Summer is in full swing and there are so many awesome things to do in Tampa Bay! Whether you’re looking for indoor things to keep cool or some fun in the sun, we’ve got you covered.

There are lots of fun things going on this weekend including the Jr. Bucs Training Camp, Taylor Swift-themed Eras tour cruise on the Yacht Starship, and it’s the start of the Back to School Sales Tax Holiday!

20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend

Looking for Things to Do in Tampa Bay?

>>This Week’s Favorite Events
>> Summer Break Fun
>> 40+ Free Things to Do with Kids

Our weekend guide is divided into multiple sections since there are SO many fun things to do with the kids! Scroll down for Featured Events for this weekend, Events listed by Date, SAVE THE DATE, What’s on Exhibit, and more fun ideas. So, keep scrolling to find your best day ever!

MORE Tampa Bay family-friendly fun we think you’ll love:

*Be sure to check each event’s social media pages or website to ensure there aren’t any changes due to weather.

This Weekend’s Featured Events

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

PAW Patrol Live Hero’s Unite | Saturday, August 3 at 10 am & 2 pm | Sunday, August 4 at 11 am & 3 pm

Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater
PAW Patrol Live Hero’s Unite August 3 & 4th at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater. Calling all good citizens! The PAW Patrol is yelping for help! Mayor Humdinger has dognapped Robo Dog and cloned him, causing chaos all over the world. It’s up to the pups to catch those clones, rescue Robo Dog, and show that when the going gets “ruff,” lending a paw makes you the ultimate TOP HERO!
Tickets start at $25.

Brick Fan Expo Tampa – A LEGO Fan Event | August 10-11th

Tampa – Florida State Fairgrounds
Do you love LEGO? Head to the Florida State Fairgrounds to see LEGO creations, large LEGO displays, fan creations, games, contests, STEM zones, speakers and more. Meet contestants and winners from hit series “LEGO Masters,” see LEGO Master Builders at work and find all things LEGO in their vendor area.
Use Code “TBPARENT” for 20% off tickets!

Summer Brick Party at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Winter Haven
The most BRICKtastic party this summer kicks off this weekend at LEGOLAND Florida! The party will be celebrated daily from June 1 through August 11 and will feature the Go Xtreme stunt show. But, that’s not all! Meet event-exclusive characters like LEGO Shark Suit Guy and even two new characters, I Heart LEGOLAND Boy and I Heart LEGOLAND Girl. We’ll be there on opening day and will share more about the Summer Brick Party at LEGOLAND here.

Busch Gardens Summer Nights | Now through August 11

Tampa
Stay longer and play later! Celebrate all summer long with extended park hours, dazzling entertainment, and fireworks on select nights. From May 24-August 11.

Castaway Falls and Endless Surf Wave Pool – Now Open at Adventure Island!

Tampa
The eagerly anticipated Castaway Falls is now open at Adventure Island! The new interactive area includes over 100 play elements and two massive tipping buckets unleashing more than 1,300 gallons of water combined. Set within a tropical paradise, Castaway Falls invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in a watery world of excitement. The area is complete with new lounging areas and cabanas.

You can also splash around in the newly refurbished wave pool! The 17,000 square foot Endless Surf is back open just in time to cool off in this summer heat.

Endless Surf Adventure Island — The NEW Endless Surf at Adventure Island

Tampa Theatre’s Summer Classics Movie Series | Sundays at 3 pm, now through Aug. 25

Downtown Tampa
Tampa’s longest-running classic movie series is back! From silent comedies with live accompaniment on the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ to modern classics like Thelma & Louise, Tampa Theatre celebrates a century of extraordinary filmmaking every Sunday at 3 pm all summer long. And for the first time in Summer Classics history, ALL of the selections have been named to the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. This Sunday’s show: Do The Right Thing.
Tickets: $10 ($7 for members). For titles, times, and tickets, visit www.TampaTheatre.org.

