We hope everyone is still doing OK in the wake of Hurricane Milton. Most places have reopened back up to the public or have announced reopening dates. Before you head out, we’re letting you know which places are open and which places remain temporarily closed around town.

20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend

Looking for Things to Do in Tampa Bay?

>>This Week’s Favorite Events
>>Halloween Events, Pumpkin Patches, and MORE
>> 40+ Free Things to Do with Kids

There’s a crisp feel in the air and it’s the perfect time to get out and have some fall fun! We’ve updated our list of fun fall and Halloween events and there are some great ones to take advantage of this weekend such as one of our favorites, Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa! Most places are back on schedule, but some places may still be cleaning up from the storm. As always, please be sure to check each event’s website or social media this weekend for any immediate updates on closures or adjustments.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has a fun perk this week! Through Sunday, October 20, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Fun Card holders and Annual Pass holders can get a Sea World Orlando and Aquatica Length of Stay ticket for free! To redeem, log into your Busch Gardens account, click on each pass, and add to your cart. The passes will be added to your account and can be used multiple times through Sunday. October 20.

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.

Featured Events

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

Tampa Theatre’s 12^th Annual A Nightmare on Franklin Street | October 11-31st

Downtown Tampa
Tampa Theatre’s 12th annual spooky series returns for 21 nights of premium heebie-jeebies! Tampa’s most historic – and most haunted – movie palace presents an all-new lineup of “deep cuts” from the genre film catalog, including classic horror films, creepy cult favorites and “Mummy & Me” family-friendly films that are FREE for ages 12 & younger, plus live storytelling, plenty of ghost tours, and more. For times, titles and tickets, visit www.tampatheatre.org/Nightmare

Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa | Opens Friday night for Members Only and then on select nights

ZooTampa – Tampa
ZooTampa is planning to move forward with the opening night of Creatures of the Night. Friday and Saturday are for members only as a preview and then the event will be open to all ticket holders on select nights.

Halloween Harvest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | Weekends through November 3

Tampa
Halloween Harvest is a NEW event for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! Join Kandy the Witch at her new Sweetactular Celebration, go trick-or-treating, and participate in activities, games, and more! Then, from October 5-27, celebrate with your Sesame Street friends at the Sesame Street Safari of Fun!

Aqua Lanterns Chinese Festival of Lights at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | October 18-December 30: Wednesday-Sunday Evenings & Select Holiday Dates

Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Dive into a sea of lights and wonder at Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s luminous new after-hours experience, Aqua Lanterns! As the sun sets, the aquarium transforms into a glowing seascape filled with stunning illuminated sea creature sculptures up to 13-feet tall. Stroll through this mesmerizing marine world and discover over 30 beautifully crafted lantern displays next to the amazing real animals that will inspire you throughout the aquarium. Featuring dazzling lantern displays, Aqua Lanterns will be open Wednesday through Sunday evenings and on select dates during the holidays!

Grossology at MOSI | Now- January 5, 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.

Brick or Treat Monster Party at LEGOLAND | Weekends through October 27 (Saturdays only in September)

Winter Haven
Don’t miss this Halloween party built just for kids at LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven. Kids can enjoy spooky LEGO building activities (they might even learn some cool LEGO building tricks from the pros!), trick-or-treating in the new candy zones, new event-exclusive character meet-and-greets, along with the V.I.M. (Very Important Monster) Dance Party, new fireworks, and more! You can even climb aboard The Disco Dragon coaster for a groovy Halloween monster jam.

The Questioneers at Glazer Children’s Museum | Through January 5, 2025

Tampa
Join the Questioneers at GCM to read, question, think, and play! Based on the book series, this exhibit will celebrate S.T.E.A.M (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) along with the book’s characters – Iggy, Rosie, Ada, Sofia, and Aaron. Kids will be able to use S.T.E.A.M to solve everyday mysteries and think more critically about the world.

Zubrick Magic Theatre | Most Weekends: Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 7 pm, Sunday at 2 pm

1211 1st Avenue N., St. Petersburg, FL 33705
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.

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
This fall, get ready for Central Florida camping adventures at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo! The Cowboy Adventure Park is now open, packed with fall fun activities for all ages. Test your skills at the new gel tag arena or bounce the day away on the jump pad. Plus, enjoy seasonal activities like pumpkin decorating, spooky mazes, and more that capture the spirit of fall. After all the excitement, unwind in luxurious “glamping” accommodations. Gather the family and experience the ultimate ranchin’ getaway this season!
Tickets: from $15; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Things to Do on Friday, October 18

USF Homecoming Carni-Bull | Friday, October 18 from 5 pm-11 pm

Tampa
Head to the USF Parking Lot #35, where you can enjoy plenty of rides, food, and performances! There will be a variety of family-friendly and adult rides for all ages to enjoy. All rides and games are free, and food will be available for purchase.

Friday Fun Day at Empower Adventures | Friday, October 18 from 5:30 pm-7:30 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!

Fortnite Friday at Esports Players Club | Friday, October 18 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.

Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Ice Center | Friday, October 18 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, October 19

Skyfall Family Festival at Skydive City Zephyrhills | Saturday, October 19 from 7 am-4:30 pm

Zephyrhills
Enjoy a fun-filled day of outdoor events starting with a 5k and wellness event. After an early morning of fitness, the event will include live music and a food truck rally from 10 am-3 pm with local vendors and artisans on site to sell their goods. Scheduled events include a skydive competition and all-day tandem skydive opportunities, a cornhole tournament, dunk tank and water balloon fight, and human foosball. Prizes are available for each contest as well as door prizes and a raffle for charity. Food and drinks, including adult beverages, will be available for purchase throughout the day.

Rides by the River at Armature Works | Saturday, October 19 from 8 am-11 am

Tampa
Calling all automotive enthusiasts! Bring your favorite collector car, hot rod, import, or exotic to Armature Works for the Rides by the River car show. Hundreds of Tampa Bay’s hottest and most exotic cars will be on display. Additionally, local dealers and automotive vendors will show off some of their latest vehicles and products. This event is open to the public and fun for all ages. Buddy Brew and Craving Donuts will be onsite, so be sure to stop by for some coffee and donuts!

Creepy Crawlies in the Garden at Vista Gardens | Saturday, October 19 from 9 am-12 pm

Tampa
Head over to VISTA Gardens in Carrollwood Village for a spooktacular Halloween event for kids! See, touch, hear and taste the insects of the garden – if you dare! There will be crafts, snacks, bug tasting, and interactive exhibits all morning starting at 9 am. At 10 am, a team of USF researchers, “The Mad Bug Scientists,” will host an educational talk and bug hunt around the garden. This free event is ideal for kids 12 and under, but all are welcome.

Tampa Congenital Heart Walk | Saturday, October 19 from 9 am- 12:30 pm

Tampa
This event will be a day of fun activities, entertainment, research updates, and our family-friendly one mile walk! Together, we can bring hope, inspiration, and unity to the forefront of our mission. Join passionate walkers, teams, sponsors, and volunteers to walk to support The Children’s Heart Foundation’s mission: to advance the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects by funding the most promising research.

Temple Terrace Fire Department Open House | Saturday, October 19 from 9 am- 1 pm

Tampa
The Temple Terrace Fire Department is hosting its annual Open House for Fire Prevention Week. Check out our Fire Safety Trailer, a live fire demo, an extrication demo, a helicopter landing, a dunk tank, try on bunker gear, and meet some firefighters! Enjoy puppet shows, a safety house, dunk tank, fire gear display, a car rollover simulator, kid’s crafts and activities, food and more! AeroMed’s helicopter will be making a special landing to kick off the event. Temple Terrace Police Department will have a K-9 demos, and the Florida Fire Sprinkler Association will provide a live fire demonstration along with several other vendors providing the community with information on fire safety, health and wellness.

Sip & Sprout Plant Festival | Saturday, October 19 from 9 am- 2 pm

Plant City
This event isn’t just for plant enthusiasts – it’s fun for the whole family! Head to Metals & Nature in Plant City to stroll through the garden and discover a variety of plants, statues, garden fixtures and more. Sip and savor drinks and eats from Keel Farms and other local food trucks and shop a wide variety of plant vendors. Participate in a DIY Kids’ Craft Station and visit with animals from Little Paws Animal Rescue & Sanctuary’s Mobile Critter Cottage, a unique mobile rescue animal interaction trailer and petting zoo.

Rooted in Play at Macfarlane Park | Saturday, October 19 from 10 am- 12 pm

Tampa
A popup adventure playground is a temporary play space, created by children and playworkers, using loose parts like cardboard boxes, tires, rain gutters, and fabric to create an environment where children can engage in imaginative, creative play. Trained playworkers facilitate a safe, supportive setting, leading to significant benefits. 98% of parents and caregivers report that children demonstrate new or improved school readiness skills at a popup event.

Weekend Workshop at Bricks 4 Kidz | Saturday, October 19 from 10 am-1 pm

Tampa
Take part in this 3-hour LEGO workshop full of LEGO robots, LEGO mosaic art, LEGO 3D art, and more! Each week is a different theme so there’s something for everyone! And at the end of each workshop, every child will get to take home their every own Bricks 4 Kidz minifigure! This Saturday’s theme is LEGO Fortnite.

Project JCOA Community Experience with Junior Chefs of America | Saturday, October 19 from 10 am- 1 pm

Tampa
Our Junior Chefs come together during this day and prepare meals that they will GIVE AWAY to that particular Partnering establishment. What a great way to spend your day teaching your kids how to give back in positive ways. Parents get a chance to participate as well during our Field #ProjectJCOA Days as they join in on the efforts. They are currently partnering with Rehabilitation Healthcare Center of Tampa located at 4411 N. Habana Avenue, Tampa, FL 33614.

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

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

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Saturday, October 19, from 12 pm – 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm – 5 pm (Midtown)

Tampa
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, October 19, from 1 pm-3 pm

Tampa
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. For ages 7-12.

