EASTER

20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa this Weekend

By Last Updated

It's another busy weekend with tons of awesome things to do with the kids in Tampa Bay.

Easter is coming up this weekend! We can help you plan the perfect Easter fun with egg hunts, Easter brunches, and more! Also, most schools are off on Friday so there is an extra day to play!

But, before we dive into our list of Weekend Top Picks– here's how we've set it up to make it easier for you to find an event on a day that works best for your family. Our list is divided into categories to help you find what you need quickly: Featured Events that make this page possible, events listed by day, Save the Date, What's on Exhibit, and more.

MORE Tampa Bay stories for families we think you’ll love:

Featured Events 

Giving the following events an extra shout-out since their support helps us provide this amazing weekend guide to you for free!

Clue: A Walking Mystery | Thursday, April 17 – May 11

Straz Center, Downtown Tampa
Bring the whole family to Clue: A Walking Mystery and step into the roles of the beloved Clue characters as detectives to investigate who murdered the elusive Mr. Boddy. Search for clues found in the furniture that came from the iconic rooms in Tudor Mansion, now located on Tampa's Riverwalk and be the first to figure out who did it, where and with what? Cost: $39.00+

Easter Eggstravaganza at Busch Gardens| Saturday, April 19 – Sunday, April 20

Tampa
Busch Gardens is celebrating Easter by bringing back its popular Golden Easter Egg Hunt. Golden eggs will be hidden in guest areas throughout the park. If you are lucky enough to find one, bring it to Guest Relations to claim your prize. There will also be an Easter Brunch on April 20 from 10:30 am-12 pm at TreeTop Kitchen. And, finally–for the little ones–Elmo's Eggstravaganza will be celebrated Thursday, April 17, through Monday, April 21, at Sesame Street Safari of Fun. There will be a scavenger hunt, story time, a dance party, a live show, character photo ops, a chalk mural, and more!

Tampa Theatre Family Favorites Series | Sundays in April at 3 p.m.

Downtown Tampa
The historic Tampa Theatre has been a favorite destination for Bay-area moviegoers of all ages since 1926. This April, the next generation of young film fans will get the chance to see some of their parents’ most beloved childhood blockbusters like The Goonies, Inside Out, Spy Kids and The Emperor’s New Groove back on the big screen, thanks to the Family Favorites classic movie series, presented by TECO, every Sunday afternoon at 3 pm.
APRIL 20 – Spy Kids (2001) – 1h 28m / PG / Action, Comedy
APRIL 27 – The Emperor's New Groove (2000) 25th Anniversary – 1h 18m / G / Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Disney's THE LION KING | Wednesday, April 2-20, various showtimes

Straz Center, Downtown Tampa
FINAL WEEK!
More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’s THE LION KING, and now you can, too, when Tampa’s best-loved musical returns to the Straz Center April 2-20.  Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. There is simply nothing else like THE LION KING. strazcenter.org We got a chance to speak with one of the actors in the production, Danny Grumich who plays Pumbaa! 

NEW! Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Through April 20, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Clearwater
FINAL CHANCE!
Hop on over to Clearwater Marine Aquarium to interact and snuggle up with a baby kangaroo joey! From March 14 through April 20, the Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter will give guests the unique chance to hold, interact with, and cuddle with a baby kangaroo while learning all about conservation efforts taking place to protect these marsupials. Visit with 9-month-old Bindi and Irwin for this one-of-a-kind, unique experience.

Amber Brooke Farms Blueberry Festival | April 26, 27 & May 3, 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Williston Location: 3250 NE 140th Ave, Williston, FL 32696
Get ready for a berry sweet celebration! As the farms’ biggest crop and its “bread and butter,” blueberries take center stage during this exciting event. Enjoy a day filled with U-Pick blueberries, delicious farm-fresh treats, live music, family-friendly activities, and more. Whether you're a blueberry lover or a foodie, Amber Brooke Farms has you covered! Featuring blueberry slingshots, gemstone mining, train rides and tons of picture-perfect photo ops. Buy tickets online and save $2.

Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival | Fridays- Sundays, through May 18

Tampa
Taste your way around the world at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay while you enjoy awesome live concerts with headliners including Sister Hazel this Friday at 8 pm and FloRida on Saturday at 8 pm!

NEW! Forts Exhibit at Glazer Children's Museum | Now Open

Downtown Tampa
The beloved FORTS exhibit returns to Glazer Children's Museum this weekend in its newly expanded and permanent home on the second floor, just in time for spring break! You'll find it on the second floor where kids can use their imaginations to build an epic fort!

