Tampa Bucket List: Amazing Places to Visit in Tampa, Florida

Visiting Tampa is more than just a vacation – it is an adventure of a lifetime. Whether you go solo or with family, you are in for a stirring time. Tampa is filled with an infinite number of fun activities that can jam-pack both your days and nights. You can literally find fun at any corner you take in this sunny Florida city.

Geographically, Tampa is located in the heart of Florida, which contributes to its distinct culture, history, and personality, with some bits of southern charm.

What to do in Tampa? Here are the top 15 Best Things to Do in Tampa, Florida:

Seek thrills at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a popular theme park in Tampa, Florida, located at 10165 N McKinley Drive, about 10 miles northeast of downtown. The park combines thrilling roller coasters, African-themed landscapes, and one of North America’s largest zoos, home to thousands of animals.

Visitors can ride famous coasters like Iron Gwazi and SheiKra, watch live shows, and explore themed villages inspired by Africa. To get there, drive via Interstate 275 or Interstate 4, take local buses through the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit system, or use rideshare services from downtown Tampa or Tampa International Airport.

Busch Gardens is considered one of Tampa’s top attractions because it blends adrenaline rides, wildlife encounters, and immersive themed environments in one destination.

Explore the city of Tampa

Tampa is a vibrant coastal city on Florida’s west coast, USA, along Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It sits in Hillsborough County and is known for sunny weather, waterfront views, and a lively cultural scene.

Travelers usually reach Tampa through Tampa International Airport, one of Florida’s major airports, or by driving via Interstate 75, Interstate 4, or Interstate 275. The city is famous for attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the historic Ybor City district, and the scenic Tampa Riverwalk.

Visitors enjoy theme parks, museums, Cuban-influenced cuisine, and beautiful nearby beaches. Sports fans also come for professional teams and events. With its mix of history, entertainment, and coastal charm, Tampa offers something exciting for visitors year-round.

Enjoy crabs and corals at the Florida Aquarium.

The Florida Aquarium in Tampa is located downtown along Channelside Drive, near the Port of Tampa and the Tampa Riverwalk. The facility sits on the waterfront, making it easy to combine with nearby attractions, restaurants, and cruises.

Visitors can reach it by car via Interstate 275, by rideshare, or by the TECO Line Streetcar, which stops at the nearby Channelside stop. Inside, the aquarium showcases Florida’s ecosystems with coral reefs, wetlands, sharks, rays, sea turtles, and interactive touch pools.

A large glass dome simulates a Florida watershed, while outdoor areas feature splash zones and dolphin cruises. Its mix of education, conservation, and hands-on exhibits makes it one of Tampa’s popular attractions for families, tourists, and marine life enthusiasts.

Have a snifter at the Tampa Bay Brewing Company

Tampa Bay Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery and restaurant in the historic Ybor City district of Tampa, Florida. Located at 1600 E 8th Ave, it sits in the Centro Ybor complex, a lively area known for nightlife, dining, and entertainment.

Visitors can reach it easily by car, rideshare, or the TECO Line Streetcar, which connects downtown Tampa, Channelside, and Ybor City. The brewery is celebrated for award-winning craft beers like Reef Donkey APA and a rotating selection of creative brews.

Its spacious indoor seating and vibrant patio create a relaxed social atmosphere. With excellent food, locally brewed beer, and a central location in a historic neighborhood, it’s one of the most enjoyable and authentic experiences for visitors exploring Tampa.

Admire big cats at the Big Cat Rescue

Big Cat Rescue is a renowned wildlife sanctuary in Tampa, Florida, dedicated to rescuing and providing lifelong care for abused, abandoned, and retired big cats. Located in north Tampa near the Citrus Park area, the sanctuary spans about 67 acres of natural habitat designed to give animals like tigers, lions, leopards, bobcats, and cougars a safe and enriching environment.

Visitors can reach the sanctuary easily by car from downtown Tampa in about 20–25 minutes via Interstate 275 and Gunn Highway. Tampa International Airport is also roughly 20 minutes away, making it convenient for tourists arriving by plane.

What makes Big Cat Rescue one of the best things to do in Tampa is its powerful conservation mission and educational experience. Guided visits allow guests to observe rescued big cats while learning about wildlife protection and the dangers of the exotic animal trade. The sanctuary’s focus on animal welfare and awareness makes it both meaningful and unforgettable.

