Find Tampa Family Events for the Heat of Summer

Photo Credit: (iStockPhoto/jhorrocks)
Set on Florida’s west coast, Tampa offers professional sports teams, endless sunny days and miles of gorgeous beaches. Tampa Bay residents who live along the waterfront of Hillsborough Bay and Old Tampa Bay enjoy scenic views and proximity to the sandy beaches of the Gulf Coast in St. Petersburg and Clearwater. But if you’re ready to get out of your apartment to attend something fun and different, check out the variety of Tampa family events going on as the weather in Tampa heats up.
Free Birthdays at Dinosaur World
What: Kids ages 3-12 receive free admission at Dinosaur World on their birthdays, with proof of their birthdays.
When: Now through Dec. 31, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Dinosaur World, 5145 Harvey Tew Rd., Plant City, FL 33565
Cost: Free (Adults pay regular admission.)
MOSI Summer Science Camp
What: The Museum of Science and Industry offers Summer Science camps for ages 2 through high school, where children can participate in experiments, creative projects and adventures.
When: Now – Aug. 20
Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33617
Cost: Varies; visit www.campfun.org/20mosuscca.html for details.
Island Nights at Adventure Island
What: Enjoy live music, authentic entertainment, island-inspired cuisine and family-friendly activities at Adventure Island.
When: From 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from now until Aug. 14
Where: Adventure Island, 10001 McKinley Dr., Tampa, FL 33612
Cost: Included in regular ticket admission, which is $37.95-$74.95 per adult and child, depending on how many parks and days are included in the pass you purchase.
Summer Classic Movie Series
What: All summer long, classic Hollywood films such as “Casablanca” and a special sing-along edition of “Mary Poppins” at Tampa Theatre.
When: 3 p.m. on Sundays and some Saturdays from now – Aug. 29
Where: Tampa Theatre, 711 Franklin Street, Tampa FL 33672
Cost: $9; $7 for Tampa Theatre members
CSI After Dark
What: Be a part of an interactive exhibit that makes you the crime scene investigator. Learn scientific principles and investigative techniques as you try to solve one of three crime scene mysteries.
When: 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. from now – Sept. 6
Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33617
Cost: Adults, $12, seniors, $11 and children 2-12, $10
Nickelodeon Presents Storytime Live!
What: This musical adventure features four shows: “Dora the Explorer,” “The Backyardigans,” “Ni Hao, Kai-lan” and “The Wonder Pets.”
When: July 31-Aug. 1; Sat. 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m., Sun. 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5:30 p.m.
Where: David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, FL 33602
Cost: $15.25-$38.25, depending on seats and performance time
Pinellas Goes Back to School Bash
What: This event aims to close out the summer in style with dance contests, after-school program information, educational demonstrations, a clothing swap, trading tent, face painting and more.
When: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Aug. 8
Where: The Pier, 800 Second Avenue N.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Cost: Free