Lost Pearl Pirate Adventure Cruises | Weekends

Sailing from Downtown Tampa
Do ye have what it takes to be a pirate? Join the fearless crew of the Lost Pearl on an epic quest for treasure in Downtown Tampa! Embark on a swashbuckling adventure filled with excitement as ye learn to load and dodge cannonballs, pass them along to yer mates, and defend yerself with water cannons. Follow orders, test yer sea legs, and prepare for endless pirate fun. Now booking birthday parties, field trips & private events! Adult tickets from $35.

Zubrick Magic Theatre | Most Weekends: Friday & Saturday at 7 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. 

St. Petersburg
Expect the unexpected this weekend at the Zubrick Magic Theatre! Gather the entire family for a magical experience filled with jaw-dropping illusions, laugh-out-loud comedy, and plenty of audience participation that will leave you in awe. Illusionists Chris & Ryan Zubrick conjure up a performance designed to entertain and amaze adults while remaining family-friendly for all ages to enjoy while leaving you scratching your head in disbelief, wondering, “How did they do that?!”  Get your tickets now before they all… DISAPPEAR!  Tickets from $44.

Things to Do on Friday, April 18

Visit this link for a list of Easter Events this weekend in Tampa Bay.

Amazing Athletes at Armature Works | Friday, April 18, from 9:15 am-10:35 am

Tampa
Amazing Athletes empowers children by using sports as a catalyst to engage their inner strengths and abilities so they can confidently pursue an active lifestyle through each stage of development. There are two classes offered: Amazing Tots (18 months to 3 years old from 9:15 am – 9:45 am) and Amazing Athletes (3 to 5 years old from 9:50 am – 10:35 am). These classes are based on your child’s age and ensure a tailored program to suit their developmental needs.

Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Friday, April 18, from 10 am to 5 pm

Clearwater
Just in time for Spring Break, you can hop on over to Clearwater Marine Aquarium to interact and snuggle up with a baby kangaroo joey! From March 14 through April 20, the Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter will give guests the unique chance to hold, interact with, and cuddle with a baby kangaroo while learning all about conservation efforts taking place to protect these marsupials. Visit with 9-month-old Bindi and Irwin for this one-of-a-kind, unique experience.

Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival | Friday, April 18 from 10 am-9 pm

Clearwater
Head to Clearwater Beach to explore the expansive 24,000-square foot structure that encompasses the Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit. Seventeen professional sand sculptors, who journey from all corners of the globe, work their magic to transform our world-famous sugar sand into breathtaking sculptures.

Friday Fun Day at Empower Adventures | Friday, April 18 at 4 pm

Tampa
Featuring their two longest zip lines, totaling over 1,200 feet, and a stunning 200-foot suspension bridge. With a beautiful scenic view of Tampa Bay that you can’t see anywhere else, this is a Friday night excursion you won’t want to miss!

Keeping it Country at Krate at The Grove | Friday, April 18 from 7 pm-10 pm

Wesley Chapel
Enjoy live entertainment and music, line dance lessons, over a dozen retail shops, restaurants, and more! There will be a playground for the kids and leashed dogs are welcome.

Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Center Ice | Friday, April 18 at 7:30 pm

Wesley Chapel
Start your weekend off on the right skate out on the ice for a 2-hour public skate session! There will be a live DJ, colored lights and so much more!

Disney's THE LION KING | Friday, April 18 at 8 pm

Straz Center, Downtown Tampa
More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’s THE LION KING, and now you can, too, when Tampa’s best-loved musical returns to the Straz Center April 2-20.  Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. There is simply nothing else like THE LION KING. strazcenter.org We got a chance to speak with one of the actors in the production, Danny Grumich who plays Pumbaa!

Things to Do on Saturday, April 19

Visit this link for a list of Easter Events this weekend in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay Kids Triathlon at Adventure Island | Saturday, April 19 from 7:15 am-9 am

Tampa
The TBKT offers youth athletes, experienced and first-timers alike, the unique opportunity to swim, bike and run in and around Busch Gardens’ premier water park, Adventure Island. Boys and girls ages 6-14 are eligible to participate. Participants will be separated into three waves for the race categorized by age range so that participants are still competing alongside others in their age group. All registrants receive a complimentary Stay and Play ticket to Adventure Island, valid on race day only. All participants also receive a race-day Swag Bag including an official Under Armour race shirt, a finisher’s medal upon completion of the race, and more.

