall
- Stunning city and river views
Perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, the Riverwalk hosts numerous free events throughout the year and offers access to the Pirate Water Taxi.
3. The Florida Aquarium
Dive into marine wonders at The Florida Aquarium, where fascinating sea creatures, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences await. This downtown Tampa attraction is perfect for families and ocean lovers.
Featured Exhibits:
- Wetlands Trail showcasing Florida ecosystems
- Coral Reef exhibit with sharks and sea turtles
- Stingray Touch experience
- Penguin Point
- Daily dive shows and feeding demonstrations
The aquarium also offers behind-the-scenes tours and even swimming with fish experiences. Visit their website for current hours and ticket information.
4. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Experience wildlife from around the world at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, consistently ranked as one of America's best zoos. This family-friendly attraction offers interactive exhibits, rides, and close-up wildlife encounters.
Zoo Highlights:
- Florida wildlife including manatees and panthers
- African elephants and black rhinos
- Tiger and lion exhibits
- Koala habitat
- Safari Africa ride
- Splash pads and playgrounds for kids
The zoo's conservation programs make your visit both fun and educational. Check out ticket options here.
5. Cool Off at Adventure Island
When temperatures soar, head to Adventure Island, Tampa's premier water park. Located next to Busch Gardens, this 30-acre tropical paradise offers thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
Water Park Features:
- High-speed water slides including Vanish Point
- Caribbean Corkscrew family raft ride
- Wave pools and lazy river
- Kids' water play areas
- Private cabana rentals
- Tropical landscaping throughout
Get your Adventure Island tickets here and beat the Florida heat!
6. Explore Historic Ybor City
Step back in time and explore Ybor City, Tampa's historic Latin Quarter known for its rich cigar-making heritage and vibrant nightlife. This National Historic Landmark District offers unique experiences day and night.
Ybor City Experiences:
- Cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings
- Hand-roll your own cigars at J.C. Newman Cigar Company
- Sample authentic Cuban cuisine at Columbia Restaurant
- Visit the Ybor City Museum State Park
- Explore vintage shops and art galleries
- Experience legendary nightlife on weekends
Don't miss trying a Cuban sandwich at one of the area's iconic restaurants!
7. Visit Armature Works
After a day of exploring, fuel up at some of the best waterfront restaurants in Tampa with scenic views and group-friendly seating. Armature Works is a beautifully restored historic building now home to an upscale food hall featuring over 16 different vendors. Located in Tampa Heights along the Riverwalk, it's become a culinary destination.
What to Enjoy:
- 16+ diverse food and beverage vendors
- Waterfront dining with river views
- Free events including outdoor yoga and movie nights
- Heights Night Market (seasonal)
- M.Bird rooftop bar with city views
- Beautiful industrial architecture
8. Experience Sparkman Wharf
Sparkman Wharf is a waterfront dining and entertainment destination in downtown Tampa's Channel District. With diverse food options, waterfront seating, and family-friendly activities, it's perfect for all ages.
Sparkman Wharf Highlights:
- Multiple food vendors and restaurants
- Outdoor lawn games
- Waterfront seating with views
- Live music and events
- Adjacent to the Florida Aquarium
- Dog-friendly outdoor areas
Visit their website for current vendor listings and events.
9. Catch a Show at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is the largest performing arts complex in the southeastern United States, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, ballet, opera, and more.
Performance Options:
- Broadway touring productions
- Tampa Bay Symphony concerts
- Ballet performances
- Comedy shows
- Family-friendly performances
Check their schedule for upcoming shows and book tickets in advance.
10. Tour the Historic Tampa Theatre
The Tampa Theatre is a beautifully preserved 1926 movie palace and one of America's best-preserved examples of grand movie theatre architecture. It's still a working cinema showing classic and independent films.
Theatre Features:
- Stunning Mediterranean Revival architecture
- Original Wurlitzer theater organ
- Classic and indie film screenings
- Behind-the-scenes tours available
- Special events and film festivals
Visit tampatheatre.org for film schedules and tour information.
11. Discover the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
MOSI offers hands-on science exhibits, IMAX films, and interactive learning experiences perfect for curious minds of all ages.
MOSI Exhibits Include:
- The Amazing You health and body exhibit
- Mission: Moonbase space simulation
- Kids in Charge children's area
- Planetarium shows
- Zip line adventure
- Rotating special exhibitions
12. Relax at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park spans 8 acres in the heart of downtown Tampa, offering green space, splash pads, and stunning river views.
Park Amenities:
- Large open lawn for picnics
- Interactive water fountains and splash pad
- Dog park area
- Playground for children
- Event space (hosts festivals and concerts)
- Adjacent to Tampa Museum of Art
This free park is perfect for families and offers beautiful views of the Hillsborough River.
13. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
One of the most iconic fun things to do in Tampa Florida is visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This African-themed adventure park combines the excitement of a world-class amusement park with the wonder of a zoo, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Highlights:
- Thrilling roller coasters including Cheetah Hunt and Iron Gwazi
- Up-close animal encounters - feed giraffes, meet flamingos
- Live shows and entertainment
- Serengeti Safari for an authentic African experience
The park features over 12,000 animals and pulse-pounding attractions that make it a must-visit destination. Get your Busch Gardens tickets here.
14. Kayak the Hillsborough River
Rent a kayak and explore Tampa's waterways for an active outdoor adventure. Urban Kai at Armature Works offers convenient downtown rentals.