Venardos Circus at Westgate Resort | Through August 17

Westgate Vacation Villas Resort, Kissimmee
Enjoy breathtaking aerials, comedy, and acrobatics by former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster, Kevin Venardos! This captivating, animal-free show blends circus excitement with Broadway flair for memorable family fun. Showtimes on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, with extra shows every Saturday and Sunday.
Tickets: $37.95.

Cowboy Adventure Park at River Ranch | Weekdays, from 10 am to 7 pm & Weekends, from 10 am to 10 pm

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, 3200 River Ranch Boulevard River Ranch, 33867
Saddle up for a thrilling adventure at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo! The Cowboy Adventure Park is now open, offering fun for all ages. From riding the mechanical bull to scaling the rock climbing wall and bouncing on the pad, there’s excitement at every turn. Don’t miss out on the luxurious “glamping” accommodations while you’re there. Gather the family and experience the ultimate ranchin’ getaway today!
Tickets: from $15; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Things to Do on Friday, July 26

Capybara Chillout at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Friday, July 26 from 9 am – 6 pm

LAST CHANCE!

Clearwater
Calling all capybara lovers! Ready to get up close to some of the cutest rodents around? Check out the ALL-NEW Capybara Experience at CMA! During this unique experience, you can witness the playful antics of the adorable capybara family, brought to you in partnership with Amazing Animals Inc. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy observing these charming creatures as they roam and frolic in their habitat while engaging in various activities including swimming, playing, and socializing. You can even enhance your experience with a capybara interaction add-on! This experience was EXTENDED through July 28.

Summer Games at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Friday, July 26 from 9 am – 6 pm

Clearwater
Enjoy a variety of games to play for competitive challenges for kids ages 3-12! Daily bingo will also be available. Games include archery, darts, ring toss, table top basketball, table top curling, fencing (with pool noodles), arcade style basketball, cornhole, and gymnastic dance ribbons. Included with general admission.

Kids Library Scavenger Hunt at Oldsmar Library | Friday, July 26 from 9 am to 6 pm

Oldsmar
Mr. Anthony will be hiding themed images throughout the library. Stop by anytime during the week to find them all and win a prize! (For kids 12 and under. Each child may play and win once throughout the duration of the program.)

Children’s Summer Programs at Hillsborough County Public Library | Friday, July 26 from 10 am – 8 pm

Tampa
Head to your local library for tons of children’s programs like The Moogician at Oldsmar Library, and the Imaginators Children’s Theatre at Tampa Regional Library.

Keel Farms Flower U-Pick | Friday, July 26 from 11 am – 8 pm

Plant City
Head to Keel Farms for their summer flower u-pick! For $6 per container, you can wander the fields and pick your favorite sunflowers, zinnias, and wildflowers. From open until sunset.

2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony in IMAX | Friday, July 26 at 1:30 pm

Various Locations
See the opening ceremony for the 2024 Paris Olympics for the first time live in IMAX! At participating AMC theatres.

Sunset Zipline Adventure at Empower Adventures | Friday, July 26 at 3:30 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!

Night…at the Museum at Pioneer Florida Museum | Friday, July 26 from 6 pm-9 pm

Dade City
Ever wonder what happens when the museum closes and the lights go out? Find out as historical figures come to life and interact with museum guests! The event will also feature a swordfight between a Spanish soldier and English privateer. Cultural foods will also be available for sample.

Fortnite Friday at Esports Players Club | Friday, July 26 from 6:30 pm – 9 pm

Tampa
This exciting under-18 Fortnite tournament is now happening again every week! Compete for Vbucks and enjoy delicious pizza while you’re at it. Be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time.

Spongebob the Musical at Carrollwood Cultural Center | Friday, July 26 at 7 pm

Tampa
Who lives in a Pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? SpongeBob SquarePants! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world!