Day of Discovery at Florida Aquarium | Saturday, April 19 from 8 am-9 am

Tampa
A Day of Discovery provides an Aquarium experience specifically tailored to individuals with sensory differences and their families. Days of Discovery are hosted by The Florida Aquarium in partnership with the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (C.A.R.D.) at the University of South Florida. To address the needs of their diverse audiences, the event has limited capacity and is reserved for families and children with sensory differences and/or accessibility challenges. Special effects, lights and music will be adapted for those with sensory differences.

MacDill's Paws for Heroes 5K at Gadsen Park | Saturday, April 19 from 8am-10 am

Tampa
The Dogs Inc's MacDill's Paws for Heroes 5K promises to be a fun event. It features chip timing on an accurate, but not certified, 5K course in a scenic Tampa (Gadsden) park. Runners (and virtual runners) will receive both a shirt and a finisher's medal. The cost to provide a guide dog for a veteran with a visual impairment or a service dog for a veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder is tens of thousands of dollars, yet veterans receive these extraordinary dogs at no cost. All funds raised will benefit the Paws for Patriots Program. On behalf of American heroes who have sacrificed so much, this program serves active-duty soldiers and retired servicemen and women with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Conservation Connection at ZooTampa | Saturday, April 19 from 9:30 am-2:30 pm

Tampa
Join others at the Zoo for each of their monthly celebrations to participate in interactive activities and collect unique stamps. Find out how you can BE involved in conservation in your own backyard and take action when you get home to protect wildlife and wild places! ZT Saves Kids’ Club Notebooks and Stamp Passports are available for purchase in any of the gift shops. This month, celebrate World Tapir Day.

Rooted in Play Pop Up Adventure Playground at Macfarlane Park | Saturday, April 19 from 10 am-12 pm

Tampa
A popup adventure playground is a temporary, child-centered play space filled with loose parts like cardboard, fabric, tires, and other everyday materials that encourage creativity and exploration. Facilitated by trained playworkers, these playgrounds empower children to build, imagine, and lead their own play experiences, fostering independence, collaboration, and problem-solving.

Autism Acceptance Month at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | Saturday, April 19 from 10 am-9 pm

Tampa
April is Autism Acceptance Month, and who better to spend it with than Julia and all your Sesame Street friends? Julia is a bright and curious four-year-old girl who has autism. Julia's autism means that she does things a little differently than some people. Meet Julia at Abby’s Garden. Make sure you make a plan to stop by and say hi!

Blueberry Festival at Keel Farms | Saturday, April 19 from 10 am-3 pm

Plant City
This family and pet friendly weekend event will feature u-pick blueberries, local craft vendors and food trucks, bounce houses and a kid’s zone, camel rides and a petting zoo and blueberry shortcake eating competitions, games and special blueberry releases by Keel & Curley Winery and Keel Farms Agrarian Cider.

Weekend Workshop at Bricks 4 Kidz | Saturday, April 19 from 10 am to 1 pm

Tampa
This 3-hour LEGO workshop is full of LEGO robots, LEGO mosaic art, LEGO 3D art, and much more! Each week is a different theme! At the end of each workshop, every child will get to take home their very own Bricks 4 Kidz Minifigure! This week, check out a LEGO Easter Workshop!

Crafty Creations at Shanna and Bryan Glazer Family JCC | Saturday, April 19 from 10 am-12:30 pm

Tampa
Get ready to create flowerpots and floats! Join others in crafty creations where creativity meets delicious fun! Make awesome crafts, then whip up and enjoy your own delicious creations. Perfect for kids who love to be creative in more ways than one!

Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival | Saturday, April 19 from 10 am-9 pm

Clearwater
Head to Clearwater Beach to explore the expansive 24,000-square foot structure that encompasses the Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit. Seventeen professional sand sculptors, who journey from all corners of the globe, work their magic to transform our world-famous sugar sand into breathtaking sculptures.

Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Saturday, April 19, from 10 am to 5 pm

Clearwater
Just in time for Spring Break, you can hop on over to Clearwater Marine Aquarium to interact and snuggle up with a baby kangaroo joey! From March 14 through April 20, the Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter will give guests the unique chance to hold, interact with, and cuddle with a baby kangaroo while learning all about conservation efforts taking place to protect these marsupials. Visit with 9-month-old Bindi and Irwin for this one-of-a-kind, unique experience.

