Are you feeling stuck in a rut? Well, it might be time to break free and explore the vibrant city of Tampa in 2022! This travel guide is packed with key points of interest that will keep you entertained and energized. From the thrill rides and exotic animals at Busch Gardens to the top-notch zoological experience at Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the Florida Aquarium, where you can get up close and personal with underwater creatures and even touch stingrays and jellyfish in the touch tanks. And if you’re looking for a taste of adventure, why not go on a boat tour or rent a paddleboard or jet ski? With its natural attractions, eateries, and ongoing development projects, Tampa is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating vacation. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this dynamic city like never before!
1. Top Attractions
1.1 Busch Gardens
When visiting Tampa, a visit to Busch Gardens is a must! This exciting theme park combines thrilling rides with exotic animals to create an unforgettable experience. With its African-themed setting, Busch Gardens offers a unique and immersive atmosphere. The park is located about nine miles north of downtown Tampa and offers regular and premium parking options. Regular parking costs $30, while premium parking is available for $35.
One of the main highlights of Busch Gardens is its thrilling rides. The park is home to Iron Gwazi, a brand new coaster that features a 206-foot drop at a 91-degree angle, reaching speeds of 76 miles per hour. This crocodile-themed hybrid coaster offers adrenaline-pumping twists, turns, and inversions, making it perfect for thrill-seekers.
In addition to the rides, Busch Gardens is known for its exotic animal exhibits. You can encounter a variety of animals, including giraffes, African elephants, koalas, giant tortoises, and African penguins. With opportunities to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures, Busch Gardens provides a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
1.2 Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park
If you’re a fan of animals, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park is a must-visit attraction in Tampa. Voted as one of the top zoos in the country, this zoo offers a wide range of animal encounters and exhibits. Located at 1101 W Sligh Ave, Zoo Tampa features various animals, including Florida manatees, southern white rhinos, Hartman mountain zebras, Angolan colobus monkeys, hamadryas baboons, and orangutans.
At an additional cost, visitors can also go backstage and interact with the animals. This unique opportunity allows guests to learn more about the conservation efforts and care provided to each species. The zoo also offers smaller rides, such as Roaring Springs and the Wild Africa Safari Ride, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.
1.3 Florida Aquarium
Located in downtown Tampa at 701 Channelside Dr, the Florida Aquarium is a must-see attraction for marine life enthusiasts. The aquarium offers a wide range of underwater exhibits, showcasing various fish, eels, sand tiger sharks, and stingrays. One of the highlights of the aquarium is its touch tanks, where visitors can touch stingrays and jellyfish, providing a hands-on and interactive experience.
The Florida Aquarium also features a wetlands trail, allowing visitors to explore unique ecosystems and learn more about the importance of conservation. Additionally, the aquarium offers a 4D theater, a splash pad for kids, and an outdoor plaza with food and drinks available.
1.4 Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile-long pedestrian trail that runs along the Hillsborough River, providing stunning views and access to various attractions. The riverwalk is a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike, offering a scenic and leisurely way to explore the city.
Along the riverwalk, you’ll find attractions such as the Tampa Bay History Center and Emily Arena. The riverwalk also passes by parks, restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a hub for entertainment and leisure activities. Whether you want to go for a walk, bike ride, or simply enjoy the beautiful views, the Tampa Riverwalk is a must-visit destination.
2. Unique Activities
2.1 Goat Yoga at Grady Goat Yoga
If you’re looking for a unique and fun activity in Tampa, look no further than Grady Goat Yoga. Located at 12551 Franklin Rd in Thonotosassa, Grady Goat Yoga offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines yoga with adorable goats. Every Saturday morning, you can participate in a yoga session while these friendly and playful goats roam around.
Goat yoga is not only a great way to relax and destress but also an opportunity to interact with animals and enjoy their presence. The owners, Debbie and Rob, and their family are passionate about rescuing and providing a sanctuary for neglected or abandoned goats, making your visit even more meaningful.
