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More Than Just Busch Gardens: 10 Exciting Tampa Attractions for All Ages

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More Than Just Busch Gardens: 10 Exciting Tampa Attractions for All Ages

Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city offering a wide array of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. While Busch Gardens is undoubtedly one of the most famous destinations in the area, there’s so much more to explore in the Tampa Bay Area. From thrilling adventures to educational experiences, here are ten exciting Tampa attractions for all ages that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

The Ultimate Theme Park Experience
When discussing Tampa attractions, Busch Gardens is often the first name that comes to mind. This world-renowned theme park combines thrilling rides, live entertainment, and an extensive zoo featuring over 200 species of animals. Whether you’re a roller coaster enthusiast or an animal lover, Busch Gardens offers something for everyone.

Location: 10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612

Admission: Tickets start at $89.99 for single-day entry, with discounts for multi-day passes.

Parking: General parking is available for $30 per vehicle.

Highlights:

  • SheiKra: A heart-pounding dive coaster that drops you 200 feet at a 90-degree angle.
  • Serengeti Safari: Get up close and personal with giraffes and other African animals in their natural habitat.
  • Sesame Street Safari of Fun: Perfect for younger visitors, featuring kid-friendly rides and shows.

2. The Florida Aquarium

Dive into the Wonders of the Ocean
Another top contender among Tampa attractions for all ages is The Florida Aquarium. Located in downtown Tampa, this massive aquarium offers a deep dive into the wonders of marine life. From interactive exhibits to engaging animal encounters, it’s an educational and fun experience for the whole family.

Location: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602

Admission: Adult tickets are $36.95, and children’s tickets (ages 3-11) are $31.95. Children under 2 enter free.

Parking: On-site parking is available for $10 per vehicle.

Highlights:

  • Wetlands Trail: Explore Florida’s unique ecosystem, including alligators, otters, and free-flying birds.
  • Journey to Madagascar: Discover the fascinating creatures of Madagascar, including lemurs and chameleons.
  • Coral Reef Gallery: Experience the beauty of a coral reef, complete with sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish.

3. ZooTampa at Lowry Park

A Wild Adventure for All Ages
ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a must-visit among Tampa attractions for all ages. This award-winning zoo is home to more than 1,300 animals and offers interactive experiences that bring you closer to wildlife. With a focus on conservation, the zoo provides educational opportunities and fun for all.

Location: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604

Admission: General admission is $44.95 for adults and $34.95 for children (ages 3-11). Children under 3 are free (pricing subject to change).

Parking: Complimentary parking is available on-site.

Highlights:

  • Expedition Africa: Encounter African elephants, rhinos, and meerkats in this immersive exhibit.
  • Manatee Critical Care Center: Learn about the zoo’s efforts to rehabilitate injured manatees.
  • Roaring Springs: A family-friendly water ride that offers a refreshing escape from the Florida heat.

4. Tampa Riverwalk

A Scenic Stroll Through Tampa
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian path that winds along the Hillsborough River, connecting many of Tampa’s top attractions. It’s an ideal way to experience the city’s vibrant culture, with parks, museums, restaurants, and public art installations along the way.

Location: Spans from the Tampa Convention Center to Armature Works

Admission: Free to explore.

Parking: Paid parking is available at various locations along the Riverwalk.

Highlights:

  • Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: A popular spot for picnics, festivals, and outdoor concerts.
  • Tampa Museum of Art: Features contemporary and classical art, with free admission on specific days.
  • The Sail Pavilion: A pet-friendly bar and restaurant with waterfront views, perfect for a relaxing break.

5. Glazer Children’s Museum

Interactive Learning for Kids
The Glazer Children’s Museum is one of the top Tampa attractions for families with young children. This interactive museum is designed to inspire and educate kids through play. With 170 exhibits across 17 themed areas, children can explore everything from a firefighter’s role to a news anchor’s job.

Location: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602

Admission: $15 for adults and $13 for children (ages 1-12). Children under 1 are free.

