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Tampa   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Bradley Olson | EyeEm

22 Best Things To Do in Tampa

Updated August 2, 2023

Tampa is tailor-made for families who love animals. Take your pick between the Florida Aquarium , Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center  or ZooTampa at Lowry Park . Not traveling with the kids? Tampa's got you covered there, too. When you'

• All Things To Do

Tampa Riverwalk Tampa Riverwalk free

The Tampa Riverwalk is an approximately 2.5-mile-long paved scenic trail that runs along the Hillsborough River. Visitors can walk, bike, rollerblade, enjoy public art and access any number of restaurants, stores, parks and playgrounds, bike rental shops and top attractions, such as the Florida Aquarium and the Glazer Children's Museum , along the route. There is a paid attraction pass available if you want to visit several museums and attractions along the riverwalk. Walking the trail is free.

Recent visitors were impressed by how well-maintained and clean the park is, and noted that it's an ideal place to catch the sunset. The visitor's bureau recommends starting your visit at the south end of the riverwalk, which is a short walk from the Florida Aquarium, and making your way north.

Armature Works Armature Works free

The Armature Works Heights Public Market – a 22,000-square-foot industrial market – is Tampa's go-to spot for foodies and architecture fans. The 1910 building was formerly the storage and maintenance facility for Tampa Electric's streetcars, contributing to the urban feel it embodies today.

Recent visitors loved the variety of dining options and the ambience of the space itself, describing it as an upscale food court with plenty of vendors to suit a variety of palates. In addition to all the eateries, there are retail shops and a rooftop event space, as well as a "Show + Tell" workshop, which is used for everything from cooking classes to wine tastings. There are plenty of outdoor activities too, including yoga classes and movie nights.

Busch Gardens Busch Gardens

Spanning 335 acres and boasting more than 200 animal species, live shows, restaurants, roller coasters, shops and games, Busch Gardens is a popular way to spend a day under the Tampa sun. Did you know that Busch Gardens is actually older than nearby Disney World ? It's also cheaper and includes themed lands, such as the Edge of Africa; plus, animal exhibits based on the Serengeti Plain and the Myombe Reserve (and that's just scratching the surface). 

Recent visitors enjoyed the combination of entertainment and education found here, saying that everyone from animal lovers to thrill-seekers will be happy at the park. Some noted that ride lines can be long, and subject to close suddenly due to maintenance or weather. If you're here for the rides, you can purchase a Quick Queue Unlimited pass to skip the lines.

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Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart

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Florida Aquarium Florida Aquarium

Located on the southeastern edge of downtown Tampa, the Florida Aquarium houses a massive collection of marine life – more than 8,000 animals, by the last count. Past visitors said it'll take you at least three hours to make your way through the maze of stingrays, moray eels and sea turtles that live here, but there's a good chance your children will tire of the outing before then. Young kids are sure to enjoy the Splash Pad area, a zero-depth outdoor area that includes geysers, dump buckets and spray zones for little ones (don't forget to pack a towel!).

Recent visitors were pleased with their trip to the aquarium, but they do lament the high ticket prices. Others enjoyed the focus on Florida wildlife and recommend a stop here when you need a break from the heat.  

Tampa Theatre Tampa Theatre

Even if you're not in town for a film screening or performance, visitors highly recommend a stop at the beautifully ornate Tampa Theatre. When it was built in 1926, the venue was considered one of the world's most elaborate theaters. Designed by architect John Eberson, the interior features a 1,400-pipe Wurlitzer organ and was constructed to look like a garden with flowering vines and gargoyles. Take a look at the ceiling and you'll spot 99 bulbs meant to resemble stars in the night sky. If you can't attend a show here, consider taking a tour instead. 

The venue offers a 90-minute Balcony to Backstage Tour, which includes a demonstration of the Wurlitzer theater organ and details about the stories, art and architecture that earned this movie palace a spot on the National Register of Historic Places and designation as a Tampa local historic landmark. Tours take place on a monthly basis. Adult tickets cost $10; children ages 2 to 12 tour for $8. Check the theater's  website  for show times and to book a tour in advance (they often sell out).

Tampa Golf Tampa Golf

With such ideal weather year-round, Tampa is a great place for a round or two of golf.  TPC Tampa Bay , which has hosted the PGA Tour Champions event for more than 20 years, is among the city's most popular courses. It features an 18-hole course designed by Bobby Weed, with Chi-Chi Rodriguez as player consultant. Recent golfers praised the helpful staff and enjoyed the as-advertised challenging course. 

Saddlebrook Resort is another popular facility that features two courses designed by Arnold Palmer. Recent visitors said the courses are beautiful and well-maintained. The  Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Golf Resort is equally revered for players and spectators who flock to the course for the annual Valspar Championship. 

Tampa Boat Tours Tampa Boat Tours

Make the most of Tampa's coastal location with a boat tour around its bay. You'll have your pick of tour options, including sunset sails, half-day trips and dolphin cruises. If you're already planning to visit the Florida Aquarium , consider penciling in some time for its Wild Dolphin Cruise. The tour, which departs from the aquarium twice daily, includes a 75-minute ride on a 72-foot catamaran. The aim of the tour is to get far enough into Tampa Bay to see the hundreds of bottlenose dolphins that call the area home, but you'll also likely spot several bird species and the occasional sea turtle. Note that you'll have to purchase the aquarium's combo ticket if you want to tack this experience onto your visit.

Tampa Bay Fun Boat is another popular sightseeing option with daytime and sunset cruises. If you'd rather be the captain of your own vessel, consider eBoats Tampa , which offers one- to four-hour boat rentals. No boating license is necessary. For a more active experience, consider Get Up and Go Kayaking , a top-rated company that operates guided kayak tours of Shell Key Preserve, a nearly 2,000-acre preserve located in Tierra Verde that shelters local wildlife like manatees, dolphins, pelicans and starfish. Nearby St. Petersburg is also home to a variety of boat tour operators, including the traveler-approved Speed Boat Adventures . Tour prices and excursion lengths can vary; for more information, visit each individual company's website.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Spanning nearly 60 acres, ZooTampa at Lowry Park boasts natural habitats, educational shows and interactive animal encounters, water play areas, and a handful of rides. Here, you'll find a variety of animals from around the world, including African elephants, koalas, orangutans, penguins, and tigers, among other species. Plus, for those that didn't spot any animals at  Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center , you're in luck; the zoo is home to Florida's first nonprofit acute care manatee hospital, which means it's one of a few places in Florida where you're guaranteed to spot the area's beloved sea cows no matter the season. Other highlights include a carousel and a section dedicated to Florida wildlife.

When you're not marveling at the manatees, you'll have your pick of interactive animal encounters, ranging from feeding an Indian rhino to posing for a photo with koala bears. Recent visitors were generally pleased with the zoo, and especially recommend it for families with young children. They also say zoo employees are friendly and the zoo is well maintained. Travelers were also pleased to learn that access to all of the rides at the zoo is included in your general admission ticket.

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Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center free

Tampa is a city made for animal lovers willing to pay the price for cuddly, unique and cute. Science centers, zoos and aquariums that don't charge at least a little something for you to enter are few and far between. Which is why Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center is so special. Vacationers appreciate a little break in their itineraries to see manatees swimming through the Tampa Electric water plant, and they don't have to pay an arm and a leg for the privilege. In fact, you won't have to pay anything at all. At the Big Bend Power Station in Apollo Beach, manatees seek refuge in the power station's discharge panel, where clean, warm Tampa Bay saltwater flows. When the bay gets too chilly for the manatees, they retreat to this space for warmth.

When your eyes aren't on the water, turn your attention to the center's other attractions, including a stingray touch tank, educational exhibits (featuring real manatee bones) and a gift shop. You can also get a bird's-eye view of the area by climbing up the stairs to the 50-foot viewing tower, located halfway down the Manatee Viewing Center's habitat loop trail.

