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Home > Things To Do in Tampa
Things to do in Tampa
While the city, proper, is home to nearly 341,000; the metro area is over 4 million, making Tampa an exciting place to be, no matter what you’re looking for. With a history dating back long before being incorporated in 1849, including native American as well as [eventually] Spanish roots; Tampa is an exciting mix of old and new. Their history comes forth in the many cultural institutions and various ethnicities, while the city is constantly striving for excellence in new ideas and technologies and is among the United States’ leading cities.
Tampa is one of those major centers that always has something going on, from the festivals to the diverse nightlife, beautiful parks and beaches, trendy shopping, endless dining options and fiercely proud sports organizations and fans. Overall, no matter what brings you to Tampa, you’ll be glad you went and quick to go back.
Attractions and Sights
Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay is one of the biggest attractions in the area.
Florida Aquarium in Tampa is home to more than 20,000 animals and plants in a 250,000-square-foot facility.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Lettuce Lake Park is just north of Tampa, covering 240 acres.
Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa is home to more than 2000 animals like elephants, monkeys, giraffes, Indian rhino and way more.
Landmarks
Tampa Theatre is a historic city landmark that still plays films and hosts live theatre.
Shopping
The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel, just north of Tampa offers 850,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space.
Festivals and Events
Tampa Bay Blues Festival goes on every spring seeing names like Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, Jimmie Vaughan and George Thorogood.
Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa is kind of like a pirate-themed Mardi Gras, with over 400,000 people in attendance.
Arts and Entertainment
The David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa is home to Carol Morsani Hall, Ferguson Hall, Jaeb Theater, TECO Energy Foundation Theatre and Shimberg Playhouse.
Tampa Museum of Art covers 66,000 square feet and is home to a collection dating back thousands of years.
Nightlife
The Fox in Tampa is a laid-back lounge featuring live jazz and quieter music.
Orpheum in Tampa is a concert venue, hosting bands like the Dropkick Murphys, Of Montreal, Arctic Monkeys and many more.
Convention Centers
Tampa Convention Center covers 200,000 square feet of exhibit space and is close to downtown hotels, restaurants and more.
Arenas and Stadiums
Raymond James Stadium in Tampa is home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the NFL and the USF Bulls of the NCAA.
St. Pete Times Forum in dowtown Tampa is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning of the NHL, the AFL's Tampa Bay Storm and the LFL's Tampa Breeze.
Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida is home to the Tampa Bay Rays of Major League Baseball.
Food and Drink
Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant in Tampa is a great place to taste test a variety of Spanish foods.
Grassroots Organic Restaurant is Tampa's only wholly vegan restaurant.