Back in Time: A Day Trip to Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is only 55 miles from downtown Tampa, but it feels like a world away. Maggie Rodriguez takes you on a tour for a perfect day trip.
Blog
20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa Bay This Weekend
We’ve rounded up our list of events going on this weekend to help you plan your best weekend ever!
Avoid the Long Lines and Celebrate at a Disney After Hours Party!
We love the Disney After Hours events for two reasons: the lines are shorter and it’s a lot less hot outside since you’re not sweltering in the blazing hot Florida sun.
INSIDE LOOK: Tampa Bay Rays Game Day at Tropicana Field with the Kids
Our team here at Tampa Bay Parenting recently went to a Tampa Bay Rays Family Fundays game to give you an INSIDE LOOK at game day to help you plan a day fit for the memory book. So let’s play ball!
ZooTampa Baby Boom: The BEST summer ever to meet two baby rhinos!
ZooTampa welcomed a whopping 50+ babies this spring, which means there are a lot of cute new faces for you and the kids to see this summer.
The James Museum in St. Pete Launches Summer of Savings!
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in St. Pete is offering some amazing deals and freebies you and the family can take advantage of this summer!
- Back to School | Big Kids | Education | Elementary School Years | In Print | Lil Kids | Middle School Years | Summer Break Fun
Back-to-School Fair Returns Aug. 1 with Free Backpacks, Family Fun and School-Year Inspiration
Picture this: a student proudly slinging a brand-new backpack over their shoulders, a favorite sports mascot posing for photos nearby, performers taking the stage to showcase their talents, and parents crossing items off their back-to-school shopping lists … all while enjoying a break from the Florida heat. That’s the scene families can expect at the…
A Lifechanging Food Allergy Treatment: Charlotte’s Story
Learn how a food allergy changed everything for Charlotte’s family, and what the doctor’s at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital can do to help.
INSIDE LOOK: LEGO® Pokémon™ and LEGO® F1® headlining LEGO Festival zones at LEGOLAND Florida
The LEGO ® Festival is a celebration of PLAY and will be held at all seven LEGOLAND Resorts where kids can let their imaginations can run wild and creativity knows no limits!
Carrying Forward a Tampa Tradition: Phil Alessi Jr. on Family and Legacy
Today, more than a century after his grandfather opened Tampa’s Alessi Bakery, Phil Alessi Jr. finds himself serving as both a caretaker of a beloved local institution and a steward of its future.
Moms to Know: Jen Smurr, Owner, Born + Bread Bakehouse, Lakeland
Meet Jen Smurr, Owner of Born + Bread Bakehouse in Lakeland, Florida.
- Attractions | Babies | Big Kids | Busch Gardens | Elementary School Years | Lil Kids | Middle School Years | Parks + Attractions | Pregnancy to Preschool Years | Summer Break Fun | Tampa | Theme Parks | Things to Do | Tweens and Teens
Our Favorite Things to Do at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for All Ages and Stages
We’ve put together a list of some of our team’s favorite things to do at Busch Gardens with our kiddos at all ages and stages.
What’s NEW at Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Pinniped Pier and more!
It’s been a busy year at Clearwater Marine Aquarium as the team welcomed new animals and prepares to debut the new Pinniped Pier exhibit!
All Aboard! Largo Central Railroad Celebrates 35 Years
We’re learning more about Largo Central Railroad from the people who keep the trains moving as they celebrate 35 years in our community.
- In Print | People to KNOW in Tampa Bay | Straz Center for the Performing Arts and Patel Conservatory
Q&A with “Hamilton” Star and Central Florida’s Own Eddie Ortega
Orlando native and Hamilton star, Eddie Ortega, talks about being in one of Broadway’s biggest musicals of all time, which heads to the Straz this fall.
A Magical Way to Experience American History at Walt Disney World
A magical visit to Walt Disney World’s Liberty Square unveils hidden gems and history, just in time for America’s 250th anniversary.
