The Tampa Museum of Art is a dazzling addition to the Tampa waterfront. It’s one of the region’s largest museums devoted to contemporary art, and although it includes hundreds of antiquities, it’s a surprisingly quick museum to tour. Most can browse the contemporary art, ancient exhibits, and new features within 1 to 2 hours when taking their time.
The first Sunday of each month’s full weekend offers free admission for Bank of America card or account holders.
Thursdays have extended hours, as well as pay-as-you-will pricing in the evening.
The on-site Sono Cafe offers terrific views of the Hillsborough River for those who like to dine with a view.
The Tampa Museum of Art is at 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, just west of downtown Tampa. There is dedicated parking on-site which can be reached via Interstate 275’s downtown exit. Rideshares and taxis are available, while cyclists and pedestrians can reach the museum via the Tampa Riverwalk. You can also take the Cross Bay Ferry to the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park ferry terminal.
Weekends are more popular to visit than weekdays, particularly in the afternoon when the heat is strongest. Thursday’s extended hours and name-your-price admission draw the most people during the week, so visit as early as possible if you want more space to appreciate each exhibit. On weekdays, visiting at any time of the day should offer ideal crowd sizes and quietness.
The Tampa Museum of Art is at an excellent location along the Tampa Riverwalk. You can spend the day in the area without venturing far from the gallery. The Glazer Children’s Museum is next door, as is Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, home to a dog-friendly park with a playground and year-round events like food festivals, concerts, and more.