Attractions and Places To See around Tampa - Top 20

Tampa offers several scenic trails for outdoor activities. The Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail is a paved path crossing the bay, popular for biking, running, and walking, especially at sunrise and sunset. The Bayshore Boulevard Waterfront Trail provides a long, flat route along Hillsborough Bay. Additionally, the North Bay Trail is a 6.3-mile paved path ideal for walking, running, or biking, offering views of the waterfront and marinas.

For nature and wildlife, visit Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, which features a boardwalk through a hardwood swamp forest, perfect for spotting alligators and birds. Hillsborough River State Park offers fishing, kayaking, and hiking. You can also observe marine life at The Florida Aquarium or diverse animals at ZooTampa at Lowry Park. For coastal views and potential dolphin sightings, explore Bayshore Boulevard or Cypress Point Park.

Yes, Tampa has several easy hiking options. You can find trails like Rowlett Park Trail, Davis Island Trail, and Cypress Point Park Trail, all rated as easy. These are great for a relaxed stroll and can be found in the Easy hikes around Tampa guide.

Tampa is rich in history. Explore Ybor City, a historic district known for its Cuban cigar manufacturing legacy and unique architecture. The Tocobaga Temple Mound at Philippe Park is the largest remaining Native American mound in the area. You can also visit the Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in the opulent former Tampa Bay Hotel, or delve into local history at the Tampa Bay History Center.

Tampa's cultural scene is vibrant. The Tampa Museum of Art showcases modern and classical art, while the Straz Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of shows. Don't miss the historic Tampa Theatre, a beautifully preserved 1926 movie palace. Ybor City also offers a rich cultural experience with its Latin heritage, diverse dining, and the Ybor City Museum State Park.

Absolutely. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers thrilling rides and extensive animal exhibits. The Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa at Lowry Park are excellent for marine and wildlife encounters. The Glazer Children's Museum provides interactive exhibits for kids. Many parks, like Philippe Park with its Tocobaga Temple Mound, and trails like the North Bay Trail, are also marked as family-friendly.

Several attractions in Tampa are wheelchair accessible. The Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail, Bayshore Boulevard Waterfront Trail, and North Bay Trail are all paved and suitable for wheelchairs. Many parks and museums also offer accessibility features. The Tampa Riverwalk is another excellent accessible option, connecting many downtown attractions.

The best time to visit outdoor attractions in Tampa is typically during the cooler, drier months from late fall to spring (November to May). Temperatures are more moderate, making activities like walking, biking, and exploring parks more comfortable. Summers can be very hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

For stunning waterfront views and relaxation, consider the Tampa Riverwalk, which offers scenic strolls along the Hillsborough River. Bayshore Boulevard provides uninterrupted views of Hillsborough Bay. Cypress Point Park and Ballast Point Park both offer picturesque views of Old Tampa Bay, ideal for sunbathing, picnicking, or watching sunsets. The Safety Harbor Marina Pier also provides great bay views.

Yes, Tampa boasts vibrant districts for dining and entertainment. Sparkman Wharf is an open-air entertainment district featuring food stalls, beer gardens, and live music, built into old shipping containers. Armature Works, a restored trolley barn, now serves as a massive food hall with diverse culinary options and waterfront views. Ybor City also offers a lively nightlife and diverse dining experiences.

Beyond trails, popular outdoor activities in Tampa include kayaking and canoeing, especially in areas like Lettuce Lake Conservation Park or along the Hillsborough River. The Tampa Riverwalk and Bayshore Boulevard are excellent for walking, jogging, and cycling. Fishing is also popular at various piers and parks, such as Ballast Point Park.

Tampa's public transportation options can help you reach many attractions. The Pirate Water Taxi operates along the Tampa Riverwalk, connecting many key sites. For specific attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, public transportation routes are available. For detailed planning, it's recommended to check local transit schedules and routes.

On a rainy day, Tampa offers numerous indoor attractions. You can explore the Tampa Museum of Art, the Tampa Bay History Center, or the Henry B. Plant Museum. The Florida Aquarium provides an engaging indoor experience with marine life. For families, the Glazer Children's Museum is a great option. The Tampa Theatre also hosts various indoor events.