Itineraries for Your Trip to Tampa
3 Days in Tampa for Families
Take it from someone who lives in Orlando, the theme-park capital of the world: Tampa Bay is every bit as deserving of your family vacation. Tempting as it may be to choose another Florida city, Tampa delivers all the major items on most family’s vacation wish lists: attractions and thrill rides (without huge lines); live events, indoor fun, and a roaring zoo; and some of the best beaches you’ll find on the Gulf Coast. All of these things and more are close by to downtown hotels.
Here’s what to do with kids in Tampa and how to make the most of a three-day family stay.
Dress for summer all year, keeping a jacket and umbrella close by.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a sunset cruise.
On day one you won’t be the only family lining up at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, so pre-purchase your tickets and waste no time getting to the front of the line for SheiKra, the first dive coaster in the country.
Then, when the sun starts to hang high in the sky, trade the roller coasters for the water slides at Adventure Island Water Park.
If you’re trying to maximize your three days, consider purchasing a Tampa Bay CityPASS™. A single pass gets you into a myriad of attractions, including the theme parks, Tropics Boat Tours, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Day two is all about showing the kids how much fun and educational Tampa Bay can be. The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) has fascinating exhibits, a planetarium, and even a ropes course to try.
After a MOSI trip, see the aquatic life swimming around at the Florida Aquarium. A skip-the-line ticket also includes access to the Splash Pad, 4-D Theater, and getting up close and personal with rays.
End your day with a visit to ZooTampa at Lowry Park where you can opt to feed a rhino, pet a penguin, or take selfies with a koala.
On your final day embrace the beauty of the city itself. Sightseeing cruises offer the opportunity to watch the playful dolphins leap in and out of the bay waters.
If you’re not ready to leave the water, grab your preferred beverage and a pack of playing cards for a ride up and down the Hillsborough River on a floating tiki bar.
Finally, end your family vacation with a spooky—yet not scary—kid-friendly ghost tour. Pack your favorite snacks and explore the haunted history of Tampa while trying to catch a spirit sneaking in on your family photos.
