Bored with going to the same old spots and want to experience summer a little differently? Ditch the alcohol and check out these fun alcohol-free activities in Tampa Bay.
On the first Sunday of every month, Hyde Park hosts a Fresh Market. The monthly farmers market features over 80 local vendors who sell handcrafted items, produce, plants, and more. The Fresh Market at Hyde Park is a great place to pick up a unique gift, get a one-of-a-kind typed poem from Gio’s Typos or curate a fresh bouquet from the flower truck. I love grabbing lunch at Bar Taco and sitting outside to eat. During the market, they have live music by Gasparilla Music in Villager Circle.
Vendors may change, but that’s part of the fun; going more than once and seeing what’s new each time. This event is super dog friendly too, so if custom poetry and artisanal goods aren’t enough of a draw, go for the cute pups.
Hours
First Sunday of every month | 10:00am-2:00pm
Location
📍 1602 W. Snow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
If you’re looking for a unique experience this is it! Going to Grady Goat Yoga has been the highlight of my summer so far. From the second they let the goats in, to after when you get to have a photo-op, it’s non-stop entertainment.
Very little yoga actually takes place, because the goats steal the show, but that’s what everyone’s really there for anyway. I recommend wearing socks, leaving your jewelry at home, and wearing your hair up. The goats love to nibble on everything, toes included.
Pro-Tip: It’s worth renting a yoga mat from them for $3 instead of bringing your own. The mat will get covered in hay and it’s less of a hassle to use theirs than clean your own.
Hours
Monday | Closed
Tuesday | Closed
Wednesday | Closed
Thursday | Closed
Friday | Closed
Saturday | 9:30am-11:30am
Sunday | Closed
Location
📍 12551 Franklin Road, Thonotosassa, Florida 33592
I’m all about watching movies in the comfort of your own home, but summer blockbusters are just meant to be seen in the theater. The surround sound, other audience members reactions, they’re all part of what makes a summer blockbuster a summer blockbuster.
CinéBistro is definitely worth the trip off your couch. You get the theater experience lounging in large cushioned seats while waitstaff serves you a delicious dinner. Oh, and $9 unlimited popcorn? They got you.
Pro-Tip: Get there at least a half hour before showtime, so you aren’t rushed. They stop taking orders once the movie starts.
Hours
See the CinéBistro website for showtimes.
Location
📍 1609 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Fort De Soto is the largest park within the Pinellas County Park System and consists of five interconnected islands. The park has plenty to do on land like exploring the historic fort, but taking in Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico atop a kayak is the perfect summer experience. No alcohol needed. Just good ole’ fun in the outdoors.
There are several places to rent kayaks, paddle boards, and bicycles, but my favorite is Top Water Kayak. The rental location is within the park itself, so expect to pay a $5 parking fee at the entrance.
It takes about 20-30 minutes to paddle out through the Bayou, which will take you through mangroves and is usually where I spot manatees and all sorts of birds. Upon exiting the Bayou, you’re met with expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Here is where I’ll often see dolphins, whether off in the distance or up close and personal.
Top Water offers paddle boards and bicycles too, so if you decide you want a different adventure, you have options.
Single Kayak Rental Pricing (tax not included):
1 hour $23.00
2 hours $29.00
4 hours $39.00
All Day $55.00
Double Kayak Rental Pricing (tax not included):
1 hour $29.00
2 hours $40.00
4 hours $55.00
All Day $70.00
Hours
Monday | 9:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday | 9:00am-4:00pm
Wednesday | 9:00am-4:00pm
Thursday | 9:00am-4:00pm
Friday | 9:00am-4:00pm
Saturday | 9:00am-5:00pm
Sunday | 9:00am-5:00pm
Location
📍 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, St. Petersburg, FL 33715
One of my favorite places to catch a sunset is Treasure Island Beach. I’m a native Floridian and have been to my fair share of beaches, but find myself always picking Treasure Island for its sunsets. Yes, you can expect tourists and seagulls, but finding parking is relatively easy. Also, the vast span of beach between the waves and hotels gives you room to spread out, making it a great location for a summer picnic.
Pro-Tip: I like to bring food in to-go boxes or pick up pizza. Anything you are able to keep covered between bites is a good idea because there are always seagulls lurking and ready to swoop. This is not the place to display a cute cheese board. 😉
Hours
Open daily | Opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes after sunset
Location
📍11260 Gulf Beach Blvd., Treasure Island, FL 33706
Melanie Thomas | Healthy Living | Tampa ☼ here to spread joy through healthy living & home decor ☼ 200HR YTT in progress🧘🏻...