Tampa is a vibrant Florida gem where sunshine meets city excitement! The mild climate makes it a year-round destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Whether you prefer an urban escape or a camping retreat, Tampa has it all.
Stroll along the Riverwalk, which connects parks, museums and eateries. Dive into the Cuban culture of Ybor City, where the aroma of hand-rolled cigars fills the air. Busch Gardens awaits thrill-seekers with its adrenaline-pumping rides and exotic animals. For nature enthusiasts, visit one of the captivating state parks. From bustling city life to tranquil natural landscapes, Tampa offers an unforgettable adventure for everyone.
Explore everything that “The Big Guava” has to offer. If you are looking for things to do in Tampa, these three-, four- and five-day itineraries provide the perfect inspiration.
3-Day Tampa Itinerary: City Highlights
If you have a long weekend or a three-day mid-week break, Tampa offers a tapestry of exciting city attractions to explore. The following three-day itinerary for Tampa fills every day with wonder.
Day 1: Downtown Exploration
The first day of your Tampa adventure starts with its famous riverside. Meandering along the river is the perfect activity for the family, and it is dog-friendly, too! You will start your day in the Channelside District, heading north along the river:
- Tampa Riverwalk and water taxi: Stroll along the scenic 2.6-mile multi-use path along the Hillsborough River. The walk begins at the corner of Beneficial and Channelside Drives, ending near Sparkman Wharf. Hop on the water taxi for easy access to attractions.
- The Florida Aquarium: Start your morning by exploring diverse marine life. The Florida Aquarium is one of the top family-friendly attractions in Tampa, with a range of activities and exciting exhibits.
- Lunch at Sparkman Wharf: After you work up an appetite, head to Sparkman Wharf. This outdoor waterfront space in the Channel District has plenty of restaurants, events and activities. Enjoy some delicious Florida food at one of the many eateries while watching live music.
- Catch an event at Amalie Arena: Tampa’s famous Amalie Arena on Channelside Drive is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning ice hockey champions. The arena hosts everything from sports to concerts. Check out the Amalie Arena event listing to catch a hockey game or show while in town.
- Dinner in Hyde Park: Complete your downtown journey by dining at one of the restaurants in historic Hyde Park. Only about 10 minutes by car from the Channel District, hop in an Uber, drive or enjoy a relaxed walk. From steak to authentic Italian cuisine, you can find an eatery to suit any taste.
Day 2: Culture and History
As day two kicks off, it is time to immerse yourself in Tampa’s rich culture:
- Visit Ybor City: Explore the historic Latin Quarter. Ybor City is a melting pot famous for its architecture, cigar shops and Cuban cuisine. This vibrant neighborhood is a National Historic Landmark District. Browse the unique stores, take a tour or visit one of the many attractions.
- Learn at Ybor City Museum State Park: If you want to learn about Ybor City’s fascinating cultural heritage, the Ybor City Museum State Park is a must-see. The museum educates the public through engaging exhibits and programs.
- Experience Cuban cuisine: Stop for authentic Cuban sandwiches and other local specialties.
- Find inspiration at the Tampa Museum of Art: Travel a short distance from Ybor City to downtown Tampa for a feast for the eyes. The Tampa Museum of Art offers diverse exhibitions spanning ancient to contemporary art. Plus, you can enjoy views of the scenic Riverwalk.
- Dinner at Straz Center: End off a day of culture by taking in a show at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Located in downtown Tampa, the center hosts rock concerts, Broadway shows and so much more.
Day 3: Thrills at Busch Gardens
A trip to Tampa would be incomplete without a visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The theme park features fun for the whole family, from exhilarating rides to animal encounters. It opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 7 p.m. Plan to spend an entire day of your three-day itinerary in Tampa experiencing all that Busch Gardens has to offer:
- Morning: Head to the park early to give yourself enough time for the variety of rides, tours and amusements. Whether you love the adrenaline rush of a roller coaster or prefer a laid-back safari, there is so much to do and see!
- Afternoon: Before continuing your adventure, fill up at one of Busch Garden’s themed restaurants. Try eclectic African and Latin American cuisine, grab a pizza or sample a delicious dessert. Then, it is off to continue the fun!
- Evening: Grab dinner in the park or at one of the restaurants in the area. After a full day of activities, you may want to spend the rest of the evening relaxing.
4-Day Tampa Itinerary: Living the Beach Life
If you have an extra day in Tampa, you can build on the three-day city adventures with some beach time. Grab your towel, put on some sunscreen and get ready for a day of fun in the sun:
- Clearwater Beach: Located under 25 miles from downtown Tampa, visitors love Clearwater Beach for its sugar-white sands and emerald waters. Rent a shaded cabana for the day, take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico or join a cruise to catch sight of dolphins.
- Lunch at a beachside restaurant: Fill up on seafood or Mexican fusion dining. Clearwater Beach serves up a mouthwatering array of restaurants with a jaw-dropping view.
