20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa this Weekend
It's another busy weekend with tons of awesome things to do with the kids in Tampa Bay.
Can you believe Easter is right around the corner? We can help you plan the perfect Easter fun with egg hunts, Easter brunches, and more!
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.
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- U-Pick Season is Here! Where to pick strawberries, citrus, and more right now in Tampa Bay
- Best Kid-Friendly Breweries in Tampa Bay
- Ananda Farm in Terra Ceia: The perfect place for kids to play and parents to relax (PICTURED ABOVE)
- Rockin' Roller Rink returns to the St. Pete Pier
Featured Events
Giving the following events an extra shout-out since their support helps us provide this amazing weekend guide to you for free!
SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo | Tuesday, April 1 – 6, 2025
Lakeland
We’re turning up the fun at 51 at SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo! Join us for a daily airshow and two-night airshows, walk among acres of aircraft, hands-on youth activities, a brand-new aviation playground, 500 exhibitors, an opening night concert with Tyler Hubbard, and more! Field trips and group rates are available. KIDS 12 & UNDER ARE FREE! Florida Resident BOGO Weekend Special and more.
New Worlds Book Bash | Saturday, April 5, from 3 – 5:30 p.m.
Raymond James Stadium
This FREE, family-friendly event hosted by New Worlds Reading, Florida’s free home literacy program, is designed to get kids excited about reading ahead of summer break! This year's event is pirate-themed, with interactive literacy activities, face painting, giveaways and free books to build their home libraries, not to mention a special visit from Clifford the Big Red Dog! Families can enroll in the New Worlds Reading program by June 9 to receive 3 bonus summer books in addition to their regular nine-books each school year. Free parking available onsite.
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 6 – The Goonies (1985) 40th Anniversary – 1h 54m / PG / Adventure, Comedy
APRIL 13 – Inside Out (2015) 10th Anniversary – 1h 35m / PG / Animation, Fantasy
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
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! 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!
NEW! Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Through April 20, from 10 am-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.
Amber Brooke Farms Blueberry Festival | April 26, 27 & May 3, 4, from 10am to 5pm
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!
Zubrick Magic Theatre | Most Weekends: Friday & Saturday at 7 pm, Sundays at 2 pm
St. PetersburgExpect 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 4
SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo | Friday, April 4
Lakeland
We’re turning up the fun at 51 at SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo! Join us for a daily airshow and two-night airshows, walk among acres of aircraft, hands-on youth activities, a brand-new aviation playground, 500 exhibitors, an opening night concert with Tyler Hubbard, and more! Field trips and group rates are available. KIDS 12 & UNDER ARE FREE! Florida Resident BOGO Weekend Special and more.
Amazing Athletes at Armature Works | Friday, April 4, 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 4, 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.
Friday Fun Day at Empower Adventures | Friday, April 4 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!
Oldsmar Days and Nights at RE Olds Park | Friday, April 4 from 5 pm-10 pm
Oldsmar
Enjoy a weekend of car shows, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, and a carnival.
Fun and Furious Friday at Midtown Tampa | Friday, April 4 from 6 pm-10 pm
Tampa
Kick fun into high gear for a Friday full of games, treats, and exotic cars! Meet in the middle for larger-than-life yard games, live music, and treats from your favorite Midtown retailers. Then take a walk around the community to see Corsa Car Rally’s showcase of luxury and sports cars on display.
NCAA Women's Final Four at Amalie Arena | Friday, April 4 at 7 pm
Tampa
Head to Amalie Arena for the Division 1 Women's Basketball Championship!
Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Center Ice | Friday, March 28 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 4 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 5
SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo | Saturday, April 5
Lakeland
We’re turning up the fun at 51 at SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo! Join us for a daily airshow and two-night airshows, walk among acres of aircraft, hands-on youth activities, a brand-new aviation playground, 500 exhibitors, an opening night concert with Tyler Hubbard, and more! Field trips and group rates are available. KIDS 12 & UNDER ARE FREE! Florida Resident BOGO Weekend Special and more.
Tampa Firefighter's 5K | Saturday, April 5 from 8 am-10 am
Tampa
What does the Tampa Firefighters 14th Annual Firefighters 5K event benefit? 100% of the proceeds of the Annual Pediatric Burn Survivor 5K/1 mile Fun/Run benefits Camp Hopetake, a week-long summer camp they host in Tampa for previously burned children of all ages.
Annual All-Pro Dad Experience | Saturday, April 5 from 9 am-12 pm
Tampa
It starts when you and your child experience the thrill of stepping onto the field where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play. You’ll spend the next few hours connecting with your kids with plenty of fun and interactive family moments, plus some practical fatherhood tips you can take home and put into practice. For elementary and middle school aged children.
Hunsader Farms Flower Festival | Saturday, April 5 from 9 am-5 pm
Bradenton
Enjoy a craft show, live music, kids games, hayrides, pony rides, a sunflower field, wildflower zinnia flower field, ice cream, face painting, petting zoo, and more!
