Tampa has long been recognized as a favorite spot for family fun. But there are plenty of attractions for adults too, including a fascinating culinary scene, a dynamic arts community, and plenty of outdoor activities. It’s the perfect weekend destination, whether you’re vacationing with kids, looking to hang out with friends, or just need a romantic getaway.

Arts and Entertainment

Skipper’s Smokehouse

If you’re looking for live music outdoors, Skipper’s Smokehouse is the place to be. This coastal venue, known as the “Skipperdome,” features all styles of music, from rock to reggae. In addition to the songs, attendees can enjoy the eclectic and ever-changing mix of art exhibits from local artists.

Ybor City Saturday Market

Open year-round, the Ybor City Saturday Market is a multi-story venue featuring Tampa-made art, such as jewelry, photography, and woodwork; handmade items like bath products, clothing, and candles; and locally sourced produce, including produce, artisan baked goods, and quick treats.

Morean Arts Center

Celebrating a century of education and programming, the Morean Arts Center, located in Downtown St. Petersburg’s Central Artist District, offers a packed program of new classes, workshops, and exhibitions. Admire glass art from the Chihuly Collection and visit the Glass Studio & Hot Shop to see local artists in action, create your own piece, or purchase a souvenir.

Food and Drink

FitEx Meals

Whether you’re planning a picnic or just want a quick, nourishing bite between adventures, FitEx Meals is the perfect go-to spot for healthy eats in Tampa. With a convenient grab-and-go storefront and delivery options, this local healthy food service makes staying energized on the go easy. Their ready-to-eat meals are packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for tossing in a cooler and enjoying at a park or beach.

Ulele

Located in Tampa Heights, Ulele blends ingredients from the sea and land into Native American-inspired dishes. Enjoy them with a beer from the Ulele Spring Brewery, which is located on-site and also offers tours.

Datz

No matter how late you wake up, you can still enjoy Datz’s weekend brunch in South Tampa, which is served until 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays. The crème brûlée toast with fresh Florida strawberries pleases those with a sweet tooth. Or order the savory egg sammy, accompanied by home-cut potatoes and bacon.

Dracula’s Legacy Wine Bar

The vampire-themed, low-lit decor and intimate setting make Dracula’s Legacy the perfect spot to have a drink or two. Taste food and beverages every night surrounded by unconventional Halloween decorations. Enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m.

Family-Friendly Activities

Glazer Children’s Museum

At Glazer Children’s Museum, kids can explore their talents and future careers with exhibits and hands-on activities in engineering, art, health, safety, environmental conservation, and banking. They can also burn off extra energy at the indoor playground.

Manatee Viewing Center

Manatees prefer the flow of the Big Bend Power Station canal for its warm waters. People like it because they can observe them. The educational center features exhibits about manatees, hurricanes, and conservation, and the grounds also include a butterfly garden and a 50-foot viewing platform for more wildlife.

TreeUmph! Adventure Course

Awaken your inner Tarzan. If your kids are over 7 years old, both you and they will enjoy the adrenaline rush of the obstacles at TreeUmph, located south of Tampa. TreeUmph has five treetop courses with multiple footbridges, zip lines, and rope swings.

Big Cat Rescue

For over 25 years, Big Cat Rescue has been home to rescued lions, tigers, and leopards. The 67-acre sanctuary offers daily tours (except Thursdays), including photography tours, animal feeding tours, and night tours. When planning your trip to Tampa, tune in to the Big Cat livestream.

Outdoor Activities

Hillsborough River State Park

Head northeast of Tampa to Hillsborough River State Park for a dose of outdoor activities of all kinds. Kayak or canoe the Hillsborough River’s Class II rapids, swim in the park’s pool, hike the nature trails, camp, or visit the park’s interpretive center. Canoe, kayak, and other equipment rentals are available at the Hillsborough Park Café, where you can also have lunch or stock up on picnic supplies.

Bike Tampa

Walk the Bayshore Linear Park Trail to admire picturesque water views and some of Old Hyde Park’s most beautiful homes, some of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Along the way, you’ll find exercise stations and a picturesque view.

Cypress Point Park Trail

The beach at this urban park, with its dunes and wildflowers, will give you a dose of sand and water. It’s also a top-notch place to watch the sunset over Old Tampa Bay.