The Little Mermaid Jr. at The Mahaffey Theater | Friday, July 26 at 7:30 pm

St. Petersburg
In this enchanting adaptation of Disney’s Broadway production and the beloved motion picture, journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends. Featuring the iconic, Academy Award-winning music and delightful book and lyrics, this production brings to life Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale.

Set in a mystical underwater kingdom, follow the adventures of the beautiful young mermaid Ariel, who longs to leave her ocean home—and her fins—behind to live in the world above. To achieve her dream, she must defy her father, King Triton, make a daring deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and win the heart of Prince Eric, the handsome prince who is captivated by her enchanting voice. Performed by the Mahaffey Summer Camp students.

Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Ice Center | Friday, July 26 from 7:45 pm – 9:45 pm

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

Things to Do on Saturday, July 27

U-Pick Sunflowers at Bearss Groves | Saturday, July 27 from 8 am-3 pm

Lutz
Bearss Groves is trying something new! U-pick sunflowers! There are 100,000 sunflowers in their field ready for the picking and pictures! Entry is $5 and cash only. Entry includes 2 sunflowers and then each additional sunflower is $1. Kids 5 and younger are free. Bring your hat, gloves and clippers!

Capybara Chillout at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Saturday, July 27 from 9 am – 6 pm

LAST CHANCE!

Summer Games at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Saturday, July 27 from 9 am – 6 pm

Horse Painting Workshop at Angel of God Equine Sanctuary | Saturday, July 27 at 10 am

Wesley Chapel
Join resident artist, Maria, in this guided painting workshop. Hosted at AGES Serenity Center, a horse rescue nestled in the winding roads and grass fields of Wesley Chapel. Meet the horses, be creative and leave with your very own work of art! All supplies provided.

STEM Saturday at Shanna and Bryan Glazer Family JCC | Saturday, July 27 from 10 am-12 pm

Tampa
Calling all children ages 4-12 for a STEM-tastic Saturday! Dive into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math with hands-on experiments and engaging activities!

Girls Meet Up at Skatepark of Tampa | Saturday, July 27 from 10 am-2 pm

Tampa
This event is free to women skateboarders in the area, providing an opportunity for them to connect, relax, learn from one another, and enjoy a group skate session. Each event features complimentary food and exciting giveaways. Attendees can also take advantage of a private, air-conditioned room to unwind and share their newly learned skateboarding tricks. Experienced local skateboarders will be on hand to offer guidance and coaching to anyone interested.

Young Lions Youth Organization Drive-Thru Bag Giveaway | Saturday, July 27 from 10 am-2 pm

Tampa
Thanks to The Young Lions Youth Organization, as many as 1500 kids will receive free backpacks filled with valuable supplies right in time for the first day of school in Tampa. Local barbers and stylists offer free back-to-school haircuts so kids can look their best heading back to the classroom. Students must be present to receive their backpacks. Taking place at Middleton High School.

Kids Zone at Epperson and Mirada Lagoons | Saturday, July 27 from 11 am- 2pm

Wesley Chapel and San Antonio
Splash into the fun at Kid’s Zone in the Hub! Enjoy Summer fun with a mermaid themed scavenger hunt, crafts, an interactive DJ and more.

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chaser’s | Saturday, July 27 from 12 pm – 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm – 5 pm (Midtown)

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.

Esports Open Play at Northdale Recreation Center | Saturday, July 27 from 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Tampa
Esports specialists will be on hand to inspire and encourage new social skills, help develop gaming fundamentals, and set a safe, inclusive, and positive social environment. Their coaches are Esports competitors who have the skills and experience to help any player develop and grow their skills to perform better in competitions. In addition to developing Esports skills, participants socialize with like-minded competitors and make new friends in a high-energy environment.

The Little Mermaid Jr. at The Mahaffey Theater | Saturday, July 27 at 3:30 pm

Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Saturday, July 27 at 3:30 pm

Oldsmar
Tour guides will lead you through a 2.5-hour unforgettable sunset zip line tour, all while taking in the breathtaking Florida views! Gain a new perspective on fun, beginning with their 60-foot tall start tower, 5 zip lines varying in length and totaling over 3,000′, a 200-foot suspension bridge along with an adventure course with log bridges, cable traverses, and poles!