Parking: Available at the adjacent Poe Garage for $1.20 per hour.

Highlights:

  • Kid-sized Publix: Children can pretend to shop, cook, and run a grocery store.
  • Water’s Journey: An interactive exhibit where kids can learn about water conservation.
  • Engineer’s Workshop: A hands-on space where children can build and create using real tools.

6. Tampa Bay History Center

Discover Tampa’s Rich History
For those interested in history, the Tampa Bay History Center is a fascinating stop among Tampa attractions. The museum chronicles over 12,000 years of Florida history through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.

Location: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602

Admission: $14.95 for adults, $12.95 for seniors, $10.95 for students, and $7.95 for children (ages 7-17).

Parking: Paid parking is available at the nearby Channelside Parking Garage.

Highlights:

  • Cigar City: Explore Tampa’s cigar-making history, complete with a recreated cigar store.
  • Coastal Living Gallery: Learn about Florida’s maritime history and its influence on the state’s development.
  • Treasure Seekers: Discover the world of pirates, conquistadors, and shipwrecks.

7. Adventure Island

Water Fun for All Ages
If you’re looking to cool off, Adventure Island is a fantastic option among Tampa attractions. This water park features thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and plenty of kid-friendly splash zones. It’s the perfect place to spend a hot Florida day.

Location: 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612

Admission: Tickets start at $39.99 for single-day entry, with discounts available for multi-day passes.

Parking: General parking is available for $30 per vehicle.

Highlights:

  • Colossal Curl: A massive water slide with twists, turns, and a zero-gravity experience.
  • Rambling Bayou: A relaxing lazy river ride that winds through tropical landscapes.
  • Splash Attack: A multi-level play area with water cannons, slides, and a giant tipping bucket.

8. Tampa Bay Grand Prix

Thrills on the Track
For those who crave speed, the Tampa Bay Grand Prix offers an exhilarating go-kart racing experience. This indoor track features high-speed electric karts that are fun for both adults and kids.

Location: 12350 Automobile Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33762

Admission: Prices start at $16.99 per race, with discounts for multiple races.

Parking: Free parking is available on-site.

Highlights:

  • High-Speed Karts: Race at speeds of up to 50 mph on a professionally designed track.
  • Junior Karts: Kid-friendly karts are available for younger racers, ensuring fun for all ages.
  • Arcade: Enjoy classic and modern arcade games while taking a break from the track.

9. Ybor City

Tampa’s Historic and Cultural Heart

No list of Tampa attractions is complete without mentioning Ybor City. This historic neighborhood, founded by Cuban immigrants in the late 19th century, is now a vibrant cultural hub. With its mix of shops, restaurants, museums, and nightlife, Ybor City offers something for everyone.

Location: East of downtown Tampa, bounded by 7th Ave and 15th St

Admission: Free to explore, though some attractions may have admission fees.

Parking: Street parking and paid lots are available throughout the area.

Highlights:

  • Ybor City Museum State Park: Learn about the neighborhood’s rich history and cultural significance.
  • Columbia Restaurant: Enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine at Florida’s oldest restaurant.
  • Cigar Shops: Visit one of the many cigar shops to watch a cigar-rolling demonstration and purchase a hand-rolled cigar.

Stay Close to the Best Tampa Attractions at Sailport Waterfront Suites

Sailport Waterfront Suites is the perfect place to stay while exploring the best Tampa attractions for all ages. Located on the shores of Tampa Bay, this hotel offers stunning waterfront views and easy access to top spots like Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa.

Why Choose Sailport Waterfront Suites?

  • Prime Location: Just a short drive from downtown Tampa and major attractions.
  • Spacious Suites: Enjoy fully equipped accommodations with private balconies and full kitchens.
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: Relax by the heated outdoor pool, play beach volleyball, or have a BBQ on-site.
  • Convenient Access: Complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions and dining spots.

Book your stay at Sailport Waterfront Suites and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and tranquility as you explore the best Tampa has to offer.