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Fun Family-Friendly Activities in Channelside and Water Street

  • April 8, 2024
  • | 6:37 AM

Let's spend some time in Channelside Tampa! ?

Looking for some fun activities in Channelside, Tampa for the whole family? Look no further! Whether it’s spring break, summer break, or just time for a weekend on the town, we’ve put together our list of the best family-friendly activities in Channelside!

The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a particularly popular destination for families with children in Channelside, as it offers many engaging and educational experiences. In addition to exhibits, there are touch tanks where guests can feel the texture of starfish and sea anemones, as well as interactive displays where they can learn about the biology and behavior of different sea creatures.

The aquarium also offers many special events throughout the year, such as holiday-themed exhibits and overnight sleepovers. For those interested in marine biology, there are even opportunities to participate in behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.

Overall, the Florida Aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for family-friendly activities in Channelside. With its wide variety of exhibits and interactive experiences, it is sure to provide hours of educational and entertaining fun for visitors of all ages.

Attraction Details

  • $36.5
    The Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive
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American Victory Ship & Museum

If your kids are interested in history, the American Victory Ship & Museum is an absolute must-visit. This historic ship offers a unique glimpse into the past and provides visitors with a fascinating look at what life was like for sailors during World War II. Visitors can explore the ship’s many levels and see everything from the engine room to the captain’s quarters.

You can learn about the role that American ships played in World War II and how they helped to transport troops, equipment, and supplies across the oceans. You can also learn about the challenges that sailors faced during this time, including the dangers of enemy attacks and the rigors of life at sea.

Business Details

  • SS American Victory Ship, 705 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, United States

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Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic pedestrian trail that runs along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and a variety of attractions along the way. Families can enjoy a picnic in the park, take a water taxi tour, or rent a bike to explore the area.

Some of the notable attractions along the Riverwalk include the Tampa Bay History Center, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, and the Glazer Children’s Museum. There are also many restaurants and shops in the area, making it a great destination for a day out with the family.

Overall, the Tampa Riverwalk offers a fun and relaxing way to explore downtown Tampa and take in some of the city’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s definitely worth checking out!

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  • kkrumel

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Business Details

  • Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, North Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL, USA

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Splitsville

Splitsville is a modern take on the classic bowling alley, with a full-service bar and restaurant, live music, and other entertainment options right in Channelside. Families can come for a game of bowling and enjoy a great meal together!

The venue offers 12 luxury bowling lanes, each with its own seating area and TV screens. There are also billiards tables, shuffleboard, and other games to keep everyone entertained. With its lively atmosphere and friendly staff, Splitsville is the perfect place to spend an evening with the family.

Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or just looking for a fun family-friendly night out, Splitsville has something for everyone. So why not grab your family and head on down to this exciting destination in Channelside?

Business Details

  • Splitsville, 615 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, United States

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Sparkman Wharf

Sparkman Wharf is a great place to take the whole family for a day of fun. There’s live entertainment and plenty of room where kids often run around and play.  Don’t forget your dog as well, this is one of the most dog-friendly spots in the area, right in Channelside!

There are also plenty of food options to satisfy even the pickiest eater, with vendors serving everything from tacos to ice cream. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful views of the bay!

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  • Ciara
  • Lauren Carlson

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Business Details

  • Sparkman Wharf, 615 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, United States

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Amalie Arena

Amalie Arena is the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, and attending a game can be a fun family-friendly activity. The arena offers a variety of food and drink options, as well as merchandise for fans. Additionally, there are often special promotions and giveaways during games to add to the excitement.

If you’re looking for something more interactive, the arena also offers a behind-the-scenes tour. During the tour, you’ll get to see areas of the arena that aren’t typically open to the public, such as the press box and locker rooms. It’s a great way to learn more about the Lightning and the arena itself.

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Venue info

  • Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr, 33602, Tampa, FL, United States

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Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center showcases the rich and diverse history of Tampa Bay and its surrounding areas. The center’s exhibits and displays provide visitors with an opportunity to explore and learn about the city’s past.

The museum features a variety of exhibits that cover different aspects of Tampa’s history. Visitors can explore history, from the indigenous people who first inhabited the region to the present day. The exhibits cover topics such as the Spanish exploration of Florida and the industries that built the city!

In addition to its exhibits and research library, the Tampa Bay History Center also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and special exhibits.

The Tampa Bay History Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Tampa Bay. With its engaging exhibits, extensive research library, and exciting events, the center is a valuable resource for locals and visitors alike.

Recommended by

  • George Beardsley, 
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Business Details

  • 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602-5418, United States

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Take In an Outdoor Movie

Throughout the year, Armature Works offers its Movies on the Lawn! While sometimes they show more adult movies, they do offer family-friendly films as well, especially around the holidays. Outdoor movies are a great option for families who may have kids who struggle with traditional theaters and it allows the family to spend some time outside. Guests can bring chairs and blankets from home for added comfort and instead of normal movie snacks, they can enjoy food and drinks from the Heights Public Market.

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Hop Aboard a Pirate Water Taxi

Pirate Water Taxi is a great way to explore popular stops in Tampa and it leaves right from Channelside! When it comes to family-friendly activities, our family always has the goal of finding things that are filled with fun AND learning opportunities. This outing offers families a fresh and exciting way to see and explore the city we love to call home!

Pirate Water Taxi also offers fun seasonal outings, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for those as well.

Business Details

  • 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, United States

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Family Friendly Activities in Channelside

Excited about exploring different family-friendly activities in Channelside? Let us know your favorite fun activities in Channelside by tagging @StuffToDoInTampaBay on Instagram and Facebook!

Curated by

Aimee Pacchiarotti

Aimee Pacchiarotti

📍 Tampa Bay Area, FL | Born and raised Floridian living in the Tampa Bay area for over 20 years, who occasionally like to travel.

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