Esports Open Play at Northdale Recreation Center | Saturday, October 19, 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.

HCPS Spirit Night at USF Football | Saturday, October 19 at 3:30 pm

Tampa
Join your fellow friends, classmates, teachers, and administrators for Hillsborough County Public Schools’ HCPS Spirit Game to celebrate Homecoming against UAB. USF is proud to extend this special discounted offer to all educators and students! A portion of each seat purchased will go back to Hillsborough County Public Schools.

Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Saturday, October 19 at 4:30 pm and 5:30 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, five 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!

Kids Night Out at Color Me Mine | Saturday, October 19 from 6 pm-8:30 pm

Tampa
Enjoy a night of painting, pizza, drinks, movies and games. Pottery assortment and designs are preselected for each event. Kids from 6 years of age and up come in for a fun “kids’ night”. Cost includes pizza, drinks, pottery project, games, and a movie along with lots of fun! Payment required at the time of booking and is non-refundable.

Glo in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park | Saturday, October 19 at 7 pm

Tampa
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, October 20

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

Tampa
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.

Boo-runch with The Sanderson Sisters | Sunday, October 20 from 11 am-2 pm

Wesley Chapel
Get ready for a spooktacular brunch full of surprises! Enjoy a visit from the Sanderson Sisters and watch Hocus Pocus in the Hub. Brunch includes: Boo Berry Pancakes, Eggs and Sausage, Mud and Worms Pudding Cup, Fruit Cup, Choice of Bloody Mary (adults 21 and up) or Halloween Punch.

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Sunday, October 20, from 12 pm to 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm to 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.

Dueling Pianos for Kids at Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar | Sunday, October 20 from 4 pm-7 pm

Wesley Chapel
Fun for the Whole Family – This Dueling Show was such a hit, they are going to do it again! Entertainment is focused on music for the kids from favorite pop songs, movies, and shows as requested by the audience!

Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Sunday, October 20 at 4:30 pm

SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE AWESOME EVENTS IN TAMPA BAY:

Annual Girl Scout Fest at Florida State Fairgrounds | Saturday, October 26 from 10 am-2 pm

Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa
Spend a day experiencing everything exciting about Girl Scouting at their annual Girl Scout Fest! Girls of all ages and their families are invited to enjoy interactive activities and events that are cool, fun, science-y, interesting, and an incredible amount of fun! Outdoor adventures and indoor badge activities will inspire girls to dream big, explore the world around them, take action in their communities, spark their excitement for STEM learning, and set them on a path toward entrepreneurship and leadership. Come give them a try!

8th Annual Riverwalk Trick or Treat | Saturday, October 26, from 4 pm – 9 pm.

Downtown Tampa
This is a FREE community event! Children in costume and their families are invited to come and trick or treat along the Riverwalk as well as enjoy fun activities. We will have over 50 treat stations participating along the Riverwalk starting at Water Works Park to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and ending in MacDill Park.

Hillsborough County Fair: Barn in the USA | October 31 – November 11

Dover
Head to the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover for 12 days of fun at the Fair! From Halloween night to Heroes weekend, enjoy the best of agriculture, entertainment and community spirit. Kick off with Trick-or-Treat for kids, savor delicious food and explore thrilling rides and the magical kiddie land. Discover exhibits and enjoy entertainment for all ages.

As one of the areas’ largest agricultural fairs, the Hillsborough County Fair proudly showcases the hard work of more than 1000 youth participants. Don’t miss this exciting event! Advance Standard Admission On Sale Now – check the website for schedule, daily discounts and advance ticket package offers.

Moulin Rouge at The Straz Center | Wednesday – Sunday, November 6-10th

Downtown Tampa
Pop the champagne, MOULIN ROUGE! The Musical returns to the Straz Center by popular demand!
Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. A celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and — above all — Love, MOULIN ROUGE! is more than a musical — it is a state of mind.
Get your tickets today!

Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market | November 7-10th

The Holiday Gift Market is The Junior League of Tampa’s largest fundraiser bringing together merchants and shoppers for a unique shopping event. Held at the Florida State Fairgrounds, this year’s Market will feature over 200 specialty merchants from the Tampa Bay region and beyond. Shoppers can find gifts for everyone on their list and enjoy holiday-themed events while giving back to the Tampa Bay community. 100% of the Holiday Gift Market proceeds support The Junior League of Tampa’s community projects and programs benefiting women, children and families. Tickets start at $10 and can be purchased online at HolidayGiftMarket.org or for $12 at the door.

Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical | Nov 12-17

The Straz Center, Downtown Tampa
Get in the holiday spirit at DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! The Musical. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and help remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour at Ruth Eckerd Hall | February 21, 2025 at 6pm

C’mon and join Blippi to make music in your hometown in the brand new live Blippi: Join the Band Tour at Ruth Eckerd Hall on February 21. Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies and LIVE musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms and instruments, through all your favorite Blippi hits. Get ready for a musical performance that’s fun for the whole family!

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

Endless Surf Adventure Island — Endless Surf at Adventure Island

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 OrlandoDateNightGuide.com

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