Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city with something for everyone, and young adults are no exception. Whether you’re visiting with friends, planning a date, or just looking to explore, Tampa offers a mix of thrilling adventures, relaxing experiences, and vibrant nightlife. Here are 10 exciting things to do in Tampa for young adults that will make your time in the city unforgettable.
1. Experience the Thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay should be at the top of your list. This world-renowned theme park is famous for its thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and amazing animal encounters. You can spend the day getting your heart racing on rides like SheiKra or Montu, and then unwind by exploring the park’s animal exhibits. It’s the perfect mix of thrills and fun for any group of young adults.
Tip: Check out seasonal events and special discounts to make the most of your visit.
2. Explore the Vibrant Nightlife in Ybor City
Ybor City is Tampa’s historic district, known for its lively nightlife and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re looking for a place to go out, Ybor City is home to a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues. Whether you’re in the mood for dancing, craft cocktails, or just a laid-back pub, this neighborhood offers an energetic environment that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a date.
Tip: Don’t miss Café Habana for Latin-inspired drinks and dancing or head to The Castle for a memorable night of electronic music.
3. Relax at the Tampa Riverwalk
For a more relaxed outing, take a stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk. This picturesque waterfront path stretches for miles, offering scenic views of the Hillsborough River, parks, and the city skyline. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or simply sitting down at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the river. The Riverwalk also provides easy access to the Tampa Museum of Art and other attractions, making it an ideal spot to unwind.
Tip: Consider renting bikes or scooters to cover more ground and explore the area at your own pace.
4. Attend a Live Concert at Amalie Arena
For music lovers, Amalie Arena is the place to be. This top-tier venue hosts concerts by major artists across all genres, from rock to hip-hop to pop. Whether you’re a fan of big-name performers or up-and-coming artists, you’ll find a show that suits your taste at this iconic venue. Make it a night to remember with an exciting live concert experience.
Tip: Check the Amalie Arena’s event calendar for upcoming concerts and sports events.
5. Participate in Water Activities at Clearwater Beach
No trip to Tampa is complete without a visit to the world-famous Clearwater Beach. Located just a short drive from downtown Tampa, Clearwater offers a variety of water activities like paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, and more. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to lounge on the sand, Clearwater Beach provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable day by the water.
Tip: Try taking a jet ski tour to explore the coastline or book a sunset dolphin cruise for a relaxing evening on the water.
6. Visit the Tampa Museum of Art
If you’re a fan of art and culture, the Tampa Museum of Art is a must-see. This downtown museum features both contemporary and classical art, with rotating exhibits that offer fresh and exciting content year-round. You’ll find everything from ancient artifacts to cutting-edge contemporary pieces that make for excellent Instagram photos.
Tip: Admission is free on Thursdays from 4–8 p.m., so plan a visit to take advantage of this offer.
7. Enjoy Craft Beers at Local Breweries
Tampa is known for its growing craft beer scene, and it’s the perfect city for beer enthusiasts to explore new flavors. From Cigar City Brewing to Coppertail Brewing Co., the city boasts a wide range of local breweries offering everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Grab a group of friends and embark on a brewery hop to discover some of the best craft beers Tampa has to offer.
Tip: Many breweries offer tasting tours where you can sample a variety of beers and learn about the brewing process.
8. Take a Sunset Cruise on Tampa Bay
For a more romantic or relaxing activity, book a sunset cruise on Tampa Bay. These cruises offer stunning views of the bay as the sun sets, creating the perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening on the water. Whether you’re with a significant other or a group of friends, this relaxing outing is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Tip: Some cruises offer dinner and live music, making it an even more enjoyable experience.
9. Challenge Yourself at an Escape Room
If you enjoy puzzles and adventure, gather your friends for an exciting challenge at one of Tampa’s escape rooms. These interactive experiences will have you solving clues, cracking codes, and racing against the clock to escape the room before time runs out. It’s a great way to test your teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fun and immersive setting.
Tip: Try rooms with different themes, like mystery, horror, or adventure, for a variety of experiences.
10. Attend a Sports Event at Raymond James Stadium
For sports fans, there’s no better place to experience the excitement of live games than Raymond James Stadium. Home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Vipers, this stadium hosts thrilling football games and other live events. If you’re in town during football season, grab some friends and enjoy the electric atmosphere of a live game. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, the tailgate parties and stadium experience are a lot of fun.
Tip: Arrive early to check out the pre-game festivities and enjoy the full experience.
Tampa offers a dynamic mix of fun things to do for young adults, from adrenaline-pumping adventures and live concerts to relaxing moments by the water. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or spending a little longer in this exciting city, these activities are guaranteed to make your trip unforgettable.
For those traveling to Tampa, consider taking a convenient and comfortable Red Coach bus for a stress-free journey, allowing you to focus on the fun ahead!