- Enjoy sea life at Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Learn about rescued sea turtles, dolphins and other creatures. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a refuge for marine life. Take a covered boat tour while you hear the story of Winter, the aquarium’s most famous dolphin resident.
- Celebrate the sunset at Pier 60: No trip to Clearwater Beach would be complete without taking part in the sunset tradition at Pier 60. Indulge in entertainment from two hours before sunset to two hours after.
5-Day Tampa Itinerary: St. Petersburg and Madeira Beach
When you have a five-day itinerary in Tampa, take a day to tour St. Pete’s cultural and beach attractions. About 23 miles from Tampa, the St. Pete area offers 35 miles of tranquil beaches. Here are a few things to do:
- Discover the Dalí Museum: Start your day with a trip into the surreal world of renowned artist Salvador Dalí. The Dalí Museum offers one of the largest collections of Dalí’s works, from avant-garde pieces to visual illusions. The museum opens at 10 a.m. daily.
- Explore the Sunken Gardens: Wander through lush gardens, taking in more than 50,000 exotic tropical bird and plant species. Located in the heart of St. Petersburg, the “living museum” operates between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sundays.
- Experience Madeira Beach: Stroll down 2.5 miles of “Mad Beach,” as the locals call it. Madeira Beach is home to the historic John’s Pass Village with its many shops.
- Have a bite at St. Pete Pier district: End your five-day itinerary in Tampa with dinner at one of St. Pete Pier’s eateries. Spread across 26 acres of waterfront, the district has interactive exhibits and marketplaces.
3-Day Tampa Camping Itinerary: Explore Natural Beauty
Camping in Tampa offers a unique blend of natural beauty and convenient access to city amenities. Wake up to the sounds of diverse wildlife and hike through lush state parks before heading into town for dinner or entertainment. Consider these things to do when camping in Tampa.
Day 1: Hillsborough River State Park
A few minutes from downtown Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park is an oasis of natural beauty. The park offers a diverse array of activities. Enjoy a scenic hike on one of four hiking trails through dense forest along the Hillsborough River. You can also fish, bicycle, paddle or experience the natural landscape on horseback.
During spring and summer, rainfall can cause seasonal flooding in the park. Make sure to call ahead to find out the conditions before your visit.
Day 2: Alafia River State Park
Perfect for mountain bikers and hikers, the Alafia River State Park in Lithia is around a 45-minute drive from Tampa. The park is an activity seeker’s dream, offering:
- Mountain biking: The extreme elevations challenge mountain bikers on the park’s International Mountain Bike Association trails.
- Extensive trails: Hikers and horseback riders alike can enjoy 20 miles of trails through flatwoods and forests.
- Water activities: The Alafia River and many lakes throughout the park provide opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
Day 3: Tarpon Springs Attractions
Tarpon Springs is Pinellas County’s oldest town, situated on the banks of the Anclote River. The area has plenty of ways to spend the third day of your Tampa camping itinerary:
- Brooker Creek Preserve: This 8,700-acre conservation area is a wildlife refuge. Experience the Preserve by traversing its boardwalks and trails, from wildland loops to horse paths. Discover diverse ecosystems, such as forested wetlands, oak hammocks and cypress domes.
- Sponge Docks: Known as the “Sponge Capital of the World,” Tarpon Springs is home to a thriving Greek community. The Sponge Docks offer fun for the whole family. Go diving for sponges, eat at one of the authentic Greek restaurants or enjoy live entertainment.
- Innisbrook Golf Resort: If golf is your thing, the Innisbrook Golf Resort has four top-rated courses. The resort is home to the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship and is a must-visit course for any golf-lover.
- Fred Howard Park sunsets: End the day by watching the sun go down on the white sand of Fred Howard Park Beach. The 155-acre area offers swimming, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. You might spot wildlife like eagles or gopher tortoises.
4-Day Tampa Camping Itinerary: Fort De Soto Park
Day four of your Tampa adventure is all about scenic Fort De Soto Park. This 1,136-acre park is the largest inside the Pinellas County Park system, around a 45-minute drive from Tampa. Fort De Soto Park combines the best of beach and natural landscapes. From bird-watching to beachcombing, the park is ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Explore more than 7 miles of waterfront with 3 miles of pristine white beach. Spend day four of your Tampa camping itinerary:
- Hiking: Experience one of the trails through the park’s flora and fauna. The diverse ecology includes birds, marine creatures and other wildlife.
- Bird-watching: Fort De Soto Park has over 328 bird species, making it a hot spot for bird-watchers. You might catch a glimpse of a great blue heron or tropical kingbird. Download the park’s bird checklist guide and see how many you can tick off!
- Canoeing: View the park’s natural wonders from the water on a 2.25-mile canoe or kayak trail.
