Tampa, Florida, is a family-friendly city known for its beautiful weather, thrilling attractions, and educational experiences. Whether your kids are thrill-seekers, animal lovers, or budding scientists, there’s something for everyone in Tampa. From exciting theme parks to interactive museums, this guide will introduce you to some of the most fun and exciting things to do in Tampa with kids. And don’t forget to check out The Kids Point for more family-friendly recommendations in the area!
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the most beloved family destinations in Tampa. With over 1,300 animals from across the globe, the zoo offers an incredible experience for children of all ages. It’s an ideal place to learn about animals, enjoy interactive exhibits, and even meet some of your favorite species up close. From playful primates to majestic lions and tigers, the zoo has a wide array of wildlife that will leave kids wide-eyed with wonder.
One of the highlights of the zoo is its commitment to conservation and animal care. Children can learn about endangered species and the efforts being made to protect them. There are also special shows and educational demonstrations throughout the day, ensuring your visit is both fun and informative. For a more immersive experience, be sure to check out the “Safari Africa” exhibit, where you can explore the African savanna, and the “Florida Wildlife” section, which focuses on native species like alligators and panthers.
For little ones, the “Wildlife Carousel” and “Safari Ride” are must-see attractions. And if your kids are thrill-seekers, they can cool off in the zoo’s splash pad area or take part in the animal-themed rides.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If you’re visiting Tampa with older kids or teens, a trip to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a must. This world-class theme park combines thrilling roller coasters, live shows, and an animal safari to create an action-packed adventure for the entire family. Whether you’re looking to experience the adrenaline rush of riding a 200-foot-tall roller coaster or enjoy the sights of exotic animals in a naturalistic setting, Busch Gardens has something for everyone.
The park features several themed areas, including “Congo,” where you can ride the famous “Cheetah Hunt” coaster, and “Sesame Street Safari of Fun,” which is perfect for younger children. There’s also “Tigris,” the tallest launch coaster in Florida, which is sure to get the heart racing.
In addition to the thrilling rides, Busch Gardens is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, giraffes, and rhinos. For a more up-close experience, families can enjoy animal encounters and even take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the park’s conservation efforts.
Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium is another must-see destination in Tampa, especially for families with younger children. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, this impressive facility offers interactive exhibits and a chance to explore marine life from Florida and beyond. Kids will love walking through the “Wetlands Trail,” where they can see alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species, and the “Coral Reef” exhibit, which showcases vibrant coral ecosystems and the creatures that call them home.
One of the best features of the Florida Aquarium is its “Splash Pad” area, where kids can cool off while playing in water fountains and sprays. There’s also the “Touch Tank,” where children can gently interact with starfish, sea urchins, and other marine creatures.
The aquarium is also home to several rescue and rehabilitation programs, and families can learn about the importance of conservation efforts aimed at protecting marine life. With its engaging exhibits and fun activities, the Florida Aquarium is a perfect spot for kids to have a fun and educational experience.
Adventure Island
For families looking to beat the heat and have some water fun, Adventure Island is the place to be. Located next to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island is a large water park filled with water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that offer something for everyone. Whether your kids enjoy high-speed slides or prefer to relax in a calm pool, Adventure Island has a variety of attractions to suit every age group.
The park features a wide range of slides, from gentle tube rides to high-speed drops that will thrill older kids and teens. Younger children can enjoy the “Wade Pool,” a shallow play area with slides and water jets designed for little ones. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the “Lazy River” provides a calm and scenic float around the park.
Adventure Island also hosts special events and seasonal celebrations throughout the year, so there’s always something new and exciting to look forward to during your visit.
Glazer Children’s Museum
The Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa is a place where imagination and creativity come to life. With over 170 interactive exhibits spread across multiple themed galleries, this museum is perfect for kids who love to explore and engage in hands-on learning. Children can pretend to be doctors in the “Health & Wellness” exhibit, build structures in the “Imagination Playground,” or explore how things work in the “Energy Lab.”
One of the museum’s highlights is its “Splash Pad,” which allows kids to play and cool off during the summer months. The museum also features a “Toddler Town” area, which is specifically designed for younger children to explore safely.
The Glazer Children’s Museum provides an excellent opportunity for kids to learn through play, making it a great destination for families looking to combine fun and education.
Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center
For nature lovers, a visit to the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center offers a peaceful and educational experience. Located near Apollo Beach, this unique attraction provides an up-close look at the gentle sea creatures in their natural habitat. Manatees are often spotted in the waters near the center, especially during the cooler months when they seek out the warm waters from the nearby power plant.
Kids can learn about the importance of manatee conservation and the environmental efforts being made to protect these endangered animals. The center also features a variety of interactive exhibits that explain the ecosystem of the area and the role of manatees in it. There’s also a nature trail and a fishing pier, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration.
The Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center is a calm and educational experience that offers a great chance for families to connect with nature.
Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)
The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) is a must-visit for families with curious minds and science enthusiasts. This interactive museum offers a wide range of exhibits that make learning about science, technology, and engineering fun for kids. From hands-on exhibits about the human body to an immersive planetarium experience, MOSI offers endless opportunities for exploration.
Kids will love the “Idea Zone,” where they can build and design their own creations, and the “Dino Quest,” which features interactive dinosaur exhibits. For a truly immersive experience, check out the “Florida Hospital IMAX Dome Theater,” which shows large-format movies on a massive screen.
MOSI’s exhibits encourage kids to think critically and creatively while learning about the world around them. It’s a great destination for families who want to blend entertainment with education.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Just a short drive from Tampa, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to rescued marine animals, including dolphins, sea turtles, and otters. The aquarium is known for its work in rescuing and rehabilitating marine life, and families can learn about the important conservation efforts taking place.
One of the highlights of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium is its famous dolphins, including Winter and Hope, who have both starred in the “Dolphin Tale” movies. Kids can meet the dolphins up close, watch them swim, and even participate in special programs that allow them to learn more about these amazing creatures.
In addition to dolphins, the aquarium features a variety of exhibits focused on marine life conservation and rehabilitation. It’s a great place for families to get a closer look at the animals and learn about the challenges they face in the wild.
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary
For families who want to learn about bird conservation and rehabilitation, the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is a wonderful spot to visit. Located on the Gulf Coast, the sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured or orphaned birds, and it provides a peaceful setting for families to observe and learn about the birds.
Kids can explore the walking trails, learn about the different bird species in the area, and watch as the sanctuary staff cares for the birds. The sanctuary also offers educational programs that teach kids about the importance of protecting wildlife and their natural habitats.
It’s an ideal destination for nature-loving families looking to learn about local wildlife in a serene setting.
Ruskin Family Drive-In
For a fun and nostalgic experience, take the family to the Ruskin Family Drive-In. This classic drive-in theater offers a unique way to enjoy a movie under the stars. Pack up some snacks, settle into your car, and enjoy a family-friendly film on the big screen.
The Ruskin Family Drive-In offers a charming, retro experience that’s perfect for families with young kids or teens. It’s a great way to end a day of fun activities in Tampa and enjoy some classic entertainment together.
Tampa is a city full of exciting and fun things to do with kids, from animal encounters to thrilling theme parks and educational museums. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or hands-on learning, Tampa has something to offer every family. Don’t forget to check out The Kids Point for even more family-friendly activities in Tampa and beyond. Start planning your trip today and create unforgettable memories with your little ones!