Visit the Lowry Park Zoo

Lowry Park Zoo, officially known as ZooTampa at Lowry Park, is a popular wildlife park located in Tampa, Florida, along the Hillsborough River at 1101 W. Sligh Avenue, about 10–15 minutes north of downtown Tampa.

The zoo spans more than 60 acres and is known for its naturalistic habitats and strong focus on conservation and animal care. Visitors can reach the zoo easily by car via Interstate 275 and Sligh Avenue, with on-site parking available. It is also accessible by rideshare services and local bus routes from downtown Tampa.

ZooTampa houses more than 1,000 animals representing species from Florida, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Highlights include manatees, Florida panthers, elephants, and interactive areas such as the Wallaroo Station children’s zone.

The zoo is widely regarded as one of the best attractions in Tampa because of its family-friendly exhibits, immersive animal encounters, and conservation programs that protect endangered wildlife. It offers a mix of education, entertainment, and close-up wildlife experiences for visitors of all ages.

Take a day trip to the Hillsborough River State Park.

Hillsborough River State Park is located about 15 miles northeast of downtown Tampa in Thonotosassa, Florida. Set along the scenic Hillsborough River, the park is one of Florida’s oldest state parks and offers a rare glimpse of natural river rapids, which are uncommon in the state.

Visitors can reach the park by driving from Tampa via Interstate 75 and taking exit 266 onto Fletcher Avenue, then heading east to Morris Bridge Road, which leads directly to the park entrance.

The park is known for its lush forests, winding river views, and peaceful outdoor atmosphere. Popular activities include hiking along several nature trails, kayaking or canoeing through the gentle rapids, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking.

A suspension bridge provides a beautiful vantage point over the river, making it a favorite photo spot. Hillsborough River State Park stands out as one of Tampa’s best outdoor destinations because it combines natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and accessible adventure in a tranquil setting just outside the city.

Cool off at the Adventure Island water park

Adventure Island is a popular water park in Tampa, Florida, located at 10001 N McKinley Drive, directly across from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Covering about 30 acres, it features tropical landscaping, thrilling water slides, wave pools, and relaxing lazy rivers. Major attractions include Colossal Curl, Vanish Point, and Rapids Racer, along with kid-friendly splash areas and private cabanas.

The park is easy to reach from downtown Tampa, about a 20-minute drive via Interstate 275 and Busch Boulevard. Visitors flying into Tampa International Airport can get there in roughly 25–30 minutes by car or rideshare. Public buses also serve the nearby Busch Gardens area.

Adventure Island is considered one of the best things to do in Tampa because it combines exciting rides, family-friendly attractions, and a resort-style atmosphere. Its warm climate, spacious layout, and variety of activities make it a perfect place to cool off, relax, and enjoy a full day of entertainment for all ages.

Walk along the Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic pedestrian promenade in downtown Tampa, Florida, stretching about 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River. It connects many of the city’s major attractions, parks, museums, restaurants, and hotels, making it a central hub for visitors and locals. The Riverwalk runs roughly from Water Works Park in the north to Sparkman Wharf and the Tampa Convention Center in the south.

To get there, visitors can drive and park at nearby garages or public lots in downtown Tampa. It is also accessible by the TECO Line Streetcar, water taxi, rideshare services, and local buses. Many hotels are within walking distance.

What makes the Tampa Riverwalk one of the best things to do in Tampa is its lively atmosphere and variety of experiences. Visitors can enjoy waterfront views, public art, outdoor events, boat tours, and easy access to attractions like parks, museums, and dining spots along the river.

Learn about the past of the city at the Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center is a major cultural attraction located in downtown Tampa, Florida, along the Tampa Riverwalk in the Channelside District at 801 Old Water Street. The museum sits near Amalie Arena and the Port of Tampa, making it easy to reach from many parts of the city.

Visitors can get there by car via Interstate 275 and downtown streets, by the TECO Line Streetcar from Ybor City, by rideshare services, or by walking or biking along the Riverwalk.

