Filed under Living on May 21st, 2008:
Tampa’s Top 10 Things to Do Under $25
If you’re trying to find fun things to do in Tampa Bay, you won’t have to look very hard. There are tons of Tampa Bay events and attractions that cost nothing or darn close to it. This subtropical paradise has things going on almost every day of the year.
The Top 10 things to do, see and enjoy in Tampa Bay that cost $25 or less are:
1. Gasparilla – Each January, the streets of Tampa Bay come to life for the annual pirate invasion. This Tampa tradition includes multiple parades, a mock pirate takeover of the city and lots of merrymaking. Most Gasparilla-related events are free, but expect to pay for food and libations.
2. Guavaween – Another unusual Tampa Bay tradition, Guavaween is a Halloween-time celebration that takes place in Ybor City. Featuring a children’s parade and an adult “stumble,” this even is fast becoming almost as popular as Gasparilla in Tampa Bay.
3. Hyde Park Concert Series – This Tampa Bay shopping district plays host to a number of free concerts throughout the year. If music is your thing, you’ll find Tampa Bay concerts are on tap almost every day of the year. From the Hyde Park series to big events at the USF SunDome, the St. Pete Times Forum and more, you’re sure to find something that hits the right chord with you.
4. Bayshore Boulevard – Take a walk on this waterfront boulevard and you’ll be experiencing one of Tampa’s many treasures. The boulevard is free to stroll and the view just can’t be beat.
5. Ybor City exploration – This is Tampa’s Latin answer to New Orleans’ French Quarter. Ybor City features a rich Cuban and Italian history. This area of Tampa is home to plenty of restaurants, nightclubs and shops. When the weather is nice, head to Ybor city on Saturdays between 9am and 3pm when the Fresh Market in Centennial Park is open with vendors selling produce, crafts, jewelry, and more.
6. Lowry Park Zoo – This nonprofit facility is one of the fastest-growing in all of America. Ticket prices are low and many find they are worth every penny. The Lowery Park Zoo is also a great place to take your kids. Tickets for adults are under $20.
7. University of Tampa – The old Tampa Bay Hotel now serves as a university, but parts of it are open for public viewing. The famous minarets are Tampa landmarks and the Henry B. Plant Museum found on campus is open most days for a small fee of $5.00 for adults.
8. Lettuce Lake Park – Want to know what the great outdoors is supposed to look like in the Tampa? If so, visit this Hillsborough County park that features a boardwalk along the Hillsborough River. Here you just might see alligators, cranes, turtles and more.
9. Museum of Science and Industry – This Tampa gem charges for entry, but many people find they can spend an entire day exploring its exhibits. This museum features an IMAX theater, planetarium, and a kids program for kids 12 and under. General admission tickets and packages are all under $25 for adults.
10. Columbia Restaurant – This is one of Tampa’s most famous (and tasty) landmarks. While some meals will cost more than $25, many find the much lower-cost Cuban sandwich and “1905″ salad hit the spot at Columbia Restaurant.
If you’re ready to get out of your Tampa Bay apartment and explore, you won’t be disappointed. There are lots of things to do and see in Tampa Bay that cost next to nothing.