Tampa

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Tampa's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Ybor City
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious Cuban breakfast at La Segunda Central Bakery, sampling their famous pastries and coffee. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Ybor City, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and historic architecture. Don't forget to check out the local shops that showcase unique crafts and art.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ybor City Museum State Park to learn about the rich cultural heritage of this historic neighborhood. Enjoy lunch at one of the many lively restaurants, where you can savor traditional Cuban dishes. Afterward, explore the local cigar shops and maybe even catch a rolling demonstration.

evening
:

As the sun sets, choose a rooftop bar for stunning views of the skyline while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Attend a live music performance at the historic Ritz Ybor, immersing yourself in the local music scene. Conclude the night with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.

day 2
Adventure at Busch Gardens
morning
:

Arrive early at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to maximize your time at this thrilling amusement park. Start with a ride on the iconic SheiKra roller coaster for an adrenaline rush. Afterward, explore the park's lush gardens and animal exhibits, including the majestic elephants and playful kangaroos.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at one of the park’s themed eateries, perhaps sampling some African-inspired dishes. Continue your day with more exhilarating rides like the Cheetah Hunt and the Falcon's Fury, or take a break at the animal encounters for a more relaxed experience. Don’t miss the live shows featuring exotic birds and acrobatic performances.

evening
:

As the park begins to close, catch the spectacular nighttime show featuring fireworks and immersive music. Grab dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on the day's adventures with fellow visitors. If you still have energy, consider a nightcap at a local bar to unwind.

day 3
Relaxation at Tampa Bay Beaches
morning
:

Head to Clearwater Beach for a morning of sun and sand, known for its soft white sands and clear blue waters. Rent a beach chair and umbrella, then take a refreshing dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café, savoring fresh seafood and tropical smoothies.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon indulging in water sports or simply lounging on the beach. Consider renting a paddleboard or jet ski to explore the shoreline from a different perspective. As the afternoon winds down, take a walk along the beach promenade and visit local shops for souvenirs.

evening
:

As night falls, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Pier 60, where street performers and local artisans showcase their talents. Grab dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant, reflecting on your relaxing beach day. Finish the evening with a stroll along the beach, taking in the sound of the waves under the starry sky.

day 4
Cultural Exploration at the Tampa Museum of Art
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tampa Museum of Art, known for its stunning architecture and diverse collection of contemporary and classical art. Spend your morning wandering through the galleries, appreciating works from local and international artists. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages.

afternoon
:

After the museum, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, perhaps sampling some local favorites or international cuisine. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, where you can relax by the river and enjoy the outdoor sculptures. If you're interested, consider renting a bike to explore the scenic Riverwalk.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head back to the museum for any special events or art talks that may be happening. For dinner, choose a restaurant in the downtown area, where you can enjoy upscale dining with a local twist. Conclude your cultural day with a stroll through the vibrant streets, possibly catching some live music or street performances.

day 5
Nature and Wildlife at the Florida Aquarium
morning
:

Begin your day at the Florida Aquarium, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of aquatic life. Explore interactive exhibits and get up close with fascinating marine animals, including sharks and sea turtles. Don't forget to check out the outdoor splash pad for a little fun if you're traveling with kids.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at the aquarium's café, featuring fresh, sustainable seafood options. Spend your afternoon participating in one of the aquarium's behind-the-scenes tours or animal encounters for a unique experience. Alternatively, take a short walk to the nearby Sparkman Wharf for shopping and local food vendors.

evening
:

As the day winds down, consider taking a sunset cruise from the aquarium for a scenic view of Tampa Bay. After the cruise, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants, indulging in local seafood specialties. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the bay, taking in the beautiful city skyline.

day 6
A Day on the Hillsborough River
morning
:

Kick off your day with a kayaking adventure on the Hillsborough River, where you can enjoy the serenity of nature. Rent a kayak or join a guided tour and paddle through lush mangroves, spotting wildlife like herons and manatees along the way. Stop for a picnic breakfast on one of the riverbanks, surrounded by beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Continue your river exploration with a visit to the nearby Lettuce Lake Park, where you can walk the nature trails and enjoy the observation tower. Have a leisurely lunch at a local café before participating in activities like biking or birdwatching in the park. Take time to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to the river for a relaxing boat cruise, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as the day comes to an end. For dinner, find a riverside restaurant that offers a cozy ambiance and delicious local fare. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s adventures in nature.

day 7
Shopping and Dining in Hyde Park
morning
:

Start your day in the charming Hyde Park neighborhood, known for its tree-lined streets and boutique shops. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, savoring artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries. After breakfast, stroll through the historic district, exploring the unique shops and galleries that showcase local artisans.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon shopping at Hyde Park Village, where you can find a mix of high-end retailers and local boutiques. Take a break for lunch at one of the trendy eateries, sampling eclectic dishes from various cuisines. If time allows, visit the nearby Tampa Bay History Center for a dose of local history.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a delightful dining experience at one of Hyde Park's upscale restaurants, featuring farm-to-table cuisine. After dinner, explore the nightlife options, from cozy wine bars to lively pubs. End your day with a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 8
Exploring the Lowry Park Zoo
morning
:

Start your day at the Lowry Park Zoo, home to a diverse array of animals and lush habitats. Arrive early to catch the animals at their most active and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather. Grab a quick breakfast at the zoo’s café before embarking on an adventure through the exhibits.

afternoon
:

After a morning of animal encounters, break for lunch at one of the zoo’s dining options, where you can enjoy kid-friendly meals and snacks. Spend your afternoon exploring the interactive exhibits and attending animal shows, which highlight the zoo's commitment to conservation. Make sure to visit the new habitats to see the latest additions to the zoo.

evening
:

As your visit comes to a close, enjoy a final stroll through the zoo, taking in the sights and sounds of the animals settling in for the evening. Dine at a nearby family-friendly restaurant, sharing stories from your day at the zoo. End your evening with a relaxing drive through the scenic streets of Tampa, reflecting on your wildlife adventure.

day 9
Historic Sites and Museums in Downtown Tampa
morning
:

Begin your day by exploring the historic sites of Downtown Tampa, starting at the Tampa Bay History Center. Dive into the rich history of the region, from its indigenous roots to modern developments. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby TECO Line Streetcar System for a quick ride to the next destination.

afternoon
:

Once you arrive at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, immerse yourself in captivating photography exhibitions. For lunch, visit a nearby restaurant that offers a blend of traditional and modern cuisine, making sure to sample local favorites. After lunch, stroll through the nearby Riverwalk, enjoying views of the waterfront and public art installations.

evening
:

As evening approaches, consider visiting the historic Tampa Theatre for a classic movie screening or a live performance. For dinner, choose one of the many diverse options in the area, ranging from casual bites to upscale dining. Wrap up your day with a sunset walk along the Riverwalk, taking in the beautiful views and vibrant energy of the city.

Discover Tampa

Read more in our Tampa 2025 Travel Guide.

Tampa Travel Guide