Henry B. Plant Museum Henry B. Plant Museum

Travelers like the setting of this museum and National Historic Landmark just as much as its contents. Housed in the Moorish Revival Tampa Bay Hotel on the University of Tampa campus, the Henry B. Plant Museum preserves a Gilded Age feel and affords visitors a glimpse into turn-of-the-century living and lodging. It also offers insight into the life and work of its creator, railroad magnate Henry Bradley Plant.

Those who've visited say the museum is a great experience if you love antiques, architecture and history – specifically Florida history, though they note parking can be limited. The museum boasts several permanent exhibits, which feature the hotel's original rooms reconstructed with furniture and other artifacts to reflect the property's Victorian origins. The museum also features temporary exhibits, as well as online exhibits. During the holiday season, the museum is dressed in traditional holiday garb and exhibit rooms are decorated with trimmed trees designed in 19th-century themes and antique holiday accessories. 

Glazer Children's Museum Glazer Children's Museum

If you're in Tampa with young kids (12 and younger), consider a stop at the Glazer Children's Museum. Though Tampa isn't short on kid-friendly attractions, many of them are dependent on the weather, meaning you might want to have an indoor backup plan in case the clouds roll in.

Packed with permanent and temporary exhibits, this 53,000-square-foot space is filled with interactive exhibits that aim to teach kids about the human body, math, science and art. Little ones can pretend to shop for groceries in the miniature Publix, stage a performance in the Twinkle Stars Theater, try their hand at different healthcare roles at the St. Joseph's Children's Hospital exhibit and learn where food comes from in the Farm.

Tampa Bay History Center Tampa Bay History Center

If you're interested in learning more about Florida's first inhabitants, then a stop at the Smithsonian-affiliated Tampa Bay History Center should be on your itinerary. Spanning 60,000 square feet and ideally situated on Tampa's waterfront, the history center showcases 12,000 years of Florida's history through three floors of exhibits, educational films and interactive displays. Learn about Tampa's cigar industry and immigrant communities in Ybor City with the center's "Cuban Pathways" exhibit. Or, brush up on your knowledge of Florida's first European explorers and pirates with a look around the "Treasure Seekers" exhibit. 

Many recent visitors reported being pleasantly surprised at the interactive, informative features at the history center, including the short films that accompany many of the exhibits. Travelers also said the center does a good job appealing to younger visitors thanks to its kid-friendly displays and welcoming personnel. Reviewers were also complimentary of the on-site eatery, Columbia Cafe, which serves Spanish- and Cuban-inspired dishes.

Ybor City Ybor City free

Pronounced ee -bore, this northeast enclave of Tampa was once a hotbed for coffee manufacturing and hand-rolled cigars – factory workers would roll millions of them annually. Now, it's a mash of old and new; the lively bars and pubs represent the modern city; the brick streets and historic streetcar serve as a tribute to the neighborhood's past.

Recent travelers were divided on when to visit: some said the nighttime entertainment is the most interesting feature of Ybor City – especially the nightclubs along 7th Avenue – while others recommended stopping by during the day for delicious, authentic Cuban food (Ybor City is home to Florida's oldest restaurant, Columbia Restaurant) and an amazing selection of cigars. Tabanero Cigars and J.C. Newman Cigar Company are both popular, especially since the latter houses an on-site museum.

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American Victory Ship & Museum American Victory Ship & Museum

In the twilight years of World War II, hundreds of ships were built, most moving cargo. In May 1945, the SS American Victory was launched. Built in just 55 days, it was deployed in WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. By 1996, it was destined for scrap, despite an expensive restoration 11 years earlier. After learning of its fate, the ship's captain championed for it to become a museum. The ship was towed from Virginia to its permanent location in downtown Tampa to serve as a maritime steamship museum. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the SS American Victory is one of just four fully operational WWII ships in the country. Visitors are invited on board to explore the various spaces, including the mess halls and crew cabins, as well as view historic artifacts from the ship's tenure.

Recent travelers mostly raved about their visits, and the chance to experience this overlooked WWII history. Several noted that although the tours are excellent, they are not accessible or feasible for visitors with limited mobility due to ladders and tight quarters. It can also get quite warm on the ship, according to reviewers.

Hillsborough River State Park Hillsborough River State Park

Outdoorsy visitors and locals alike flock to Hillsborough River State Park, which sits about 20 miles northeast of downtown Tampa. Offering Class II rapids (a rarity in Florida), camping, four nature trails, beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing and historic sites, the park has a recreation opportunity for everyone. History buffs, in particular, may be interested in visiting Fort Foster.

Fort Foster was originally built in the 1830s during the Second Seminole War to help colonists maintain their bridge crossing at the Hillsborough River. What visitors see today is a reproduction of the original fort. In addition to the structure, there is also an interpretive center showcasing artifacts unearthed at the fort.

Legoland Florida Resort Legoland Florida Resort

Legoland offers visitors a theme park, a water park and a suite of events – all with a Lego theme. More than 50 rides, shows and attractions; a wave pool; a lazy river; and endless water slides await visitors. When you need a break from the rides, shows and water park, there's also a botanical garden, an art gallery, playgrounds and several shops, not to mention a variety of kid-friendly eateries.

Recent visitors agreed there is plenty to do at Legoland, especially for kids between the ages of 2 and 12. Some noted outdated facilities, but most thought that the parks and accommodations were clean and pleasant. Several visitors also noted short lines for rides. According to reviewers, purchasing a combo ticket to the theme park and the water park is a must if you want to beat the Florida heat.

Dinosaur World Dinosaur World

Florida is known for its wildlife – but what about the ancient creatures that predated cougars and birds? Dinosaur World offers up that story amidst hundreds of life-size dinosaurs. Hosting activities and facilities like fossil digs, gem excavation, a boneyard and a museum featuring real fossils and animatronics, Dinosaur World fuses fun and education for kids. The central attraction is walking the naturalistic setting and looking at the roadside attraction-style dinosaur models.

According to recent visitors, Dinosaur World is a hit with kids. Travelers praise the shady, park-like setting and the facility's overall cleanliness. Visitors also enjoyed the gift shop and a few said the attraction is worth the trip even for adults traveling without children.

Safari Wilderness Safari Wilderness

Safari Wilderness caters to those with international safari dreams, but a domestic travel budget. This more than 260-acre safari park in Lakeland, Florida, is home to cheetahs, zebras and ring-tailed lemurs, among many more exotic animals. There are several different ways to experience the park, including in your own vehicle, atop an all-terrain vehicle or camel, via kayak or the park's own safari truck. The property also houses safari "glamping tents" for those who would like to sleep among the reserve's flora and fauna. Those looking for something special may purchase add-ons like feeding ring-tailed lemurs or an up-close encounter with a cheetah.

Recent visitors of all ages enjoyed seeing the animals up close in a more natural setting than a zoo. All agreed it was fun and educational, and several praised the guides. A few people noted the high prices of the experiences.

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Bok Tower Gardens Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens takes its name from the Pulitzer Prize-winning Dutch author and humanitarian, Edward W. Bok. Bok immigrated to the United States as a child. After he became a successful writer, Bok purchased land on Iron Mountain, one of Florida's highest points at 295 feet above sea level. He turned it into a bird sanctuary with a 60 bell-carillon and hired famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. to design it. In 1929, Bok presented the site as a gift to the American public.

Recent visitors loved walking the tranquil gardens, hearing the elaborate bell music and eating at the on-site Blue Palmetto Café. Many reported spending hours at the gardens – which makes the approximately 60-mile drive east of downtown Tampa more worthwhile. In addition to the gardens, the site is also home to several nature trails and a 20-room, Mediterranean-style mansion known as El Retiro. The mansion, which was originally built in the 1930s for a Bethlehem Steel executive, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Museum of Science and Industry Museum of Science and Industry

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Tampa Museum of Art Tampa Museum of Art

Adventure Island Adventure Island

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A day exploring the tampa area.

Florida Travel: Experience Tampa Bay in 60 Seconds

By VISIT FLORIDA staff If you have a day to explore the Tampa area, follow this driving tour to get a great overview of this big city on the Gulf coast.

