With Tampa being a city that has it all, it can be hard to narrow things down to do, especially with the kids. Luckily, I have done the hard work for you and have found some fun things to do in Tampa with kids just for you! Check out the list below to see what I have discovered in the beautiful Tampa area.
My Favorite Things to Do in Tampa with Kids!
Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise
Arggg Mateys! All aboard Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise! If you and your little pirates are interested in sailing the seas, then do not miss this unique experience. This special pirate ship is led by a crew of spirited pirates that will take you on a two-hour tour that includes face painting, pirate dance parties, water gun games, and even a treasure hunt! This pirate cruise offers two options to sail, one during the day and one at sunset and the hours of sailing vary by season, just be sure to make a reservation! Such a fun thing to do in Tampa with kids.
The Florida Aquarium
Fish, sea turtles, sharks… oh my! All these magnificent creatures of the sea can be found all at the Florida Aquarium. Rated one of the best aquariums in the US, there is something to do and see for everyone in the family. There are more than just fish at this aquarium, be prepared to visit the wetlands where you can see alligators, otters, free-flying birds, and even giant pythons!
After you stomp into the wetlands make your way over to Madagascar where you can hang with the lemurs, turtles, geckos, and the colorful Indian Ocean reef. Not only can you see all these animals too, but you can touch them as well at the touching experience located inside the Aquarium. If you enjoy an experience of 3D visual effects, head over to the 4Ducks theater for a show you won’t forget. Just as you think that may be all, just wait! The aquarium also offers a playland for your little ones to go wild at the rainforest-themed playland including nets and an entire water play area, so don’t forget those swimsuits!
Museum of Science and Industry
Have you ever imagined exploring a lunar colony, discovering the human body from the inside, and even seeing the future? Well, all of that and so much more is possible all at the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). Since Florida weather is unpredictable, a day at MOSI is the perfect way to spend the day indoors to avoid the random sun showers or the smoldering heat. Such a fun experience for the kids as they experiment crafting their own ideas with a 3D printer, sleep on a bed of nails, and even play a life size version of the nostalgic kid’s game Operation. The museum offers a ropes course with 35 different elements as well as a planetarium. Even if the kids need a little room to run and play MOSI also offers an outdoor playground. There is so much to do at MOSI, and it is fun and interactive for the entire family.
Dinosaur World
Rawwwwr! Watch out… there are dinosaurs among us! This is my absolute personal favorite thing to do in Tampa with kids. I am a huge dinosaur lover! At Dinosaur World, you and the kids can wander among hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs all throughout the park as well as interactive exhibits all about… you guessed it… DINOSAURS! There is a dino-themed playground, fossil dig, dino gem excavation, and a boneyard. The family can visit a prehistoric museum that includes real prehistoric fossils. Be sure you don’t miss the dinosaurs that come to life featuring a motion-activated display. Dinosaur World is a combination of indoors and outside, so it is perfect for all types of Florida days.
Lowry Park Zoo
The Lowry Park Zoo offers more than just sightseeing. At this one-of-a-kind zoo there is so much to do for the entire family. Be sure you keep your eyes open as there are so many activities and surprises awaiting around every corner. You can travel through Florida where you will see the iconic manatees, river otters, and the majestic bald eagle. After you visit Florida, head down the boardwalk where you can take a ride on the Roaring Springs to escape the Florida heat, also enjoy the water play areas for all the kids. There are plenty of rides and games the kids can enjoy throughout the zoo.
There are several other parts of the world including Africa and Asia where you can discover monkeys, bears, tigers, penguins, giraffes, and even a chance to feed a rhino! This zoo also offers a chance to go on your very own safari ride to explore all the animals up close and personal. Check out all you need to know for your visit to the Lowry Park Zoo here!
Things to Do in Tampa with Kids
There are so many fun things to do in Tampa with kids! While these are my top 5 favorites, it is just barely scratching the surface. Enjoy your time exploring Tampa, Florida and let me know what else you discover!
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