Danny Go! Live! at The Straz Center | Saturday, July 27 at 5 pm

Tampa
DANNY GO! is a live-action educational children’s show filled with music, movement and silliness. Created in 2019 by three childhood friends in Charlotte, North Carolina, the show inspires learning and off-the-couch exercise for kids ages 3 to 7. The trio is producing some of the most engaging and educational children’s content on the internet today, all from their humble production studio in North Carolina. You can find DANNY GO! being shown in public schools across the nation, including the New York City public school system, and on tour across North America.

King Ripple’s Splash Party at Tampa Tarpons | Saturday, July 27 at 6:30 pm

Tampa
Join King Ripple and all his Mascot pals for a Splash Party! Mascots from all over Tampa will be celebrating King Ripple’s First Birthday! If you don’t mind getting wet, bring a spare change of clothes and head over to the Splash Zone, where Tarpons staff will be equipped with water balloons and water shooters! The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a Tampa Tarpons’ Snap Towel. Check out the All-You-Can-Eat (and Drink) ticket option for $40.00 per person (in advance).

Spongebob the Musical at Carrollwood Cultural Center | Saturday, July 27 at 7 pm

Glo in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park | Saturday, July 27 at 7 pm

Tampa2
Head to Altitude Trampoline Park for an epic glow-in-the-dark jump! Includes pizza and a bottle of water. Jump socks are required.

Things to Do on Sunday, July 28

U-Pick Sunflowers at Bearss Groves | Sunday, July 28 from 8 am-3 pm

Sunshine Sunday at Glazer Children’s Museum | Sunday, July 28 from 8 am-10 am

Tampa
Sunshine Sunday is a special monthly event for children with special needs and their caregivers. Come explore the Museum with lights and sounds turned down and sensory-adapted tools, special programs, and community resources at your fingertips. During this time, children and their families can experience the Museum and unite with others on a similar journey.

Jr. Bucs Day at Training Camp with Nickelodeon | Sunday, July 28 from 8:30 am-10:45 am

Tampa
Practice where the Bucs train at AdventHealth Training Center! Practice includes a free t-shirt and other fan giveaways courtesy of AdventHealth and Nickelodeon. Tickets are $5 each for Jr. Bucs Members. Not a Jr. Bucs member yet? Sign up today for access to this special day at Training Camp!

Capybara Chillout at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Sunday, June 28 from 9 am – 6 pm

LAST DAY!

Clearwater
Calling all capybara lovers! Ready to get up close to some of the cutest rodents around? Check out the ALL NEW Capybara Experience at CMA! During this unique experience, you can witness the playful antics of the adorable capybara family, brought to you in partnership with Amazing Animals Inc. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy observing these charming creatures as they roam and frolic in their habitat while engaging in various activities including swimming, playing, and socializing. You can even enhance your experience with a capybara interaction add-on! Through July 28.

Summer Games at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Sunday, July 28 from 9 am – 6 pm

Wild Weekend Brunch Buffet at ZooTampa | Sunday, July 28 from 10 am-11:30 am and 12:30 pm-2 pm

Tampa
Bring your herd to ZooTampa for a WILD brunch experience unlike anywhere else. This lavish buffet includes premium brunch offerings such as a carving station, chef-inspired specials, breakfast favorites, decadent desserts, bottomless mimosas, and more. Each seating features visits from your favorite Zoo characters like Manny T and Flora, as well as an up-close animal experience with one of our animal ambassadors.

You can view the menu in advance here.

Kids Zone at Epperson and Mirada Lagoons | Sunday, July 28 from 11 am- 2pm

Wesley Chapel and San Antonio
Splash into the fun at Kid’s Zone in the Hub! Enjoy Summer fun with a mermaid themed scavenger hunt, crafts, an interactive DJ and more.