Summer is Calling – And So Is Your Best Smile
If straightening your child’s teeth — or your own — has been on the to-do list, summer is the time to do it at Imagine Orthodontic Studio. School is out, schedules are flexible and there’s room to adjust to new braces or aligners before the back-to-school rush. Whether your child is 7 and ready for…
Chill Out with Ice Cream Recipes to Beat the Summer Heat!
When summer is here and the sun is out, what sounds better than a cold, creamy ice cream treat? July is National Ice Cream Month, and we’re celebrating by sharing some of our favorite homemade ice cream recipes from our friends at Florida Dairy Farmers! These recipes are tried and true with real Florida dairy…
Back-to-School Means More to Explore at MOSI
At MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science and Innovation, back-to-school season is more than just supplies and schedules — it’s about keeping curiosity alive. From launching rockets and solving engineering challenges to building virtual worlds and exploring the mysteries of space, MOSI creates experiences that stick with children long after they leave. Here, learning isn’t limited…
Benefits of Probiotics for Kids – Culturelle Probiotics
The information provided herein is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as medical advice or to replace professional medical care. Always seek the advice of a medical professional before starting any new medication or dietary supplement. Did you know that over 70% of your child’s immune system resides in their gut? As…
A Pioneer in Minimally Invasive Pediatric Urology Surgery Leads the Way at Tampa General
While urology is commonly thought of as an adult specialty, children have unique urologic needs that require dedicated expertise. At Muma Children’s Hospital at Tampa General Hospital (TGH), families have access to advanced pediatric urology care tailored specifically for children — combining innovation, precision and a deeply compassionate approach. In fact, Muma Children’s Hospital at…
STAYcation Ideas: The BEST Hotels and Resorts near Tampa Bay for Families
We’re sharing some of our favorite kid-friendly hotels in Tampa Bay whether you are looking for a beachfront getaway or something totally unique the kids will love!
Shining Summer Reads for Your Child’s Summer Reading Challenge
Check out these colorful summer-themed picture books to get your child to their 24-hour reading goal.
The BEST Family-Friendly July 4th Events in Tampa Bay
There are some awesome July 4th fireworks in Tampa Bay for you to choose from whether you are looking for a waterfront celebration or at a park.
Where to see July 4th fireworks in Tampa Bay in 2026
We’re sharing our favorite spots to watch July 4th fireworks in the Tampa Bay area!
- Family Fun | July 4th | Outdoors | ZooTampa
ZooTampa to Host Month-Long ‘Red, White and Zoo’ Celebration Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary
ZooTampa at Lowry Park will commemorate the United States’ 250th birthday with a month-long “Red, White and Zoo” celebration in July. The event will feature special themed animal enrichment activities, patriotic merchandise, festive food and beverages, giveaways and more! Related: Check out more 4th of July celebrations and 4th of July fireworks displays to honor…
Celebrate July 4th at Busch Gardens with Family-Friendly Fun, Food, Fireworks, and More!
Looking for something fun and festive for Fourth of July? Check out why Busch Gardens is one of our favorite family-friendly ways to celebrate!
INSIDE LOOK: FIFA® World Cup 2026 Experience LEGOLAND Florida Resort!
Get a peek at what to expect at the FIFA® World Cup 2026 Experience, which runs through July 19, 2026.
Enchant Christmas returning to Tropicana Field in St. Pete in November!
Enchant Christmas, the ‘World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze,’ is taking over Tropicana Field, and we’re helping you plan your visit.
INSIDE LOOK: New Tours and Experiences at ZooTampa this Summer!
It’s going to be a wild summer at ZooTampa! Not only can you explore the amazing new Florida Waters, where you can let the kids press their noses to the aquarium glass and go nose to snout with the manatees once again, but you can also book all-new experiences to upgrade your day. Several new…
INSIDE LOOK: Sunshine Needlepoint in Ybor City
We’re getting to know the ladies who launched Sunshine Needlepoint, a new store in Ybor City, and learning more about the resurgence of this crafty activity!
