There are a number of things to do in Tampa, whether your interest is a spa experience, outdoor recreation such as golfing, amusement parks, seeing animals at the zoo, or taking in one of Florida’s most known museums. When it is time to eat, there are also a wide variety of restaurants all around the sights, with cuisine ranging from traditional Latin fare to seafood. Whatever your reason for a trip to Florida is, there are a constellation of things to do in Tampa.
Awa, a Spa and Wellness Sanctuary
5820 S. Mac Dill Ave., Tampa, FL 33611. Phone: 813.902.1904.
Awa is one of the best-known day spas in Tampa, offering island décor and treatments such as lemongrass aromatherapy. There are a number of traditional spa therapies, limited salon services such as body waxing, and ancient therapies such as ear candling and reiki. A visit to Awa can also feature a makeup application lesson and of course, a massage.
Babe Zaharias Golf Course
11412 Forest Hills Dr., Tampa, FL 33612. Phone: 813.631.4374.
“The Babe” is one of the many things to do in Tampa, especially for avid golf enthusiasts. Babe Zaharias Golf Course winds through a beautiful residential neighborhood, and offers 18 holes of green for golfers of all levels. First established in 1926, “The Babe” also features instruction for new and seasoned golfers, and underwent extensive renovations in 2004.
Busch Gardens Africa
10001 N. McKinley Dr., Tampa, FL 33612. Phone: 813.987.5209.
Busch Gardens Africa offers a number of things to do in Tampa. Not only do they offer a variety of rides such as SheiKra, North America’s first dive roller coaster, but also waterfalls, live entertainment, animals, and a host of dining options. The amusement park also provides guided tour options and private parties appealing to people of all ages.
The Florida Aquarium
701 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL 33602. Phone: 813.273.4000.
Florida is known for its unique water culture, and the 250,000 square foot space available at The Florida Aquarium is one of the most exciting things to do in Tampa. There are coral reefs, opportunities to swim with the fish, and delights such as viewing a 350 pound grouper. There are more than 20,000 aquatic animals and plants to see.2
Lowry Park Zoo
1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, FL 33604. Phone: 813.935.8552.
Lowry Park Zoo holds diverse activities for children and adults alike who are visiting Tampa. The site holds 2,000 animals in 56 acres of habitats, and was voted the number one zoo in the United States by “Child” magazine. Animal species featured include elephants, white rhinoceros, and numerous insects and reptiles.
Museum of Science and Industry
4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33617. Phone: 812.987.6315.
Museum of Science and Industry, an integral part of Hillsborough County, is another of the many things to do in Tampa. This extensive museum holds 450 exhibits and the only IMAX Dome theater in Florida. Museum of Science and Industry is also considered the largest museum in the southeastern United States. Offerings include a 13,000 square foot exhibit on health and fitness.