It has been said that the Tampa Bay Area is a large metropolitan area with charming community ambiance. Originally named for the body of water, Tampa Bay, the area represents a region of many diverse areas and faces. It's a unique blend of urban excitement in a natural setting with a dash of tropical flair. The most populous area of Florida, this vibrant waterfront area on the beautiful central west coast of Florida also affords easy access to the rest of the state.

Heritage Highlights

In the heart of downtown Tampa , the Henry B. Plant Museum , 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., will transport you back to 1891. The former Tampa Bay Hotel, now part of the University of Tampa (look for the dramatic minarets and Moorish revival architecture), was home base to Theodore 'Teddy' Roosevelt and the Rough Riders in the 1898 Spanish American War with Cuba. The museum illustrates the opulent lifestyle of early Florida tourists, local history and the tropical setting of the area, conducive to the legend of the famous pirate, Jose Gaspar. To take in a colorful overview of the area, visit the Tampa Bay History Center , sited along Tampa’s Riverwalk on 801 Old Water St. This regional history museum illuminates the area's rich culture and diverse heritage, f rom conquistadors to cattle ranchers. It encompasses the Touchton Map Library, the Columbia Cafe, and a collection of 90,000 historical artifacts. Leave your car and hop on the TECO Streetcar to ride an electric streetcar from downtown to Ybor City . Pick up an Ybor City walking tour brochure at The Centro Ybor Visitor Information Center and Museum , 1600 E. 8th Avenue, and plan to spend all afternoon enjoying the National Historic Landmark District.

The Florida Aquarium offers breath-taking galleries and showcases Florida habitats of diverse plants and animals.

Nature Trek

The Florida Aquarium , 701 Channelside Dr., offers breath-taking galleries and showcases Florida habitats of diverse plants and animals. There are lots of opportunities to touch at the kid-friendly interactive exhibit " No Bone Zone ". If time permits, take a Wild Dolphin Cruis e aboard the 72-foot, 149-passenger catamaran, with an experienced naturalist as your guide. Keep your eyes peeled for the bounty of wildlife that calls Tampa Bay home – including bottlenose dolphins and countless native bird species.

For a human-powered adventure, rent a paddleboard, kayak, or pedal boat from Tampa Bay Stand Up Paddleboarding -- or take an eco or sunset tour.  

Culture Quest

History is often reflected in art. As such, the Tampa Museum of Art , 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, tells the story of the ages through its incredible collection of contemporary art, photography and renowned collections of Greek and Roman antiquities. Or plan to attend one the Broadway shows, fabulous productions and special events held year-round at David A. Straz, Jr. Center for The Performing Arts , 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Pl.

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SHELL KEY PRESERVE

Guided clear kayak tours in the tampa bay area, ↠ rated #1 tour in the usa by tripadvisor ↞.

• Rated #1 Nature & Outdoor Activity in the World by TripAdvisor!
• Map Marker Tampa Bay

Shell Key Preserve Clear Kayak Tour

Enjoy a Clear Kayaking Adventure through the Shell Key Preserve; just outside of Tampa Bay & St. Pete Beach!

• Clock Tour Length: 1.5 Hours
• Users Ages 12+

Shell Key Preserve Glow Clear Kayak Tour

Kayak at night on a glow tour and illuminate the water below. Enjoy a unique nighttime tour while your color-changing, waterproof LED lights illuminate the waters below your 100% clear kayak.

• Clock Tour Length: 3 Hours
• Users All Ages

Shell Key Private Clear Kayak Tour

Embark on a Personalized Adventure on a private Kayak tour of Shell Key Preserve! Our customizable tours offer a diverse array of experiences within this pristine ecosystem.

COME PADDLE WITH US! PICK A DAY & BOOK NOW!

↠ about the tours ↞.

Take an adventure through  Shell Key Preserve in a completely clear kayak in the Tampa Bay area! 

At  Shell Key Preserve , you’ll paddle along mangroves, enjoy white sand beaches and sandbars, and search for incredible wildlife. Depending on the time of year, we see a variety of wildlife. In the summer months, keep your eyes peeled for a manatee or the beautiful pink Roseate Spoonbills. During the winter months, White Pelicans call the sandbars of Shell Key Preserve their home! Throughout the year, dolphins frolic in the crystal-clear waters of the preserve, and cormorants love to paddle alongside our tours. Even though we love showing our guests the wildlife within the preserve. Sightings are random and not guaranteed. Our Shell Key Preserve Clear Kayaks Tours take place in Tierra Verde, FL, right near St Pete Beach.

We also offer an evening  Glow Tour   of Shell Key Preserve . Our glow tours a unique nighttime adventure where you paddle through the preserve while our color-changing, waterproof LED lights illuminate the waters below your clear kayak.

↠ SHELL KEY PRESERVE | TAMPA BAY AREA ↞

Located near St. Pete Beach, Florida, Shell Key Preserve offers a serene escape surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Accessible only by boat or kayak, Shell Key Preserve is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat. With its pristine beaches and mangrove-lined waterways, Shell Key Preserve provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

Shell Key Preserve boasts over 1,800 acres of untouched natural beauty, making it a popular destination for eco-conscious travelers. Its expansive sandy shores are renowned for their abundance of seashells, attracting beachcombers and nature enthusiasts alike. As a barrier island, Shell Key Preserve presents an unspoiled environment ideal for wildlife observation and outdoor activities.

Exploring the waters surrounding Shell Key Preserve reveals a vibrant ecosystem teeming with marine life. Clear channels meander through lush mangroves, offering opportunities for kayaking and boating adventures. Encounter playful dolphins, look for different species of birds, and keep your eyes peeled for a variety of fish as you immerse yourself in the pristine coastal environment of Shell Key Preserve.

Star Outline

With over 9,000 five-star reviews, Get Up And Go Kayaking – Shell Key Preserve is rated the #1 Nature & Outdoor Activity in the world by TripAdvisor!

GIVING BACK

We’re passionate about the outdoors and conservation! We believe in being good stewards of the environment, which is why we donate to Florida Land & Springs Conservation.

SMALL GROUPS

Our max group size is 10 paddlers – the perfect size to hear our guides and enjoy conversations along the way.  ( Larger private parties may be available upon request )

BEST GUIDES

Soak up the sights – and some knowledge! Learn unique facts along the paddle about the local waterways, wildlife, and more from our awesome local guides.

GREAT VIEWS

Don’t let a normal kayak hinder your view! Our clear kayaks are the absolute best way to view the surroundings, and there are plenty of opportunities to snag some Reels or videos for TikTok!

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Booking a tour with us gets you guaranteed access to the Shell Key Preserve, which is only accessible by water! By booking ahead, you’ll guarantee your spot on the tour.

↠ AS FEATURED ON: ↞

↠ OUR SHELL KEY STICKER ↞

Collect the exclusive  Shell Key Preserve sticker  on the day of your tour from your guide! Collecting more location stickers can unlock some great rewards. Learn more about our loyalty program  HERE!

↠ MEET OUR TEAM ↞

Our passion for the environment meets your adventure on the water! Explore the pristine beauty of Shell Key Preserve with our team of expert eco-tour guides who are the heart and soul of our five-star rated kayak tours. We pride ourselves on our highly educated and knowledgeable guides, each with their unique background and expertise. Our dedicated team members are committed to making your kayak tour an unforgettable experience.

With over 9,000 five-star reviews, our guides are not just experts—they’re storytellers, educators, and nature enthusiasts who are dedicated to ensuring you have the experience of a lifetime. From sharing fascinating facts about local flora and fauna to leading you through serene waterways, our guides are committed to creating memories that last a lifetime.

Join us at Get Up and Go Kayaking for a clear kayak tour like no other. Book your adventure today and let our incredible guides show you the beauty of Shell Key Preserve from a whole new perspective.

• Chevron down Jenna's Bio

Jenna holds her degrees in environmental science and business marketing! She holds certifications in boater safety, high ropers, and belaying! She has experience working with Florida Fish and Wildlife educating others about the environment! Her favorite thing about giving kayak tours is seeing people get out of their comfort zones and thrive in the open water! She loves the reactions people have when she teaches them something about the plants and animals around them (especially when cormorants follow our boats)! A fun fact about Jenna: she loves backpacking and has completed 1,000 miles of the Appalachian trail thus far.

