Craving sun, waterfront fun, and city energy? Head to Tampa! Set along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa blends outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and vibrant neighborhoods. From Busch Gardens thrills to bayside dining and historic Ybor City, Tampa is a dynamic destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tampa is during fall through spring (October–May), when temperatures are warm and humidity is lower. Winter offers mild weather and fewer crowds, while spring and fall bring ideal conditions for beaches, festivals, and outdoor activities.
How to Get There
- By Air: Tampa International Airport (TPA) is just 15–20 minutes from downtown and serves domestic and international routes.
- If you are traveling by car: Tampa is accessible via I-4, I-75, and I-275, with easy connections to Orlando, Miami, and the Gulf Coast.
- By Train: Amtrak provides service to Tampa’s Union Station from other Florida cities and beyond.
Where to Stay
- JW Marriott Tampa Water Street – Luxury hotel with rooftop pools and riverwalk access near the convention center.
- Tampa EDITION – Stylish, modern hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a rooftop bar.
- Hotel Haya – Boutique hotel in historic Ybor City with Cuban-inspired décor and vibrant neighborhood vibes.
Top Attractions
⮕ Ride Thrills and See Wildlife at Busch Gardens Tampa
Busch Gardens Tampa is a world-renowned amusement park and one of the best things to do in Tampa, Florida, that offers a wide variety of fun activities and adventures for the whole family. Operated by SeaWorld Entertainment, Busch Gardens Tampa features an array of exclusive park experiences, such as a Serengeti Safari and Guided Adventure Tours, live entertainment and shows, themed rides and special kids’ attractions.
Animal attractions include a Cheetah Run, Bird Gardens, Jambo Junction and Edge of Africa, and a variety of restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops provide all-day dining and shopping for park visitors.
10165 N Malcolm McKinley Dr, Tampa, Florida, Phone: 813-884-4386
⮕ Explore Modern Masterpieces at the Tampa Museum of Art
The Tampa Museum of Art is a state-of-the-art museum and one of the top Tampa attractions with a focus on antiquities and modern and contemporary art. Founded in 1979, the Museum aims to present the public with a creative environment in which to explore and enjoy outstanding visual art through a range of permanent and temporary collections and exhibitions.
The Museum also presents an array of educational programs, lectures and workshops throughout the year for both adults and children that celebrate the Museum's collection of ancient art, as well as take an in-depth look at the current exhibitions.
The Tampa Museum of Art is located on the banks of the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa and is open seven days a week.
120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, Florida, Phone: 813-274-8130
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Dive Into Visual Storytelling at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA) is located in the heart of Tampa’s vibrant Waterfront Arts District and is housed in the architecturally significant Cube building, one of Florida’s most innovative interior spaces. Founded in 2001, the FMoPA is dedicated to exhibiting important photographic art and features a range of historical and contemporary works by nationally and internationally known photographic artists.
Collections are showcased in a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, and the Museum has hosted over 60 major photographic exhibitions to date. If you are wondering what to do in Tampa today, this is a great place to visit. The FMoPA also provides community-enrichment by offering educational programs, instructor biographies, learnerships, and photography classes for children and adults and hosts weekly, monthly and annual photographic and arts-related events.
1630 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, Phone: 813-221-2222
⮕ Fuel Curiosity at the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) is a community-based institution that is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging an interest and understanding of science, industry, and technology.
The Museum is the largest science center in the Southeastern United States and features over 450 interactive and hands-on activities and experiences for visitors to explore and enjoy, such as a drone and robot zone, 3D printing exhibit, live science demonstrations, a working planetarium, a Bio-Works butterfly garden, and daily science talks.
If you are looking for fun things to do in Tampa with the whole family, this is a great place to visit. The museum is also the location of the Florida Hospital DOME Theater, Florida's only IMAX Dome Theatre, which features films, movies and shows.
4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, Florida, Phone: 813-987-6000
⮕ Uncover Local Legends at the Tampa Bay History Center
The Tampa Bay History Center is a popular history museum that is dedicated to exploring, presenting and preserving the history of the Tampa Bay, its first native inhabitants and the historical figures that played a role in the shaping of the society.
Located on the waterfront in Tampa’s Channelside District, the museum features three floors of permanent and temporary exhibitions spanning 12,000 years of Florida history, as well as an array of interactive, family-friendly activities and displays, cutting-edge presentations and state-of-the-art theaters.
The History Center also boasts the Witt Research Center, an extensive map gallery and event hall, a museum store, and the Columbia Café where patrons can enjoy light meals and beverages. The Tampa Bay History Center is open daily, year-round. For art museum lovers, visit the Contemporary Art Museum.
801 Old Water Street (formerly St. Pete Times Forum Drive), Tampa, Florida, Phone: 813-228-0097
⮕ Step Into Immigrant Roots at Ybor City Museum State Park
Ybor City Museum State Park in Tampa invites you to explore the rich cultural heritage of the National Historic Landmark District of Ybor City. The Museum is located in a 1923-era Ferlita Bakery building in the center of the park and showcases the history of Ybor City, the birth of the cigar industry and the subsequent growth of the town because of it.
