Mallory Square's Guide to Exploring Tampa this Summer


Welcome to Mallory Square’s Guide to Exploring Tampa this Summer! As summer winds down, Tampa offers an array of activities and experiences for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere, Tampa has something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of Tampa as summer comes to a close:
 

Explore the Great Outdoors

Hike and Explore Upper Tampa Bay Park
Discover the natural beauty of Upper Tampa Bay Park, which offers scenic trails for hiking and bird-watching. The park features boardwalks through mangrove forests, nature trails, and observation towers, providing stunning views of the bay and local wildlife.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding at Rocky Creek
Enjoy water activities at Rocky Creek, where you can kayak or paddleboard through serene waters. The area offers rentals and guided tours, allowing you to explore the creek's calm waters and surrounding natural beauty.

Cycling at the Upper Tampa Bay Trail
Take a bike ride along the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, a popular multi-use trail perfect for cycling, walking, and jogging. The trail winds through scenic landscapes, including wetlands and wooded areas, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Picnic and Play at Baybridge Park
Spend a relaxing day at Baybridge Park, which features picnic areas, playgrounds, and open spaces for outdoor activities. It's an ideal spot for families to enjoy a picnic, play games, or simply relax in the sun.

Fishing at Sheldon Lake
Sheldon Lake is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts. The lake, located within the Upper Tampa Bay Park, offers opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater fish. It's a peaceful place to cast a line and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Golfing at Westchase Golf Club
Hit the greens at Westchase Golf Club, a well-maintained golf course offering a challenging layout for golfers of all skill levels. The course's beautiful scenery and well-designed holes make it a great choice for a summer day of golf.

Outdoor Yoga Classes at Local Parks
Join outdoor yoga classes offered in various parks around Tampa, such as Upper Tampa Bay Park. Practicing yoga outdoors allows you to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings while staying active and relaxed.

Visit the Big Cat Rescue Sanctuary
Take a guided tour of the Big Cat Rescue Sanctuary, a nearby wildlife sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating big cats. The sanctuary offers educational tours where you can learn about the animals and the organization's conservation efforts.

Explore the Hillsborough River by Canoe
Just a short drive away, the Hillsborough River offers great opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Paddle through calm waters surrounded by lush vegetation and watch for local wildlife, including birds and turtles.

Attend an Outdoor Concert at Local Venues
Enjoy live music at outdoor venues in Tampa, such as the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre or local parks hosting summer concert series. These events offer a chance to enjoy music in a vibrant outdoor setting.
 

Enjoy Delicious Food

Ulele
Situated along the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele features a beautiful outdoor patio where you can savor dishes inspired by native Floridian ingredients. The restaurant’s menu includes seafood, craft beers, and unique appetizers. The riverside setting enhances the dining experience with scenic views.

The Rusty Pelican
This waterfront restaurant offers a relaxing outdoor dining area with views of Tampa Bay. The Rusty Pelican serves a variety of seafood and steak options, and the outdoor patio is a perfect place to enjoy a meal while watching the sunset.

Columbia Restaurant
Located in the historic Ybor City district, Columbia Restaurant offers outdoor seating with a view of the vibrant streets. Enjoy classic Cuban and Spanish cuisine, including paella and Cuban sandwiches, in a lively and culturally rich atmosphere.

Café Hey
A casual spot in downtown Tampa, Café Hey offers outdoor seating where you can enjoy a variety of coffee drinks, sandwiches, and baked goods. The café’s laid-back vibe and street-side seating make it a great place for a relaxed meal or coffee break.

Caddy’s on the Beach
Located in nearby Treasure Island, Caddy’s on the Beach offers a fun, beachside dining experience with outdoor seating right on the sand. Enjoy seafood, burgers, and tropical cocktails while taking in views of the Gulf of Mexico.

The Florida Aquarium’s Café
For a unique dining experience, visit The Florida Aquarium’s café, which offers outdoor seating with views of the aquarium's lush landscaping. The café serves a selection of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, making it a great spot to relax during a visit to the aquarium.
 

Immerse Yourself in Culture

Explore the Tampa Riverwalk
Walk or bike along the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic trail that connects downtown Tampa with various cultural attractions. Along the way, you'll find parks, public art installations, and historic landmarks. The Riverwalk also hosts local events and festivals, providing a vibrant view of Tampa’s cultural scene.

Visit the Tampa Bay History Center
Dive into Tampa’s history by visiting the Tampa Bay History Center. The museum features interactive exhibits on the region's history, including Native American heritage, Spanish exploration, and local industry. It’s a great way to learn about the cultural evolution of the area.

Experience Ybor City
Explore Ybor City, a historic neighborhood known for its rich Cuban and Spanish heritage. Walk through the historic streets, visit local cigar shops, and enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine at local restaurants. Ybor City also hosts cultural festivals and events that highlight its unique cultural blend.

Visit the Tampa Museum of Art
Enjoy contemporary and classical art at the Tampa Museum of Art, located along the Riverwalk. The museum features a diverse collection of works, from modern pieces to classical sculptures. It’s a great place to experience Tampa’s artistic culture and participate in various educational programs and events.
 

Fun for the Whole Family

Visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Spend a day at Busch Gardens, a theme park with thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live entertainment. The park features a variety of attractions, from roller coasters to kid-friendly rides, and offers interactive experiences with animals like giraffes and kangaroos.

Explore the Florida Aquarium
Discover marine life and interactive exhibits at the Florida Aquarium. The aquarium offers engaging exhibits on ocean ecosystems, touch tanks with sea creatures, and educational programs. It’s a great place for kids to learn about marine biology while having fun.

Enjoy a Day at Adventure Island
Cool off at Adventure Island, a water park with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. The park provides a range of water attractions suitable for all ages, making it a perfect spot for family fun and relaxation.

Play at Lettuce Lake Regional Park
Explore Lettuce Lake Regional Park, which offers walking trails, a boardwalk through wetlands, and a playground. The park is ideal for picnicking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Tampa Bay area..

Visit the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
Engage with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities at MOSI. The museum features exhibits on science, technology, and engineering, including a high-wire bike, a planetarium, and a variety of educational programs for kids.

Explore the Glazer Children’s Museum
Visit the Glazer Children’s Museum, which features interactive exhibits designed for young children. The museum offers hands-on activities related to art, science, and everyday life, making it a great place for kids to learn and play.

Go Bowling at AMF Bowling
Spend a fun afternoon bowling at AMF Bowling, which offers family-friendly lanes and a casual atmosphere. The bowling alley also has arcade games and a snack bar, making it a complete entertainment experience.