• Chevron down Chris' Bio

Chris holds his degree in graphic design and began studying environmental science as well! He is a south Florida native who is absolutely in love with this tropical paradise he calls home. He loves that Shell Key Preserve is an ever-changing educational platform for both himself and our guests. He is naturally inquisitive, awed, surprised, and inspired by what he encounters on his tours. He truly enjoys seeing the excitement, smiles, and laughter his guests experience when they are introduced to the amazing environmental aspects and habitats of the area! Fun fact about Chris: he is a certified yoga instructor and avid runner!

• Chevron down Alessia's Bio

Alessia’s passion for the environment took hold in her environmental science high school magnet program (JERFSA)! She now holds her degree in Biology from Florida Gulf Coast University! She has a love for traveling and has done study abroad research in Ecuador, San Salvador Bahamas, and Ghana. After two years of guiding on Captiva Island, she has continued her passion here on Shell Key to share the wonders of these ecosystems with tourists and especially locals! Her favorite part of giving tours is getting to take people past the surface level of what catches their eye and show them how vibrant even a “quiet” day can be! Fun fact about Alessia is that she is a shell fanatic!

• Chevron down Raven's Bio

Raven is currently studying environmental studies at the University of Tampa! She has experience conducting research on endangered species in the Bahamas! Her favorite thing about giving kayak tours is that each is unique, and she is always finding different wildlife each trip! A fun fact about Raven: she is an avid birder!

• Chevron down El's Bio

El holds their bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies & Literature and their master’s degree in Wildlife Conservation and Management! They have experience volunteering with the Manatee Observation & Education Center in Ft. Pierce and Audubon St. Petersburg performing data collection and providing public education on manatees and Black Skimmers. Their favorite thing about working with Get Up and Go Tampa Bay is continuing to share their environmental knowledge with the guides and the public through social media! One fun fact about El is that it’s on their bucket list to paddle every Get Up & Go location!

• Chevron down Grace's Bio

Grace graduated from Eckerd College with a degree in Marine Science. She is passionate about public outreach and marine conservation. Her favorite thing about giving kayak tours is being able to spend her days immersed in nature educating guests on the unique ecosystems within Shell Key Preserve. Fun fact: she has swam with many different species of sharks including bull sharks, great hammerheads, black tip reef sharks, and Caribbean reef sharks.

• Chevron down Ben's Bio

Ben holds his degree in Biology! He has experience as an environmental educator and reptilian caretaker with Gatorland! He is also scuba certified! His favorite thing about giving kayak tours is seeing guests get excited about the wildlife they see! A fun fact about Ben is that he has been an avid skier since the age of 5!

• Chevron down Jada's Bio

Jada is currently studying Marine Biology at University of South Florida! She is passionate about scuba diving and hopes to make it to Australia to contribute to research for conservation of the GBR and coral reefs globally! Her favorite thing about giving kayak tours is seeing people interact with wildlife and sharing the excitement with them when they spot something! A fun fact about Jada is that she is originally from West Virginia and loves to snow board!

• Chevron down Tatiana's Bio

Tatiana has her degree in Environmental Studies! She has experience as a sea turtle biologist in Costa Rica and has also led kayaking tours in Captiva, Florida! Her favorite thing about giving kayak tours is being able to show people what a vibrant and biodiverse coast Shell Key Preserve is. She loves showing guests how curious one can be about the natural world and being an example to forever keep learning and asking questions! A fun fact about Tatiana is that she is a born and raised Floridian, but has, as an adult, lived in Hawaii, Uruguay, Costa Rica and Thailand too!

• Chevron down Bria's Bio

Bria has her degree is Molecular Biology! She has experience as a park ranger and working along the Florida and Costa Rican waterfronts! She is also a kiteboarding instructor! Her favorite thing about giving kayak tours is being able to work outside and interacting with all the nature and wildlife that lives in Shell Key Preserve! She also loves being able to educate guests on all the things they encounter and see up close! A fun fact about Bria is that she loves to sew! She loves making bikinis, bags, and a lot of other clothes!

• Chevron down Jesse's Bio

Jesse holds his degree in Environmental Science with minors in biology and coastal management. He has previously researched sharks in the Bahamas and volunteered in local preserves! His favorite thing about guiding kayak tours is the ability to share the importance of creatures that people rarely see in the wild. A fun fact about Jesse is that he is an expert classic and hard rock guitarist.

• Chevron down Carmen's Bio

Carmen holds her degree in Marine Science and Biology from Florida Gulf Coast University! She has previously researched the effects of red tide on Florida coasts and has volunteered with FWC and wildlife sanctuaries! Prior to working with Get Up and Go Kayaking, she guided tours through the waters of Captiva Island for 3 years! Her favorite thing about guiding kayak tours is that it is one of the least disruptive way to interact with nature and you never know what each tour will bring! A fun fact about Carmen is that being stung by a stingray led to her curiosity of the oceans!

TOP-RATED TAMPA BAY KAYAK TOURS ★★★★★

Jenna was an amazing tour guide. She paced the trip perfectly, keeping all of her guests close by - accurately assessing our paddling experience, and keeping us all interested in the ecosystems of the area! We got a beautiful evening and trip AND great insight into what goes into sustainability and why. It was clear that Jenna is an expert in the topic and she was great at sharing what she knows.We hope to go on this tour again, I know we'll see something new & different each time!

Richard was a great tour guide for our kayak ride. He made the ride very trustworthy and fun, I even took off my life jacket as he made me feel very confident about the ride. The sunset experience was the best part of this kayaking ride - breathtaking indeed.

While visiting from the Chicago area, my daughter, her boyfriend and I had an awesome kayaking experience with Raven. The weather was perfect and the water was calm. Raven always showed us as much as she could and knew a lot about the marine life and the history of the surrounding islands and waterways. Raven has a great sense of humor and is polite and super positive. It was a wonderful experience during our Spring break! Thanks!!!

We took the 430 p.m. tour and our guide was Raven. She was fantastic! Great customer service skills, friendly and knowledgeable about the area. I loved all the details she gave us about the wildlife and the mangroves importance to the area. I highly recommend this tour!

I had a great kayaking tour with our guide Alessia. She made the trip interesting because she found many sea creatures and shared her knowledge about each of them. And just as the trip was ending the highlight of our tour were the dolphin and her baby swimming around our kayaks.

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Top Tours in Tampa, FL

Tampa tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show in St. Petersburg

2. Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart

3. 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg

4. Tampa History Cruise

5. The Florida Aquarium in Tampa General Admission

6. 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry

7. Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour

8. Sunset Champagne and Charcuterie Charter in Tampa (Private avail)

9. Tampa Bay CityPASS®

10. Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour

11. St Petersburg Speed Boat Adventure

12. Tiki Boat - Downtown Tampa - The Only Authentic Floating Tiki Bar

13. The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour

14. Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart

15. 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour

16. Private Tampa City Tour by Custom Golf Cart

17. ZooTampa at Lowry Park Admission Ticket

18. 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa

19. Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour

20. Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays

21. Sunset Cruise with Skyway Bridge Light Tour St. Petersburg, FL

22. Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour

23. Aqua Sol Adventures -Signature Sunset Cruise and Bridge tour

24. Private Fishing Charter in Tampa

25. Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart

26. Premiere Private Sunset Cruise With Lights Of The Skyway Bridge

27. 2 Hour Private Floating Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa

28. Taste of Downtown Tampa Culinary Walking Tour

29. 6-Hour Eco Tour in St. Petersburg from Florida

30. Tampa Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate

What travellers are saying.

