Family Fun in Tampa: The Complete Guide
Tampa isn't just a great vacation destination—it's an incredible place to raise a family. From world-class attractions to hidden neighborhood gems, there's something for every age, interest, and budget. This guide is written by Tampa parents who've tested these activities with our own kids.
Top Family Attractions in Tampa
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Address: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
Consistently ranked among America's best zoos, ZooTampa offers incredible animal encounters, splash areas, and rides. The Florida manatees and African elephant habitat are must-sees.
What Families Love:
- Manatee Critical Care Center
- Safari Africa with giraffes and elephants
- Splash pads and water play areas
- Kid-friendly dining options
- Stroller-friendly paths throughout
Tickets: Adults $44.95, Kids (3-11) $34.95
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for smaller crowds. Bring swimsuits for the water play areas!
Best for: All ages
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Address: 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612
World-class thrill rides meet African wildlife in this unique theme park. Younger kids love Sesame Street Safari of Fun, while older kids and teens crave the roller coasters.
What Families Love:
- Sesame Street Safari of Fun for little ones
- Incredible roller coasters for thrill-seekers
- Animal encounters and exhibits
- Seasonal events (Howl-O-Scream, Christmas Town)
Tickets: Starting at $79.99 (significant discounts available)
Pro Tip: Annual passes pay for themselves in 2 visits and include free parking!
Best for: Ages 3+
For more Busch Gardens tips, see our complete Busch Gardens guide.
The Florida Aquarium
Address: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Downtown Tampa's must-visit attraction features wetlands, coral reefs, and interactive exhibits. The outdoor Splash Pad is a bonus on hot days.
What Families Love:
- Touch tanks with stingrays and sharks
- Behind-the-scenes tours
- Penguin encounters
- Outdoor splash pad (included with admission)
Tickets: Adults $34.95, Kids (3-11) $29.95
Pro Tip: Arrive at opening to beat crowds and stay for the outdoor water play. Combine with Riverwalk exploration.
Best for: All ages
For more, see our Florida Aquarium guide.
Glazer Children's Museum
Address: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602
Hands-on exploration for children 0-10. Interactive exhibits spark imagination with a fire truck, veterinarian clinic, boat, and more.
What Families Love:
- Dozens of interactive exhibits
- Outdoor water play area
- Toddler-specific zones
- Central downtown location
Tickets: $17.50 per person | Free first Tuesdays 3-7 PM
Pro Tip: Free parking in the Tampa Convention Center garage with validation.
Best for: Ages 0-10
MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry)
Address: 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617
Florida's largest science center offers hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, and the amazing Kids In Charge! area for young scientists.
What Families Love:
- Kids In Charge! interactive area
- IMAX dome theater
- Dinosaur and space exhibits
- High ropes course (additional fee)
Tickets: $24.95 adults, $20.95 kids
Pro Tip: Check for Bank of America free museum day (first weekend monthly).
Best for: Ages 3+
For more, see our MOSI guide.
Free Family Activities
Parks & Playgrounds
Tampa's park system is exceptional:
Downtown:
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park - Playground + splash pad + Riverwalk
- Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park - Adventure playground + splash pad
Tampa Heights:
- Water Works Park - Tampa's best splash pad + playground
Around Tampa:
- Al Lopez Park - Baseball stadium, lake, shaded playground
- Ballast Point Park - Bay views, pier, playground
See our complete playgrounds guide.
Tampa Riverwalk ⭐ MUST-DO
The 2.6-mile waterfront path is one of Tampa's best FREE family attractions, connecting parks, playgrounds, museums, restaurants, and splash pads.
Riverwalk Highlights for Families:
| Stop | Why Kids Love It |
|---|---|
| Water Works Park | Best splash pad + adventure playground |
| Armature Works | Food hall with outdoor lawn games |
| Julian B. Lane Park | Huge playground + splash pad |
| Curtis Hixon Park | Splash fountain + near Glazer Museum |
| Sparkman Wharf | Container restaurants + bay views |
Getting Around:
- Walking: Full path takes 45-60 min (2-3 hours with kids)
- Biking: Coast Bike Share rentals at $3.50/30 min
- Pirate Water Taxi: $10/day unlimited hop-on-hop-off 🏴☠️
Free Parking Tips:
- Water Works Park (free lot)
- Julian B. Lane Park (free lot)
- Convention Center garage (free with Glazer Museum validation)
Pro Tip: The Pirate Water Taxi is the most magical way to experience the Riverwalk—kids LOVE the pirate-themed boats!
See our complete Tampa Riverwalk Family Guide for detailed itineraries.
Nature & Wildlife
Get outside and explore Tampa's natural side:
Lettuce Lake Park - Elevated boardwalk through cypress swamps. Spot alligators! ($2/vehicle)
Hillsborough River State Park - Camping, rapids, trails ($6/vehicle)
Upper Tampa Bay Trail - 7+ mile paved trail for biking (free)
Beaches Near Tampa
| Beach | Drive | Why Go |
|---|---|---|
| Ben T. Davis | 15 min | Closest, downtown views |
| Clearwater Beach | 35 min | White sand, calm water |
| Fort De Soto | 40 min | Nature, shelling |
| Honeymoon Island | 45 min | State park, quiet |
See our family beaches guide and Clearwater Beach guide.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Downtown Tampa
Sparkman Wharf - Outdoor food hall with bay views and playground. Perfect for families with picky eaters—everyone finds something!
See our Sparkman Wharf guide.
Hyde Park
Armature Works - Historic building with diverse food hall options and waterfront views.
Ybor City
Columbia Restaurant - Tampa's oldest restaurant (1905). Live flamenco on weekends. Kids love the Cuban bread!
Weekend Itineraries
Downtown Tampa Day
Morning: Glazer Children's Museum (arrive at opening)
Lunch: Sparkman Wharf food hall
Afternoon: Riverwalk walk + Curtis Hixon splash pad
Dinner: Armature Works
Beach Day
Morning: Fort De Soto (less crowded, more nature)
Lunch: Pack a picnic or beach snacks
Afternoon: Explore the old fort, more beach time
Evening: Return via Skyway Bridge for views
Animal Lover Day
Morning: ZooTampa (arrive at opening, hit big animals first)
Lunch: Zoo dining or pack a picnic
Afternoon: Continue exploring + water play areas
Tampa offers endless family fun, from world-class attractions to simple pleasures like splashing in free splash pads or exploring nature trails. The hardest part is choosing what to do first!
Bookmark this guide and start exploring. Tampa is waiting!