- Exploring nature trails: Take a self-guided tour of the accessible 2,200-foot Barrier-Free Nature Trail. The interpretive trail complies with Americans with Disabilities Act standards, letting people of all abilities enjoy nature.
- Fishing: The park boasts two piers with food and bait concessions open from 7 a.m. until sunset.
- Going to the dog park: Fort De Soto dog park lets your furry friends frolic on the beach in a designated area.
- Visiting the Quartermaster Museum: Open seven days a week between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., the Quartermaster Museum digs into the fort’s history. Admission is free and takes you back in time to find out what life was like at Fort De Soto in the early 1900s.
5-Day Tampa Camping Itinerary: Camp Activities and Relaxation
The final day of a five-day itinerary is for enjoying camping activities in Tampa. If you camp at a Kampgrounds of America destination, you can enjoy many daily leisure pursuits. For example, St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA Holiday offers heated pools, pickleball and kayak rentals.
Here are some Tampa camping activities ideas for finishing off your five-day itinerary:
- Get into the spirit of competition with a game of bocce ball or mini golf.
- Rent a bike or kayak to explore the nearby attractions.
- Make delicious s’mores around the campfire.
- Grab your fishing pole for an afternoon of catching fish.
- Take your furry friend to the campground dog park.
Make sure to check your campground’s website for a list of possible daily activities.
Alternative Options and Add-Ons
One of the best things about Tampa camping itineraries is the ability to incorporate both city and natural attractions. You have the best of both worlds! With so much to see and do, you are sure to make the most of your Tampa adventure.
If you wake up to less-than-ideal weather or if you prefer to add something different, you can swap any of the activities for:
- ZooTampa at Lowry Park: Looking for family-friendly attractions in Tampa? Young and old alike will delight at the more than 1,000 animals at the tropical ZooTampa at Lowry Park. The zoo connects the public with wildlife through up-close experiences. The park opens between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. with extended hours during spring break, so be sure to check their website before you go.
- Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI): With over 100 activities, MOSI offers a world of imagination and learning. Solve a mind-bending puzzle, gaze at the stars at the Saunders Planetarium or discover optical illusions. Find MOSI in North Tampa opposite the University of South Florida.
- TECO Manatee Viewing Center: Behold, the ocean’s cutest mammal, the manatee! This cuddly creature lounges around in the Gulf of Mexico during the hotter seasons. When the water gets colder, they seek comfier temperatures. Tampa Electric Co.’s Big Bend power plant gives them the warm water they crave. Visit the free Manatee Viewing Center 20 miles southeast of downtown Tampa to learn more about these adorable animals.
Dog-Friendly Tampa Itinerary
Tampa provides plenty of attractions for those who cannot leave home without their furry friends. The city boasts many dog parks alongside pet-friendly restaurants and establishments.
Dog-Friendly Hiking
Your dog will enjoy exploring Tampa’s natural landscapes as much as you! Grab their leash and take them to:
- Al Lopez Park: Stretched over 132 acres, the park has a nature trail, community center and freshwater ponds. If you prefer letting your pup run free, a fenced dog park allows off-the-leash fun for dogs of all sizes.
- Hillsborough River State Park: Take your pooch along as you explore the park’s nature trails. Meander through picturesque landscapes and along the scenic Hillsborough River.
- Tampa Riverwalk: Take your pup for a stroll along the waterfront, stopping at one of the pet-friendly eateries on the route.
- The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail: This multi-use trail is a haven for cyclists, joggers and skaters. It stretches from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. Take your dog for an adventure in this protected greenspace, but remember to keep them on a leash!
Tampa Dog Parks
From parks to beaches, Tampa has plenty of places for your pup to have a blast. The Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park sits on 8 acres of land with a dog run and two interactive fountains. Located on the riverfront, Water Works Park is a free-admission city park with a green, open space for dogs to play.
If you want your pooch to enjoy the beach life, Tampa has two dog beaches. Travel over the bridge from downtown Tampa to the David Island Dog Park with its own doggie beach. A little further south, Picnic Island Park has soft white sand beaches with a separate gated beach for dogs.
Experience All Tampa Has to Offer With KOA
If you are looking for where to camp near Tampa, KOA has locations near the city’s best attractions. Clearwater / Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday is a convenient base from which to experience Tampa. Experience tropical camping at its finest. With KampK9® pet-friendly play areas, your furry friend can join the fun, too!
For comfortable camping near the Gulf Coast’s breathtaking beaches, choose St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA Holiday. RV enthusiasts can take advantage of RV Sites with a KOA Patio®, Pull-Thru RV Sites or Back-In RV Sites. You can also go rustic with Camping Cabins, sleep under the stars at a Tent Site or enjoy the comforts of home in a Deluxe Cabin.
KOA Campgrounds offer a unique camping experience that connects people to the outdoors. Discover a range of amenities combined with fun activities, events and plenty of relaxation. Explore KOA destinations for an unforgettable Tampa adventure!
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