• Tampa History Cruise
• Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show in St. Petersburg
• Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart
• Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour
• 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa
• Enchanted Travel Agency
• Tampa Flats and Bay Fishing Charters
• Tampa Fishing Charters
• Chasing Tails Charters
• Gone Fishing Charters
• Steady Action Fishing Charters
• Capt. Chet Jennings Fishing Charters
• Shallow Point Charters
• Tampa Airport Elite Shuttle
• Party Shuttle Inc
• Tampa Bay Fun Boat LLC
• Kraken Cycleboats
• Olde World Sailing Line
• Ybor City Historic Walking Tours
• Magic Carpet Glide
• Adventure Family Motorsports
• Brew Bus Tours
• Fin-sanity Fishing Charters LLC

Our Gift Cards are valid for all tours and all dates! - BUY NOW!

Downtown Tampa Food Tour

Quick Details

• User Ages: 21+
• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
• Users Capacity: An intimate group of 12 people
• Map Marker Location: FL , Tampa

Experience a culinary treat at restaurants on downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk

The evening tour discovers downtown Tampa and the Riverfront via a 3-hour walking food & wine tour. We visit 4 to 5 amazing restaurants who showcase their finest tastings and three adult beverages. Our tour spotlights cultural gems mingled with authentic history to create an atmosphere that provides the perfect backdrop for our culinary adventure.

Tampa’s cuisine is just as unique and rich as its culture. Join us for this “one of a kind food tour experience” featuring great tastings and drinks, while enjoying Tampa’s historic architecture and scenic waterfront. Alive with energy, art and history, we cannot wait to share this experience with you.

• Chevron down What to Bring
• 21+ ID for adult beverages
• Your appetite!
• Cash for gratuity of your tour guide if they rock
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Chevron down Where

We begin at Mailo’s Prime Steakhouse – 400 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 (See map below) Exact starting location is provided at the time of purchase.

• Chevron down What's Included

Evening/dinner tour and a fun-filled informative walk through Tampa with amazing food and adult beverages. Guests will visit up to 5 tasting locations on each tour. Tasting locations may be changed without prior notice.

Related Food Tours

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• Calendar Saturday and Sundays plus private dates available
• Hour Glass 3 hours

Dunedin Food Tour

Eat, drink and savour the local cuisine in charming restaurants of Dunedin on this walking food tour. You simply will not find any better way to get a taste of Dunedin!

St. Pete Downtown Food Tour

Wondering what to do in downtown St Pete? Join us on this food & spirits tour & get a taste of downtown St Pete. Visit local restaurants & wine bars!

Buy Tickets

HOP ON, HOP OFF

Pirate Water Taxi offers daily tours of Tampa with many stops located along our route near attractions, museums, restaurants & parks! Simply buy tickets at our home dock (Stop #7 – Convention Center), online , or after boarding the taxi at any stops located in Downtown Tampa. Once purchased, you will receive a Pirate Water Taxi wristband which allows you to hop on and off the taxi at any stop for unlimited rides – all day! These wristbands also give you discounts with a number of venues located on the route as part of our Pirate Perks Program .

We’ve gone Cashless

Pirate Water Taxi only accepts credit card and contactless payments for reservations, group events, and onboard purchases; cash tips onboard will still be accepted. Book online here and save $2!

Upcoming Events

Riverfront History Tour

Take a deep dive into Tampa’s history along the Hillsborough River with a Docent from the Tampa Bay History Center!

Tampa Sunset Cruise

Prepare to embark on a memorable ride aboard Pirate Water Taxi’s Sunset Cruise!

July 4th Fireworks

Celebrate our nation’s independence with a festive fireworks cruise!

Pirate Perks Partners

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• Life & Culture

Over 50 Tampa Bay concerts to see during summer 2024

• Gabrielle Calise Times staff

The weather isn’t the only thing heating up around Tampa Bay.

Not only is Megan Thee Stallion bringing her “Hot Girl Summer Tour” to town — there’s a sizzling slate of concerts for fans of just about every music genre.

Expect to see some fun pairings, from longtime peers (Missy Elliott with Busta Rhymes) to some wild mashups (Red Hot Chili Peppers and...Ice Cube?). Sting, who just swung through Tampa with Billy Joel , will even return two more times to rock out with the Florida Orchestra.

Here are over 50 local shows we’re excited about.

Living legends

Diana Ross: The legendary Motown singer will bring solo hits and favorite songs from the Supremes to the BayCare Sound in Clearwater on Thursday, May 9.

Janet Jackson: The “Together Again” tour comes to MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre in Tampa on Tuesday, July 16.

Sting and the Florida Orchestra : The “Englishman in New York” join conductor Michael Francis and the Florida Orchestra for two intimate benefit concerts. Thursday, May 9 and Friday, May 10 at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg.

Latin stars

Bad Bunny: The Puerto Rican singer and rapper, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, will bring his irresistible blend of Latin trap and reggaeton to six Florida stops next year. Catch his “Most Wanted Tour” on Tuesday, May 21, at Amalie Arena in Tampa.

Peso Pluma: The 24-year-old Mexican superstar who beat both Taylor Swift and Bad Bunny’s YouTube streaming record last year announced a performance at Amalie Arena on June 21.

Pepe Aguilar : The “Jaripeo Hasta Los Huesos Tour” pays tribute to the Mexican tradition of the Day of the Dead. Sunday, June 30, at Amalie Arena.

Hip-hop and R&B

Megan Thee Stallion: Hotties, assemble. Megan Thee Stallion’s “Hot Girl Summer Tour” is coming to Amalie Arena in Tampa on Saturday, June 8. GloRilla will open.

The Kid LAROI: Charlton Howard won’t even be 21 yet when he comes to Tampa this summer. Find the rising rap star at the Yuengling Center with glaive and Chase Shaker on Sunday, June 9.

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21 Savage: The “redrum” rapper returns with his “American Dream Tour” on Friday, June 14 at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre.

Bryson Tiller : Tiller will share his blend of R&B and trap on Sunday, June 16 at the Yuengling Center.

Kid Cudi: Those on the “Pursuit of Happiness” can find Kid Cudi at Amalie Arena on Saturday, July 6 for the “Insano World Tour.” Pusha T and EARTHGANG will open.

Missy Elliott: The rap pioneer’s first ever headlining tour features some famous friends: Timbaland, Ciara and Busta Rhymes. Wednesday, July 24 at Amalie Arena.

$uicideboy$: The New Orleans rap duo, whose collab partners range from Travis Barker to the guitarist from Korn, will head to Amalie Arena on Sunday, Aug. 11.

Pop singers and songwriters

Hozier : The Irish singer-songwriter, whose songs bounce somewhere between blues, soul gospel, R&B and folk, has become something of a mystical character. He’ll take Tampa to church on Saturday, May 11, at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre.

Chappell Roan : The self-proclaimed “Midwest Princess” is coming to Jannus Live in St. Petersburg on Sunday, May 19, hot off of opening for Olivia Rodrigo (Both singers work closely with producer Dan Nigro). Expect campy synth pop, technicolor costumes both onstage and in the audience and perhaps an appearance from local drag queens.

Madison Beer : Hear TikTok-famous hits like “Make You Mine” at Jannus Live during the “Spinnin Tour” on Wednesday, May 22, at Jannus Live. Upsahl will open.

Niall Horan: One Direction’s Irish heartthrob brings the “The Show” Live on Tour to MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre on Friday, May 31.

Justin Timberlake: The pop star, now touring to support his sixth solo studio album, is bringing sexy back to Amalie Arena in Tampa on Friday, June 14.

Melanie Martinez: Beach Bunny and Sofia Isella open “The Trilogy Tour” on Tuesday, June 18, at Amalie Arena.

Alternative and rock

Sleep Token: The masked alt-metal band from England comes to Tampa’s Yuengling Center on Monday, May 6 with Empire State Bastard.

Toto: The band will bless the rains down in Africa at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater during the “Dogs of Oz Tour” on Wednesday, May 8.

Amon Amarth : “Heed our warning: We are gearing up for our biggest and most epic raid in North American history,” the Viking metal band posted to announce their upcoming tour. Cannibal Corpse, Obituary and Frozen Soul open the “Metal Crushes All Tour” on Saturday, May 18, at the Yuengling Center.

Santana and Counting Crows: Now celebrating a 50-year career, Santana will team up with Counting Crows on Sunday, June 16 at Amalie Arena in Tampa for the “Oneness Tour.”

