Things to do in Tampa
Tampa is a big city with an outsized share of ways to spend a day, and the local listings reflect that range: food and drink dominates, but outdoor par…
Tampa is a big city with an outsized share of ways to spend a day, and the local listings reflect that range: food and drink dominates, but outdoor parks, museums, live music, and family spots all hold their own. If you're here for a weekend or live nearby, the challenge is narrowing down your options.
Start with the Tampa Riverwalk, a multi-use path along the water that strings together parks, eateries, and city views. For a quieter outdoor stretch, Lettuce Lake Park has a boardwalk, birdwatching, and canoeing. Food spans from the Columbia Restaurant's traditional Spanish fare to La Teresita's Cuban classics and the casual Caribbean vibe at Bahama Breeze. Families can pick between the Glazer Children's Museum, Bounce Zone Tampa, or a bowling night at Pin Chasers. Music fans have Crowbar and The Ritz Ybor. Tampa Theatre adds old-school movie palace charm, while Tampa Bay History Center covers local stories.
Frequently asked questions about Tampa
What are the best outdoor places to visit in Tampa?▾
The Tampa Riverwalk is a great starting point—it's a paved path along the water with parks and benches along the way. For a more natural setting, Lettuce Lake Park has a boardwalk through wetlands, birdwatching, and canoeing. Al Lopez Park offers trails and a fishing pond. Several other city parks, including Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Water Works Park, are also good for a stroll or a picnic.
Where can I take kids in Tampa?▾
The Glazer Children's Museum has hands-on exhibits aimed at kids under 12, from weather to art. For active play, Bounce Zone Tampa is an indoor playground with inflatables and a trampoline. Bowling is another option—Pin Chasers and Splitsville Tiki + Social both cater to families. Croc Encounters offers close-up reptile experiences with guided tours.
What are some good restaurants for a casual meal in Tampa?▾
For Cuban food, La Teresita is a family-run spot serving breakfast through dinner. Bahama Breeze brings Caribbean dishes and tropical cocktails in a laid-back setting. The Columbia Restaurant, a branch of a chain dating to 1905, serves traditional Spanish food. Armature Works is a historic mixed-use space with an upscale food court and bar, so you can sample from several vendors in one visit.
What cultural or historical attractions should I check out?▾
Tampa Theatre, built in 1926, is an ornate movie palace with a Wurlitzer organ and regular film screenings. The Tampa Bay History Center covers local history with interactive exhibits and maps. Henry B. Plant Museum focuses on Florida's early tourism and displays Asian and European art. Centro Asturiano de Tampa, a 1902 Spanish social club on the National Register of Historic Places, also hosts events.
Where can I hear live music or find nightlife in Tampa?▾
Crowbar is a downtown club with live music, DJs, and a beer garden. The Ritz Ybor is another live music venue, located in the historic Ybor City district. For a more laid-back evening, Jekyll is a lounge bar serving cocktails, wine, and dinner. Several restaurants also have bars, so you can often catch a drink and a meal in one stop.
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via Google MapsJoe's New York Diner
Old-fashioned, 24-hour eatery whipping up breakfast plates, steak, pasta, sandwiches & finger foods.
K1 Speed Tampa
This 70,000-sq.-ft. indoor go-kart facility features 2 tracks, electric vehicles & a lounge.
Ocean Prime
Upscale chain known for its sophisticated decor, long wine list & classic steak & seafood menu.
Water Works Park
A riverfront park with open, green space, plus a playground, picnicking & a splash pad for children.
via Google MapsLa Pequeña Colombia
Folksy, family-owned bar/eatery since 1990 with TVs, old-school Colombian dishes & a bakery counter.
via Google MapsFleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
High-end steakhouse chain with aged prime beef & classics such as lobster tails.
via Google MapsTrip's Diner
Down-to-earth diner for breakfast favorites, sandwiches & salads, plus homestyle American mains.
via Google MapsYuengling Center
Arena on U of South Florida campus seating 10,000 for sports & concerts with concessions & suites.
via Google MapsLongHorn Steakhouse
Casual steakhouse chain known for grilled beef & other American dishes in a ranch-style space.
via Google MapsBrick House Tavern + Tap
Modern sports-pub chain boasting recliners plus high-concept bar food & a huge selection of beer.
via Google MapsBrocato's Sandwich Shop
Modest, family-owned local draw turning out gourmet sandwiches & deviled crab since 1948.
via Google MapsLa Segunda Bakery and Cafe
Venerable operation open since 1915 offering Cuban bread, plus sandwiches, cookies & pastries.
Sparkman Wharf
Modern waterfront area featuring hip restaurants & shops, a beer garden & street-food stands.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.
via Google MapsThree Coins Diner
All-day diner with deep breakfast, lunch & dinner menus served in basic metal & Formica decor.
via Google MapsSeasons 52
Rotating menu of seasonal American dishes alongside international wines in an upscale setting.
Glazer Children's Museum
Interactive activities focused on weather, art, communication & more for children under 12.
AMC Highwoods 20
Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park
Scenic, 25-acre riverside park featuring a boat house, huge lawn & splash pad, plus areas for dogs.
Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Elegant fine-dining chain with a seafood & steak menu, plus a cocktail lounge featuring live jazz