Ford Taste of the Cuban Sandwich: Longest Cuban Sandwich with the Bucs | Sunday, July 28 from 11 am- 5pm

Tampa
Join the Bucs at One Buc Place in attempt to create the record for the longest Cuban sandwich! The current record is 330 feet. Guests will enjoy a great day of music, dancing, and family fun. Once the event is over, the sandwich will be donated to a local homeless shelter to feed over 750 people.

Kids Day Out at Shanna and Bryan Glazer JCC | Sunday, July 28 from 12 pm-4 pm

Tampa
Calling all curious creatures ages 4-12 for a mad science-themed Sunday! Join the JCC for a day of bubbling potions, electrifying experiments and awesome science fun.

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Sunday, July 28 from 12 pm to 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm to 5 pm (Midtown)

Spongebob the Musical at Carrollwood Cultural Center | Sunday, July 28 at 2 pm

Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Sunday, July 28 at 3:30 pm

Tampa Theatre’s Summer Classics Movie Series | Sundays at 3 pm, June 2-Aug. 25

Downtown Tampa
Tampa’s longest-running classic movie series is back! From silent comedies with live accompaniment on the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ to modern classics like Thelma & Louise, Tampa Theatre celebrates a century of extraordinary filmmaking every Sunday at 3 pm all summer long. And for the first time in Summer Classics history, ALL of the selections have been named to the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. This Sundays show: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
For titles, times and tickets, visit www.TampaTheatre.org. Tickets are $10 ($7 for members).

The Eras Cruise on Yacht Starship | Sunday, July 28 from 4:30 pm-7 pm

Tampa
It’s time to party like it’s 1989! Set sail with fellow mega fans on a Taylor-inspired cruise that promises to be a legendary experience. Here’s what you can expect on the StarShip Version:

Dance the night away on the top deck with our huge dance party, featuring the greatest hits from every “era”.
Costume Contest: Come dressed in your best reds, sparkles, or sequins for a chance to win the ultimate costume contest. Show off your style and channel your inner Taylor!
Friendship Bracelets: Swap friendship bracelets with fellow fans and create lasting memories.
Cruise the Waters of Tampa Bay: Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Downtown Tampa as you celebrate all things Taylor and enjoy a buffet dinner.

SAVE THE DATE:

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

Brick Dinos at MOSI | Now through September 3

Tampa
This exciting new exhibit will feature an array of displays from miniature scenes to a life-size encounter with a 12-foot-long raptor-like dinosaur called Masaiakasaurus. Discover dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes that span the skies, oceans, and earth. Stand beneath the skeleton of one of history’s biggest dinos, create your own brick dinos, and MORE! Through September 3, 2024.

Very Eric Carle at Glazer Children’s Museum | Now through September 8

Tampa
Your child’s beloved books featuring the Very Hungry Caterpillar and friends come to life at Glazer Children’s Museum now through September 8!

LEGO® Ferrari Race & Build Experience at LEGOLAND Florida Resort | Now Open!

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 | Now Open!

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 Experience wonder in St. Pete’s only magic theatre! The Zubrick Magic Theatre is a spectacular venue that gives audiences an intimate and unforgettable evening of magical entertainment. Illusionists Chris & Ryan Zubrick conjure up an exhilarating blend of sleight-of-hand, family-friendly comedy, and breathtaking grand-scale illusions in a 70-minute performance that captures hearts and imaginations. Conveniently located in downtown St. Petersburg, FL., the Zubrick Magic Theatre guarantees to stretch smiles and drop jaws with a performance that will leave you walking away scratching your head in disbelief saying, “How did they do that?!” Get your tickets now before they all… DISAPPEAR!

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

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.

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
Enjoy live music and over 30 vendors in Westchase Town Center every second Saturday of the month.

Celebrate the Weekend in Orlando!

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