5 Unique Things to Do in Tampa with Kids
July 16, 2024 | Family Life
During the summer, Florida is a vibrant blend of sunshine and adventure creating plenty of unique things to do in Tampa with the kids. As the temperatures rise and school lets out, this Gulf Coast city transforms into a haven for families seeking unique and memorable experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend excursion or looking to fill the weeks of summer break, Tampa offers a variety of things to do with kids of all ages. From exploring downtown attractions to relaxing on pristine beaches, there’s no shortage of ways to keep your little ones entertained and engaged.
From museums and aquariums to state parks and water parks, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the sun on sweltering days and get out in nature when summer breezes arrive. Here are some unique family outings with plenty of activities for kids of all ages.
1. Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in Tampa is an exciting and educational experience for families seeking unique summer activities. This is where curiosity is cool, and there is plenty to explore and learn. The interactive science center features over 100 hands-on exhibits, providing endless opportunities for kids to explore and discover. From the thrilling Sky Trail Ropes Course to the Virtual Reality Simulator, MOSI combines learning with adventure, making science fun and accessible for all ages.
The museum’s interactive exhibits offer something for every interest. Themes include space, robotics, engineering, natural sciences, and more. One of the highlights of MOSI is the Saunders Planetarium, where families can embark on a journey through the cosmos, exploring stars, planets, and galaxies in stunning detail.
The museum also hosts live science demonstrations and workshops, offering children a chance to participate in experiments and witness science in action. When it’s time to calm the party down, visit the BioWorks Butterfly Garden for a peaceful escape where kids can observe and learn about various butterfly species in a beautifully landscaped setting. The Museum of Science and Industry is an ideal destination for a family-friendly outing with its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and engaging activities.
2. The Florida Aquarium
A visit to The Florida Aquarium is a must for families looking for unique and engaging experiences during summer break in Tampa. Located in the Channelside District, this top-rated attraction offers a deep dive into marine life with its extensive exhibits and interactive displays. Kids will be captivated by the vibrant underwater world, from the colorful coral reefs teeming with exotic fish to jellyfish and playful river otters. The aquarium’s large touch tanks encourage the kids (and adults!) to get hands-on with sea stars, anemones, and even stingrays, fostering a direct connection with the marine environment.
Beyond the exhibits, The Florida Aquarium offers a range of educational programs and activities designed to inspire and educate everyone in the family, from little ones to teens. For a truly memorable experience, surprise the family with a Wild Dolphin Cruise, where they can spot dolphins frolicking in Tampa Bay. Another family favorite is going behind the scenes to learn about African Penguins. Everyone will meet and greet a special penguin and then learn about their home life at the aquarium with their caretakers.
3. Hillsborough River State Park
Get the kids outdoors for a weekend of discovery and adventure just a few minutes from downtown Tampa at Hillsborough River State Park. There are several miles of nature trails for hiking, biking, and watching wildlife and opportunities for canoeing, floating, and kayaking along the scenic Hillsborough River. And if the whole crew is ready to level up the weekend adventure, check out Timberline Glamping in Tampa. Redefining “camping” with an oversized white tent with plank flooring, rugs, king and twin beds, lamps, comforters, chairs, electricity outlets for charging your devices, and a Keurig coffee maker with Keurig pods. Plus, a mini fridge and more.
The park also offers primitive camping, RV and tent camping, and three kayak and canoe launches into the Hillsborough River. You can rent canoes and kayaks through the park concessionaire. Other family-friendly nature parks near Tampa include Lettuce Lake Park, which features a 1.25-mile boardwalk and observation tower offering stunning views of the Hillsborough River and picnic areas, playgrounds, and canoe rentals.
The Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach provides an educational and interactive experience with manatees, a nature trail, a butterfly garden, and an observation tower. One of the largest parks, Upper Tampa Bay Park, features 2,144 acres of preserved land with hiking trails, a nature center, playgrounds, and picnic areas, offering a perfect spot for a family day in nature.
4. Major League Baseball
Taking the kids to Tampa’s George M. Steinbrenner Field is a fantastic way to immerse your family in the excitement of Major League Baseball. As the spring training facility for the New York Yankees and summer home to the Yankees class A-Advanced affiliate Tampa Tarpons, this stadium has been a cornerstone of Tampa’s sports scene since 1996. Starting in late February, families can get tickets to watch the Yankees as they prepare for the upcoming season, offering a unique opportunity to see some of baseball’s biggest stars up close.
The stadium is designed to provide an enjoyable experience for fans of all ages. Its family-friendly amenities include a playground and kid-friendly concessions. The field hosts special events and promotions throughout the season to engage young fans, making it a perfect outing for families. Beyond the game, kids can participate in autograph sessions, run the bases after select games, and enjoy themed nights that add more fun to the baseball experience. Spending a day at George M. Steinbrenner Field is sure to create lasting memories with your children while sharing the excitement of America’s favorite pastime.
5. Relax at Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is world-renowned for its beautiful sandy shores and turquoise waters. Nestled just west of Tampa, this picturesque beach offers the perfect setting for a relaxing family day. The soft sand is ideal for barefoot walks and building sandcastles with the kids, while the gentle waves make it an enjoyable spot for swimming. Even though Clearwater Beach is not well known for surfing due to its calm waters, it’s perfect for paddleboarding, parasailing, or simply splashing around in the warm, inviting sea.
For a comfortable and enjoyable beach day, try to plan ahead as much as possible. Arriving early is advisable during peak seasons to secure a good spot on the beach and find parking, as it can fill up quickly. There are several parking options,
including metered street parking ( On-street parking rate is $3.50 per hour with a 5-hour limit.) and multiple parking garages nearby, such as the North Beach Parking Plaza.
Remember to pack essentials like beach towels, chairs, and sun hats for the little ones, as well as sunscreen for the entire family to protect against the Florida sun’s intense rays. With your spot secured and your beach gear set up, you can spend the day lounging under an umbrella, playing in the sand, and savoring the laid-back atmosphere that makes Clearwater Beach a beloved destination for families.
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