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!
Things to Do
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 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.
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!
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!
- 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.
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!
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: 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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
- 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!
- 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.
Saddle Up Tampa Bay: A Guide to Celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse
Defined by energy, a bold spirit and forward movement, there is no better city to celebrate the Year Of the Fire Horse than Tampa Bay.
2026 Scalloping Season in Florida: It’s a Must Do Family Adventure
This may finally be the year your family gives scalloping in Florida a try! Scalloping season is nearly here and we’re dishing on the details.
“The Art of Banksy” exhibit headed to the Straz Center in Tampa
The world’s largest authenticated collection of Banksy art is heading to the stage at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa this summer.
ZooTampa to host first-ever Manatee Conservation Celebration on May 2
ZooTampa is inviting you and the kids to join them to celebrate the iconic sea cows during its first-ever Manatee Conservation Celebration on May 2, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
It’s Blueberry U-Pick Season! Where to pick blueberries in Tampa Bay
The sweet blueberries are ready for the picking at several farms and we’re showing you where!
Tea Time in Tampa Bay: Where to go for Afternoon Tea and High Tea
We’re showing you some adorable spots to book an Afternoon Tea or High Tea experience in Tampa Bay.
Tampa Riverfest is Back for 2026! Here’s What to Expect at the Festival.
One of Tampa’s favorite events, Riverfest, is returning with an amazing lineup of returning events, food, entertainment, and more on May 1 & 2, 2026.
Best Fitness Groups and Running Groups for Moms in Tampa Bay
From supportive workout groups for mothers to inclusive running clubs and youth-focused fitness initiatives, these programs provide opportunities for individuals and families.
- Things to Do | Day Trips | Family Fun | Farms | Food + Drink | Food and Drink | Parenting | Spring Break | Spring Family Fun
U-Pick Farms in Tampa Bay: Where to pick berries, flowers and veggies now!
We’re sharing all of the best farms where you can pick citrus, veggies, berries, and more!
How to plan your best day ever at the Gasparilla Music Festival 2026!
We’re sharing everything you need to know about this year’s Gasparilla Music Festival in downtown Tampa February 16-18, 2024!
The BEST Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Tampa Bay!
We’re sharing some of our favorite spots to go out to eat with the kids in Tampa Bay!
- Deals | Legoland | Theme Parks | Things to Do | Travel
LEGOLAND Florida Resort Deal: Stay for a night, play for a year!
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is offering an awesome deal for families… stay one night at one of the resort hotels and get a Gold Pass for each person to come back and play all year
10 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day, Every Day
Earth Day is April 22. Check out this list of ten actions that we’re considering taking that can help make our world a better place.
Florida Waters at ZooTampa, the zoo’s largest expansion ever, is ready to welcome you!
ZooTampa’s largest expansion to date is now open, and we’re taking you on a tour!
Wild Spring Break Brings Animal Encounters to Glazer Children’s Museum
Families can go wild this Spring Break at Glazer Children’s Museum, where furry, feathery, and scaly animal friends are taking over for a week of unforgettable encounters.
The BEST Things to Do this Spring Break in Tampa Bay with the Kids
We live where the world comes to play, so you don’t have to go too far this Spring Break to find an epic family adventure in Tampa Bay!
It’s a “Spring Seal-abration” this spring break at Clearwater Marine Aquarium!
Celebrate spring break with purpose during Spring Seal‑abration at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, featuring new animals, newly renovated habitats, and immersive, hands‑on experiences all March and April.
INSIDE LOOK at the new Busch Gardens Food, Wine & Garden Festival
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is leaning into its “garden” roots with the unveiling of the Busch Gardens Food, Wine & Garden Festival!
INSIDE LOOK: Galacticoaster at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is ready for launch
We’re sharing the details on LEGOLAND® Florida Resort’s groundbreaking all-new indoor roller coaster, Galacticoaster, to immerse us in a LEGO® galaxy in 2026!
Monster Jam Returns to Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium!
Monster Jam is roaring back into Tampa! We’re sharing some highlights to know before you go!
Five Awesome Things About the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
Get a peek inside the action at the Firestone St. Pete Grand Prix and see why it’s a must-do with the kids!
A Day on Pirate Water Taxi: An awesome way to explore Tampa with the kids!