Inside, the center presents more than 12,000 years of Florida history through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive displays. Visitors explore stories of Native American cultures, Spanish explorers, pirates, and Tampa’s cigar and immigrant heritage. Highlights include full-scale ship models, historic maps, and hands-on exhibits.

With engaging storytelling, waterfront views, and nearby restaurants and attractions, the Tampa Bay History Center is widely considered one of the best places to visit in Tampa for anyone interested in the region’s rich past.

Cheer on the city’s giants

Tampa boasts a vibrant sports culture, home to several renowned teams that energize the city and attract fans from across the region. Baseball fans cheer passionately for the Tampa Bay Rays, a team known for its strategic play and passionate fan base.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers represent the NFL in Tampa, showcasing powerhouse performances and a strong community following. Hockey enthusiasts rally behind the Tampa Bay Lightning, the city’s NHL team, celebrated for its thrilling matches and recent Stanley Cup victories.

Together, these sports giants highlight Tampa’s rich sporting heritage and its status as a hub for professional athletics.

Book a sunset cruise

If your romance leads you to Tampa, you’re in for a memorable experience. Imagine celebrating sunset cruises along the shimmering Gulf waters, where the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink, creating a romantic backdrop.

Dine on top of a luxurious cruise, savoring delicious cuisine while gently sailing through tranquil waters, accompanied by soft music and the gentle breeze.

These enchanting moments are sure to rekindle the spark in your relationship, bringing back the excitement and passion reminiscent of the early days of your romance. Tampa offers the perfect setting for creating lasting memories together.

Try a Cuban sandwich.

The most effective way to ignite a spirited debate between Miamians and Tampans is to ask them which city is the true birthplace of the iconic Cuban sandwich. Regardless of their opinions, one thing is certain: Tampa’s version of the Cuban sandwich stands out as one of the most delicious and visually appealing creations you’ll ever encounter.

This mouthwatering sandwich is meticulously crafted with layers of savory salami, tender ham, slices of Swiss cheese, hearty pork, tangy mustard, crispy pickles, all nestled within freshly baked Cuban bread.

Its harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes it a true culinary masterpiece celebrated by locals and visitors alike.

Jog along Bayshore Boulevard

Bayshore Boulevard is a scenic waterfront roadway in Tampa, Florida, running along the east side of Hillsborough Bay from downtown Tampa to the South Tampa neighborhoods. It is best known for having one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the world—about 4.5 miles—making it a favorite spot for walking, jogging, cycling, and enjoying bay views.

The boulevard is located just south of downtown Tampa and passes through historic residential areas lined with palm trees and impressive homes. Visitors can easily reach Bayshore Boulevard by car via downtown Tampa or the Selmon Expressway. It is also a short drive from Tampa International Airport, and ride-shares or local buses can drop visitors near Bayshore Linear Park.

What makes Bayshore Boulevard special is its combination of open waterfront scenery, relaxing atmosphere, and active outdoor lifestyle. People come for sunrise walks, sunset views over the bay, fitness activities, and to enjoy one of Tampa’s most iconic and picturesque urban landscapes.

Enjoy an evening at Tampa Theater.

The Tampa Theatre is a historic movie palace located at 711 N Franklin Street in downtown Tampa. Opened in 1926, the theater is famous for its Mediterranean Revival architecture and atmospheric design that recreates a romantic European courtyard under a night sky with twinkling stars and drifting clouds.

Visitors can reach the theater easily from around Tampa. It sits in the Downtown Tampa Arts District, about 10–15 minutes by car from Tampa International Airport. It is also accessible by the TECO Line Streetcar System, rideshare services, or downtown parking garages within walking distance.

What makes the Tampa Theatre special is its ornate interior, historic Wurlitzer pipe organ, and unique programming. The venue hosts classic films, indie movies, concerts, tours, and community events. Its magical atmosphere and cultural importance make it one of the most memorable places to visit in Tampa and a must-see landmark for history and film lovers.

Tampa Travel and Tour Packages

To help you plan your visit to Tampa, FL, we’ve listed places to visit and other amazing things to do. We also listed some of the best travel deals, tour packages, and excellent flight and accommodation options.

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of cheap Tampa hotels and resorts on Agoda or Booking, or see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist spots in Tampa, Florida? Follow #TeamOutofTown on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Bloglovin, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.

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