Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast lies Tampa Bay, Florida, an attractive destination for outdoor activities and adventures.
From the bay’s clear waters to the nature trails in state parks, Tampa Bay offers many outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re looking for an active vacation on the water or a leisurely one with long walks and lots of time by the pool, the opportunities for outdoor activity in Tampa are almost endless.
I’ve been visiting the Tampa Bay area annually since 2012, allowing me lots of time to get to know the region. This list of fun things to do in Tampa, Florida, is based on my experiences over the years.
It’s focused on outdoor activities in Hillsborough County, which includes the city of Tampa and spots along the north and east coasts of the bay. It does not include Clearwater Beach or St. Petersburg.
Active Things To Do in Tampa
Riverwalk
The Riverwalk in downtown Tampa is a great place to begin any visit. This 2.6-mile pedestrian trail runs from the Florida Aquarium in the Channelside District to Armature Works in Tampa Heights.
Walk, jog, or cycle the trail; it’s a safe and easy way to get some physical activity into your day while spending time by the water.
You’ll pass through several city parks and see world-class museums, including the Tampa Museum of Art, Glazer Children’s Museum, and Tampa Bay History Center.
Mini-Powerboat Rides
A great way to see Tampa from a new perspective is to rent a mini-powerboat and take to the water as Captain of your vessel.
The Riverwalk Boating Company rents two and four-person motorboats from a dock at the Tampa Convention Center Marina in downtown Tampa.
A one-hour private boat rental for up to two people is $79. If you’ve got three or four people, rent one of their colorful retro boats built between 1958-1964 for $129.
After a quick instructional briefing, you can head off in any direction. During my one hour at the wheel, I saw some of Davis Island, the Hillsborough River, and the Garrison Channel.
Kayaking
If you’d prefer a quieter experience on the water, kayak rentals are available in many places around Tampa Bay.
Urban Kai, an outdoor sports store near Armature Works along the Hillsborough River, is popular.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
The tranquil waters of the Hillsborough River are also ideal for stand-up…
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