Home Depot Kids Workshop | Saturday, April 5 from 9 am-12 pm
Various Locations
Enjoy a free craft from Home Depot! All supplies provided (while supplies last). This month, make your own Globe Planter.
NCAA Women's Final Four Bounce | Saturday, April 5 from 9 am-12 pm
Tampa
Hop, skip and jump into Women’s Final Four action with the NCAA Women’s Final Four Bounce presented by Buick. Fans age 18 and younger are invited to participate in this free event, joining thousands dribbling their way along the Tampa Riverwalk and into Tourney Town. The first 3,000 participants will receive a free basketball and t-shirt.
Blueberry Festival at Keel Farms | Saturday, April 5 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 5 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 Jurassic World Workshop!
Sea Turtle Awareness Day at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Saturday, April 5 from 10 am-2 pm
Clearwater
Celebrate Sea Turtle Awareness Day! The Sea Turtle Conservation Program at CMA will prepare for nesting season with nest stake painting, custom Protect the Nest plaques, and so much more! Many sea turtle conservation partners and CMA teams will join with additional information to help protect sea turtles and their habitats.
Largo Central Park Mini Train Rides | Saturday, April 5 from 10 am-3:45 pm
Largo
Enjoy free mini train rides around the amazing Largo Central Park!
Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Saturday, April 5, 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.
Oldsmar Days and Nights at RE Olds Park | Saturday, April 5 from 11 am-11 pm
Oldsmar
Enjoy a weekend of car shows, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, and a carnival.
Land O Lakes Seafood Festival at Land O Lakes Heritage Park | Saturday, April 5 from 12 pm-6 pm
Land O Lakes
Indulge in a mouthwatering selection of fresh seafood from top vendors, featuring shrimp, lobster, crab, oysters, and more delicious coastal flavors! There will be community fun for all ages Shop from local artisans, enjoy refreshing drinks, and connect with the community, all while giving back to great causes. There will be free Kids Zone Inflatables and more!
Storytime at Barnes and Noble | Saturday, April 5 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 5, 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 5, 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 5 at 2 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!
New Worlds Reading Book Bash at Raymond James Stadium | Saturday, April 5 from 3 pm-5:30 pm
Tampa
Arrrrr you ready to read? Join the New Worlds Reading crew for a fun-filled reading adventure in the Tampa Buccaneers stadium featuring reading games, story read aloud, face painting, balloon twisting, community tabling, and more. Each child will get to take home their own treasure of free books!
Sunset Zipline Adventures at Empower Adventures | Saturday, April 5 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!
Tampa Bay Sun Football Club Game | Saturday, April 5 at 7 pm
Tampa
Watch the Tampa Bay Sun FC take on the Fort Lauderdale United FC!
Things to Do on Sunday, April 6
SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo | Sunday, April 6
Lakeland
We’re turning up the fun at 51 at SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo! Join us for a daily airshow and two-night airshows, walk among acres of aircraft, hands-on youth activities, a brand-new aviation playground, 500 exhibitors, an opening night concert with Tyler Hubbard, and more! Field trips and group rates are available. KIDS 12 & UNDER ARE FREE! Florida Resident BOGO Weekend Special and more.
Hudsader Farms Flower Festival | Sunday, April 6 from 9 am-5 pm
Bradenton
Enjoy a craft show, live music, kids games, hayrides, pony rides, a sunflower field, wildflower zinnia flower field, ice cream, face painting, petting zoo, and more!
Sensory Sensitive Sunday at Chuck E Cheese | Sunday, April 6 from 9 am-11 am
Multiple Locations
Through the Sensory Sensitive Sundays program, participating locations open two hours early on the first Sunday of the month. They offer a quieter environment, dimmed lighting, and a trained and caring staff to ensure each guest has a safe, fun-filled visit.
Blueberry Festival at Keel Farms | Sunday, April 6 from 10 am-3 pm
Pouch Pals Baby Roo Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Sunday, April 6, 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.
NGC Cinema Sensory Friendly Films | Sunday, April 6 at 10:30 am
Tampa
A sensory friendly movie is shown without previews, with the sound turned down, and the lights left on. It’s an environment that’s judgement-free, where it’s ok to talk, sing, walk around and even dance! This week, watching Sing 2.
Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Sunday, April 6 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 6 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 6 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 6 – The Goonies (1985) 40th Anniversary – 1h 54m / PG / Adventure, Comedy
APRIL 13 – Inside Out (2015) 10th Anniversary – 1h 35m / PG / Animation, Fantasy
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 6 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 6 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:
Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford | Friday – Saturday, April 11 – 12
Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
Don’t miss the all-new Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds on April 11 & 12, 2025! The best cowboys and cowgirls are saddling up for a FULL RODEO, featuring 2 action-packed days of bull riding, bronco busting, barrel racing and more. Come early for the Family Festival where the fun starts with LIVE MUSIC, delicious food and exciting activities for the whole family. It’s Florida’s Hottest Show on Dirt so grab your friends and family and come on down for a night of dust, adrenaline and unforgettable memories!
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+
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 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