2.2 Strawberry Festival in Plant City
Plant City, located just east of Tampa, is known as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Every year, during the first part of March, the city hosts the Strawberry Festival, a celebration of all things strawberry. This 11-day festival features top-name artists and musicians performing live, making it a great event for music lovers.
At the Strawberry Festival, you can indulge in the famous Florida strawberry shortcake, which is the official state dessert of Florida. There are also livestock shows, a wide variety of carnival games and rides, and multiple stages with free entertainment, including magicians and other artists. It’s a fun-filled and delicious event that showcases the importance of strawberries to the local community.
3. Ticket Packages and Parking
When planning your visit to the attractions in Tampa, it’s important to consider ticket packages and parking options. Many attractions offer ticket packages that provide access to multiple parks or extended stay options in Tampa Bay.
For example, Busch Gardens offers multiple park tickets that include access to Adventure Island, SeaWorld, and Aquatica in Orlando. These multi-park tickets provide a cost-effective and convenient way to experience various attractions.
When it comes to parking, most attractions have designated parking areas available. Busch Gardens offers regular parking for $30 and premium parking for $35. The Florida Aquarium provides parking for $10, while Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park has its own parking facilities as well.
It’s recommended to plan ahead and ensure you have adequate time for parking, as well as any ticket purchases or arrangements for ticket packages. This will help make your visit to Tampa’s top attractions as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
4. Eateries and Bars
4.1 Armature Works
Located at 1910 N. Ola in Tampa, Armature Works is a must-visit destination for food lovers. This upscale food hall offers a wide variety of culinary options, ranging from Asian cuisine to American classics. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, tacos, or sushi, Armature Works has something for everyone.
In addition to the food options, Armature Works also features a bar and lounge area where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing drink. The stylish and vibrant atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience, making Armature Works a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
4.2 Sparkman Wharf
Situated at 615 Channelside Dr, Sparkman Wharf is a transformed mixed-use attraction that offers a blend of craft beer, restaurants, bars, and live entertainment. This vibrant waterfront destination has become a hotspot for food enthusiasts and those looking for a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.
At Sparkman Wharf, you can indulge in delicious dishes from various food vendors, including seafood, burgers, tacos, and more. There are also several bars where you can grab a drink and enjoy the waterfront views. The live entertainment adds to the energetic ambiance, making Sparkman Wharf a must-visit for those seeking a memorable culinary experience.
5. Lodging Options
5.1 Marriott Water Street
Located at 505 Water St in Tampa, the Marriott Water Street offers a comfortable and convenient lodging option for visitors. This waterfront hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Tampa, providing easy access to attractions, restaurants, and shopping.
The Marriott Water Street features modern and spacious rooms, designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable stay. With amenities such as a fitness center, outdoor pool, and on-site dining options, the hotel ensures that all your needs are met during your time in Tampa.
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, the Marriott Water Street offers a great place to stay, providing comfort, convenience, and exceptional service.
6. Tampa’s Growth and Development
Tampa has experienced significant growth and development in recent years, becoming a vibrant and exciting city. With a strong economy and a growing population, Tampa has become an attractive destination for businesses and residents alike.
One of the major development projects in Tampa is the Water Street project. This ambitious project aims to transform the downtown area into a modern and thriving neighborhood. It includes a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, along with new dining and entertainment options. The completion of the Water Street project will further enhance the appeal of Tampa as a destination.
In addition to the Water Street project, other areas such as Midtown Tampa are also undergoing development. These areas are becoming increasingly popular due to the addition of restaurants, bars, shops, and lodging options. Tampa’s growth and development are creating new opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
7. Natural Attractions
7.1 Hillsborough River State Park
For nature lovers, Hillsborough River State Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located at 15402 US 301 N in Thonotosassa, about 30 minutes northeast of downtown Tampa, this state park provides a wide range of outdoor activities and beautiful scenery.
