Just 20 minutes east of Tampa lies Plant City, Florida—a charming small town with big family fun. Whether your kids are obsessed with dinosaurs, love picking fresh strawberries, or you're looking for an easy day trip from Tampa Bay, Plant City delivers memorable experiences for families with children of all ages.
From the world-famous Florida Strawberry Festival to walking among 200 life-size dinosaurs, here's everything families need to know about things to do in Plant City, Florida.
Dinosaur World: Walk Among Giants
The crown jewel of Plant City family attractions, Dinosaur World is an outdoor museum featuring over 200 life-size dinosaur sculptures set among beautiful Florida foliage. Unlike theme parks, there are no rides or shows—just a peaceful, educational experience that lets kids explore at their own pace.
What to Expect:
- Over 200 life-size dinosaur statues throughout 20+ acres
- Fossil Dig where kids can dig for real fossils to keep
- Dinosaur-themed playground with slides and swings
- Shaded walking trails (Florida's oak trees provide welcome relief!)
- Gift shop with dino souvenirs
Visitor Info:
- Address: 5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, FL 33565
- Hours: Open daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Tickets: Adults $16.75, Seniors $14.75, Children (3-12) $11.75, Under 3 free
- Fossil Dig: Additional $5-7 per dig
- Website: dinosaurworld.com
- Time Needed: Plan for 2-3 hours
Pro Tips:
- Bring sunscreen and water—it's an outdoor park
- Strollers work well on paved paths
- Dogs on leashes are welcome!
- Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds
Florida Strawberry Festival
The Florida Strawberry Festival is one of the nation's top agricultural fairs, drawing over 500,000 visitors annually during its 11-day run. Celebrating Plant City's heritage as the "Winter Strawberry Capital of the World," this beloved event offers something for everyone.
2026 Festival Dates: February 26 - March 8, 2026
What Families Love:
- Strawberry Everything: Shortcake, smoothies, chocolate-dipped berries, and more
- Midway Rides: Carnival rides for all ages from kiddie to thrill
- Livestock Shows: See farm animals up close, 4-H exhibits
- Live Entertainment: Major concerts and local performances
- Agriculture Exhibits: Educational displays about Florida farming
- Youth Day: Discounted admission for students (typically mid-week)
Visitor Info:
- Location: 303 BerryFest Place, Plant City, FL 33563
- Tickets: Advance gate admission available online; ride wristbands sold separately
- Website: flstrawberryfestival.com
- Parking: Free parking available; arrive early on weekends
Pro Tips:
- Go on weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds
- Ride wristbands are the best value for families
- Bring cash for food vendors (some accept cards)
- Check the entertainment schedule for kid-friendly shows
Keel Farms: U-Pick Strawberries & Family Fun
Keel Farms (home of Keel & Curley Winery) offers the quintessential Florida farm experience. During strawberry season (typically December through March), families can pick their own berries right from the fields.
Family-Friendly Features:
- U-Pick Strawberries: Pick your own fresh berries (seasonal)
- Farm Animals: Small petting area with friendly animals
- Restaurant: Farm-to-table dining with kid-friendly options
- Outdoor Space: Beautiful grounds to explore
Visitor Info:
- Address: 5202 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City, FL 33565
- Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11 AM - 8 PM (check website for U-pick availability)
- Website: keelandcurleywinery.com
- U-Pick Season: Typically December through March
Pro Tips:
- Call ahead to confirm U-pick availability during strawberry season
- The restaurant's blueberry BBQ sauce is a local favorite
- Great spot for parents to enjoy a glass of wine while kids explore
Parkesdale Farm Market
A Plant City institution since 1956, Parkesdale Farm Market is famous throughout Florida for its fresh strawberries and legendary strawberry shortcake. Even outside strawberry season, this bustling farm market is worth a visit.
