Tampa Weekend With Kids

Despite a common misconception, Tampa, Florida does not, actually, have a beach. You have to go over the bridge to get to the Gulf side of the Tampa Bay area. But that doesn't mean there isn't still plenty to do in the city of Tampa, especially if your kids are animal lovers! Tampa is a great place for a mini family vacation with lots of reasonably priced things to do and places to eat. Spend a weekend enjoying the sights, sounds and smells - yes, smells - of Tampa, Florida.

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Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
The Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay is conveniently located in downtown Tampa. It's easy to get to from the Interstate and is a short drive from all the major attractions in the Tampa area. You can walk to several restaurants in the area, which you may choose to do because the parking situation downtown can be a bit of a hassle. For example, ... More >
The Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay is conveniently located in downtown Tampa. It's easy to get to from the Interstate and is a short drive from all the major attractions in the Tampa area. You can walk to several restaurants in the area, which you may choose to do because the parking situation downtown can be a bit of a hassle. For example, you'll need to choose valet or park your car in the Hyatt's lot down the block. Look for discounts on this hotel on travel search sites as the rates available directly through the hotel seem to be much higher.
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Potbellies Family Restaurant
You can only get dinner at Potbellies on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and on those days it's only available from 5-8pm. But don't let the limited hours keep you away. This is a great restaurant for a family breakfast before you head off for a day of sightseeing. Enjoy a homemade breakfast of Southern classics like eggs, sausage, ba... More >
You can only get dinner at Potbellies on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and on those days it's only available from 5-8pm. But don't let the limited hours keep you away. This is a great restaurant for a family breakfast before you head off for a day of sightseeing. Enjoy a homemade breakfast of Southern classics like eggs, sausage, bacon, corned beef hash, hashbrowns, grits and country fried steak. You can also build your own omelets. The atmosphere is cozy and great for kids who can't quite sit still for an entire meal.
You can only get dinner at Potbellies on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and on those days it's only available from 5-8pm.
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Florida State Fairgrounds
Just a few blocks away from the Grand Hyatt is The Florida Aquarium. Again, the parking is tricky to find so pay close attention to the signs - even when it looks like they are sending you miles away from the front door. Once parked, spend the day touring two floors of animal exhibits. The aquarium is set up to feature Florida's var... More >
Just a few blocks away from the Grand Hyatt is The Florida Aquarium. Again, the parking is tricky to find so pay close attention to the signs - even when it looks like they are sending you miles away from the front door. Once parked, spend the day touring two floors of animal exhibits. The aquarium is set up to feature Florida's various ecosystem, which makes a visit an interesting education for locals and out-of-towners. If you're visiting on a weekend, aim to arrive as close to opening time as possible to avoid the long lines that develop in the afternoon.
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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens is like a really great zoo with amazing roller coasters mixed in among the animal exhibits - and neither the animals nor the rides seem like an afterthought. Watch elephants, chimps, gorillas, kangaroos and tons of other animals in large habitats that encourage fun activity for viewers. The roller coasters are thrilling... More >
Busch Gardens is like a really great zoo with amazing roller coasters mixed in among the animal exhibits - and neither the animals nor the rides seem like an afterthought. Watch elephants, chimps, gorillas, kangaroos and tons of other animals in large habitats that encourage fun activity for viewers. The roller coasters are thrilling and creative, especially Sheikra, the floorless coaster that is one of the tallest in the Southeast. Busch Gardens often has seasonal events going on as well, and they are almost all included with your regular admission price. Don't miss the chance to catch one of these shows as they are always done very well and a blast for kids and adults.
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Glazer Children's Museum
This is a brand new children's museum that opened in the fall of 2010 as part of a riverfront revitalization project in Tampa. The exhibits are designed for hands on learning. For example, kids can learn about the water cycle by becoming drops of water in a massive 35 foot structure (and, yes, like most exhibits, parents will fit as ... More >
This is a brand new children's museum that opened in the fall of 2010 as part of a riverfront revitalization project in Tampa. The exhibits are designed for hands on learning. For example, kids can learn about the water cycle by becoming drops of water in a massive 35 foot structure (and, yes, like most exhibits, parents will fit as well). There are special areas for toddlers and an over-sized water table that's sure to amuse younger children. Consider bringing extra clothes if you plan to head somewhere else right after your visit; between the water table and the "art smart" section, kids may end up wet and... colorful.
Busch Gardens is like a really great zoo with amazing roller coasters mixed in among the animal exhibits - and neither the animals nor the rides seem like an afterthought.
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Weeki Wachi Springs
Most Floridians will tell you that this tourist attraction is something everyone has to experience at least once. Of course, they'll also tell you to expect a whole lot of cheesiness and outdated facilities. It's true that Weeki Wachi Springs is very old, in fact it was Florida's very first theme park, but that's just one more reason to take your kids. The other reason is the mermaids. The mermaids who perform at Weeki ... More
Most Floridians will tell you that this tourist attraction is something everyone has to experience at least once. Of course, they'll also tell you to expect a whole lot of cheesiness and outdated facilities. It's true that Weeki Wachi Springs is very old, in fact it was Florida's very first theme park, but that's just one more reason to take your kids. The other reason is the mermaids. The mermaids who perform at Weeki Wachi Springs are famous and the show is sure to impress your kids.
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About the Author

Britt Reints
Britt Reints
Professional Writer, Full-time Wanderer.
Websitefacebook.com/Missbritt
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