Ybor City Museum State Park is also home to a typical ‘casita’, a recreated cigar worker’s house, and beautiful lush Mediterranean-style gardens. Enjoy a guided tour through the park led by knowledgeable park rangers or volunteers, or explore the urban oasis of the Ybor City Historic District. The Museum offers a range of educational programs, workshops, and classes about the history of the District and its reputation as the “Cigar Capital of the World.”
1818 Ninth Avenue, Tampa, Florida, Phone: 813-247-6323
If you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Walk, Dine, and Unwind Along the Tampa Riverwalk
Tampa Riverwalk is a well-maintained pedestrian pathway that runs along the Hillsborough River and connects downtown Tampa with the city’s lovely waterfront, several public parks, and a variety of hotels, museums, restaurants and other entertainment venues.
Top attractions on the Riverwalk include the Florida Aquarium, the World WAR II American Victory Ship, and the Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, among others.
If you are looking for romantic date ideas in Tampa, this is a great area to explore. Also located along the Riverwalk is the Historical Monument Trail, which is made up of beautiful bronze and marble busts and monuments that showcase the people who played a significant role in the history of Tampa and Hillsborough County.
⮕ Meet Rescued Wildcats at Big Cat Rescue
Big Cat Rescue is an animal sanctuary in Citrus Park dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and housing injured or orphaned native wild cats and other exotic felines. Established in 1992 to fight against and end the private trade and ownership of exotic cats, Big Cat Rescue is now home to more than 100 wild cats, representing 11 species.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of guided tours through the facility, ranging from photographic and keeper tours to feeding and night tours and visit the resident cats, which include tigers, bobcats, cougars and mountain lion.
12802 Easy Street, Tampa, Florida, Phone: 813-920-4130
Where to Eat
- Ulele – Native-inspired cuisine with local ingredients and outdoor riverside seating.
- Columbia Restaurant – Florida’s oldest restaurant, serving classic Spanish and Cuban dishes in a historic setting in Ybor City.
- Oxford Exchange – Trendy café, bookstore, and brunch spot with a stylish, airy atmosphere.
If you are interested in local events:
- Gasparilla Pirate Festival (January) – Tampa’s signature event with parades, pirate-themed fun, and parties on the bay.
- Tampa Bay Margarita & Music Festival (May) – A waterfront party with top musical acts and endless margaritas.
- Guavaween (October) – Halloween-themed Ybor City street party with costumes, food, and music.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Tampa, Florida:
- Clearwater Beach (30 min) – White sand beaches, vibrant sunsets, and a fun pier with entertainment and shops.
- St. Pete (30 min) – Visit the Salvador Dalí Museum, the St. Pete Pier, and enjoy vibrant murals and dining.
- Tarpon Springs (30 min) – Greek sponge-diving village with authentic Mediterranean restaurants and waterfront charm.
- Apollo Beach (25–30 min) – Manatee Viewing Center and peaceful bayfront boardwalks great for wildlife lovers.
- Lettuce Lake Park (20–25 min) – Explore boardwalks and trails with opportunities to spot birds, gators, and turtles.
- Big Cat Rescue (20 min) – Sanctuary for lions, tigers, and other rescued exotic cats (check tour availability).
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Question: What makes Tampa a great vacation destination?
- Answer: Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa is a cultural and family vacation destination where you will find a choice of museums, great resorts, family-friendly activities, flea markets, and restaurants.
- Question: What are some popular attractions in Tampa?
- Answer: Stroll along the famous Tampa Riverwalk (Video) past romantic parks, hotels and visit the Tampa Museum of Art, the Tampa Bay History Center, and explore lovely sandy beaches.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and fewer crowds.
Epicurean Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel in the trendy SoHo district.
Explore the Tampa Riverwalk – Walk along the waterfront and stop at parks, restaurants, and museums.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and humid, but great for beach lovers.
Tampa Marriott Water Street – A luxury stay with waterfront views.
Visit Busch Gardens – Experience thrilling roller coasters and up-close animal encounters.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity.
The CURRENT Hotel, Autograph Collection – A modern hotel with stunning bay views.
Take a day trip to Clearwater Beach – Enjoy white sand beaches and beautiful Gulf sunsets.
Winter (December-February) – Mild and perfect for outdoor activities.
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay – A resort-like stay with nature trails and bayfront dining.
Attend the Gasparilla Pirate Festival – Join Tampa’s famous pirate-themed parade and festivities.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Ride Thrills and See Wildlife at Busch Gardens Tampa
- 2. Explore Modern Masterpieces at the Tampa Museum of Art
- 3. Dive Into Visual Storytelling at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
- 4. Fuel Curiosity at the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
- 5. Uncover Local Legends at the Tampa Bay History Center
- 6. Step Into Immigrant Roots at Ybor City Museum State Park
- 7. Walk, Dine, and Unwind Along the Tampa Riverwalk
- 8. Meet Rescued Wildcats at Big Cat Rescue