Why Families Love It:
- Iconic Strawberry Shortcake: Fresh berries, homemade biscuits, and real whipped cream
- Fresh Produce: Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local specialties
- Strawberry Milkshakes: Rich, creamy, and packed with fresh berry flavor
- Quick Stop: Perfect for a snack before or after Dinosaur World
Visitor Info:
- Address: 3702 W. Baker Street, Plant City, FL 33563
- Hours: Open daily 8 AM - 5 PM (seasonal extended hours)
- Phone: (813) 752-1155
Pro Tips:
- The shortcake is huge—consider sharing with little ones
- Fresh strawberries are available year-round but peak December-March
- Cash is faster, though cards are accepted
Downtown Plant City: Historic Main Street
Take a stroll through Historic Downtown Plant City for a taste of authentic small-town Florida charm. The downtown district features beautiful brick buildings, local shops, and restaurants that make for a relaxing family afternoon.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Historic Train Depot: Watch Amtrak and freight trains pass through (train-loving kids will be thrilled!)
- Evers Street Shop Hop: Browse local boutiques and antique stores
- Murals & Photo Ops: Colorful street art throughout downtown
- Pocket Parks: Shaded benches for resting little legs
What to See:
- The 1909 Union Station Depot (still an active Amtrak stop)
- Historic downtown storefronts dating back to the early 1900s
- Local art galleries and gift shops
The downtown area is very walkable and stroller-friendly, making it easy to explore with young children.
Edward Medard Conservation Park
For families who love outdoor adventures, Edward Medard Conservation Park offers 1,284 acres of Florida wilderness just 10 minutes from downtown Plant City. It's perfect for a morning of nature exploration before or after visiting other Plant City attractions.
What to Do:
- Swimming: Seasonal swimming area with lifeguards (Memorial Day through Labor Day)
- Fishing: 770-acre reservoir stocked with bass, bream, and catfish
- Hiking Trails: Easy walking trails through Florida scrub and wetlands
- Playgrounds: Shaded playground areas for kids
- Picnicking: Covered pavilions available for reservation
Visitor Info:
- Address: 6140 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City, FL 33567
- Hours: 8 AM - 6 PM (8 AM - 8 PM during summer)
- Entry Fee: $2 per vehicle
- Website: hillsboroughcounty.org
Pro Tips:
- Bring bug spray—Florida mosquitoes are real!
- The swimming area gets crowded on summer weekends; arrive early
- Pack a picnic for an affordable family outing
Where to Eat in Plant City
After all that exploring, your family will be hungry! Here are the best family-friendly restaurants in Plant City:
Fred's Market Restaurant
A Plant City landmark serving Southern-style comfort food buffet. The endless options mean even picky eaters find something they like.
- Address: 1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
- Style: Buffet—pay one price, eat all you want
- Best For: Families who want variety and value
Buddy Brew Coffee
Located downtown, this local coffee shop offers kid-friendly options alongside excellent coffee for parents.
- Address: Downtown Plant City
- Best For: Quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up
Hole in the Wall Cafe
Casual, family-owned restaurant known for hearty breakfasts and friendly service.
- Best For: Traditional American breakfast and lunch
Planning Your Plant City Day Trip
Best Time to Visit
- Strawberry Season (December-March): Perfect for U-pick farms and the Strawberry Festival
- Fall & Spring: Ideal weather for outdoor attractions like Dinosaur World
- Summer: Hot but great for swimming at Edward Medard Park
Sample Family Itinerary
Morning:
- Start at Dinosaur World when it opens at 9 AM (beat the heat!)
- Spend 2-3 hours exploring and doing the fossil dig
Lunch:
- Head to Parkesdale Farm Market for shortcake and fresh strawberry milkshakes
- Or grab lunch at Fred's Market Restaurant
Afternoon:
- Stroll through Historic Downtown Plant City
- Visit Keel Farms for U-pick strawberries (seasonal)
- Or cool off at Edward Medard Park's swimming area (summer)
What to Bring
- Sunscreen and hats (most attractions are outdoors)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottles (refill stations available at some locations)
- Cash for farm markets and some vendors
- Swimsuits if visiting during summer
Getting to Plant City from Tampa
Plant City is an easy 20-25 minute drive from downtown Tampa:
- Take I-4 East toward Orlando
- Exit at Plant City (Exit 22 for Dinosaur World area, Exit 19 for downtown)
- Free parking is available at all major attractions
Final Thoughts
Plant City offers the perfect escape from Tampa's busier attractions. With Dinosaur World, the famous Strawberry Festival, U-pick farms, and genuine small-town Florida charm, it's an ideal day trip destination for Tampa Bay families. Whether you're chasing dinosaurs with a toddler or teaching older kids about Florida agriculture, Plant City delivers memorable family experiences just a short drive from home.
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