As a family-friendly city, Tampa has plenty of entertainment options for children and adults alike. Whether you’re just visiting the area for a few days, you’ve recently moved to the area, or you’re simply looking for some summer activities for the kids, here are a few ideas to consider.

Most kids adore animals and will jump at the chance to see a giraffe or elephant. That makes Busch Gardens one of the area’s top stops for local and visiting families alike. The whole family can enjoy watching animals that hail from all parts of Africa and beyond, and the theme park has everything from lions and hyenas to tigers and exotic birds. There are even several opportunities for visitors to interact with the wildlife, from tempting parakeets with cups of nectar to petting kangaroos and wallabies. Even if your kids aren’t too keen on observing animals, the theme park has you covered. Throughout the park, you’ll find numerous rides and midway-style games to entertain everyone, including a collection of roller coasters that to provide a thrilling experience. On particularly hot days, it might be a better choice to take the family across the street to Busch Gardens’ sister park, Adventure Island, a water park with slides, a lazy river, and play areas.

If the Floridian summer heat proves too oppressive for a trip to either of the parks, there’s an air conditioned attraction not far from Busch Gardens. Get the kids out of the heat and into the fun and thought-provoking exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry, commonly referred to as MOSI. There, the family can learn about topics ranging from weather to engineering, all through interactive and entertaining demonstrations. You can also pay a separate admission fee to watch a movie in MOSI’s IMAX Dome Theater, where the museum plays movies of scientific interest, like nature documentaries, as well as showing some of the most popular new releases in a uniquely immersive format.

Although these destinations are excellent choices for virtually any family, they can be a bit pricy, especially if you’re planning to bring multiple people along. If you’re looking for a more economical alternative, don’t forget all of the outdoor adventures the area has to offer with its wealth of beaches. Kids are sure to love building sandcastles, playing in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and hunting for seashells. But, be sure to slather on the sunscreen before the fun begins! Also, keep in mind the dozens of Tampa Bay area parks, which provide opportunities to do everything from canoeing up rivers that still reflect old Florida to exploring beautiful botanical gardens and hiking forest trails. Many of these parks charge small admission fees, and they are often determined by the carload rather than by the person, making them perfect for budget-minded parents.

Of course, these activities are only suggestions to get you started. Remember that Tampa and the surrounding area has hundreds of family-oriented activities ready for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel. http://www.laserspinelocations.com/tampa/

Author Bio: John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel.

Category: Travel
Keywords: visiting tampa, tampa travel, tampa attractions, tampa family fun