12 Best Things To Do In Tampa, Florida

Boasting a mix of cultural influences, outdoor recreational activities, and top-rated attractions, Tampa, Florida, is a city that offers an intriguing assortment of adventures for residents and visitors alike. With its mix of modern urban architecture and preservation of historic landmarks, the city beautifully merges the past with the present. The mesmerizing range of recreational activities offers something for everyone, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie wanting to experience heart-thumping rides at Busch Gardens, a nature lover eager to explore the rich biodiversity at The Florida Aquarium, or a science geek inclined toward unraveling mysteries at the Museum of Science & Industry called MOSI. Fly high on the wings of excitement as you embark on a journey to uncover the best Tampa has to offer.

Visit Busch Gardens

Set foot into the wild expanse of Busch Gardens and get swept away into an African safari experience in the heart of Tampa, Florida.

This enticing, 335-acre animal-themed park is not merely an attraction but an immersive journey that transports visitors straight into the heart of the African wilderness, without ever having to leave Florida.

You’ll marvel at the sight of exotic animals in naturalistic habitats, from giraffes to captivating cheetahs, each one more enchanting than the last. With species from every corner of the continent, it’s almost like stepping into an African Serengeti. It’s not just the wildlife that takes center stage, however. With a keen focus on conservation, Busch Gardens also offers educational exhibits designed to heighten understanding and appreciation of these magnificent creatures – an unforgettable learning experience for all ages.

Rides and Attractions

But the call of the wild isn’t the only draw at Busch Gardens. Brace yourself for heart-stopping thrills on a variety of roller coasters that are sure to set pulses racing. The star of them all is the SheiKra. This floorless dive coaster isn’t for the faint-hearted, as riders are dangled over a 200-foot drop before hurtling towards the ground at 70 miles per hour in an exhilarating 90-degree descent.

More adventures awaiting

From pulse-pounding rides to spectacular live shows, there’s something to enthrall every family member at Busch Gardens. Plan your visit with time to spare, for the lively entertainment includes musical performances, acrobatics dazzle, and more – all deeply infused with a vibrant African vibe. The animal interactions, exhibits, rides, and shows at Busch Gardens provide endless opportunities for fun, discovery, and adventure while creating memories that’ll last a lifetime.

No visit to Tampa is truly complete without a day – or more – spent at Busch Gardens. Breathtaking scenes, thrilling rides, captivating animals, and live entertainment make this a must-visit destination. And while you’re immersed in all the excitement, you’ll be learning exciting aspects of African wildlife too – now that’s time well spent.

Explore The Florida Aquarium

Meet The Aquatic Life at The Florida Aquarium

Located in Downtown Tampa, The Florida Aquarium is a haven for all sorts of aquatic creatures. It houses over 7,000 aquatic animals, making it one of the go-to places if you’re a fan of marine life. Here, you’ll have the chance to get close to sharks, otters, and even gators, all from the safety of their well-maintained aquatic habitats.

Interactive Wetland Trails for Families

Beyond the exhibits, The Florida Aquarium also features interactive wetland trails. These trails offer a perfect destination for families as they provide the opportunity to interact with many aquatic creatures. These winding paths offer an easy and exciting way to learn about the different species housed in the aquarium with the help of informative signage along the routes.

Diving into Adventure at the Coral Reef Exhibit

Complete your trip by diving deep into the adventurous Coral Reef Exhibit. It offers a unique opportunity you won’t often find elsewhere: getting up close and personal with underwater life through a swim with the fishes opportunity. This personal encounter with diverse aquatic species in the Coral Reef Exhibit is a spectacle that could create a lasting memory for you and your family.In all, a trip to Tampa won’t be complete without exploring The Florida Aquarium where aquatic life thrives and interactive exhibits give you an extraordinary glimpse into the diversity of marine life. Whether you’re touring with family, friends, or going solo, The Florida Aquarium offers an exciting and enlightening experience.

Photo by gillytech on Unsplash

Tour the Museum of Science & Industry

A Haven for Science Enthusiasts: Museum of Science & Industry

If you’re visiting Tampa, Florida and have a knack for learning, one of the must-see attractions is the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI). The museum boasts a wide range of interactive exhibits that cater to science lovers of all ages. Visitors are often captivated by the comprehensive yet relatable coverage of various scientific topics.

Upon entering MOSI, you are immediately drawn into a world of knowledge and discovery. One of the highlights is their exhibit on natural disasters – an elaborate display that provides insights about the destructive power of Mother Nature and the science behind hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanoes.

For tech enthusiasts, the robotics section offers a fascinating glimpse into the future. Here, you are exposed to the world of automation, machine intelligence, and technological innovation. You can watch robots in action and learn about their functions and potential effects on society.

If you prefer biology and medical science, the anatomy exhibit is a must-visit. It provides an in-depth look into the human body, showcasing realistic models and interactive displays about our organs and bodily functions.

MOSI isn’t just about observing science – it’s about living it. In the museum’s lab, you are encouraged to participate in real scientific experiments, giving you a firsthand experience of what it’s like to be a scientist.

For space lovers, the Saunders Planetarium is a real delight. With its advanced projection system, it takes you on a captivating journey through the cosmos. You will get to explore the moon, the solar system, distant stars, and galaxies, all from the comfort of your chair.

To sum it up, the Museum of Science & Industry provides a perfect fusion of education and entertainment. A trip to MOSI is not only fun and entertaining but will also leave you with a better understanding of the fascinating world of science.

Witnessing the grandeur of Busch Gardens, exploring the underwater world at The Florida Aquarium, and delving into the mysteries of science at MOSI are just the tip of the iceberg when talking about the multifaceted city of Tampa. Offering far more than sunny beaches, Tampa presents a well-rounded potpourri of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and foodie delights that are likely to keep avid explorers coming back for more. As you tour the city, you will uncover the essence of Tampa – a city where the present thrives amidst a rich and vivid tapestry of history and culture. So, buckle up for a fascinating journey that is Tampa, a unique city where fun, learning, and adventure come together as a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.