The Incredible Duck Race at Curtis Hixon Park | Saturday, April 19, from 10 am to 1 pm

Tampa
The Kiwanis Club of Tampa will race 12,000+ Rubber Ducks down the Hillsborough River. The first three ducks to cross the finish line will win amazing cash prizes! The Incredible Duck Race is a FREE event in Curtis Hixon Park with family-friendly music, food, and activities all leading up to the big race. Tickets are not necessary to attend, but you must adopt a duck to participate in the race. All proceeds will benefit the Kiwanis Club of Tampa's charitable foundation, which sponsors many local projects and programs for children. Although we would love to have you attend, you don't need to be present to win, so take a chance and adopt a duck!

Spring Fest Fundraiser at Horsepower for Kids | Saturday, April 19 from 11 am-5 pm

Tampa
There will be pony rides, petting zoo, train rides, lots of animal encounters, music, and an egg hunt. All included in admission.

Storytime at Barnes and Noble | Saturday, April 19 at 11 am

Various locations
Join Barnes and Noble every Saturday at 11:00 am for fun stories and activities! Available at Carrollwood, Dale Mabry, and Shops at Wiregrass locations.

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Saturday, April 19, at various times depending on location

Tampa, East Pasco, Brandon, Tampa-Veterans 
Cyber Bowling is the fusion of high-energy entertainment and bowling. While you bowl, your favorite music and club lighting create a glowing, nightclub-like atmosphere. Special family matinees feature family-appropriate music so families can enjoy the fun together at an earlier time.

Minecraft Mania at MOSI | Saturday, April 19, from 1 pm to 3 pm

Tampa
You've mined for diamonds, traded emeralds, and built a portal to a whole new realm – now it's time to put those skills you've learned along the way to the test in MOSI's Minecraft Mania! You'll get a chance to play on individual, small-team, and full-team challenges as you work on perfecting your mining strategies, enchanting your tools and armor, defending a city from an alien attack, or even learning some basic coding! Children registered for Minecraft Mania will also receive general admission to the museum for no additional cost. Due to the space constraints of the computer lab, parents are not permitted to attend this program. Parents may drop off their participants and return for pickup at 3 pm or are welcome to purchase their own general admission and visit the museum during the program. General admission is valid for the entire day. For kids ages 7-12.

Disney's THE LION KING | Saturday, April 19 at 3 pm and 8 pm

Straz Center, Downtown Tampa
More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’s THE LION KING, and now you can, too, when Tampa’s best-loved musical returns to the Straz Center April 2-20.  Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. There is simply nothing else like THE LION KING. strazcenter.org We got a chance to speak with one of the actors in the production, Danny Grumich who plays Pumbaa!

Sunset Zipline Adventures at Empower Adventures | Saturday, April 19 at 4 pm

Tampa
Featuring their two longest zip lines, totaling over 1,200 feet, and a stunning 200-foot suspension bridge. With a beautiful scenic view of Tampa Bay that you can’t see anywhere else, this is a Friday night excursion you won’t want to miss!

Things to Do on Sunday, April 20

Visit this link for a list of Easter Events this weekend in Tampa Bay.

Sunday Breakfast Bowl at Pin Chasers | Sunday, April 20 from 9 am-11m

Various Locations
Bring the whole family to Pin Chasers for unlimited bowling plus breakfast! Breakfast Bowling includes two hours of bowling, two eggs (your way), bacon, and toast.

Family Fun: Springtime Cookies at Sur La Table | Sunday, April 20 from 10 am-12 pm

Homemade treats that come from the heart are always sweeter, and this class is perfect for the whole family, as they make basic recipes perfect for tiny chefs! This fun, family-friendly class will have you and your wee ones whipping up a classic sugar cookie recipe, which they provide the tips and tricks to perfect. Learn to incorporate royal icing and spring-inspired decorating techniques, making memories and delicious seasonal treats along the way.

Autism Acceptance Month at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | Sunday, April 20 from 10 am-9 pm

Tampa
April is Autism Acceptance Month, and who better to spend it with than Julia and all your Sesame Street friends? Julia is a bright and curious four-year-old girl who has autism. Julia's autism means that she does things a little differently than some people. Meet Julia at Abby’s Garden. Make sure you make a plan to stop by and say hi!

Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Sunday, April 20, from 10 am to 5 pm

Clearwater
Just in time for Spring Break, you can hop on over to Clearwater Marine Aquarium to interact and snuggle up with a baby kangaroo joey! From March 14 through April 20, the Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter will give guests the unique chance to hold, interact with, and cuddle with a baby kangaroo while learning all about conservation efforts taking place to protect these marsupials. Visit with 9-month-old Bindi and Irwin for this one-of-a-kind, unique experience.

Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival | Sunday, April 20 from 10 am-9 pm

Clearwater
Head to Clearwater Beach to explore the expansive 24,000-square foot structure that encompasses the Sugar Sand Walk Exhibit. Seventeen professional sand sculptors, who journey from all corners of the globe, work their magic to transform our world-famous sugar sand into breathtaking sculptures.

The Market: Earth Day Celebration at Water Street Tampa | Sunday, April 20 from 10 am-3 pm

Tampa
Sundays start fresh with The Market at Water Street Tampa. Shop 60+ local food and wellness-focused vendors with an array of fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted, fair-trade, vintage or eco-friendly products. This month’s market will celebrate Earth Day.

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Sunday, April 20 at various times, depending on location

Tampa
Cyber Bowling is the fusion of high-energy entertainment and bowling. Your favorite music and club lighting create a glowing, nightclub-like atmosphere while you bowl. Special family matinees feature family-appropriate music so families can enjoy the fun together at an earlier time.

Disney's THE LION KING | Sunday, April 20 at 1 pm and 6:30 pm

Straz Center, Downtown Tampa
More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’s THE LION KING, and now you can, too, when Tampa’s best-loved musical returns to the Straz Center April 2-20.  Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. There is simply nothing else like THE LION KING. strazcenter.org We got a chance to speak with one of the actors in the production, Danny Grumich who plays Pumbaa!

Tampa Theatre Family Favorites Series | Sunday, April 20 at 3pm

Downtown Tampa
The historic Tampa Theatre has been a favorite destination for Bay-area moviegoers of all ages since 1926. This April, the next generation of young film fans will get the chance to see some of their parents’ most beloved childhood blockbusters like The Goonies, Inside Out, Spy Kids and The Emperor’s New Groove back on the big screen, thanks to the Family Favorites classic movie series, presented by TECO, every Sunday afternoon at 3 pm.
APRIL 20 – Spy Kids (2001) – 1h 28m / PG / Action, Comedy
APRIL 27 – The Emperor's New Groove (2000) 25th Anniversary – 1h 18m / G / Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Sunset Zip Line at Empower Adventures | Sunday, April 20 at 4 pm

Tampa
Featuring their two longest zip lines, totaling over 1,200 feet, and a stunning 200-foot suspension bridge. With a beautiful scenic view of Tampa Bay that you can’t see anywhere else, this is a Friday night excursion you won’t want to miss!

Dueling Piano for Kids at Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar and Restaurant | Sunday, April 20 from 4:00 pm-7:00 pm

Wesley Chapel
Fun for the Whole Family! Entertainment is focused on music for the kids from favorite pop songs, movies, and shows as requested by the audience! They also offer an earlier brunch if you prefer.

Related: Awesome family-friendly things to do with kids in Orlando

SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE AWESOME EVENTS IN TAMPA BAY:

Sixth Annual Gatorpalooza Weekend | May 17-18

Gatorland
Enjoy live music, family fun, food, crafts, and all the alligator awesomeness that a day at Gatorland has to offer. Don’t miss the wild 5th Annual Gatorland Florida Man Challenge on Saturday! Cool off at the Gator Gully Splash Park—swimsuits encouraged! Best of all, Gatorpalooza is included with park admission. Bring the whole family for unforgettable fun that won’t break the budget at “The Alligator Capital of the World!”

Sweet Corn Festival | May 17, 18, 24, & 25, from 10am to 5pm

Amber Brooke Farms, Williston Location
Get ready for a day full of farm-fresh fun at our 2nd Annual Sweet Corn Festival! Celebrate the sweetness of summer with delicious sweet corn, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, local vendors, and more. Whether you’re here for the food, the fun, or the photo ops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come make memories with us!

MORE THINGS TO DO: See What’s on Exhibit in Tampa Bay

Grossology exhibit at MOSI skin wall
Grossology at MOSI in Tampa

Grossology at MOSI | Through April 7, 2025

Tampa
Get grossed out with MOSI and discover how the human body works in the most entertaining way possible! Starting September 14, Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body will dive into the slimy, stinky world of all the gross things our bodies do. Meet wacky characters like the snotty Nigel Nose-It, climb the human skin wall, interact with the soda-slurping Burp Man, explore different body odors, play a life-sized game of Operation, and more! Included with museum admission. 

