Okay, I need to talk about Tampa because this city is seriously slept on. While everyone was busy posting beach pics from Miami, I spent a week here and couldn’t believe what I’d been missing. Picture this: sipping a spicy margarita on a rooftop in Water Street while the sun turns the sky into a cotton candy dream. Yeah, that’s just a regular Tuesday here.
From flipping upside down on Montu at Busch Gardens (my stomach still drops thinking about it) to dancing through the wild nightlife of Ybor City, the best things to do in Tampa had me texting my friends, “You guys NEED to get here.” Trust me, this city is about to be your new Florida obsession.
Best Things to Do in Tampa for Young Adults
Looking for the coolest things to do in Tampa for young adults? Explore marine life at The Florida Aquarium, experience the vibrant nightlife of Ybor City, enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along Bayshore Boulevard, and soak up the sun at Clearwater Beach. Whether you’re into adventure, history, or relaxation, here are the top attractions to visit in Tampa.
1. Dive into Aquatic Adventures at The Florida Aquarium
Located in downtown Tampa, The Florida Aquarium blends education and fun with exhibits that span everything from wetlands to deep sea ecosystems. I spent an afternoon wandering through the Coral Reef Gallery, and watching sharks glide overhead in the 500,000-gallon tank was a highlight. There’s also Moon Bay, where you can gently touch moon jellies, and Stingray Touch, another interactive favorite.
If you’re into marine life, the SeaTREK diving experience lets you walk underwater with a helmet—no scuba certification needed. For something more laid-back, hop on the Wild Dolphin Cruise to spot bottlenose dolphins in Tampa Bay. There’s even a splash pad outside, so bring a towel if it’s hot out. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or on a date, the aquarium mixes immersive exhibits with hands-on experiences that make learning about sea life actually fun.
2. Savor the Scene at Ybor City
Ybor City blends Tampa’s Cuban roots with modern energy—think historic architecture, hand-rolled cigars, and buzzing nightlife. I kicked off the evening with Cuban coffee from La Segunda Bakery, then wandered into The Castle, a quirky multi-floor nightclub that lives up to the neighborhood’s eclectic vibe. You’ll find vintage shops, tattoo studios, and art galleries all along 7th Avenue.
During the day, explore the Ybor City Museum State Park to learn how the neighborhood became the cigar capital of the world. At night, live music spills into the streets and outdoor patios fill with people. If you’re visiting on a weekend, keep an eye out for food festivals or vintage markets. It’s one of those rare places that’s just as lively at 11 a.m. as it is at 11 p.m.—a full-day hang with something for every mood.
3. Catch the Sunrise on Bayshore Boulevard
If you’re a morning person—or want to be—Bayshore Boulevard is the place to start your day in Tampa. Stretching 4.5 miles along Hillsborough Bay, it’s the longest continuous sidewalk in the U.S. I walked a sunrise loop with coffee in hand, and the combo of waterfront views and early quiet was surprisingly peaceful.
Locals jog, cycle, and rollerblade here, so it’s got a friendly energy without feeling too crowded. On one side, you’ll see elegant historic homes; on the other, the sun rising over the bay. Street parking is available nearby, and the path connects easily to Ballast Point Park if you want to keep going. Snap a few photos, take a deep breath, and let the day begin with a win. It’s simple, free, and feels like a local ritual.
4. Bask in the Sun at Clearwater Beach
Clearwater Beach is where Tampa locals go when they want a guaranteed good beach day. The soft, white sand stretches for miles, and the turquoise Gulf water is warm and calm—perfect for floating or paddleboarding. I grabbed a fish taco at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, rented a beach chair, and didn’t move for hours.
You can walk the Beach Walk Promenade, rent jet skis, or join a sunset cruise from Pier 60. There’s usually something happening at the pier—street performers, craft markets, or just a really good sunset crowd. It gets packed on weekends, so arriving before 10 a.m. helps snag a spot. Parking can be tricky, but there are garages nearby. If you’re only choosing one beach day in the Tampa area, Clearwater’s mix of activity and chill is hard to beat.
5. Uncover Treasures at the Tampa Bay History Center
Tampa Bay History Center turns local history into an experience, not just a collection of facts. Spread over three floors, it covers everything from pirate legends and Spanish explorers to the cigar boom and cattle drives. I spent over an hour in the Touchton Map Library, flipping through antique maps of Florida that told wild stories all on their own.
Interactive exhibits like the Cuban cigar shop replica and the early Tampa streetcar simulator help bring the past to life. There’s also the Columbia Café inside, where I had a Cuban sandwich that rivaled some of the best in Ybor. Plan for at least two hours if you want to take your time. It’s a great rainy-day option, or just a change of pace from the beach. Whether you’re into history or just cool museums, this spot delivers.
6. Get an Adrenaline Rush at Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is where thrill rides and wildlife meet in the most unexpected way. I kicked off my visit with Iron Gwazi, a hybrid coaster that hits 76 mph—it completely stole the show. With other scream-worthy rides like SheiKra, Montu, and Tigris, the park easily ranks among Florida’s top spots for adrenaline.