Alanis Morissette: The Canadian-American singer is bringing a dose of ‘90s alt-rock nostalgia to MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa on Wednesday, June 19. “You Oughta Know” that Joan Jett and the Blackhearts will be opening, along with Morgan Wade.

Red Hot Chili Peppers: Catch Flea and friends on the “Unlimited Love Tour,” featuring special guests Ice Cube and indie rockers IRONTOM, on Friday, June 21, at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre.

Sammy Hagar : The Red Rocker — and special guest Loverboy — will perform during the “Best of All Worlds Tour” on Sunday, July 14, at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa.

Styx and Foreigner: Foreigner already embarked on a farewell run in 2023, but a tour with Styx seems like a good reason to return to Tampa. Catch the “Renegades & Juke Box Heroes Tour” on Saturday, July 20, at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre.

Chicago and Earth, Wind and Fire: The “Heart & Soul 2024 Tour” features two bands that have been going since the late 1960s — and two MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre shows. Thursday, Aug. 15 and Friday, Aug. 16.

Dirty Heads and Slightly Stoopid: Rock, hip hop, reggae and soul come together for this double-headliner at The BayCare Sound in Clearwater on Saturday, Aug. 3. Common Kings and the Elovators will open.

Beach Fossils: The Brooklyn indie rockers, whose sound ranges from lo-fi to surf rock, head to the Orpheum in Tampa on Friday, April 19.

ALVVAYS: The Canadian indie rockers will bring their dreamy indie rock hits to the Ritz Ybor in Tampa on Wednesday, May 1.

Waxahatchee : Punk rocker-turned-singer-songwriter Katie Crutchfield is coming to Jannus Live in St. Petersburg on Friday, May 3. Get there early to catch Australian indie rock duo Good Morning.

Kurt Vile : The former lead guitarist for The War On Drugs is bringing his solo music to Jannus Live on Wednesday, May 8.

Still Woozy : It’s hard to describe the funky fusion of indie pop that comes out of Sven Eric Gamsky, also known as Still Woozy. Check out the “Loveseat Tour,” featuring MICHELLE, on Tuesday, Aug. 20 at Jannus Live.

Chris Stapleton: The country singer’s “All-American Road Show” comes to MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa on Friday, May 10. Nikki Lane and Grace Potter open.

Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Band: The “Sun Goes Down Tour” comes to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Saturday, April 20.

Brooks & Dunn : Get ready to “Boot Scoot Boogie” on Saturday, May 4 at MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre.

Kane Brown: The vocalist has been called “the future of country music” by Billboard. See him with Tyler Hubbard and Parmalee on Friday, May 31, or Saturday, June 1, at Amalie Arena in Tampa.

Tyler Childers : Check out Childers’ blend of country, folk and bluegrass at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater during the “Mule Pull ‘24 Tour” on Wednesday, June 5.

Morgan Wallen: One of country’s highest-streamed crooners is bringing his “One Night at a Time World Tour” to Raymond James Stadium for, well, two nights: Thursday, July 11, and Friday, July 12.

Zach Bryan: Jason Isbell opens “The Quittin Time Tour” on Wednesday, Aug. 14, at Raymond James Stadium.

Tampa Bay Blues Festival: See Grace Potter, Blood Brothers, Bywater Call, Beth Hart, Tab Benoit and more from Friday, April 12, through Sunday, April 14, at Vinoy Park in St. Petersburg. See the full lineup at tampabaybluesfest.com .

Breakaway Music Festival: After years of Sunset Music Festival dominance, a new EDM event is coming to town. Breakaway Music Festival debuts at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27. Zedd, Sofi Tukker, Illenium and Kascade will headline.

WMNF Tropical Heatwave : The “eclectic music extravaganza” takes place at the Cuban Club in Ybor City on Saturday, May 4. Bands include The Record Company, Ruthie Foster, Say She She, The Dollyrots, Selwyn Birchwood and more.

Sad Summer Fest: The Vans Warped Tour may not be happening anymore, but this day-to-night festival comes close. See Mayday Parade, The Maine, The Wonder Years, We the Kings at the BayCare Sound in Clearwater on Saturday, July 27. Real Friends, Knuckle Punk, Hot Milk, Daisy Grenade and Diva Bleach round out the lineup.

Slash’s S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival: The Guns N’ Roses guitarist, soon releasing his blues album Orgy of the Damned, is coming to the BayCare Sound with ZZ Ward, Robert Randolph and more. A portion of the proceeds from this blues-themed celebration will go towards organizations focused on equity and justice.

Clearwater Smooth Jazz Jam: This two-day jazz and artist celebration takes over Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater on Friday, June 14 and Saturday, June 15. The lineup includes Jeffrey Osborne, Brian Culbertson, Sheila E. and the E-Train, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, Gerald Albright, and Peter White.

Tampa Bay International Carnival: Celebrate Caribbean culture at this two-day festival featuring Inner Circle, also known as The Bad Boys of Reggae, Kes the Band and more. Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14 at Albert Whitted Park in St. Petersburg.

Nostalgic acts and covers

Emo Orchestra: Grown-up scene queens can hear their favorite MySpace-era hits performed by a live orchestra at the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in Clearwater. Escape the Fate leads the festivities on Friday, May 3.

Tom Sandoval and the Most Extras: Bravo’s scandalous Tom Sandoval, of “Vanderpump Rules” fame, is heading to the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre on Saturday, May 18 with his cover band, the Most Extras.

Hauser : The Internet-famous Croatian cellist will return to Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater on Saturday, June 1. Expect to hear a wide range of covers across genres, from Celine Dion to Lady Gaga.

Motion City Soundtrack : The pop-punk band celebrates the 20th anniversary of their album “I am the Movie” with Prince Daddy & the Hyena and the Iron Roses at the Ritz Ybor in Ybor City on Sunday, June 2.

New Kids on the Block: The “Magic Summer 2024 Tour” will be a reimagining of the band’s 1990 tour of the same name. Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff open the show on Wednesday, July 19, at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa.

Barbie the Movie: In Concert : You may have seen Margot Robbie at the movie theater. But have you watched the film with an all-women, majority women-of-color orchestra playing the soundtrack live? The hybrid movie-concert experience hits the MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre on Tuesday, July 2.

Amalie Arena: 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. Box Office: 813-301-2500. amaliearena.com .

The BayCare Sound: 255 Drew St, Clearwater. (727) 791-7400 and (800) 875-8682. rutheckerdhall.com/baycare-sound .

The Cuban Club: 2010 Avenida Republica de Cuba, Tampa. (813) 248-2954. cubanclubybor.com/events .

Jannus Live: 200 1st Ave. N, St. Petersburg. (727) 565-0550. jannuslive.com .

MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre: 4802 US-301, Tampa. midflorida.com/about-us/amphitheatre .

Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre: 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. (727) 791-7400 and (800) 875-8682. rutheckerdhall.com/plan-your-visit/the-nancy-and-david-bilheimer-capitol-theatre .

The Orpheum: 14802 North Nebraska Avenue, Tampa. Call 813-248-9500. theorpheum.com .

Raymond James Stadium: 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. Stadium main line: (813) 350-6500. Ticket office: (813) 350-6502. raymondjamesstadium.com .

The Ritz Ybor: 1503 E 7th Ave., Tampa. (813) 87-EVENT (38368). theritzybor.com .

Ruth Eckerd Hall: 1111 McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater. (727) 791-7400 and (800) 875-8682. rutheckerdhall.com .

Yuengling Center: 12499 USF Bull Run Drive, Tampa. Call the box office at 813-301-2500. yuenglingcenter.com

Gabrielle Calise is a culture reporter who covers music, nostalgia and offbeat Florida trends. Reach her at [email protected].

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Harbor Tours

Port Tampa Bay is hosting a quarterly educational Harbor Tour to the community, free of charge. The waterside tour, provided in partnership with the Yacht Starship, is a complementary boat excursion to learn more about Port Tampa Bay. The Yacht Starship is a 180-feet, exquisite yacht with 3 decks, and four separate indoor and air conditioned rooms. Guests will learn about the region's largest economic engine, Port Tampa Bay, while enjoying the Yacht Starship's expansive promenade deck for sightseeing and great views of the Port. 