Dinos Unearthed at ZooTampa | Now Open!

Tampa
Go nose to snout with fifteen larger-than-life dinosaurs will offer explorers of all ages the chance to embark on a prehistoric adventure at Dinos Unearthed. The immersive experience will transport guests back in time to get up close to the colossal dinosaurs of the past, like the T-rex, stegosaurus, Utahraptor, and more! 

Dinosaur Discoveries: Ancient Fossils, New Ideas at MOSI | Open Now!

MOSI, Tampa
Dinosaur Discoveries offers captivating insights into the world of dinosaurs, appealing to guests of all ages. Visitors will explore how scientists use advanced tools, such as computer simulations and specialized X-rays, to reveal fascinating details about dinosaurs—their appearance, behavior, and even their movement. The exhibition also invites guests to engage with a compelling question: why did dinosaurs vanish—or did they?

LEGO® Ferrari Race & Build Experience at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Winter Haven
Prepare to become the ultimate race car driver at this interactive experience for the whole family. The moment guests enter the attraction, they are greeted by a life-size LEGO® Ferrari 296 GTS model followed by interactive zones for guests to hop into the driver’s seat by building, tweaking, and racing their own car creations.

Get a FIRST LOOK at the LEGO Ferrari exhibit here!

Australia at ZooTampa 

Tampa
ZooTampa’s latest expansion is now open! This new area features the new family-friendly safari ride, Aussie Trek. Other enhancements include the reimagined Billabong Splash Pad, a new play area, and an expanded wallaby viewing area. Guests can also partake in the new Wallaby Signature Encounter, along with the returning Koala Signature Encounter. The Lil Joey Family Stop also provides parents and nursing moms a private place to tend to smaller children. There are also two new food and beverage locations, and a special event beginning at 3 pm daily called Sunset Sips, where families can enjoy a DJ dance party along with BOGO food and drinks at the Boomerang Bar!

Stingray Feeding Experience at the Florida Aquarium

Tampa
The Florida Aquarium just launched a new animal experience where you and your kids who are ages 8 and older can learn all about how biologists at the Aquarium care for stingrays. You will help prepare their food and then feed the stingrays during the educational tour. The experience is $30 per person. The 50-minute tour is offered at 2:10 pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

See the World’s Largest Triceratops at Glazer Children’s Museum

Tampa
Big John, the world’s largest fossil triceratops is now on display at Glazer Children’s Museum for a three-year exhibition. For the first time, the museum is waiving its requirement that adults attend the museum with a child, to ensure everyone has a chance to see Big John nose to snout for themselves. While you do not need a reservation to go to the museum, you will need to book a timeslot to see Big John. This will eliminate crowds so you can make the most out of the experience.  Learn more about how to plan your day to see Big John the Triceratops here.

MORPH’D at The Florida Aquarium

Tampa
This all-new exhibit features 18 species with unique adaptations from around the globe including axolotyls! Check out the adorable axolotl, peculiar paddlefish, and charming chameleon. Located in the new Mosaic Exhibit Hall, the gallery will also feature hands-on interactives that will give you a sense of what it is like to be one of these amazing creatures, connecting you with nature in a whole new way. Included with general admission.

Zubrick Magic Theatre

St. Pete Expect the unexpected this weekend at the Zubrick Magic Theatre! Gather the entire family for a magical experience filled with jaw-dropping illusions, laugh-out-loud comedy, and plenty of audience participation that will leave you in awe. Illusionists Chris & Ryan Zubrick conjure up a performance designed to entertain and amaze adults while remaining family-friendly for all ages to enjoy. With over 1,000 five-star reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, and Yelp, the Zubrick Magic Theatre guarantees to stretch smiles and drop jaws, leaving you scratching your head in disbelief, wondering, “How did they do that?!”  Get your tickets now before they all… DISAPPEAR!
Tickets from $44.

Read More: Get your tickets to Tampa Bay’s ONLY magic show before they all … disappear!