But there’s more than just coasters. You can take the Serengeti Express past zebras and giraffes or walk through the Edge of Africa exhibit. I grabbed lunch at the Zambia Smokehouse, and the views of SheiKra flying overhead were pretty epic. Lines can get long on weekends, so consider a Quick Queue pass. Whether you’re here for animal encounters, thrill rides, or both, Busch Gardens keeps the energy high all day long. Just don’t eat right before hopping on Iron Gwazi—you’ve been warned.
7. Skate the Day Away at Bro Bowl
Built in the 1970s, Bro Bowl is one of the oldest surviving public skateparks in the U.S.—and it’s right in Perry Harvey Sr. Park near downtown Tampa. I rolled by during a weekend trip and ended up staying an hour just watching locals shred the bowls and banks like it was second nature.
This historic spot has deep ties to Tampa’s skate scene and even landed a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s free to use, and there’s no shortage of personality here. Bring your own board and gear—there are no rentals on site. The vibe is welcoming, whether you’re practicing ollies or just curious to see the action. Even if you’re not skating, Bro Bowl is worth checking out as a cultural landmark that’s still very much alive.
8. Paddle Through Paradise at Hillsborough River
The Hillsborough River is a relaxing way to get outside without leaving Tampa. I booked a tandem kayak through Ecomersion, located near Lowry Park, and spent the afternoon paddling past shaded cypress trees, turtles, and even a couple of small gators lounging on the banks. It’s calm, scenic, and easy to navigate, even if it’s your first time on the water.
You can choose from single or tandem kayaks, or opt for a guided paddle if you want more insight into the river’s wildlife and history. Trips can last anywhere from one to three hours depending on your route. Bring sun protection, water, and a dry bag for your phone. If you’re looking for a quiet adventure just minutes from downtown, this is a solid pick. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience wild Florida without going too far off the grid.
9. Drink Brews on a Tampa Bay Craft Beer Tour
Exploring Tampa’s craft beer scene is way more fun when someone else handles the driving. I joined a weekend tour with Brew Bus Brewing, which took us to some of the city’s top breweries including Coppertail Brewing and Bay Cannon Beer Company. Between tastings, the bus itself had beers on tap—so the ride was part of the experience.
Each stop included a curated flight and time to meet the staff, check out the brewing setups, and grab cans to go. Brew Bus also offers private group tours and themed rides like their Sunday “Brunch & Brews.” It’s a great option for birthdays or casual weekend plans. Tours typically last three hours, so pace yourself and come hungry—many breweries serve food. Whether you’re a beer nerd or just curious, this rolling taproom brings the best of Tampa’s beer culture to you.
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10. Gaze at Stars at the Tampa Riverwalk
If you’re looking for a chill way to spend the evening, head to the Tampa Riverwalk once the sun sets. I walked the stretch from Curtis Hixon Park to Armature Works, and the skyline reflecting on the water made for one of my favorite nights in the city.
You’ll pass lit-up bridges, public art installations, and waterfront patios filled with people just enjoying the vibe. It’s safe, well-lit, and full of energy without being overwhelming. Bring a friend, grab some ice cream, and maybe catch a live performance or pop-up event.
The Riverwalk is also great for biking, especially with rentals available near Sparkman Wharf. If you’re under 21 or just skipping the bar scene, this is a perfect night out—no cover charge, no fuss, just solid city views and cool air.
11. Explore Creativity at Tampa’s Art Galleries
Tampa has a growing art scene, and checking out the local galleries is an easy way to tap into it. I stopped by the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, where a rotating collection of powerful visual stories really pulled me in. A few blocks away, Tempus Projects showcases edgier, contemporary work in a smaller, more intimate space.
The city also hosts monthly art walks, especially in the Channelside and Ybor areas, where you can pop into galleries, meet artists, and catch live music or food trucks. Some galleries are free, while others have small entry fees. If you’re into photography, installations, or mixed media, Tampa’s galleries deliver a surprising amount of variety. Whether you’re browsing casually or hunting for a new favorite artist, it’s a great way to spend a few hours downtown.
12. Catch a Game at Raymond James Stadium
Home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Raymond James Stadium is where you go for big energy and even bigger crowds. I went for a Sunday game and the tailgate scene was packed—grills going, fans in jerseys, and music blasting hours before kickoff. It set the tone for a high-energy day.
The stadium also hosts major concerts, college football matchups, and special events like Monster Jam and WrestleMania. Food options range from loaded nachos to Cuban sandwiches, and beer flows from stands throughout the concourse. If you’re not into sports, catching a concert here still delivers the same electric vibe.
Arrive early to navigate parking and soak in the pre-event buzz. Whether you’re high in the stands or down near the action, this venue knows how to put on a show—and it’s one of Tampa’s best spots for live entertainment.
