THEY SAY THERE'S NO SUCH THING
WAYS TO PLAY FOR FREE
They say the best things in life are free. Well, sensational sunsets, waterfront views, a scenic drive, a picnic in the park with perfect weather are all things that come at no extra charge when you’re in Tampa Bay. There’s plenty of ways to play without breaking the bank. Here’s some of our favorite free things to do right now.
Catch the Florida Sun
Embrace the sunshine! If you’re an early riser, get ready for Tampa’s sunrise views on the Tampa Riverwalk, where you can expect sun-drenched buildings and pink skies to start your day. Enjoy an afternoon at Water Works Park and complete your day with a beautiful sunset on the shimmering waterfront. Stop by the central downtown spot, Curtis Hixon Park, to embrace the river’s breeze and gorgeous sunset views over the University of Tampa’s minarets.
Meet the Locals
Florida manatees love to hang out at the TECO Energy Plant taking advantage of the warm waters on the Tidal Walk, which is a featured part of the Great Florida Birding Trail! You can view the large mammals at the TECO Viewing Center from November through April. If you’re looking for a little piece of Florida’s preserves, the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay hosts a 9.5-mile scenic trail and nature preserve. From there you can see the alligators and turtles sunbathing in the Hillsborough River.
Take a Historic Ride
Free, convenient, and available 7 days a week. Easily maneuver from downtown to the Channel District, to historic Ybor City on the popular TECO Line Streetcar! With stops at 11 covered, wheelchair-accessible stations every 15-minutes, the streetcar system is a unique, free attraction that replicates the early streetcar line that was an essential part of everyday life in Tampa Bay.
Stroll through Tampa
Tampa is home to the largest continuous sidewalk in the U.S., Bayshore Boulevard. This 10-foot-wide path is ideal for walking, biking, or blading. While you’re there you can take in stunning views of the bay and on the other side, you can see some of Tampa’s most impressive real estate. When you find yourself strolling through downtown Tampa you’re always never far from the Tampa Riverwalk, 2.6 miles of pathway overlooking the shimmering Hillsborough River. This path connects some of Tampa’s most popular restaurants, parks, and cultural centers.
Fitness Around the Bay
Don’t want to miss a workout while you’re in town? Tampa offers many free outdoor public fitness classes. Every Tuesday you can join Hyde Park Sweat where classes are led by different local instructors! At Curtis Hixon Park, you can join in on one of the 6 pm classes on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. From Zumba to Pilates, to Yoga, there’s something for everyone and it’s all offered on the waterfront lawn.
Celebrate Local Art
Tampa Bay shines with its diverse cultures, people, and backgrounds. Discover Tampa’s diversity through its public art scene and murals throughout the city. Find fun depictions of Tampa’s wildlife at the All for Love mural, send love home with a photo in front of the Tampa Postcard, and visit two Tampa Bay icons, Tom Brady and Ray Charles, to celebrate the sports, music, and art that make Tampa great. Visit them all!