Hillsborough River State Park features seven miles of nature trails, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems. The trails pass over vintage bridges and offer opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The park is also pet-friendly, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts with furry companions.
If you enjoy biking, the park offers a 1.6-mile wetlands bike trail and a 2.2-mile asphalt park loop for cyclists of all skill levels. For those looking to camp, Hillsborough River State Park provides RV and tent camping options with electricity available on most sites.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, Hillsborough River State Park offers a tranquil and scenic experience that showcases Florida’s natural beauty.
8. Busch Gardens
8.1 Thrilling Rides
As mentioned earlier, Busch Gardens is renowned for its thrilling rides. In addition to Iron Gwazi and Goomba, there are several other exciting coasters and attractions to enjoy. Sheikra, for example, is a dive coaster that features a 200-foot vertical drop at an 90-degree angle, reaching speeds up to 70 miles per hour. Montu, a suspended roller coaster, takes riders through seven inversions, including a 60-foot vertical loop and a zero-G roll.
Other notable rides at Busch Gardens include Kumba, a steel roller coaster with seven inversions, and Cheetah Hunt, a high-speed coaster that simulates the acceleration and agility of a cheetah. With a variety of coasters and rides suitable for different thrill levels, Busch Gardens offers something for everyone seeking an adrenaline rush.
8.2 Exotic Animals
In addition to its thrilling rides, Busch Gardens is also home to a wide range of exotic animals. Visitors can embark on a safari-like adventure and witness animals like giraffes, zebras, rhinos, elephants, and penguins up close. The park provides educational opportunities to learn more about these incredible creatures and the conservation efforts in place to protect them.
Busch Gardens also offers animal interactions, allowing guests to have hands-on experiences with certain animals. From feeding giraffes to getting up close with a giant tortoise, these animal encounters provide a memorable and unique experience. Whether you’re an animal lover or simply curious to learn more about wildlife, Busch Gardens offers an immersive and educational journey.
9. Adventure Island
For water park enthusiasts, Adventure Island is Tampa’s largest water park and a great way to beat the heat. Located at 10001 N McKinley Dr, adjacent to Busch Gardens, Adventure Island offers a variety of thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers for all ages to enjoy.
The water park features attractions such as Colossal Curl, a 622-foot-long slide with twists, turns, and high banking walls, and Vanish Point, a speed slide that sends riders into a freefall through a trapdoor. There are also family-friendly attractions like Fabian’s Funport, which offers miniature water slides and fountains for young children.
With its tropical theme and abundance of exciting water attractions, Adventure Island provides a refreshing and exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect place to cool off and have fun in the Florida sun.
19. Tampa Aerial Media
19.1 Licensing and Stock Footage
If you’re interested in capturing the beauty of Tampa from an aerial perspective or in need of licensing or stock footage, Tampa Aerial Media offers professional aerial videography services. With their expertise and state-of-the-art equipment, Tampa Aerial Media can provide stunning aerial footage and images of Tampa’s landmarks and attractions.
Whether you’re a filmmaker, advertiser, or simply looking for unique visual content, Tampa Aerial Media can assist you in capturing the perfect shot. For licensing or stock footage inquiries, you can contact Tampa Aerial Media at info@TampaAerialMedia.com. They also offer filming services for cities and regions, providing a comprehensive visual experience for your specific needs.
Tampa Aerial Media’s captivating aerial footage showcases the beauty and vibrancy of Tampa, offering a unique perspective that will enhance your projects or inspire your travel plans.
In conclusion, Tampa offers a wide range of attractions, activities, and experiences for visitors to enjoy. From the thrilling rides and exotic animals at Busch Gardens to the interactive exhibits at the Florida Aquarium, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. The unique activities, such as goat yoga at Grady Goat Yoga and the annual Strawberry Festival in Plant City, add to the charm and excitement. With various ticket packages, parking options, eateries, and lodging accommodations, Tampa provides convenience and comfort to enhance your visit. So, plan your trip to Tampa and explore all the wonderful sights and experiences this city has to offer!