Tampa Bay, Florida, is a lively and diverse area offering a wide variety of fun activities for all ages. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, family-friendly entertainment, or unique wildlife experiences, the Tampa Bay area has something for everyone. From its vibrant city life to the beautiful natural landscapes that surround it, Tampa Bay is a fantastic destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top fun activities to do near Tampa Bay, including an unforgettable dolphin swim experience at **Discovery Cove** in nearby Orlando. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these activities are sure to provide fun and memorable experiences.
A great place to start your adventure in Tampa is the Tampa Riverwalk. This scenic pedestrian path winds along the Hillsborough River, offering beautiful views of the city skyline and the waterfront. The Riverwalk is the perfect place for families to explore, with plenty of attractions, parks, and dining options along the way.
The Florida Aquarium: Located near the start of the Riverwalk, the Florida Aquarium is a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts. It features a variety of interactive exhibits, including a large coral reef habitat, where visitors can learn about marine ecosystems and even touch some of the aquatic creatures. For kids, the aquarium offers a splash pad area, adding a fun and refreshing element to your visit.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: This urban park is a popular spot for relaxing, picnicking, or letting the kids run around on the playground. The park regularly hosts outdoor concerts, festivals, and cultural events, making it a lively hub of activity.
Armature Works: For a delicious meal or snack, head to Armature Works, a food hall and market with a wide variety of dining options. From artisanal pizzas to fresh seafood, there’s something for every palate here. After your meal, enjoy a walk along the Riverwalk or rent a bike to explore even more of the area.
For a day filled with thrills and excitement, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of the top attractions in the area. This African-themed amusement park combines the excitement of world-class roller coasters with the wonders of a wildlife sanctuary, making it a perfect destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Roller Coasters: For adrenaline junkies, Busch Gardens is home to some of the most thrilling roller coasters in the country, including **SheiKra**, a 200-foot dive coaster, and **Iron Gwazi**, one of the tallest hybrid coasters in North America.
Serengeti Safari: In addition to the rides, Busch Gardens is known for its incredible animal experiences. The **Serengeti Safari** allows guests to board an open-air vehicle and explore a 65-acre habitat filled with giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife. You can even get the chance to feed giraffes!
Family-Friendly Rides: If you’re visiting with younger children, Busch Gardens offers plenty of family-friendly rides and attractions, such as the **Sesame Street Safari of Fun** and **Stanley Falls Flume, a classic log ride that everyone can enjoy.
Busch Gardens is a must-visit for anyone looking for a combination of excitement and wildlife adventure. You can do a combo package, Busch Gardens Tampa, Discovery Cove Orlando and Sea World Orlando. Please call us about the 3 park package, a great value.
Located just a short drive from Tampa, Clearwater Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States and a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Known for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, Clearwater Beach is the perfect place to relax, swim, and enjoy a variety of water activities.
Jet Skiing and Parasailing: If you’re looking for some adventure, Clearwater Beach offers a range of water sports, including jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. You can rent equipment right on the beach and enjoy the stunning views from the water.
Pier 60: This famous pier is a hub of activity, offering daily sunset celebrations with street performers, artisans, and musicians. It’s a great place to take a stroll, watch the sunset, and browse through the local vendors selling handmade goods.
Dolphin Watching Tours: Clearwater Beach is also known for its dolphin-watching tours. Board a boat and head out into the Gulf of Mexico, where you’ll have the chance to spot playful dolphins swimming in their natural habitat. Many tours also offer snorkeling opportunities and scenic views of the coastline.
Clearwater Beach is the perfect destination for a day of relaxation, fun, and outdoor activities by the water.
One of the most memorable ways to swim with dolphins near Tampa is to take a day trip to Discovery Cove in Orlando. Located about 1½ hours from Tampa depending on traffic, Discovery Cove offers an all-inclusive tropical resort experience where guests can enjoy a dolphin interaction along with snorkeling, animal encounters, relaxing waterways, and other activities. For families staying in Tampa Bay who want to add a special marine-life experience to their vacation, Discovery Cove can be an easy Orlando day trip.
Dolphin Interaction: The main attraction for many guests is the opportunity to swim with dolphins near Tampa at Discovery Cove. During the dolphin experience, guests spend time in shallow water with a dolphin and professional animal care staff, with opportunities for close interaction while learning more about dolphin behavior and care. It is a memorable choice for travelers who want more than simply watching dolphins from a distance.
Snorkeling With Rays and Tropical Fish: Your day at Discovery Cove can include snorkeling in the Grand Reef, where guests can swim among colorful tropical fish and rays while exploring a large marine environment. It adds another hands-on ocean experience to your day beyond the dolphin program.
The Explorer’s Aviary: Discovery Cove also offers a tropical aviary where guests can walk among colorful birds in a lush setting. It is a relaxing change of pace and gives families another animal experience to enjoy during their visit.
All-Inclusive Perks: One of the biggest advantages of Discovery Cove is the all-inclusive format. Depending on your package, your day can include meals, snacks, beverages, snorkeling equipment, and access to the park’s different attractions, making it easier to enjoy the experience without constantly planning each part of the day separately.
If you are visiting Tampa Bay and searching for a place to swimming with dolphins near Tampa, Discovery Cove is one of the closest major options and can turn an Orlando day trip into one of the highlights of your Florida vacation.
If you’re interested in learning more about the rich history of the Tampa Bay area, the **Tampa Bay History Center** is a great place to visit. This interactive museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of the region, from the indigenous people of Florida to the pirates who once roamed the Gulf waters.
Exhibits on Florida’s History: The museum features engaging exhibits on Florida’s early settlers, Spanish explorers, and the impact of the railroad on the state’s development. You’ll also find displays on the history of the cigar industry in Tampa and the city’s role in the U.S. military.
Interactive Displays: Kids will love the museum’s interactive exhibits, including a replica pirate ship and hands-on activities that allow them to explore Tampa’s history in a fun and educational way.
Columbia Café: After exploring the museum, stop by the **Columbia Café** for a taste of Tampa’s famous Cuban cuisine. The café offers delicious sandwiches, salads, and traditional Spanish dishes.
The Tampa Bay History Center is a great way to learn more about the area’s past while enjoying a fun and educational day out with the family.
From the exciting roller coasters at Busch Gardens to the relaxing beaches of Clearwater and the unforgettable dolphin swim experience at Discovery Cove in Orlando, the Tampa Bay area offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, outdoor exploration, or thrilling water experiences, Tampa Bay and its surrounding areas have something for everyone. So, pack your sunscreen, get ready for adventure, and start exploring all the fun things to do near Tampa Bay, Florida!