Things to Do on Father’s Day Weekend: Deals for Dad, brunch, and more!
We’re sharing some of our favorite ways to celebrate Dad on Father’s Day in Tampa Bay including deals for Dad!
INSIDE LOOK: Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida 2026
We’re dishing on all the details about Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida to help you map out your family’s adventure this Halloween season!
Summer Support for Children with Dyslexia: How to Build Skills Without Burning Out
Summer can be a chance to grow confidence — not just catch up. We’re sharing practical, realistic ways to support children with dyslexia over the break, with ideas that strengthen literacy while keeping stress low for the whole family. Summer is finally here, bringing a much-needed break from the rigors of the school year. However,…
FREE and CHEAP Movies All Summer Long in Tampa Bay
Keep your cool and head to the movies this summer and take advantage of these FREE and CHEAP deals offered at Tampa Bay area theaters!
- In Print | Life + Home | Parenting | Tampa
A Most Egg-cellent Family Pet: Chickens!
When the Hartneys of South Tampa aren’t at work or school, or blasting off to worlds far, far away in MOSI’s new “Above and Beyond” exhibit, our cover family is busy raising seven adorable Orpington hens.
Moms to Know: Jenny Hales, Vice President of Operations, Grateful Hospitality
Fifteen minutes before the doors of Hales Blackbrick open, the staff of the popular South Tampa restaurant gathers for a motivational meeting. “It’s really a pep talk before a busy dinner service,” says co-owner Jenny Hales. “We have something in our company called grateful armor, and we like to touch on that in those meetings. It helps…
Kids to Know: Swara Nirav Patel
Swara Nirav Patel, a rising senior at Carrollwood Day School, is passionate about conservation, leadership and community impact. Swara, who gave a TEDx Talk at 15, was recently honored with the 2026 Young Women of Promise Award by the Athena Society — a recognition awarded to just 10 junior girls from students across Hillsborough County. Swara shares more about her passions, goals and…
Forecast Changes, AI Models and More. What to Know About Hurricane Season 2026 with Tampa Bay 28’s Denis Phillips
Hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on Nov. 30, which means it’s time to start prepping for any possible storms that may head our way this year. Lucky for us, last year’s hurricane season went easy on the Tampa Bay area after the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. This…
Old Florida Attractions You Can Still Visit Today
While there’s no doubt the arrival of Walt Disney World changed the landscape of tourism in Florida, the state’s beaches, natural springs, parks, and weather have long attracted tourists here. Back in the day (as our kids would accuse us of saying), it was roadside attractions that reigned supreme, and you can still visit many of these today with your kids!
Teacher to Know: Anna Grulich, Guest Engagement Coordinator, Glazer Children’s Museum
On any given day at Glazer Children’s Museum, you might find children building forts, climbing to the rafters, dancing to a piano melody or transforming recycled materials into imaginative creations. For Guest Engagement Coordinator Anna Grulich, those playful moments are where the real magic happens. If you’ve visited GCM recently, you may recognize Anna as…
Summer Camp 2026 at YMCA Camp Cristina Is Here, And It’s Better Than Ever
Discover all of the exciting upgrades being made to YMCA Camp Cristina for summer campers this year thanks to >$1 million in new investment!
Reaching New Heights for Our Region’s Children
The final 2 beams were hoisted into the sky during construction of the all-new Johns Hopkins All Children’s Wesley Chapel Hospital, coming Fall of 2027!
INSIDE LOOK: Adventure awaits at Pirate Island Hotel at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Your little swashbucklers worked like captains all school year! Now it’s time for them to play like a pirate, and we can’t think of any better place to map out an adventure than LEGOLAND Florida’s Pirate Island Hotel.
