- States:
- Florida
Located on Florida’s west coast, Tampa Bay is bursting with adventures of all sorts.
Tampa Bay is known for its family attractions, including Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay and ZooTampa at Lowry Park. But cultural entertainment, a lively dining scene, plentiful shopping and enchanting nature are vital components of the vibrant community.
Attractions for Families
One of Tampa Bay’s top attractions, Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, is an enormous theme park complete with nearly 8 kilometers of roller coasters, exotic animal exhibits and nearby water park, Adventure Island. Another popular place to take the family is ZooTampa at Lowry Park, which has been ranked the top U.S. zoo by Parents Magazine. The vast and engaging Florida Aquarium is also a must-visit when traveling with children. For a change of pace, head to MOSI (the Museum of Science & Industry), which offers exciting hands-on learning and interactive exhibits. Find more hands-on fun at the Glazer Children's Museum, where kids can discover the world at their own pace.
Natural Adventures
Year-round warm temperatures make Tampa Bay an ideal destination for outdoor fun in natural settings. Take a canoe trip on the Hillsborough River to see great blue herons, cormorants and wood storks feeding alongside sunbathing alligators and turtles. From here, it’s not far to Apollo Beach and the TECO Manatee Viewing Center, open seasonally from November to April.
Shopping at International Plaza and Bay Street
Shopping enthusiasts will want to make a beeline to International Plaza and Bay Street to find the latest fashion trends at reasonable prices. This upscale shopping mall, near Tampa International Airport, has more than 200 shops and nearly 20 restaurants. Enjoy lunch al fresco at Bay Street, a collection of high-end eateries.
Visit Historic Ybor City
Once the “Cigar Capital of the World,” Ybor City is famous for its multitude of restaurants, festive events and great nightlife. Stroll along Seventh Avenue to the Columbia, Florida’s oldest restaurant, serving the community since 1905. This award-winning restaurant features succulent Spanish-Cuban cuisine and flamenco dance performances.
At the Hard Rock Hotel, Nonstop Entertainment
At the famous Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, one of the largest in the country, there’s no shortage of options for entertainment. Discover the many attractive bars and restaurants, including the Hard Rock Café, legendary for its classic American cuisine; Council Oak, a steak and seafood restaurant with a sophisticated menu; and the new Rez Grill.