FloridaRAMA (formerly Fairgrounds St. Pete) – Open Thursday-Sunday

St. Pete
FloridaRAMA (formerly Fairgrounds St. Pete) is an immersive art experience has made its mark in Tampa Bay! There are more than 70 artists featured. You can go and simply enjoy the whimsical art that celebrates weird, wacky, wonderful Florida or choose a different adventure and try to crack the codes and mysteries you’ll find throughout. Its newest exhibit Shrimpfinity embodies all of that–and it just might be your new favorite spot to snap the coolest photos with the kids! While you’re there, let the kids explore this unique immersive art exhibit that puts all of your senses to work. It’s truly something you’ve never seen or experienced before!  Learn more about FloridaRAMA (formerly Fairgrounds St. Pete).

Paws for Literacy at Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Tuesdays and Thursdays 

Tampa
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay gives children who love animals a chance to spend time with them while catching up on their reading or improving their reading skills. Children are paired with homeless pets who love to hear the stories and look at the pictures. The program is offered for children ages 5 and up. They’ll provide reading stools, books, and treats (for the animals), but children are welcome to bring their own books if they wish. Books provided include animal tales, stories of the animal-human bond, and books that teach empathy to young readers. Supervised by a Florida state certified teacher.

Ruskin Family Drive-In | Wednesdays-Sundays

The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre has over 50 years of continuous service to the Ruskin and South Hillsborough County. It’s been a community gathering place since its first movie, “Singing in the Rain” played in 1952. They offer great movies, good food, and peace and quiet on a continuous basis with a 2000 square foot screen, clean restrooms, snack bar, and clean parking lot. Please note: you must bring a portable radio with you or use the radio in your car to hear the movie. There will be no showings on Monday and Tuesday.

Immersive Movies at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Saturdays from 11 am – 4 pm

Clearwater
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is offering two new movies –Turtle Odyssey and T-Rex. The 25-minute-long movies will run between 11 am and 4 pm as an added guest experience in the Visitor Center’s Dolphin Tale Theater. Narrated by Russell Crowe, Turtle Odyssey explores the unique lifecycle of an Australian green sea turtle named Bunji and her incredible journey across the open ocean. The film follows Bunji from a hatchling into adulthood as she swims thousands of miles, meets incredible creatures, and has some really wild encounters. Included in the general admission cost. 

Storytime & Aviation Playground at the Florida Air Museum | Tuesdays at 10 am

Lakeland
Join Aerospace Center for Excellence as we bring stories to life and create amazing, interactive learning experiences for our Junior ACE’s – exploring the universe, one adventure at a time! All are welcome. Content is targeted for our young ones, ages 2-5. Story Time is FREE. Then, save time to PLAY at Central Florida's only Aviation Playground,  open 7 days a week and included in Museum admission with kids 11 and under FREE! see FloridaAirMuseum.org for hours.

Parents’ Nights Out!

While family time is fun, it’s also important to carve some time out for yourself, whether it’s a night out with your significant other, friends, or some solo time. Several places around the Tampa area are hosting Parents’ Nights Out! For a fee, you can drop your kids off for some fun activities and playtime while you get an evening out!

Playgrounds of Tampa | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm
For four hours, your kids will be entertained with games, movies and bounce houses galore (maybe even with some pizza) while you do whatever you want. Participants must be potty trained, ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child. Click here to register.

Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm
Kids ages 5 and up will enjoy playing with the shelter animals, dinner, and watching a movie with furry friends! This program takes place monthly and registration is required. The dogs and cats can’t wait to party! Cost is $50 per child. Includes pizza dinner and drinks. To register, click here.

Jubilee Gymnastics | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 9:30 pm
Drop off the kids to eat, play, and have fun at Jubilee Gymnastics in Ruskin while you enjoy a night out. Pre-registration is highly encouraged as these will fill up quickly. For kids ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child for members/$35 for non-members. Includes pizza and drinks! Click here to sign up.

Cypress Forest Park | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 p.m. – 10:30 pm
Take a night off while your children enjoy themed fun at Cypress Forest Park in Oldsmar! Pizza dinner are included. For kids ages 5-12. Cost is $10 for kids with a rec card and $15 for kids without. Click here to learn more.

More Ideas to Spark a Weekend of Lifelong Memories!

Upgrade your day at ZooTampa with an animal encounter! 

If you’re planning a day at ZooTampa, we love upgrading our experience with the kids with animal encounters like feeding the giraffes or rhinos. We recently booked a time to feed Jamie the Indian White Rhino with our 5-year-old and he had a great time. Baby Rhino Gronk even hung out for snacks! You do have to wear a face mask during the encounter, but you can remove it for a photo. Learn more here.

Snap a mural selfie and help provide a free eye exam and glasses for a local child!

