Tampa is a vibrant city where you don’t always have to spend money to have fun with your family. 

From planning a date night to walking in parks and museum tours, there are several free things to do in Tampa with family—all without spending a dime. 

Check out these 19 great activities you can enjoy with your family without damaging your budget.

Explore the Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a beautiful place for families and couples on a romantic date. Stretching along the Hillsborough River, it offers scenic views and plenty of space to walk or bike. 

Families can enjoy the fresh air while exploring the trails. You’ll find public art displays and green spaces perfect for a romantic picnic along the way. The Riverwalk also has playgrounds where children can play safely. Free events and performances are often held here, making it a lively spot for all ages.

Date Night at Visit Ybor City

Ybor City is a historic neighborhood that offers a unique and lively atmosphere for a memorable date night. 

Couples can stroll down the vibrant streets, admiring the beautifully preserved architecture and colorful storefronts. Ybor City also features charming boutiques and art galleries, perfect for exploring with your family and loved ones. 

Visit Sparkman Wharf

Sparkman Wharf is a trendy waterfront destination that combines food, entertainment, and scenic views, making it an excellent choice for a date night. 

Located along the Hillsborough River, Sparkman Wharf features a variety of food vendors offering diverse cuisines. Families can sample different flavors while enjoying the vibrant outdoor setting. 

With its blend of delicious food, live entertainment, beautiful scenery, and exciting events, Sparkman Wharf provides a dynamic and enjoyable setting for a memorable date night.

Visit the University of Tampa’s Plant Hall Gardens

The University of Tampa’s Plant Hall Gardens offer a serene and picturesque environment ideal for a romantic date night. Nestled within the campus, these gardens showcase a diverse collection of plants and flowers and beautifully landscaped areas that create a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Families can wander through the meticulously maintained paths, enjoying the vibrant colors and fragrant scents that make the gardens a sensory delight. Visiting the Plant Hall Gardens is an excellent way to connect with nature and each other, making it a perfect spot for a heartfelt and intimate date night.

Visit Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

This beautiful spot is another excellent place in Tampa Bay for family outings and romantic date nights. The park features large open areas where kids can run and play. There are also interactive fountains that children love to splash in during warm days. 

Families can bring a blanket and picnic while enjoying the park’s amenities. The park also hosts free concerts and movie nights, providing entertainment for everyone. Its central location makes Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park easy to access and perfect for a day out.

Discover Lettuce Lake Park

Lettuce Lake Park is ideal for families who enjoy nature. Its well-maintained trails are easy to walk, and families can explore the boardwalk and observe local wildlife. 

Educational signs along the trails teach about the area’s ecosystem. The park also has picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal outdoors. Families can also visit the playground, ensuring children have plenty of fun activities.

Beach Walk at Picnic Island Park

Picnic Island Park offers beautiful beaches where families can spend a day by the water. The sandy shores are perfect for building sandcastles and playing beach games. 

Families can swim in the safe, designated areas or simply relax under the sun. The park has picnic tables and shelters, making it easy to enjoy a meal together. There are also walking paths along the beach, providing a great way to explore the coastline on date night. 

Visit the University of South Florida Botanical Gardens

The University of South Florida Botanical Gardens is a peaceful place to explore with your family. The Botanical Gardens are open to the public, making it an accessible and enjoyable activity for all.

You can take a leisurely walk with your spouse on date night or enjoy the colorful displays with your family. The gardens also have educational signs that teach about different plant species and their environments. 

Take a Self-Guided Murals Tour

Tampa is home to many beautiful murals that add color to the city. Families can take a self-guided tour to discover these works of art. 

You will find murals around different neighborhoods depicting various themes and styles. This activity combines art appreciation with a fun outdoor adventure. Families can take pictures and appreciate the creativity of local artists. 

Explore the Tampa Museum of Art’s Free Days

The Tampa Museum of Art occasionally offers free admission days, which are perfect for families to explore the museum without having to purchase tickets. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including modern and classical art. 