INSIDE LOOK: Soar with us at the new ‘Above and Beyond’ exhibit at MOSI
Get ready to soar this summer at MOSI’s new summer exhibit, “Above and Beyond”, an interactive experience where you can learn about the history of flight, experience for yourself how birds master flight, and even see a slice of a real airplane’s fuselage to help answer the question…how’d they do that?
40+ BEST Free Things to Do with the Kids in Tampa Bay
You don’t have to be a penny pincher to want to take advantage of a free or cheap deal every now and then. This is the full guide to the most awesome free and cheap things to do in Tampa Bay with the kids!
Summer Nights Returns to Busch Gardens!
Busch Gardens Summer Nights is back and better than ever with returning favorites like electrifying shows, new entertainment, and spectacular fireworks! Going on now through August 10.
Tampa Bay Rays Announce “Best Summer Ever at Tropicana Field”
The Tampa Bay Rays are back at the Trop, and they’ve got some big plans for fans this summer with the unveiling of the “Best Summer Ever at Tropicana Field,” which includes ticket deals and all-new experiences for kids.
10+ Ways to Upgrade Your Day with Unforgettable Animal Encounters at ZooTampa
Give your next visit to ZooTampa a VIP twist by upgrading your day with an up-close animal encounter or backstage tour!
INSIDE LOOK: ‘Pig Family Travel Adventure’ at PEPPA PIG Theme Park
PEPPA PIG Theme Park in Winter Haven just debuted an all-new experience for families this summer that gives you the chance to go globetrotting with Peppa Pig and family without ever having to leave Florida!
Liberty by The Bay: Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with Family Friendly Fun for 2026
Tampa is once again going BIG this year for the Fourth of July with Liberty by The Bay (previously Boom by the Bay) on July 4th! What to expect from Liberty by the Bay 2026 This year, this awesome family-friendly event will feature food, live entertainment, fun activities for all ages, a 250-drone light show, and…
INSIDE LOOK: Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is throwing a party to celebrate summer from May 26 to September 8, 2026! We’re showing you all that’s NEW to experience this summer.
The BEST Ice-Cream Shops in Tampa Bay!
There’s no better way to cool off than a big scoop of ice-cream! We’re sharing some of the best ice-cream shops in Tampa Bay.
Memorial Day Weekend Events in Tampa Bay to Kick-Off Summer Break
We’re sharing family-friendly ways to honor Memorial Day in Tampa Bay.
- Attractions | Beaches + Waterparks + Splashpads | Spring Break | Spring Family Fun | Summer Break Fun | Things to Do
The BEST Water Parks in Tampa Bay: Keep cool and have FUN!
Keep your cool at one of our favorite water parks in Tampa Bay! From theme parks to community parks, we’re dishing on all of our top spots!
Watermelon Swim & St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation Partner to Prevent Childhood Drownings
Watermelon Swim and St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation have united to promote water safety and drowning prevention throughout the community.
- Farms | Things to Do | U Pick
Where to pick sunflowers and other pretty flowers in Tampa Bay
We’re sharing some of our favorite flower fields where you can pick flowers right now in Tampa Bay!
The Best Beaches in Tampa Bay for Kids and Families
As Tampa Bay locals, we’ve spent a lot of time at the beach and we want to share some of our favorite beaches in Tampa Bay to help you map out your best day ever!
INSIDE LOOK: Plan the best day ever at Caladesi Island State Park
Caladesi Island is ready to welcome visitors once again as the Caladesi Island Ferry resumes services on July 3, 2025. We’re helping you plan your visit.
- Things to Do | Family Fun | Featured | Parenting | Parks + Attractions | Pregnancy to Preschool Years | Spring Break | Spring Family Fun
The Busch Gardens + Adventure Island FREE Preschool Card is Back in 2026! (DEADLINE EXTENDED)
The 2026 Preschool card allows for FREE unlimited visits to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island for children ages 5 and younger through December 31, 2026.
Small Business Month: The Courage to Launch
We met up with Secretary Griffin along Tampa’s Water Street in an enclave of locally owned small businesses for small business month!
