Fun Things to Do with Kids in Downtown Tampa

A little competition never hurts! So, why not challenge the family to a bowling showdown at Splitsville? There’s plenty to do at Splitsville! After a couple of rounds of scoring strikes, you can take the competition to Splitsville’s ping pong table, pool table, skeeball machines, and tabletop shuffleboard.

Refuel with a delicious treat from Splitsville’s menu, and adults can refresh with a drink from the bar! Splitsville covers all your necessities, ranging from food to entertainment!

Get up close and personal with some adorable aquatic creatures by exploring the Florida Aquarium! Walk through an underwater tunnel and experience what it’s like to explore the world below the sea (and river). 

Pet stingrays and squishy starfish at the touch tank and witness countless adorable animals that soar, swim, and slither! You can also relish a bite to eat at the Aquarium’s cafeteria and sign up for special experiences like their dolphin cruise.

For some extra fun, kids can play around in the outdoor splash pad–just don’t forget a swimsuit or change of clothes!

Save money on tickets when you purchase through UNATION.

Set out on an unforgettable voyage of discovery at the American Victory Ship and Museum! As one of only three fully-operational WWII ships in the country, the American Victory Ship is a true American icon, floating right here in Tampa Bay.

Perfect for family members of all ages to discover real artifacts from the wars the ship has served. We recommend climbing to the top deck for really awesome views!

This is a great activity that you can pair with your day at the Florida Aquarium, as it’s docked right outside!

Stageworks Theatre has been providing fun entertainment since the early 80s–they’re Tampa’s longest-running professional theatre company, after all!

Not only can you check out their upcoming shows, but they also offer different acting classes and workshops for kids, teens, and adults. If you’re looking for a unique activity, check them out!

If you’re taking a stroll through downtown and see the TECO Streetcar, make sure to hop on!  This has to be our favorite feature of Downtown Tampa, with its pristinely kept old-timey interior. Take a ride to one of the area’s most popular attractions–the Florida Aquarium, Ybor City, and more.

And did we mention that it’s free?  Perfect for entertaining the family for a day!

After enjoying the park, get some time in the air conditioning at Glazer Children’s Museum. Located right next to Curtis Hixon Park is this amazing and interactive museum just for kids and families.  There are so many activities for kids to create, explore, and learn!

They’ll get to learn about what they want to be when they grow up and play in different hands-on exhibits!  After enjoying the museum, go for a walk on the nearby Tampa Riverwalk.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is also a big destination for families. Located in Downtown Tampa along the Tampa Riverwalk, you can’t miss it!

Set up a picnic and games to hang out with the family, or keep up with for one of their many family-friendly events!  There’s always something going on at Curtis Hixon, from music to food festivals and the Winter Village during the holidays!

If you’re headed over, make sure to check their schedule just to make sure the park isn’t blocked off for 21+ events. But no worries if it’s busy! There is the most amazing playground next to Curtis Hixon that the kids are sure to enjoy.

If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Downtown Tampa, then how could you go wrong with a movie?

The Tampa Theatre is a transcendent experience, taking you back to the times of old cinema. Their preserved architecture and decor are definitely something to marvel at! The whole family will love to experience movies in a new way, far from the usual movie theater experience.

Check out the for details on family-friendly events and showings!

If you’re looking for a more active thing, check out the Tampa Riverwalk! Stretching across Downtown Tampa’s most popular attractions, the Tampa Riverwalk should definitely be worked into your family’s rotation of activities.

You’ll see Armature Works, the Straz Center, and the Tampa Convention Center along the Riverwalk!  It’s a great place to ride bikes, skate, or walk as a family.

Parents can even enjoy a drink on the go because the Tampa Riverwalk is open container. Grab a drink at one of Armature Works’ many bars and enjoy a wonderful stroll by the water.

If you love plays, musicals, and concerts, this pick is for you!  The Straz Center is the spot for amazing shows that the whole family will enjoy. You have to experience their beautiful and ornate theatre at least once.

Introduce your kids to the art of acting and musicals here! They have many top-tier, family-friendly musicals that visit the Straz like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Wicked!

Check out the for all the updates on upcoming shows!

Did you know that Tampa has a super-rich history? From its first Native American inhabitants to the creation of Ybor City’s cigar industry, learn about it all at the Tampa Bay History Center! Learn more about our amazing city through the different exhibits and historical features.

There’s plenty for the entire family to enjoy, so come spend an afternoon diving deeper into Tampa’s History! 

What better way to spend time with the family than with an exciting Lightning game? Kids of all ages and adults who love excitement will love to see a hockey game in person! It’s always so much fun, you’ll have to see the Lightning for yourself–they did win the Stanley Cup (back-to-back) after all!

If sports are not your thing, no worries! Check out for upcoming concerts and shows that are also family-friendly – including Disney on Ice and other shows!