Families can enjoy the sculptures and paintings while learning about different art forms. The museum also has interactive displays that engage children and make the visit more enjoyable. 

Walk Through the Tampa Bay History Center’s Free Exhibits

The Tampa Bay History Center provides insight into the region’s past. Families can explore free exhibits that highlight Tampa’s history and culture. Interactive displays make learning fun and engaging for children. 

The exhibits cover topics such as the area’s indigenous people, the Spanish influence, and the development of Tampa as a city. Visiting the History Center is an educational and enjoyable way to spend time together with your loved ones.

Visit the Sunken Gardens on Free Days

Sunken Gardens is a lush botanical garden in Tampa Bay that occasionally offers free entry days for families. The gardens feature various plants, waterfalls, and walking paths, which are an excellent opportunity to connect with nature. 

Families can enjoy the peaceful environment and admire the beautiful scenery. The gardens also have butterfly gardens and koi ponds that children will find fascinating. 

Enjoy Public Parks with Sports Facilities

Tampa has numerous public parks equipped with sports facilities. Families can enjoy different sports events such as soccer, basketball, or baseball without any cost. These parks often have open fields and playgrounds where children can play and stay active. 

Families can organize friendly games or simply watch local sports activities. Spending time outdoors in these parks promotes a healthy lifestyle and provides fun for everyone.

Participate in Community Volunteer Activities

Engaging in volunteer activities as a family can be both rewarding and fun. Tampa Bay has various community projects that welcome families to participate. 

Whether it’s cleaning up a park, planting trees, or helping at a local shelter, volunteering is a great way to give back while spending time together and enjoying great conversation.

These activities teach children the value of helping others and strengthen family bonds through shared experiences.

Visit the Tampa Bay Beaches for Shell Collecting

Tampa Bay beaches are perfect for a day of shell collecting. Families can explore the shoreline and search for unique shells and sea glass. This activity encourages children to appreciate nature and enjoy the beauty of the beach. 

Walking along the shore also provides a great way to stay active and enjoy the coastal scenery. After collecting shells, families can create crafts or display their finds at home.

Enjoy Free Movie Nights in the Park

During certain times of the year, Tampa hosts free movie nights in local parks. Families can bring blankets and enjoy a film under the stars in the inviting atmosphere. 

These events are a fun way to spend an evening together without cost. The movies are usually family-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. 

If you’re planning a date night with your spouse or are having the kids and the rest of the family along, you should check local listings to find out when and where these free movie nights are happening.

Date Night Along Bayshore Boulevard

Bayshore Boulevard is a place where you can combine an ice cream date with scenic walks on one of the world’s longest continuous sidewalks. 

You can prepare your homemade ice cream before driving along this beautiful route. The boulevard offers stunning views of Tampa Bay and the city skyline, making it a great way to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your car. 

For those who prefer walking or biking, Bayshore Boulevard is perfect for a leisurely stroll or ride. 

Explore the Tampa Downtown Market

The market in Downtown Tampa is a lively place to visit with your family. While browsing the market, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and see local vendors. Families can explore various stalls offering crafts, food, and unique items. 

Sometimes, live performances and other entertaining events add to the experience. Visiting the Downtown Market is a fun way to spend time together and discover local culture.

Participate in the Tampa Bay Community Yard Sale

The Tampa Bay Community Yard Sale is a large event where families can explore and find hidden treasures. Walking through the yard sale, you can discover unique items and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. 

It’s fun to spend a morning together, browsing through various stalls and interacting with vendors. The yard sale also often includes live entertainment and delicious food, adding to the festive vibe.

Wrapping Up

There are several things free things to do in Tampa with family. You can have fun without spending money, from parks and beaches to museums and community events. 

Exploring Tampa together can create wonderful memories and strengthen family bonds. Take advantage of these free activities and discover all Tampa offers. Enjoy your time with your family and make the most of the beautiful city of Tampa.

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