Pirate Water Taxi is celebrating 10 years of sailing Tampa’s waterfront, and the crew wants to make it easier for you to get around by launching a new continuous loop. They’ve also added four new 49-passenger water taxis to their fleet that include on-board restrooms. A MUST with kiddos! This is such a unique way…
Clearwater Marine Aquarium welcomes three adorable harbor seals!
There’s big news out of Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA)! The team recently welcomed a brand-new species to CMA and to the Tampa Bay Area with the addition of three adorable harbor seals.
- MOSI | Museums | Things to Do
From Industry to Innovation: MOSI’s Evolution for the Next Generation
It’s a giant leap for Tampa’s MOSI! Our iconic science center is evolving its name and adding a massive expansion of its spaces for learning in STEAM — science, technology, engineering, art and math. Stepping into an exciting new era, designed with today’s kids and tomorrow’s careers in mind, MOSI is no longer the Museum…
The Play List: The Mom Collective at Paloma House – Where Moms and Kids Go to PLAY!
Sophie Moenter talks to us about what inspired her to create The Paloma House and how you can become a part of this fun new community!
- Disney + Central Florida Fun | Attractions | Central Florida | Disney | Spring Break | Spring Family Fun | Theme Parks | Things to Do
A Parent’s Guide to EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival 2026
Discover the magic of nature and Disney combined at the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival 2026. From enchanting topiaries to family-friendly activities, this guide offers everything parents need for a memorable visit with their kids.
Our Favorite Things to Do with the Kids at the Florida State Fair!
The Florida State Fair returns February 5-16, 2026, at the Florida State Fairgrounds with even more family fun! We’re sharing some of our favorite things to do with little ones!
Sweet Valentine’s Day ideas to experience as a family in Tampa Bay
Valentine’s Day is about sharing love with those around you. Here are some sweet ways to celebrate together as a family in Tampa Bay!
- Parks + Attractions | Attractions | Outdoors | Parks | Tampa | Things to Do
10 Things We LOVE About Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in Tampa
To say we LOVE Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park near downtown Tampa is an understatement. It is absolutely stunning! We highly encourage you to take the kids to explore the 25-acre park. We promise you…there is truly something for everyone here. Related: A Day on Pirate Water Taxi: An awesome way to explore Tampa with…
Big News: MOSI has a NEW name, NEW Digital Content Lab and NEW Center for STEAM Learning!
MOSI is stepping into the future by debuting NEW ways to learn and a NEW name that aligns more with their mission of being the area’s leading center for science learning.
RECYCLE Your Gasparilla Beads and Get Admission Discounts at Florida Aquarium!
The Florida Aquarium wants your Gasparilla beads! In exchange, they’re offering discounts on admisison if you donate!
The sweetest way to see Manatees: The TECO Manatee Viewing Center
The TECO Manatee Viewing Center is back open for the season! This is one of our favorite free things to do with the kids in Tampa Bay!
NINJAGO Weekends at LEGOLAND Florida: Here’s what to expect
Join us as we take you through what to expect at LEGO NINJAGO Weekends, which is being celebrated on select days through February 15, 2026!
- Things to Do | Family Fun | Family Life>Fun>Holidays>Gasparilla | Life + Home | Parenting | Pregnancy to Preschool Years
What to expect at the Children’s Gasparilla Preschooler’s Stroll
Possibly the most adorable event in the world, the Preschooler’s Stroll (launched in 2005) is an opportunity for the under-5 crowd to show their buccaneer spirit right before the main event, the Children’s Gasparilla Parade.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parades and Events in Tampa Bay
Celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. this holiday weekend in Tampa Bay. From parades to special events, there is something for every family on our list!
“Pirate Invasion” takes over Glazer Children’s Museum
The Pirate Invasion, a family-friendly Gasparilla celebration, runs January 6-31, 2026.
- Attractions | Busch Gardens | Legoland | MOSI | Things to Do | ZooTampa
What’s NEW in 2026 in Tampa Bay: NEW ways to play and exhibits to experience!
It’s going to be a BIG year in Tampa Bay with groundbreaking new rides and exhibits. And when we say ground-breaking…we mean it! We’re talking a first-of-its-kind coaster at LEGOLAND, the largest lion and hyena exhibit in the country, and even the largest expansion in its history at ZooTampa!