Nearby Kayaking Destinations:
- Hillsborough River State Park
- Weeki Wachee Springs (45-minute drive, highly recommended)
- Lettuce Lake Park
Book your Weeki Wachee kayak tour here!
15. Shop at International Plaza and Bay Street
International Plaza is Tampa's premier upscale shopping destination featuring luxury retailers, fine dining, and a beautiful open-air village.
Shopping Highlights:
- Over 200 stores including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Louis Vuitton
- Bay Street dining and entertainment district
- Movie theater
- Outdoor courtyards and fountains
- Complimentary valet parking
16. Visit Lowry Park Zoo
Already mentioned above as ZooTampa, but worth emphasizing for families looking for fun things to do in Tampa Florida with kids.
17. Explore Hyde Park Village
Hyde Park Village is an upscale outdoor shopping and dining district in one of Tampa's most charming neighborhoods.
Village Features:
- Boutique shopping
- Excellent restaurants including Timpano and Wine Exchange
- Art galleries
- Beautiful tree-lined streets
- Regular community events
18. Experience the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
The Seminole Hard Rock offers world-class gaming, entertainment, and dining options.
Casino Highlights:
- Over 5,000 slot machines
- Table games including blackjack, roulette, and poker
- High-stakes poker room
- Live entertainment and concerts
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- Hotel with pool and spa
19. Watch a Game at Raymond James Stadium
Catch the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium, home to the NFL champions and one of the most exciting game-day experiences in football.
Stadium Events:
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL games
- College football (including bowl games)
- Concerts and special events
- Stadium tours available
20. Attend a Lightning Game at Amalie Arena
Amalie Arena is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning NHL team and hosts concerts and events year-round.
Arena Events:
- Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games
- Major concerts and shows
- Family entertainment
- Convenient downtown location
21. Visit Bayshore Boulevard
Bayshore Boulevard features the world's longest continuous sidewalk (4.5 miles) along beautiful Tampa Bay.
Bayshore Activities:
- Walking, jogging, or biking
- Stunning water views
- Fitness equipment along the route
- Access to Ballast Point Park
- Historic homes to admire
- Perfect for sunrise or sunset
22. Explore Lettuce Lake Park
Lettuce Lake Park offers 240 acres of natural Florida beauty with boardwalks, trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Park Features:
- 3,500-foot boardwalk through cypress swamp
- Nature trails
- Observation tower
- Picnic pavilions
- Kayak and canoe launch
- Regular alligator and bird sightings
23. Visit the Henry B. Plant Museum
The Henry B. Plant Museum showcases Tampa's Gilded Age in a National Historic Landmark building.
Museum Highlights:
- Victorian-era furnishings and décor
- Rotating exhibits on Tampa history
- Beautiful Moorish Revival architecture
- Free admission one Friday evening per month
- Located on University of Tampa campus
24. Experience Ybor City Saturday Market
The Ybor City Saturday Market runs year-round at Centennial Park, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local art.
Market Details:
- October-April: 9am-3pm
- May-September: 9am-1pm
- Over 100 vendors
- Fresh produce and flowers
- Artisan crafts and jewelry
- Food vendors
- Free admission
25. Ride the Free TECO Line Streetcar
The TECO Line Streetcar is completely free and connects Ybor City, Channelside, and the Riverwalk.
Streetcar Benefits:
- 100% free to ride
- Vintage-style trolley cars
- Stops at major attractions
- Convenient downtown transportation
- Runs seven days a week
26. Visit Tampa Beaches
While not technically in Tampa proper, nearby beaches are easily accessible:
- 25 minutes from downtown
- Consistently rated America's #1 beach
- Pier 60 sunset celebration
- 30 minutes from Tampa
- Beautiful white sand beaches
- Water sports and activities
- Actually in Tampa
- Free beach access
- Beautiful bay views
27. Explore Tampa Neighborhoods
Each Tampa neighborhood offers unique experiences:
Seminole Heights
- Eclectic, hipster vibe
- Craft breweries and coffee shops
- Vintage shopping
- Great restaurants
- Historic bungalow homes
Hyde Park
- Upscale dining and shopping
- Beautiful historic homes
- Bayshore Boulevard access
- Tree-lined streets
SoHo (South Howard Avenue)
- Vibrant nightlife
- Excellent restaurants
- Boutique shopping
- Young professional crowd
Planning Your Tampa Visit
Best Times to Visit:
- October-April: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
- May-September: Hot and humid, but lower prices
- December-March: Peak tourist season
Getting Around:
- Rent a car for maximum flexibility
- Use ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft) in downtown
- Free TECO streetcar for downtown attractions
- Pirate Water Taxi along the Riverwalk
Money-Saving Tips:
- Tampa Bay CityPASS saves up to 50% on top attractions
- Many parks and beaches are free
- Take advantage of free events and festivals
- Happy hours at restaurants offer great deals
Conclusion
Tampa offers an incredible variety of fun things to do in Tampa Florida, from heart-pounding theme park thrills to peaceful nature walks, world-class dining to family-friendly attractions. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning an extended stay, this Gulf Coast city delivers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
The combination of year-round sunshine, beautiful waterfront location, diverse culture, and endless activities makes Tampa one of Florida's most exciting destinations. Start planning your Tampa adventure today and discover why this vibrant city continues to attract millions of visitors each year!
