8 Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Tampa

*Collaborative Post

If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Tampa, look no further! This vibrant city is home to a variety of attractions that will keep both kids and adults entertained. 

From theme parks to museums, there’s something for everyone. Here are eight of our favorite family-friendly activities in Tampa.

1. Visit the Florida Aquarium

There’s no shortage of things to do in Tampa with kids, and one of the best is a visit to the Florida Aquarium. 

Here, kids can learn all about the state’s aquatic life and even get up close and personal with some of the residents. Florida Aquarium is host to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals from all over the world, making it a great place to learn about the earth’s watery regions. 

Exhibits include an everglades wetland, a coral reef, and an underwater seagrass bed. In addition to seeing the exhibits, kids can also touch stingrays, take part in hands-on activities like feeding. And when they’re ready for a break, there’s an on-site café and playground.

2. Take a Ride on the Tampa Bay Water Taxi

If you’re looking for something fun and unique to do with your kids in Tampa, why not take a ride on the Tampa Bay Water Taxi? 

This is a great way to see some of the city’s most popular attractions from a different perspective. Plus, it’s a great way to get some exercise!

The Tampa Bay Water Taxi offers a variety of different tours, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests. If you want to see the city’s sights, there’s a tour that takes you past all of the major landmarks. Or, if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, there’s a tour that takes you through the scenic Hillsborough River. No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to have a great time on the Tampa Bay Water Taxi. It’s a fun and unique way to see the city, and it’s a great way to get some exercise!

3. Go to the Lowry Park Zoo

There are plenty of things to do in Tampa with kids, but one of the best is to go to the Lowry Park Zoo. The zoo has over 1,800 animals and is a great place to learn about wildlife.

Animals you can see here include African lions, American alligators, Amazon river otters, Bornean orangutans, snakes, elephants and more.

The zoo also has a playground, a petting zoo, and a Splash Pad water play area to keep kids entertained as well as a variety of educational programs, so your kids can learn about the animals while having fun.

The zoo was built back in 1957 and is one of the first zoos to open in Florida.

4. Refuel at One of the Many Restaurants and Cafes on Site

There are plenty of options so parents can easily refuel at some of the best Tampa restaurants while their kids play. There is also an on-site park where families can enjoy a picnic lunch together. Some of the restaurants that we recommend in Tampa are:

• The Refinery: This is a great spot for breakfast or brunch with kids. They have a delicious menu that will please everyone in the family.

• Bern’s Steak House: This is a Tampa institution and a great place to take the family for dinner. The steaks are amazing, but they also have a fantastic selection of seafood.

• Ulele: This restaurant is located in the historic Tampa Heights neighborhood and features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu has something for everyone, and the kids will love the unique setting.

• Datz: This place is perfect for brunch with the family. They have a great menu with plenty of options for both adults and kids. And, they have an amazing bakery with delicious treats for everyone to enjoy.

So, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there are plenty of great Tampa restaurants to choose from. And, if you want to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, that’s easily done too. There are plenty of options to keep the whole family happy and fed while you’re in Tampa.

5. Adventure Island Water Park

is a great place to visit in the summer. The park has slides, a lazy river, and plenty of places to relax in the sun. If you’re looking for a thrill, Adventure Island has several high-speed water slides that will get your adrenaline pumping. 

For those who want to take it easy, the park also has a lazy river where you can float around and soak up the Florida sun. There are also plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas for guests to relax in.

The park has been built in such a way that there’s something for everyone, regardless of age or thrill-seeking level. So whether you’re looking for an adventure or a place to relax, Adventure Island is the perfect spot for a summer day in Tampa.

6. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)

MOSI is a great place to take the kids in Tampa! With over 450,000 square feet of space, it’s one of the largest science museums in the United States. There are hundreds of hands-on exhibits to keep kids entertained and engaged. MOSI also has a planetarium and an IMAX theater. 

If you’re looking for a fun and educational place to take the kids, MOSI is the perfect spot.

7. Explore the Plantation Heritage Park

If you’re in Tampa with kids, be sure to check out the Plantation Heritage Park. This park is a great way for kids to learn about Florida’s history and culture.

There are a variety of activities and exhibits to keep kids entertained, and the staff is always happy to answer any questions. Admission is free for all ages.

8. Go on a Safari at Lettuce Lake Park

If you’re in Tampa with your kids and looking for a fun activity, why not go on a safari at Lettuce Lake Park? You can explore the park’s boardwalk and see all sorts of animals, including alligators, turtles, and birds. Plus, the park is home to some of the best hiking trails in the area.

Takeaway

There are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Tampa with kids, so no matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. 

With a variety of zoos, aquariums, museums, and parks to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for family-friendly activities. So get out there and explore all that Tampa has to offer!

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.

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