Discover 15 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in South Tampa.
11 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
🧗 AdventureBayshore Boulevard offers families 4.5 miles of scenic waterfront pathways perfect for an active outdoor adventure along Tampa Bay. Kids can bike, scooter, or rollerblade while enjoying stunning water views, grassy parks for picnics, and multiple playgrounds strategically placed along the route, making it easy to break up the journey with playtime.
🌳 ParkBallast Point Park is a South Tampa waterfront gem that combines classic playground fun with unique bay-side adventures. Kids can swing and climb at the playground, try their hand at fishing from the 600-foot pier, or simply run around the open green spaces while parents soak in the incredible downtown Tampa skyline views across Hillsborough Bay.
🌳 ParkHenry B. Plant Park offers families a stunning riverside escape with wide-open green spaces perfect for picnics, running around, and kite flying. The iconic Moorish minarets and architecture create a fairy-tale backdrop that captivates kids' imaginations while parents enjoy scenic Hillsborough River views along the peaceful walking paths.
⭐ ActivityBricks 4 Kidz Tampa transforms LEGO building into an educational adventure with structured classes, camps, and open play sessions that spark creativity and problem-solving skills. With an impressive 4.8-star rating, this engaging learning center combines hands-on construction fun with STEM concepts, making it perfect for budding engineers and creative minds who can't get enough of those colorful bricks.
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🦁 ZooZooTampa at Lowry Park consistently ranks among America's best zoos for families, offering an intimate, kid-friendly experience where children can get remarkably close to animals. With its Florida-focused exhibits, interactive splash zones, and hands-on animal encounters, this award-winning zoo creates magical memories without the overwhelming crowds of larger zoos.
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🧗 AdventureCraft Tampa offers families a unique combination of scenic Hillsborough River boat tours with wildlife viewing and educational narration, plus a waterfront restaurant perfect for refueling after your adventure. With its prime Channelside location, this venue provides both an educational outdoor experience and delicious seafood dining that makes it easy to spend quality time together without multiple stops.
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🐠 AquariumThe Florida Aquarium offers an incredible underwater adventure where kids can get up close with thousands of marine animals through interactive touch pools, impressive walk-through tunnels, and engaging exhibits showcasing Florida's diverse aquatic ecosystems. With hands-on experiences like stingray encounters and playful otters, this Tampa treasure combines education with entertainment that keeps children mesmerized for hours.
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🎨 MuseumThe Glazer Children's Museum is Tampa's premier hands-on learning destination where kids can explore, create, and discover through interactive play. With multiple themed exhibits ranging from a veterinary clinic to a cruise ship, engineering stations to art studios, children learn real-world concepts while having a blast. The museum's emphasis on learning through play makes it both educational and entertaining for young families.
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🍦 Ice CreamOn Swann is a beloved South Tampa ice cream parlor where families gather for homemade ice cream and creative sundaes in a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. Located on trendy South Howard Avenue, this sweet spot serves up generous portions of handcrafted flavors that go beyond the basics, making it a perfect treat destination after school, sports, or just because.
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🌳 ParkPalma Ceia Golf & Country Club offers families in South Tampa a beautiful green space escape with playground equipment perfect for active kids. This well-maintained community spot combines the charm of a residential setting with quality amenities that make it a reliable choice for outdoor play and family time.
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🍦 Ice CreamYogurtology in Westchase offers a fun, interactive dessert experience where kids can become their own ice cream artists. With self-serve frozen yogurt stations featuring rotating flavors and an impressive toppings bar loaded with candies, fresh fruits, and sauces, children love the freedom to create their perfect treat while parents appreciate the pay-by-weight pricing that keeps things reasonable.
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🍽️ RestaurantDatz in St. Pete brings creative comfort food to the family table with a welcoming vibe that actually means it when they say 'kids welcome.' The diverse menu spans from hearty breakfast options to inventive American fare, with a dedicated kids menu that goes beyond the usual chicken fingers, making it a solid choice for families who want quality food without the stuffy atmosphere.
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🍽️ RestaurantA beloved South Tampa landmark since 1948, Brocato's Sandwich Shop offers families an authentic taste of Tampa's Cuban-Italian heritage in a relaxed, no-fuss atmosphere where kids are genuinely welcome. The casual deli setting means parents can relax while little ones enjoy hearty portions of kid-friendly favorites like pressed Cuban sandwiches, spaghetti and meatballs, and crispy croquettes,all at reasonable prices that won't break the family budget.
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🛝 PlaygroundCurtis Hixon Playground offers families a refreshing escape in the heart of downtown Tampa with its free interactive splash pad that's perfect for hot Florida days. Located along the scenic Riverwalk, this urban oasis combines water play with stunning views of the Hillsborough River, making it an ideal spot for budget-conscious families seeking cool fun without the price tag of water parks.
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⭐ ActivityYbor City is Tampa's vibrant historic district where families can wander brick-lined streets filled with colorful Spanish and Cuban architecture, watch entertaining street performers, and explore unique boutiques selling everything from handmade cigars to quirky souvenirs. The pedestrian-friendly neighborhood offers a cultural immersion experience where kids can learn about Tampa's immigrant history while enjoying the lively atmosphere and family-friendly dining options.
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11 upcoming family events in South Tampa
Ready to explore bold flavors and vibrant entertainment all in one place? The Food, Wine & Garden Festival at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in Tampa, FL is a culinary celebration featuring all-new dishes inspired by international spices alongside live musical performances on select weekend dates. Families can enjoy garden strolls between tastings and discover new favorite flavors together.
via Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Toddler Tuesday at ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa is an exclusive members-only event that turns learning into adventure for the youngest explorers (ages 1-4). Each month investigates a new letter and reveals how it connects to the animal kingdom, combining storytelling with live animal encounters your toddlers will never forget.
via Lowry Park Zoo Education Programs
Showing 11 events in and around South Tampa