14+ Best Things to Do in Tampa with Kids

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Looking for the best things to do in Tampa with kids? Tampa is packed with family-friendly adventures that will keep your little ones entertained from morning to night! Whether you’re a local or visiting the Sunshine State, there’s always something exciting to do with the kids.

From theme parks to interactive museums and outdoor fun, Tampa has no shortage of activities that the whole family will love. So grab the sunscreen, round up the kiddos, and get ready for an unforgettable time!

Best Things to Do in Tampa with Kids

1. Busch Gardens

Of course, one of the best things to do in Tampa with kids is spending the day at Busch Gardens! This African-themed amusement park is a perfect mix of fun rides, live entertainment, and up-close animal encounters—which, let’s be real, is the best part.

If you’ve got little ones, they’ll love the Sesame Street Safari of Fun, while older kids and adults can take on roller coasters like SheiKra and Cheetah Hunt.

And if you want a break from the action, hop on the Serengeti Express for a relaxing ride through the park’s animal habitats. For an extra-special experience, you can even hand-feed giraffes! This tour costs a little extra, but it’s totally worth it!

2. Adventure Island

Tampa summers are no joke, so if you’re visiting when it’s hot out, Adventure Island is the place to be. This massive water park is packed with water slides, lazy rivers, splash zones, and a wave pool—basically, everything you need to stay cool.

The kids will have a blast running through the interactive water playgrounds, while adults can kick back in a private cabana and relax.

Check out pricing or secure your tickets in advance here.

Related read: Quench your thirst at one of the nearby family-friendly Tampa breweries like Yuengling!

3. Glazer Children’s Museum

The Glazer Children’s Museum is one of the top museums in Tampa! And if you’re looking for a fun and educational experience, this is the perfect family-friendly activity. This interactive museum is designed to spark creativity, imagination, and learning through hands-on exhibits.

Kids can step into a kid-sized city, where they can explore different careers, play pretend, and immerse themselves in real-world experiences—whether it’s running a grocery store, becoming a firefighter, or working as a doctor.

The water play zone is always a hit, and the STEM-focused exhibits keep curious minds engaged. Throughout the year, the museum also hosts special events and educational programs, making every visit a little different!

4. Florida Aquarium

For an underwater adventure, head to the Florida Aquarium, where kids can get up close with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures.

The interactive touch tanks let little ones feel stingrays and starfish, while the jellyfish exhibits are downright mesmerizing. One of the coolest areas is the Wetlands Trail, where you can spot playful otters, alligators, and other native Florida wildlife.

And if you’re looking for even more excitement, don’t miss the 4-D theater or the outdoor splash pad—the perfect way to cool off after exploring!

Get your tickets here in advance.

5. ZooTampa

One of the best things to do in Seminole Heights is check out ZooTampa at Lowry Park! This award-winning zoo is home to over 1,300 animals, from majestic big cats to playful primates and everything in between.

What makes ZooTampa special is its interactive exhibits and up-close animal encounters. You’re not just looking at animals—you’re learning about them in a hands-on way.

Whether it’s feeding a giraffe, watching a manatee rehabilitation in action, or hopping on a kid-friendly ride, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Plus, the zoo is heavily involved in wildlife conservation efforts, so every visit supports a great cause!

If want to experience both ZooTampa and the Florida Aquarium, look into the ZooQuarium ticket for a bundled deal.

6. Beach Day

While Tampa’s beaches might not be as famous as Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach, they’re still a great spot to soak up the sun!

One of the most popular in Tampa is Ben T. Davis Beach, located along the Courtney Campbell Causeway. It’s got beach volleyball, soft sand, and a decent amount of paid parking, making it a convenient option for a quick beach day.

7. Boat Tour

Exploring Tampa’s waterways is always a fun adventure, and there are plenty of Tampa boat tours perfect for families. One of the best options is a 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise, where you’ll have the chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat while soaking in the beautiful views of Tampa Bay.

If you’re looking for something more hands-on, check out the Riverwalk Boating Company Mini-Powerboat Rental. This unique experience lets you captain your own mini powerboat and cruise down the Hillsborough River at your own pace—a super fun way to see the city from the water!

8. Tampa Riverwalk

One of the best things to do in Tampa with kids or not, is exploring the Tampa Riverwalk. This waterfront pathway is a favorite among both locals and visitors, offering a mix of scenic views, parks, restaurants, and attractions.

Take a stroll along the river, grab a bite at one of the best restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk, or check out the public art installations that add a creative touch to the walkway. There are also plenty of green spaces and playgrounds, making it a great spot for families!

One of my favorite stops? Armature Works! There’s always a fun event or market happening, plus a great selection of food and lawn games for the whole family to enjoy.

9. Altitude Trampoline Park

If the kids need to burn off some energy, Altitude Trampoline Park is an indoor trampoline park that’s packed with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, foam pits, and tons of other attractions that guarantee hours of fun.

It’s perfect for kids of all ages—and let’s be real, it’s just as fun for adults! Whether you’re bouncing, flipping, or taking on a friendly dodgeball match, Altitude is a great way to get moving while having a blast.

