Photo: Carrollwood Cultural Center
Photo: Carrollwood Cultural Center
Photo: Haroon Tampa FL
Carrollwood Cultural Center
★4.5(603 reviews)$Theater
🕑 1-2 hours for classes or performances; plan 15-30 minutes if just visiting to register or explore the gallery👶 Best for ages 4-17. Younger children (4-8) thrive in beginner art classes and interactive theater productions, while tweens and teens appreciate more advanced workshops, summer theater camps, and the chance to develop their artistic talents through structured programs.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
The Carrollwood Cultural Center is a vibrant community hub that brings arts and culture to life for families in the Tampa area. With year-round theater performances, hands-on art classes for all skill levels, engaging summer camps, and special family-friendly cultural events, this beloved center offers creative experiences that inspire kids while giving parents quality programming they can trust.
Highlights
- ✓Live theater performances designed specifically for family audiences
- ✓Hands-on art classes in painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media
- ✓Summer camps that combine arts, theater, and creative activities
- ✓Rotating art gallery showcasing local artists and student work
- ✓Special cultural events and workshops throughout the year
Pro Tips
- 1.Check their online calendar before visiting as class schedules and performances vary - many popular camps and classes fill up quickly, so register early
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes before theater performances to get good seats and let kids use the restroom, as shows are often well-attended
- 3.Saturday mornings (9 AM-12 PM) have limited hours, so plan weekday visits for more program options and staff availability
- 4.Ask about their seasonal workshops and special events which often include kid-friendly themes around holidays
- 5.Parking is available on-site at the Lowell Road location, making drop-off and pickup easy for busy parents
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday, 3-5 PM) are ideal for browsing their gallery and inquiring about programs without weekend crowds. Summer months offer the most extensive programming with their popular day camps, while fall and spring feature excellent after-school class options.
What to Know
Class fees and performance ticket prices vary by program, so check their website or call ahead for current pricing. The center has ample parking and is located in a convenient, accessible facility with restrooms and air conditioning throughout.
Seasonal Notes
Summer camps run June through August and require advance registration. Fall and spring semesters offer the most extensive class schedules. The center is closed Sundays year-round, and holiday closures may affect regular hours. Check their calendar for special holiday-themed performances and workshops during winter months.
Nearby Eats
Carrollwood Village Shopping Center nearby offers family favorites like Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread. For a sit-down meal, head to BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse on Dale Mabry Highway (about 5 minutes away) which has an extensive kids' menu and relaxed atmosphere.
More Activities Near Carrollwood
Restaurant
Noble Crust
★4.3$$❤️11
Noble Crust in Carrollwood offers families a winning combination of Southern comfort food, Italian favorites, and all-day breakfast in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a dedicated kid-friendly menu and diverse options ranging from pancakes to pasta, even the pickiest eaters will find something to love while parents enjoy quality cuisine at reasonable prices.
Restaurant
The Brass Tap
★3.9$$❤️7
The Brass Tap in Carrollwood offers a surprisingly family-friendly gastropub experience where parents can enjoy craft beverages while kids dig into crowd-pleasers like chicken wings and salads. With games to keep children entertained and spacious outdoor seating, it's an ideal spot for casual family dinners where everyone can relax without the pressure of fine dining formality.
Ice Cream
Bruster's Real Ice Cream
★3.7$
Bruster's Real Ice Cream in Carrollwood is a neighborhood favorite where kids can watch their ice cream being made fresh daily right in the store. With outdoor seating perfect for Florida evenings and a rotating selection of creative flavors, it's an ideal low-key destination for a sweet family outing without breaking the bank.