Located in the southwestern region of Florida, Tampa has all the sunny weather and sandy beaches anyone could dream of, but off the beaten path there are even more great local spots worth a visit. Florida is full of fun and interesting attractions, but Tampa is home to some unexpected places that are sure to delight every member of the family.
Amusement parks
1. Busch Gardens– One of the most famous amusement parks in the area for its fascinating mix of attractions and exotic animals.
2. AirHeads Trampoline Arena – Come celebrate a birthday or jump in and play in one of the classes.
3. Adventure island– Come ready to play and get wet in one of 20+ water rides that will keep everyone cool on those hot summer days.
Four. Dinosaur world– Located on the outskirts of Tampa, this is a dinosaur experience like no other. Here are huge life-size replicas of some of the largest dinosaurs ever found in America.
5. Splitsville– When one of those surprise summer showers comes around, or on one of the rare days when the weather isn’t so nice outside, you can go bowling indoors. Food and fun are here for the whole gang.
Sports and more
1. Bayshore Blvd.– Gather family and friends and bike the scenic trails of Bayshore Blvd.
2. East Bay Raceway Park– Racing enthusiasts will have a blast on the carnival-style race track. It’s a fast lane for the whole family to have fun with the food vendors and even a night of demolition.
3. Steinbrenner field– This is the spring training venue for the New York Yankees and games throughout the season.
Four. Countryway or Pebble Creek Golf Clubs– Take a golf vacation here and choose from many packages. These beautiful courses can be played at a great price.
5. Tampa bay downs– For the horse lover, the race track is the place to be. Go any day of the week and Sundays offer family fun with free pony rides and lots of food samples.
Museum time
1. Glazer Children’s Museum– This is the perfect place for children under 10 years old. Children can learn through discovery in a clean and friendly environment with many different displays.
2. Tampa Bay History Center– Located in the heart of downtown, there is a plethora of Florida history and industry. There is so much to see and do, including an exciting lunch at the Columbia Café.
3. Museum ship and monument of the SS American Victory Mariners– The sailor or boating enthusiast can take a ride on a museum ship with artifacts and stories of maritime adventures from the Navy.
Four. Wat Mongkolrata Temple– During your visit to Tampa, take a stroll through a Thailand experience. Learn about the culture, people, and religion as you sample authentic foods from the region.
5. Tampa Convention Center– There is always something exciting in the city center. The convention center is a large enclosed stadium that hosts many shows and festivals throughout the year.
Lions, tigers and bears
1. Florida Aquarium– Take the kids to see amazing fish and aquatic animals. Get an annual pass to enjoy year-round entertainment at a great price.
2. Lowry Park Zoo– Plan a fun-filled afternoon at the zoo with free parking and low admission prices. Everyone will enjoy seeing the many exotic and endangered animals.
3. Big cat rescue– If the Serengeti is too far away for your liking, venture to Big Cat Rescue in Tampa to see some of the most fearsome felines. Their enclosures are large and these beautiful creatures are very well cared for here.
Four. Night Safari at Busch Gardens– If roller coasters aren’t your thing, go on a night safari at Busch Gardens. There are many opportunities to feed the giraffes and see other majestic animals.
5. Manatee Observation Center– This is a perfect place to see manatees in their natural habitat and learn all about their conservation efforts.
Free activities
1. Heritage village– This town is in Pinellas County near Tampa and is full of old houses and ancient artifacts. Visitors will learn what it was like to live a hundred years ago.
2. Strawberry festival– Who doesn’t love free strawberries? This great indoor / outdoor strawberry gathering has a lot to see and do for the whole gang.
3. Gasparilla Pirate Party– Take the kids to see the largest pirate parade in Tampa. More than 700 pirates will all be in one place.
Four. Tampa Bay Pro-Am– If you like golf, you can see professional golfers in action.
5. Beach at sunset– The beach is the perfect place to spend the day swimming in the ocean and enjoying the sun.
There is so much to see and do in Tampa, so take a quick trip or stay in one of the many affordable new homes in Tampa or consider a vacation home or timeshare here.