10. Top Golf

For a family-friendly competition, head to Topgolf! This high-tech driving range makes practicing your golf swing more fun than ever with microchipped golf balls that track accuracy and distance.

With climate-controlled hitting bays, delicious food and drinks, and a lively atmosphere, Topgolf is a great way to spend time together while trying to score some points.

Even if you’re not a golf pro, the interactive games and fun vibes make this a must-visit spot for all skill levels!

11. Classic Fun: Arcades, Bowling, and More

Unleash your inner child and enjoy some classic fun in Tampa! Whether you’re into arcades, bowling, or roller skating, there’s something for everyone.

Check out GameTime, one of the top arcades in Tampa, where you can play retro and modern games. If you’re feeling nostalgic, lace up your skates at on of the fun roller skating rinks in Tampa like United Skates of America!

Prefer to bowl a few frames? Head to a popular Tampa bowling alley like Splitsville Luxury Lanes or Pin Chasers, where you can challenge the fam to some friendly competition and maybe even bowl a strike. No matter what you choose, these classic activities guarantee a fun time for all ages.

12. Take the Cross Bay Ferry to St. Pete

While you’re in the area, you have to check out St. Pete—one of my favorite day trips from Tampa! And the best part? The Cross Bay Ferry makes getting there super easy.

There are so many fun things to do in downtown St. Pete, from checking out delicious restaurants and unique museums to exploring the St. Pete Pier or hopping on one of their fun boat tours. No matter how you spend your time, you won’t regret making the trip!

13. Go Kayaking

For a scenic adventure, explore Tampa’s beautiful waterways by kayak. There are plenty of great kayaking spots in Tampa, but if you have the time, I highly recommend heading to Weeki Wachee Springs. Just an hour north of Tampa, this crystal-clear river is home to playful manatees, making for an unforgettable kayaking experience!

If you want to stick closer to Tampa, another amazing option is a clear kayak tour of Shell Key Preserve, where you can paddle through pristine waters and spot local wildlife.

Book your Weeki Wachee clear kayak tour here!

14. Visit Sparkman Wharf

One of the best free things to do in Tampa is visiting Sparkman Wharf. This lively waterfront spot is packed with live music, scenic views, and amazing restaurants—perfect for a laid-back day out!

Throughout the year, Sparkman Wharf hosts fun events like watch parties, seasonal festivals, and outdoor movies. And if you need a little energy boost to keep up with the kids, grab a strawberry basil latte from Shortwave Coffee, one of my favorite coffee shops in Tampa!

Kid-Friendly Hotels in Tampa

Just to be clear, kids are welcome at any hotel in Tampa, but some offer extra amenities that make traveling with little ones even easier. Each of these hotels is in a different part of the city, so your choice depends on your itinerary!

• The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk – Located along the scenic Riverwalk, this hotel is close to family-friendly attractions like the Florida Aquarium and Glazer Children’s Museum. The outdoor pool is great for cooling off, and they often host kid-friendly events.
• Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay – Set in a nature preserve, this hotel offers wildlife viewing, scenic trails, and waterfront views. Kids will love the outdoor pool, while parents can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
• Holiday Inn & Suites Tampa North – Busch Gardens Area – Perfect for families heading to Busch Gardens, this hotel has a free shuttle, spacious suites, and a kids’ menu at the on-site restaurant. It’s also close to Adventure Island for extra fun!
• TradeWinds Island Grand Resort – This beachfront resort on St. Pete Beach is packed with family activities like a three-story waterslide, paddleboats, and a kids’ club. Parents will love the variety of dining options and relaxing beach vibes.
• Epic VRBO with Pickleball Court – For a unique stay, check out this 4-bedroom VRBO in Tampa Heights. It fits up to 10 guests, includes bikes, and has a private pickleball court in the backyard—perfect for some friendly competition!

Click here to view all hotel accommodations in Tampa available during your trip dates with the best prices!

How Do You Get Around in Tampa?

If you plan to explore beyond the city, renting a car gives you the freedom to take day trips and check out some hidden gems in the area.

However, if you’re mostly sticking to downtown Tampa, a rental car probably isn’t necessary. You can hop on the free TECO Streetcar, which runs through downtown, the Channel District, and Ybor City—making it an easy and fun way to get around.

Heading to St. Pete? Consider taking the Cross Bay Ferry! This scenic water transit connects downtown Tampa to downtown St. Pete, giving you a relaxing ride across the bay while avoiding traffic.

Which of these Tampa activities are you checking out first?!

Whether you’re splashing around at the Florida Aquarium, exploring hands-on exhibits at the Glazer Children’s Museum, or spotting dolphins on a boat tour, there’s no shortage of excitement for kids (and let’s be real—adults too!). I hope this guide helps you plan an amazing family friendly trip. Let me know in the comments which activity your little ones are most excited about!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:

Fun & Free Things to Do in Tampa

Best Cuban Sandwiches in Tampa Bay

Delicious Italian Restaurants in Tampa