tampa this weekend

On foot or on bike, explore Bayshore Trail. (Photo: Rafael Tongol)

Tampa

Family Friendly or Adults-Only — Make It a Weekend in Tampa

Tampa has long been recognized as a favorite spot for family fun. But there’s also plenty for adults to explore, including an exciting restaurant scene, dynamic arts and culture community and abundant outdoor. It’s the perfect weekend destination, whether you’re vacationing with kids, want to get the guys or girls together or just need a couple’s escape.

Arts & Entertainment

Skipper’s Smokehouse

If you’re in the mood for live music set outdoors, Skipper’s Smokehouse is the place to be. This waterfront venue, known as the “Skipperdome,” features everything from rock to reggae. In addition to the tunes, guests can enjoy the eclectic and ever-changing mix of local artists’ work on display.

Ybor City Saturday Market

Open year round, the Ybor City Saturday Market is a one-stop-shop for Tampa-based art like jewelry, photography and woodworking; handmade items like bath and body products, clothing and candles, as well as local fare such as produce, artisanal baked goods and ready-to-devour foods. Bring your dog, so Fluffy can browse the pet treat booths.

Morean Arts Center

Celebrating a century of education and programming, the Morean Arts Center, located in the Central Artist District of Downtown St. Petersburg, is packing its calendar with new classes, workshops and exhibits. Check out the glass art of the Chihuly Collection, and visit the Glass Studio & Hot Shop to watch local artists in action, create your own piece or buy a souvenir.

Family

Glazer Children’s Museum

At the Glazer Children’s Museum, kids can explore their talents and future careers with exhibits and hands-on activities in engineering, art, health, safety, environmental conservation and banking. They can also burn off extra energy in the Get Moving indoor playground.

tampa this weekend
Visit the Glazer Museum. (Photo: Rafael Tongol)

Manatee Viewing Center

Manatees favor Big Bend Power Station’s discharge canal for its warm waters. Humans like it because they can watch them. The educational building features exhibits on manatees, hurricanes and conservation, and the grounds also contain a butterfly garden and a 50-foot observation tower for more wildlife viewing.

TreeUmph! Adventure Course

Embrace your inner Tarzan. If your kids are age seven and up, they’ll enjoy (and so will you) the adrenaline surge on the obstacles at TreeUmph, located south of Tampa. TreeUmph has five courses through the tree canopy with various foot bridges, zip lines and swinging ropes.

Big Cat Rescue

For more than 25 years, Big Cat Rescue has been home to rescued lions, tigers and leopards. The 67-acre sanctuary offers daily tours (except on Thursdays), including photo, feeding and night excursions. While planning your Tampa trip, check out the big cat live stream.

(Photo: Rafael Tongol)
Grab a bite at Ulele. (Photo: Rafael Tongol)

Food & Drink

Ulele

Located in Tampa Heights, Ulele fuses sea and land ingredients in Native American-inspired dishes. Wash it all down with a pint from the on-site Ulele Spring Brewery, which is also open for tours.

Datz

No matter how late you sleep in, you can still grab weekend brunch at Datz in South Tampa, which offers it until 3 p.m. on Saturday and 9 p.m. on Sunday. The crème brûlée French toast with fresh Florida strawberries indulges the sweet tooth. Or order a savory egg sammy paired with bacon-infused house-cut potatoes.

tampa this weekend
Don’t miss brunch at Datz. (Photo: Rafael Tongol)

Ciro’s Speakeasy & Supper Club

The low lights, swanky décor and intimate setting make Ciro’s the perfect spot for a date night in South Tampa. Enjoy dinner nightly, weekday happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. or the late night weekend happy hour from midnight to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Outdoor

Hillsborough River State Park

Head northeast of Tampa to Hillsborough River State Parkto get an outdoor fix of just about any kind. Kayak or canoe the Hillsborough River’s Class II rapids, swim in the park’s pool, hike the nature trails, camp or visit the park’s interpretive center. Canoes, kayaks and other equipment rentals are available at the Hillsborough Park Café, where you can also eat lunch or stock up on picnic supplies.

Bike Tampa

Cruise the Bayshore Linear Park Trail for scenic views of the water and some of Old Hyde Park’s most beautiful homes, some of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll find fitness stations and water fountains along the way.

Cypress Point Park Trail

The beach at this city park, with its dunes and wildflowers, will give you a sand and water fix. It’s also a great spot for catching the sunset on Old Tampa Bay.