Guide to Tampa, FL

Be sure to pack the following when planning activities in Tampa:

• Breathable, lightweight clothing
• Sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Snacks
• Sunglasses or a hat
• Water

While you’re travelling to sunny Tampa, be sure the keep the following things in mind:

• Apply plenty of sunscreen during the day – even when it’s cloudy!
• Reapply sunscreen every 80 minutes (apply 30 minutes before swimming)
• Bring sunglasses or a hat during daytime activities
• Wear comfortable shoes rather than flip flops or sandals if you’re walking a lot
• Pack a sweatshirt or coat for nighttime activities, as it can get chilly
• Be sure to bring a water bottle and stay hydrated!

• Honeymoon Island State Park: A mix of undeveloped beaches and fun amenities, this lively beach is one of Florida’s most popular hot spots. You can simply relax on the beach or stop by the nature center or take in the views from the observation deck.
  • Location: 1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin, FL
• Ben T. Davis Beach: If you’re looking for a centrally-located beach with lounging options and calm waters, this is the beach for you. Located near downtown Tampa, Ben T. Davis Beach is great for picnicking or playing sand volleyball. You can even watch the sunset or walk over to Country Campbell Trail for a bike ride.
  • Location: 7650 Courtney Campbell Cswy., Tampa, FL
• Caladesi Island State Park: Only accessible by ferry, Caladesi Island State Park is one of the state’s last undeveloped barrier islands. This three-mile beach offers sandy shores and plenty to explore. You can boat, bird-watch, headed to the wooded nature trail for a hike, or simply relax.
  • Location: 1 CSWY Blvd., Dunedin, FL

Photo Credit: “Honeymoon Island State Park Photo Contest Dana Rose” on “https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/honeymoon-island”

Photo Credit: “Tampa River Walk” on “https://thetampariverwalk.com/”>

• Tampa River Walk: The Tampa River Walk always offers up some fun. Whether you’re visiting for an event, walking through the historical Monument Trail, or taking a jog, this area is a bustling community hub.
  • Location: Throughout Downtown Tampa
• Cotanchobee Park: This 4.5-acre park offers playground equipment, a pier, and a memorial to the Seminole Indian Wars. This centrally-located park is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon.
  • Location: 601 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL
• Poke Rose: Poke, a raw fish salad served as an appetizer in Hawaii – and sometimes as an entrée – has recently become very popular in other states as well. Poke Rose is a great place to visit in the summer, or any time that you’re craving an interesting warm-weather meal.
  • Location: The Hall on Franklin, 1701 N. Franklin St., Tampa, FL

• The Florida Aquarium: Aquariums are a classic kid-friendly activity, and The Florida Aquarium does not disappoint. Participate in fun activities like in-water dives or attend the Wild Dolphin Cruise. This organization also focuses on conservation, which means it works to protect and restore species to their natural habitats.
  • Location: 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL
• Glazer Children’s Museum: Kids complaining about the heat? Visit Glazer Children’s Museum to explore exhibits like Artsmart for young creatives, Cruiseship for little explorers, and the Engineers’ Workshop for STEM geniuses in the making.
  • Location: 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL
• Astro Ice Cream Co.: After walking around downtown, you and the kids may want to stop for ice cream. Astro Ice Cream. Co. is a favorite local spot that serves space-themed creations with liquid nitrogen.
  • Location: 1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa, FL

Photo Credit: “The Florida Aquarium” on “https://www.flaquarium.org/”>

• Ferg’s Live: Offering up live music, a casual bar scene, and good eats, Ferg’s Live is a great sports bar to visit whether or not you’re a local. Thanks to the constant stream of live artists, no night is ever the same!
  • Location: 490 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL
• Improv Tampa Comedy Club: Looking for laughs? Look no further than the Tampa Improv comedy club. Located in the Ybor City historic district, this comedy club has launched careers of famous comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, David Spade, and Bette Middler.
  • Location: 1600 E. 8th Ave. C-122, Tampa, FL
• Top Golf Tampa: You don’t need to be a golf pro – or have eve touched a golf club before – to enjoy your time at Top Golf. You and your friends can rent a bay for a reasonable price to hit the driving range while relaxing with friends and sipping cocktails.
  • Location: 10690 Palm River Rd., Tampa, FL.

• TECO Manatee Viewing Center: Open from Nov. 1 – April 15, the Tampa Electric Company’s Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach lets viewers watch manatees at this protected manatee sanctuary area. You can also visit the award-winning butterfly garden and educational building.
  • Location: 6990 Dickman Rd., Apollo Beach, FL
• Fourth Friday: We’ve already mentioned the Tampa Riverwalk, but it gets even better – every fourth Friday of the month, there are free events located here. Partake in this monthly celebration of Tampa’s arts and culture scene.
• Yuengling Brewing Co. Brewery Tours: Those 21 and over can visit America’s oldest brewery for free guided tours and free samples of Yuengling brand beers.
  • Location: 11111 N. 30th St., Tampa, FL

Photo Credit: “Yuengling Brewing Co.” on “https://www.yuengling.com/”