Fun for Free: Things to Do in Tampa with Kids
Tampa Bay is a great place for families with kids to explore. There are plenty of free things to do that will keep the whole family entertained without breaking the bank. From museums and parks to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Tampa Bay.
One of the best free things to do in Tampa Bay with kids is to ride the TECO Line Street Car. It’s a great way to explore the city and see some of its most iconic sights, all while enjoying a fun and unique mode of transportation. Another great option is Curtis Hixon Park, which features a playground, sprayground, and plenty of open space for kids to run around and play. Plus, it’s located next to the Glazer Children’s Museum and the Tampa Museum of Art, so you can easily make a day of it and explore all three attractions.
Exploring the Outdoors
If you and your kids love spending time in the great outdoors, Tampa Bay has plenty of free outdoor activities that you can enjoy. Here are some of the best outdoor places to visit with your kids.
Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a beautiful 2.6-mile-long waterfront walkway that runs along the Hillsborough River. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a bike ride, or simply sit and watch the boats go by. The Riverwalk also offers plenty of free activities for kids, including the Tampa Bay History Center, the Florida Aquarium, and the Glazer Children’s Museum. If you don’t mind spending a bit to upgrade your day, consider the Tampa Riverwalk Attractions Pass which will get you 50% admission to top attractions.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Adjacent to the Glazer Children’s Museum and the Tampa Museum of Art, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is an eight-acre urban park that offers plenty of free outdoor activities for kids. Pack a picnic lunch and blanket for a perfect park day. The park features interactive fountains, performance spaces, and a new ground mural, making it an exciting urban green space. The park frequently hosts festivals, concerts, and other events, too.
Picnic Island Park
Picnic Island Park is a hidden gem located on the southern tip of Tampa Bay. It’s a great place to take your kids for a day of fun in the sun. The park offers a beautiful view of the bay, a playground, and a beach area where you can swim and sunbathe. You can also enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many shaded areas. The park is open from sunrise to sunset and admission is free.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll along the river, a day of fun in the park, or a beach day, Tampa Bay has plenty of free outdoor activities for you and your kids to enjoy.
Animal Encounters
Tampa offers a variety of animal encounters that won’t break the bank. Here are two great options to get up close and personal with some of Florida’s native wildlife.
Manatee Viewing Center
Located in Apollo Beach, the Manatee Viewing Center is a free attraction that allows visitors to see manatees up close in their natural habitat. The center is open from November 1st to April 15th, which is the best time to see manatees in the wild. There are also educational exhibits, a butterfly garden, and a gift shop on site.
Free Events
Tampa Bay is home to many free events throughout the year that are perfect for families with kids. Here are a few events that you should definitely check out:
Gasparilla Pirate Festival
The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is a Tampa Bay tradition that takes place every year in late January. The festival celebrates the legend of Jose Gaspar, a mythical pirate who supposedly operated in the waters around Tampa Bay in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The festival includes a parade, a street festival, and a pirate invasion of Tampa Bay. The parade is free to attend, and it’s a great way to experience the fun and excitement of Gasparilla without spending a lot of money.
