Things to do in Tampa
Busch Gardens
Only a 15-minute drive from downtown Tampa, Busch Gardens is a theme park inspired by Africa’s wildlife and landscapes, with over a dozen roller coasters, 200 animal species and other live shows, rides and games. Since its opening in 1959, Busch Gardens has had several updates and upgrades. Home to a variety of attractions, with some of the most thrilling coasters in the state, Busch Gardens is a great way to spend the day with the whole family.
Tampa Riverwalk & Bayshore Boulevard
If you like to take your time while you explore a new place, take a stroll down the Tampa Riverwalk or Bayshore Boulevard. The Riverwalk divides the downtown area from the shores of Tampa Bay, with a recently restored sidewalk structure, famous restaurants and large museums. Tampa’s Hyde Park is also less than a 15-minute walk from the Tampa Riverwalk, which hosts even more notable restaurants and shops. Close by, Bayshore Boulevard’s claim to fame is that it’s the longest continuous sidewalk in the world at about 4.5 miles. During the month of January, the Boulevard comes alive for the town’s annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival, which includes a live reenactment of a pirate invasion in the bay.
Downtown Tampa
Home to iconic attractions like the Tampa Theatre, Tampa Museum of Art, the Straz Center of Performing Arts, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and the Florida Aquarium, downtown Tampa has something for everyone. With so many recent renovations, the downtown area boasts some of the best food halls, restaurants, coffee shops, performances, markets and festivals in the state.
Tampa Travel Tips
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
Popular Attractions: Tampa Riverwalk, Bayshore Boulevard, Hyde Park, Downtown Tampa and the Tampa Museum of Art
Notable Experiences: Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium and Tampa Theatre.