Start your trip on the scenic Tampa Riverwalk – a 2.4-mile walkway along the Hillsborough River with an array of public art installations, waterfront parks, and excellent dining. Grab lunch at the award-winning Armature Works, which serves up a variety of food hall options with Florida-inspired cuisine.
Explore the cultural heart of Tampa at Ybor City, a historic district known for its vibrant nightlife, Cuban and Latin American restaurants, and cigar shops. Don't forget to visit the Ybor City Museum State Park and the Centro Ybor shopping and entertainment center. Head over to downtown Tampa for spectacular skyline views from the Tampa Riverwalk Park and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. End the day with dinner at the beautiful Ulele, famous for its craft beers and fresh seafood dishes.
Indulge in the rich cultural scene Tampa has to offer and spend the day exploring its variety of museums and gardens. Visit the Tampa Museum of Art which has an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, the Glazer Children's Museum which offers interactive exhibits and activities for all kids, and the Florida Botanical Gardens, a 90-acre urban oasis that showcases the region's flora and fauna.
Take a break from the city and head to the award-winning Clearwater Beach, known for its crystal clear water and white sandy beaches. Unwind and relax on the beach, or opt to engage in a variety of water activities such as dolphin watching, parasailing, or jet skiing. You can also visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a rescue and rehabilitation center for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine animals.
End your trip on a thrilling note by visiting Busch Gardens, an African-themed amusement park featuring over 50 thrill-seeking rides and a variety of exotic animals and habitats from around the world. Cool off and have more fun at the adjacent Adventure Island waterpark, which offers a variety of water slides and attractions for all ages.
If you have more time, consider visiting other local attractions such as the Henry B. Plant Museum, the Big Cat Rescue, or the Tampa Bay History Center. If you have less time, you can condense the museum and gardens day and opt for a half-day trip to St. Pete Beach instead. Don't forget to check the opening and closing hours of each location and make reservations in advance when necessary.