Each quarter we welcome our maritime partners such as the Propeller Club - Port of Tampa, Tampa Bay Maritime Scholarship Foundations, the Seafarer's Center, the U.S. Coast Guard and others in sharing the information about the reach the port has on the region. Thank you to the Yacht Starship for their support in showcasing our waterways!

Port Tampa Bay is Florida's largest port, supporting nearly 85,000+ jobs and generating more than $17 billion in annual economic impact. In addition to being a top 10 U.S. cruise port, the port handles a wide array of bulk, break bulk, containers and roll-on/roll-off cargoes, and is a major shipbuilding and repair center. We look forward to showcasing this on your tour. Check out the tour dates below!

To learn more about the Yacht Starship, or to book private tours, visit  https://www.yachtstarship.com .

Quarterly Educational Harbor Tours

2024 tour dates .

Registration will open three weeks prior to tour date.

Tours begin boarding at 9:30 am, tour departs at 10:00 am and returns at 12:00 noon. Water is provided and other soft drinks can be purchased on board by electronic payment only - no cash.

Friday, July, 12, 2024: Environmental Stewardship Registration will open at 10:00 am on June 26, 2024.

Friday, November 8, 2024: Theme TBA

Previous Tours:

Friday, April 5, 2024: Welcom to Port Tampa Bay!

An overview of Port Tampa Bay and showcasing partnerships with The Propeller Club - Port of Tampa, The Maritime Scholarship Foundation, Seafer's Center, U.S. Coast Guard and many more. 

Tuesday, March 7, 2023: Welcome to Port Tampa Bay!

An overview of Port Tampa Bay and showcasing partnerships with The Propeller Club - Port of Tampa, The Maritime Scholarship Foundation, Seafer's center, U.S. Coast Guard and many more. 

Friday, July 28, 2023:  Guests learned about Port Tampa Bay's environmental stewardship and visited bird nesting sactuary islands. Check out this video from 10 News:  Great Day Live Take a Tour of Port Tampa Bay .

Thursday, September 14, 2023:  This tour focused on career opportunities throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Friday, November 3, 2023:  Guests met tenants that operate throughout the port complex and learn about how they contribute to making Port Tampa Bay the largest economic engine in West Central Florida.

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

Tampa: a guide to the overlooked city in Florida worth exploring

What to see and where to go in and around Tampa

It’s this combination of compelling history and a new and fast-paced evolution that makes Tampa such a great place to visit. As does its role as a jumping-off point for fantastic outdoor activities on the magnificent Gulf of Mexico beaches nearby, including swimming in hot springs near manatees, kayaking and riding an airboat through the mangroves.

Tampa also has a super-modern and efficient airport that doesn’t suffer the immigration queues of Orlando and Miami (and that has an increasing number of direct flights from the UK with airlines including Virgin Atlantic ). This means that as well as coming to Tampa for a brilliant city and beach break combo, there’s the option of building on a side-trip to the world’s theme-park capital just over an hour away for the perfect three-in-one holiday.

What to see and do in Tampa

Still gritty in places (something that’s part of its charm), this fast-changing city at the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast is centred on its modern four-kilometre Riverwalk lined by repurposed and contemporary architecture and lovely public spaces. Prominent among them is Armature Works, formerly a streetcar repair and storage barn, that's now chock-full of alluring bars and restaurants including sleek M.Bird with glittering city and river views from its rooftop.

It’s also in this district, Tampa Heights, that you’ll find Ulele, a restaurant named after the Native American daughter of the chief of the Tocobaga tribe. Ulele is unique in that it serves native Floridian fare based on indigenous ingredients and incorporating Native American influences – standouts include okra fries, Barbacoa-grilled Gulf oysters, pan-seared pompano fillets, jalapeno vodka cocktails and crafts beers from its own on-site brewery.

Indeed, Tampa is an epic city for foodies, with other highlights including Goody Goody, one of America’s first drive-in restaurants now reborn as a modern diner with classic American decor and dishes such as sublime breakfasts of giant buttermilk pancakes. Goody Goody is run by the fifth-generation Gonzart family, who also own Ulele as well as Florida’s oldest restaurant, the iconic Columbia, which serves Cuban sandwiches, its famous ‘1905’ salads and plenty more besides in a vast, extravagantly tiled venue occupying a whole block in Ybor City.

Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter, Ybor City, is the real highlight of any visit here. It's famous for its lively, even often rowdy, bar and nightclub scene, but by day it’s a charming, calm spot to wander around, with Cuban artisans still hand-rolling cigars as they have since 1885 and a free-roaming wild chicken population. To make the most of it, join a guided outing with Ybor City Walking Tours and learn about how this fascinating neighbourhood became a magnet for immigrants from Cuba, Spain, Germany, Italy and Eastern Europe. Also, don’t miss a ride on the free historic wooden streetcar back from Ybor City to Downtown.

Great day-trips and overnighters from Tampa

Crystal River (75 minutes north of Tampa)

Defined by its vast bodies of water, this compact city sits on Kings Bay with its 70-plus hot springs providing a winter refuge for Florida's manatees. It’s such an important spot for the survival of these placid creatures that it’s been designated the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge – the only refuge in the USA dedicated to preserving a single species. You can swim in the hot springs near these docile creatures, using the ‘freeze and float’ method should they inquisitively approach you, with firms such as Salty Siren Tours & Charters .

Another warmly recommended local boat trip in the area is an eco airboat ride with Ozello Keys Pontoon Tours , taking you through the backcountry of the tiny islands into the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way you’ll see the fertile feeding grounds of manatees, dolphin, alligators and tropical birds, and may also snatch shoreline sightings of turtles, otters and wild boar.

Back at the hot springs, you can even earn your fins as a mermaid with family-run firm Crystal River Watersports , who teach both women and men to learn to swim like sirens, clad in fabric tails. If it sounds niche, it’s also great fun, strangely freeing (and easy) and all part of the quirky ‘Old Florida’ feel of this part of the state.

The same goes for the Mertailor’s Mermaid Aquarium Encounter , with live mermaid shows in the same place where Eric Ducharme creates silicone tails for both celebs such as Lady Gaga and everyday folk who yearn to be mermaids. You can even stay in a mermaid-and-manatee themed B&B here, the charming Crystal Blue Lagoon Bed & Breakfast right on a hot spring with manatees and dolphins swimming by.

All this fun in the water works up an appetite that you can satisfy in fantastic local restaurants such as the New Orleans–themed Seafood Seller & Cafe with its Cajun-style dishes including alligator mac and cheese, Sadie's Corner Kitchen with its homemade lobster bisques, crab salads and more, and Vintage On 5th including Deep South dishes in a renovated 1940s cottage-church.

Florida’s Adventure Coast: (1 hour north of Tampa)

As the name suggests, this is a place for more outdoor fun, and much of that takes place in hot springs. The weekend-long Sirens of the Deep Camps at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is another chance to learn to swim like a mermaid, although most people come simply to marvel at the daily mermaid shows that once drew the likes of of Elvis Presley. If that’s all a bit kooky, head out on the Weeki Wachee River in a transparent kayak or on a SUP paddle board with Get Up and Go Kayaking – preferably at sunset, which is one of the best times to see wildlife including turtles, manatees, dolphins and stingrays.

Weeki Wachee and neighbouring Hernando Beach (not actually a beach but a network of canals) is also a fun place to go out of an evening for a feel of the authentic Florida, with great restaurants and bars such as The Lazy Lizard, with its comfort food such as fried pickles and its live music and dancing, while Neptune’s Grotto Old Florida Adventure Retreat is an eccentric place to stay.

