Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Tampa

"Located on the northern tip of the Sand Key barrier island, the small park is a favorite getaway from the city. Sand Key Park is one of the best places to go in Clearwater for relaxation. The family-friendly Sand Key Park is fringed by white-sand beaches, featuring cute beach cabanas to escape the sun."

"Moccasin Lake Nature Park can be found just fifteen minutes’ drive to the east of the city center. As well as ponds and creeks, it encompasses verdant forests and a flood plain with hiking trails and a boardwalk weaving their way amidst them. A very picturesque place, the park is named for the large lake that lies in its southwest corner."

"This 51-acre nature preserve is filled with trails, boardwalks, and ponds. The park’s ecosystem is vast and varied – you’ll encounter plenty of birds, gopher turtles, raccoons, and other animals under the oak tree canopies. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of Moccasin Lake Nature Park, or they can call to schedule an educational tour."

"For a dose of American history, located directly behind the Florida Aquarium, is the American Victory Ship Mariners Museum. Climb aboard one of only four fully operational World War II ships in the United States. It's a perfect sight to see if you have an hour to spare. Visit the engine room, mess hall, flying bridge and the crew cabins and see the historic photographs, medals and uniforms, of this unique period in American history."

"The SS American Victory is a ship that was in service during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. In 1999, the ship became the American Victory Ship and Museum and it is one of the few remaining WWII ships. Now, visitors can tour the ship and see some unique exhibits and artifacts like a submarine propeller from a German submarine that sunk in 1942 and recreations of some different parts of the boat."

"The American Victory Ship and Museum is one of only 4 fully-operational WWII ships in the country. It is a true American icon and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Come aboard, tour 9 decks of this floating museum, and experience an unforgettable voyage of discovery."

"Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Sunken Gardens is a beautiful botanical paradise that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The 100-year-old garden is St. Petersburg's oldest living museum and is home to more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, as well as some of the oldest tropical plants in the country. If you are wondering what to do in St. Petersburg with kids, this is an amazing place to visit."

"Visitors can expect meandering paths that wind through over 50,000 flowers and tropical plants, and past cascading waterfalls. Because of the fragility of the 100-year-old garden with many of the region’s oldest tropical plants, visitors are asked to stay on the paths, not climb garden structures, not touch plants, and not bother animals. Guests can participate in horticultural classes and demonstrations, or take a garden tour."

"The Sunken Gardens has been around for more than 100 years now, having been planted by an avid gardener and plumber in 1903."

"Lettuce Lake Regional Park is located along the Hillsborough River about half an hour north of downtown Tampa. The river at this point is in its natural state, untouched by houses and development giving visitors a chance to experience natural Florida at its best. The park features 240-acres of wooded picnic areas, a playground and a paved path for bikes and joggers complete with a fitness course."

"Why you’ve got to go: If you are wondering what to do in Tampa with kids, this is one of the first stops to hit. The park is spread over 240 acres and has something to do for everyone. What to do: There is a wooded area where you can enjoy a picnic."

"Why you’ve got to go: If you are looking for cheap family activities, this is a great place to consider. This is an incredible animal sanctuary that is home to several farm animals and exotic species. What to do: Simply sit back and enjoy farm life."

"The popular outdoor-dining hall features 12+ unique shipping container food concepts, with everything from pizza (Corners Pizza) and barbeque (Murph’s BBQ), to tacos (Gallito) and NEW acai bowls from Fit Bowl Co. Bring the whole family to Sparkman Wharf for waterfront dining, movies and live music on the event lawn, or take things inside for upscale bowling at Splitsville."

"The gorgeous dining garden, located outdoors on a waterfront, features ten of Tampa’s best restaurants that experiment with new culinary concepts. You’ll also find picture-worthy spots in the Fermented Reality Biergarten, with over 30 taps and an emphasis on Florida craft beer, and at Splitsville Southern + Social. Image credit: Kevin Michaels Images; model: Jordan Taylor"

"Take the vintage Streetcar to Sparkman Wharf, an outdoor market with pop-up stalls from some of Tampa Bay’s top chefs. The colourful huts are set right on the waterfront and surround a centrepiece biergarten, featuring local beers from Florida’s craft brewing hub. The outdoor stage hosts concerts, free movies and sports fixtures."

"Badfins Food + Brew has been recently voted one of the best restaurants on Clearwater Beach. They are best known for their seafood but also have a great variety of non-seafood dishes including tacos, sandwiches, bowls, salads, large selection of craft beer, wine, and hand crafted cocktails. Address:215 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33767"

"For the sake of practicality, I’ve put Coppertail first on this list. As it is almost a mile from the rest of these breweries, and the only one not accessible by Tampa’s very convenient streetcar system, I figured it best to open with the community-involved, old-world-styled production brewery that shouldn’t be left off of any Florida beer list. Using natural carbonation, whole leaf hops, and an unfiltered brewing technique might lengthen the process, but it is a worthwhile effort for Coppertail as it has proven to produce a truer, more delicious product."

"When you're out brewery hopping, you will have to add Coppertail Brewing to your list. This small brewery produces four popular core beers and a selection of seasonal releases. Sitting on the outskirts of Ybor City, Coppertail's tasting room features a casual atmosphere with hip eclectic décor that includes many fascinating pieces of Tampa history."

"In a beautiful facility just outside Ybor, Coppertail’s tasting room is among the more elegant anywhere, featuring a deep list of core staples and small batch experiments alike. One big reason to visit: the food. The creators in the kitchen at Coppertail consistently produce interesting (and delicious) specials on a surprisingly large menu."

"One of our favorite Ybor City bars is Double Decker – known as the best karaoke spot in town!. The vibe at Double Decker is amazing – no lines, no cover, just wander in with your friends and enjoy the show. The service as at the bar is great, with tons of space and affordable drinks."

"If you’re looking for a truly old school spot for a weeknight meal, check out the warm and cozy La Trattoria Restaurant. Relax in their homey setting and feast on their delicious Italian dishes, just like your grandmother used to make!. The coolest thing about La Trattoria is their customer service."

"Located on the pool deck of the high-rolling Seminole Hard Rock & Casino, the wondrous Pool Bar and Grill offers a splashy and carefree place to unwind. You’ll be glad you stop by this spacious open-air and poolside establishment that provides a tasty menu selection. From tantalizing appetizers like cool guacamole to fresh-made salads to delicious fish tacos to crave-worthy sandwiches, and more, you can’t go wrong when you opt for this invigorating eatery."

"Lounge along the waters of our rooftop pool while savoring a refreshing drink at our Pool Bar & Grill. Enjoy tasty snacks and sandwiches under the Florida sun as you gaze out over Tampa's skyline and the sparkling bay from this scenic restaurant. Open for lunchDress code: CasualPhone: +1 813-221-4900"

"A post shared by DoubleTree Tampa Rocky Point (@doubletreetamparockypoint). Inside the Doubletree by Hilton Tampa on Rocky Point, Blufin Waterfront Grill is serving up some phenomenal food in an upscale atmosphere, making it one of the best destinations for dining along the water in Tampa. Blufin is stunningly modern on the inside, and the food is just as gorgeous as it is tasty."