Head over to Armature Works to check out the NEW mural on the north end of the property created to promote the Glazer Vision Foundation’s “Glasses For All Children” campaign. All you have to do is share a photo of the mural, a selfie in front of the mural, or selfie wearing any type of glasses, tag @glazervisionfdn, hashtag #OneShareOnePair and the foundation will give a local child a free eye exam, and pair of glasses! Easy peasy! 

Check out the St. Pete Pier

Eat, drink, shop, and play at the new St. Pete Pier. The new playground area is quickly becoming a family favorite in Tampa Bay, just make sure to bring plenty of hand sanitizer and/or hand sanitizing wipes with you. Stay late and look up to see the Bending Arc light up in a spectacular display. You will need to wear a mask inside the stores, restaurants, and Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center. The Glazer Vision Foundation just announced it is contributing $1.5 million to the Glazer Family Playground at the Pier to support the space for years to come!  Learn more.

FREE Resouces to Explore!

Children’s Board Family Resource Centers

The program provides parents and caregivers and their children an opportunity to participate in parent/child developmental playgroups, developmental screenings, and health and safety education classes at no cost. In addition, pediatric well-child visits, immunizations, and hearing or vision screenings are provided for qualifying families.  To sign up for programs and services, and to find your neighborhood Children’s Board Family Resource Center visit familysupporthc.org.

Learn & Play Tampa Bay Playgroups

The program provides quality early learning experiences at no cost at the seven children’s Board Family Resource Centers and other designated Hillsborough County sites.  The program also delivers weekly in-person and online virtual developmental classes and provides take-home activities that promote early learning and school readiness at no cost. Learn more via the Glazer Children's Museum Facebook page.

Outdoorsy Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Head to the beach! 

The beaches are open, but you’ll see plenty of reminders about social distancing. You’ll also want to pack some extras in your beach bag like hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Cloth masks are also a good idea in case you decide to visit an establishment that requires them. We’re sharing some of our favorite family-friendly beaches in Tampa Bay here.

Go for a hike! 

Lace up the hiking shoes and spend the day in nature with the kids! Many preserves and conservation parks are now open in Tampa Bay. Find a park near you or discover a new one:

Weekend Farmers Markets in Tampa Bay this Weekend

Saturday Morning Market at Williams Park in St. Pete | Saturdays from 9 am -1 pm
Experience one of the top farmers markets in the U.S.! Expect an estimated 170 vendors selling their goods and artisans selling their crafts. Add stellar food choices for dining and live music for entertainment and it’s a perfect day in the Florida sunshine. Their Summer Market, located at Williams Park, typically runs from June to August.

Dunedin Downtown Market | Saturdays from 9 am-1 pm
The Dunedin Downtown Market at John Lawrence Pioneer Park features 40+ local merchants and vendors including fresh fruits and vegetables.

Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel | Select Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm
There are 60+ vendors expected at the Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel including organic and hydroponically grown produce.

Corey Avenue Market in St. Pete Beach | Sundays from 9 am- 1 pm
Corey Avenue Market features more than 70 local vendors and merchants selling everything from crafts, art, food and locally grown produce.

Ybor City Saturday Market in Tampa | Every Saturday from 9 am-1 pm
The Ybor City Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor market in the Tampa Bay Area. Centered in Tampa’s Historic District, the market is one of the most popular shopping destinations for locally produced items unique to the Tampa Bay Area. Features locally made arts, crafts, and gourmet foods representing the area.

The Market Elaine at Wesley Chapel | First Friday of Every Month
Head to The Grove in Wesley Chapel for a unique evening market featuring tons of local businesses! Enjoy local vendors, live music, food, and more. themarketculture.com

Hyde Park Fresh Market in Tampa | First Sunday of Every Month from 10 am -3 pm
Hyde Park Fresh Market features over 80 local vendors including produce, handcrafted goods, plants, and more. While you shop, enjoy live music by Gasparilla Music in Village Circle.

Carrollwood Market | Select Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm
Head to the Carrollwood Cultural Center to explore 60+ local vendors and businesses.

Westchase Locale Market | Every Second Saturday from 10 am – 3 pm October-June
Enjoy live music and over 30 vendors in Westchase Town Center every second Saturday of the month.

Celebrate the Weekend in Orlando!

Want MORE ideas for fun adventures in Orlando or Walt Disney World? We’ve got more here! You can also follow our media partners at Orlando-Parenting.com and OrlandoDateNightGuide.com