Anna Maria Island (1 hour south of Tampa)

With few visitors from overseas, this barrier island curling out in to the Gulf of Mexico feels like a great alternative to the Florida Keys. It’s classic beach holiday territory and the perfect place to end a road trip along the west Florida coast before returning to Tampa: it has a few vintage shops to browse, but life here is all about lazing on the sand or by the pool and feasting on fantastic seafood in gorgeous venues such as The Sandbar, with its sustainable, farm-to-fork ethos and glorious sunset views, and The Rod and Reel Pier perched out over the water, with incredibly good-value classics.

That said, don’t miss a nosey around Bradenton , of which Anna Maria is a part. The mainland capital of Manatee County, Bradenton has lots to detain you, including The Bishop Museum of Science & Nature with its manatee rehabilitation centre, its own Riverwalk, the Robinson Preserve with its rare wildlife including roseate spoonbills, wood storks, white pelicans and bald eagles, and the Village of the Arts live-work community of brightly painted historic cottages housing award-winning restaurants, boutiques, at galleries and studios, and healing arts centres.

Where to stay in and around Tampa

Part of Marriott’s luxury JW brand, JW Marriott Water Street is an exceptional hotel with lot of outdoor space including a pool with city views. Rooms are airy and modern and there’s a spa and two restaurants with locally inspired dishes.

Plantation on Crystal River is a 27-hole championship golf course, four restaurants, an outdoor lagoon pool and a spa make this expansive resort a fun bet, as does its setting on a bay visited by more than 400 manatees a year.

Anna Maria Beach Resort , with its own gate onto the white-sand beach and sunset views, is an intimate, upmarket option combining motel-style architecture with cocooning rooms and suites and a sparkling pool ringed by lounges and cabanas for hire.

MORE HOTELS IN AND AROUND TAMPA

HOLIDAYS TO TAMPA WITH VIRGIN

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Aerosmith reschedules Peace Out farewell tour: Dates for 3 Florida shows, how to get tickets

Florida Aerosmith fans will wait just a bit longer to finally say peace out  to the iconic rock band.

The rockers, who postponed their Peace Out farewell tour  after only a few shows in September, will return for a 40-date run starting Sept. 20 of this year.

Three Florida shows are included in this new schedule, all seeing dates in the early half of 2025. As with the original dates,  The Black Crowes  will open for Aerosmith.

When are the new Florida dates for Aerosmith's 'Peace Out' farewell tour? They also added an extra city

The new dates for the Florida shows are:

• Friday, Feb. 14 - Tampa, Amelie Arena
• Monday, Feb. 17 - Sunrise, Amerant Bank Arena

In addition to rescheduling the tour, the band added three cities: Pittsburgh, Orlando and Philadelphia, where their tour kicked off last September.

The Orlando date is Tuesday, Feb. 11 at the Kia Arena, recently renamed from the Amway Center.

Why did Aerosmith have to postpone 2023 tour dates? What happened to Steven Tyler?

On Sept. 12, Tyler initially  announced  that he had a severe vocal injury that occurred during Aerosmith's Saturday show in Long Island, New York.

“I’m heartbroken to say I have received strict doctor’s orders not to sing for the next thirty days,” Tyler, 75, said in a  statement  released by the band on Monday. “I sustained vocal cord damage during Saturday’s show that led to subsequent bleeding. We’ll need to postpone a few dates so that we can come back and give you the performance you deserve.

However, the band shared in a statement two weeks later that said “Unfortunately, Steven’s vocal injury is more serious than initially thought. His doctor has confirmed that in addition to the damage to his vocal cords, he fractured his larynx which requires ongoing care.”

They shared the rock icon was receiving the best medical treatment available to ensure his recovery is swift, but "given the nature of a fracture, he is being told patience is essential.”

I bought tickets to Aerosmith's 2023 shows. Will my tickets be honored?

All previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new dates, while tickets for the new shows will go on sale at 10 a.m. local time April 12 via  ticketmaster.com .

For those who previously purchased tickets and cannot attend the rescheduled concerts, refunds will be available at point of purchase. A series of VIP packages are also available at  aerosmith.com/VIP.

What songs can fans expect to hear at Aerosmith’s farewell shows?

USA TODAY attended the opening show in Philadelphia last year. While there could be changes to the set list, here's what it looked like prior to the postponement:

• "Back in the Saddle"
• "Love in an Elevator"
• "Janie's Got a Gun"
• "Adam's Apple"
• "Livin' on the Edge"
• "No More No More"
• "Hangman Jury"
• "Seasons of Wither"
• "Movin' Out"
• "Stop Messin' Around"
• "Rats in the Cellar"
• "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing"
• "Sweet Emotion"
• "Toys in the Attic"
• "Walk This Way"

Are all original Aerosmith members on tour?

Original drummer  Joey Kramer  will be sitting out the band's final tour. John Douglas, Aerosmith's former drum tech, is filling Kramer's seat.

“While Joey Kramer remains a beloved founding member of Aerosmith, he has regrettably made the decision to sit out the currently scheduled touring dates to focus his full attention on his family and health. Joey’s unmistakable and legendary presence behind the drum kit will be sorely missed,” the band said in a statement.

However, fans can look forward to Tyler's yowl and his fellow Toxic Twin, Joe Perry, on the guitar. Brad Whitford and Tom Hamilton remain on guitar and bass.

See all Aerosmith's 'Peace Out' farewell tour dates

• Sept. 20 – Pittsburgh – PPG Paints Arena
• Sept. 23 – Philadelphia  – Wells Fargo Center
• Sept. 26 – Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center    
• Sept. 29 – Cleveland  – Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse 
• Oct. 2 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center
• Oct. 5 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boling Arena 
• Oct. 8 – Washington – Capital One Arena
• Oct. 11 – Atlanta – State Farm Arena
• Oct. 14 – St Louis – Enterprise Center
• Oct. 17 – Cincinnati  – Heritage Bank Arena
• Oct. 20 – Nashville, TN  – Bridgestone Arena
• Oct. 31 – Phoenix  – Footprint Center
• Nov. 3 – San Antonio - Frost Bank Center
• Nov. 6 – Austin, TX – Moody Center
• Nov. 9 – Dallas– American Airlines Center
• Nov. 12 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center
• Nov. 15 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center
• Nov. 18 – Denver– Ball Arena    
• Nov. 21 – Portland, OR – Moda Center 
• Nov. 24 – Seattle – Climate Pledge Arena
• Nov. 27 – Salt Lake City– Vivint Arena
• Nov. 30 – San Francisco– Chase Center
• Dec. 4 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center               
• Dec. 7 – Los Angeles– The Kia Forum
• Dec. 28 – Newark, NJ - Prudential Center 
• Dec. 31 – Boston – TD Garden
• Jan. 4 – Detroit - Little Caesars Arena       
• Jan. 7 – Toronto – Scotiabank Arena 
• Jan. 10 – Montreal – Bell Centre
• Jan. 16 – Indianapolis – Gainbridge Fieldhouse 
• Jan. 19 – Chicago – United Center
• Jan. 22 – St Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
• Jan. 25 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center
• Feb. 11 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center
• Feb. 14 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena
• Feb. 17 – Sunrise, FL – Amerant Bank Arena
• Feb. 20 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena 
• Feb. 23 – New York – Madison Square Garden
• Feb. 26 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center

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Balcony to Backstage Tour

Tampa theatre.

Where does the organ go when the movie starts? Why is there a stuffed peacock perched near the proscenium? (And, for that matter, what is a “proscenium” anyway?)

Learn the Theatre’s secrets, stories, art and architecture and witness its historic restoration efforts with a “balcony to backstage” tour of Tampa’s majestic movie palace. The 90-minute tours will kick off in the lobby at 11:30am and include a demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ.

These tours do sell out, so please consider buying your tickets in advance, either online by clicking your preferred date and time at right, or in person at the historic Franklin Street Box Office.

Tour tickets are $10 for general admission / FREE for Tampa Theatre Members. 

Need info on seating, parking, nearby dining options, and more? Before your visit to Tampa Theatre, please  CLICK HERE to familiarize yourself with our KNOW BEFORE YOU GO info page.  Tampa Theatre Members please enter the barcode on your membership card when prompted to receive your complimentary tickets, one per member card.

* Does not include convenience or handling fees.