Things to do with kids in Tampa

It can be hard to find family activities that make everyone happy during a visit to Tampa. The city is packed with children’s attractions, theme parks, and outdoor fun for all ages.

This blog shows you the top things to do with kids in Tampa, from adventure activities to educational experiences. Discover your next great family outing below.

Key Takeaways

• Tampa has many family attractions, including Busch Gardens, which mixes thrill rides with wildlife encounters and educational conservation programs.
• The Florida Aquarium lets kids explore marine habitats and see sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish up close through interactive exhibits.
• Glazer Children’s Museum offers over 170 hands-on exhibits for children to learn by playing and exploring themed areas like a grocery store or construction zone.
• Outdoor fun is easy at places like the 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk, TreeUmph! Adventure Course with zip lines and obstacle courses, and boat trips where you may spot dolphins.
• Families can also visit Lowry Park Zoo to see over 1,300 animals or enjoy play spaces and events at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Hyde Park Village.

Theme Parks & Animal Encounters

Tampa offers exciting theme parks and animal encounters for families. Kids can enjoy thrilling rides at unique amusement parks and meet fascinating wildlife up close.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens offers a thrilling mix of amusement parks and wildlife encounters. Families can enjoy exciting roller coasters, live animal exhibits, and interactive shows. Kids will delight in the chance to see exotic animals up close while learning about their habitats.

Parents appreciate the park’s educational experiences centered around conservation efforts. In addition to rides, Busch Gardens features beautiful gardens and family-friendly dining options.

It’s an ideal location for outdoor fun and memorable outings with kids in Tampa.

The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium offers a fantastic experience for families. Kids can explore different marine habitats and meet diverse sea creatures. They will see sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish up close.

Interactive experiences engage young minds and make learning fun.

Visitors can also enjoy special events for kids throughout the year. The aquarium organizes activities that spark curiosity about ocean life. Parents appreciate the kid-friendly restaurants on-site as well.

With its educational experiences and wildlife encounters, this attraction provides both entertainment and knowledge for children in Tampa.

Museums & Cultural Experiences

Museums in Tampa offer fun and learning for kids. They can explore interactive exhibits and discover local history through engaging activities.

Glazer Children’s Museum

Glazer Children’s Museum offers kids an exciting place to learn and play. This interactive venue features over 170 hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity. Children can explore various themed areas, from a grocery store to a mini construction zone.

Each activity promotes learning through fun, making it one of the top children’s attractions in Tampa.

Parents appreciate the museum’s focus on educational experiences. Kids engage in creative play while developing important skills. Frequent events for kids take place here, so families can always find something new to enjoy.

Kid-friendly restaurants nearby make it easy to grab a meal after a day of exploration at this vibrant cultural site.

Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center offers a fun and educational experience for kids. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the history of the region. The center features artifacts, interactive displays, and films that bring history to life.

Children will enjoy learning about early settlements, Native American cultures, and Florida’s role in different eras.

Families can participate in hands-on activities at this cultural site. Kids can dress up as historical figures or try out old-fashioned games. The museum often hosts family-friendly events throughout the year too.

With engaging exhibits and a variety of experiences, it stands out among children’s attractions in Tampa.

Outdoor Fun & Adventures

Tampa offers plenty of outdoor fun for families. Kids can explore the Riverwalk and enjoy the fresh air while biking or walking.

Tampa Riverwalk

Tampa Riverwalk stretches about 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River. Families can enjoy a scenic stroll while taking in views of the city skyline and waterfront parks. This family-friendly area features playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around.

You will find several kid-friendly restaurants nearby, making it easy to grab a bite after outdoor fun.

The Riverwalk also hosts local events throughout the year. Festivals and art displays attract many visitors, providing interactive experiences for children. Families can rent bikes or scooters to explore even more attractions along the route, ensuring an enjoyable outing in Tampa’s vibrant atmosphere.

TreeUmph! Adventure Course

TreeUmph! Adventure Course offers thrilling outdoor fun for families. This aerial park features zip lines, tree-top obstacles, and swinging bridges. Kids tackle various courses designed for different skill levels.

Safety harnesses keep adventurers secure as they climb higher into the trees.

Parents love watching their children at TreeUmph! Plenty of interactive experiences await everyone in this exciting environment. After an exhilarating day here, visitors can explore other family activities around Tampa.

Tampa Bay Boat Trips

After your adventure at TreeUmph! Adventure Course, take to the water with Tampa Bay Boat Trips. These trips offer family activities that everyone can enjoy. You will spot dolphins and other wildlife during your journey across scenic waters.

Many boat tours provide interactive experiences for kids of all ages. They may even allow you to swim or snorkel in beautiful spots.

Choose from various options like sunset cruises or eco-tours. Each option showcases Tampa’s stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life. Local businesses often run these trips, ensuring a memorable outing for you and your children.

Engage in outdoor fun while creating lasting memories on the bay!

Other Options

Tampa offers a variety of fun alternatives for families. You can explore the Lowry Park Zoo or enjoy a leisurely day at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Hyde Park Village features shops and dining options that cater to kids and parents alike.

These spots provide great opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Lowry Park Zoo

Lowry Park Zoo offers a fun-filled day for families. This zoo houses more than 1,300 animals. Kids can see African elephants, manatees, and red pandas up close. Engaging animal encounters let children interact with different species.

Families will enjoy exciting exhibits and educational experiences throughout the park. The zoo hosts various events for kids year-round. Visit Kid-friendly attractions like the Wallaroo Station petting zoo or ride on the endangered species carousel.

Lowry Park Zoo ensures an adventurous day full of wildlife encounters and recreational fun for everyone in your family.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park offers a great space for outdoor fun in Tampa. Families can enjoy picnicking on the lawns or playing in the splash pad area. The park features playgrounds designed for kids of all ages, ensuring everyone has something to do.

Visitors often appreciate the beautiful views of the river and downtown skyline.

Events for kids happen frequently at this park, making it a hub of activity. From concerts to festivals, there is always something exciting going on. Families can also find kid-friendly restaurants nearby after a day of exploring.

Next, discover more about wildlife encounters and adventures at Lowry Park Zoo.

Hyde Park Village

Hyde Park Village offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and family activities. This outdoor shopping center features unique boutiques and popular retailers. Families can enjoy kid-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes.

The area often hosts events for kids, making it a lively spot for fun outings.

Kids will love the open space to run around and explore. Parents appreciate the blend of cultural sites and leisure venues in Hyde Park Village. Nearby parks provide additional outdoor adventures for families looking to unwind or picnic together after a day of fun at Tampa’s attractions.

FAQs

1. What are the best family activities in Tampa for children?

Tampa offers many family activities. You can visit amusement parks, explore children’s museums, or enjoy outdoor fun at Tampa parks.

2. Where can kids have animal experiences in Tampa?

Children’s attractions like wildlife centers and zoos provide exciting animal experiences. These venues let kids see animals up close and learn about them.

3. Are there educational experiences for children in Tampa?

Yes, you will find several educational venues such as science museums and aquariums that offer interactive experiences designed for learning.

4. Which events for kids happen often in Tampa?

Kidfriendly events take place year-round; check local calendars for festivals, seasonal fairs, and special programs at kidfriendly attractions.

5. What are some good places to eat with kids near popular attractions?

Many kidfriendly restaurants sit near major children’s attractions and parks so families can enjoy a meal after their adventures together.