Family Friendly Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens Africa - Tampa, FL

Montu

Experience big thrills with Montu.  ©2006 Busch Entertainment Corporation.  All rights reserved.

The Tampa Bay area is the perfect vacation spot for families looking to get away and have some fun in the sun. Whether you're learning to milk a cow or having the time of your life on the thrill rides of Busch Gardens, this vacation is sure to be one you'll never forget.

When visiting the Tampa Bay area with your family, you absolutely have to stop by Busch Gardens or your vacation won't be complete. The theme park is based on encounters of the African continent and features thrill rides, a zoo with over 2,700 animals, live shows, restaurants, shops and games. One of the most popular theme parks in a state full of theme parks, your whole family is sure to love this Tampa Bay attraction.

Adventure Island. Is your family looking for an adventure? Then Adventure Island is the place to be. This water park features 30 acres of slides, corkscrews, waterfalls, wave pools, and a children's water playground to satisfy your craving for excitement and thrills. Adventure Island also offers caf?s, an arcade, picnic areas and gift shop. Your family's safety is first priority here, and there are over 50 lifeguards and a first-aid station located at the park.

The Florida Aquarium. Your family will enjoy spending the day discovering over 10,000 aquatic plants and animals that call the waters their home. You'll see animals like sharks, stingrays, otters, dolphins, jellyfish and more. You can even swim with the fishes! For an additional cost, anyone over six years of age has the opportunity to swim in the Coral Reefs Exhibit.

Old McMickey's Farm. Located in Odessa, this farm isn't your average petting zoo. It's a great place for your family to learn about farming. The farm features a large red barn, farm house and variety of farm animals. Visitors will learn to milk cows, catch chickens, see baby chicks and ducks and even get to go on a pony or horse ride.

LODGING

Adam's Mark Clearwater Beach Resort. This hotel is perfect for families looking for the best in accommodations. Each room features cable television with in-room movies and kids will love the fact that each room also offers Playstation and WebTV. The family will love the outdoor pool, and for smaller children, a children's wading pool is available. If your kids are too tired to go out to eat after a day of fun and sightseeing, room service is available. The hotel also offers babysitting services for parents who are looking for some alone time.

Hilton Garden Inn — Tampa. This is hotel is another great choice for families. The entire family can enjoy the in-ground pool and rooms offer the convenience of microwaves, refrigerators and in-room coffee makers. Everyone can enjoy the outdoor courtyard with pool.

Best Western Beachfront Resort — Saint Pete Beach, FL. This hotel offers excellent accommodations to families on vacation. The resort is located on five and a half acres of landscaped gardens and private beach. In addition to the private beach, your family can enjoy the two heated outdoor pools, game room, fishing, jet skiing, and on-site restaurant. Rollaway cribs are available and children 17 and under stay free.

Econo Lodge Beachfront Resort — Clearwater Beach, FL. This hotel offers the perfect combination of quality accommodations at affordable rates. The hotel features a heated swimming pool, private white sand beach and outdoor barbeque. Rooms feature amenities such as color television, in-room coffee makers, stoves, refrigerator, and flatware and dishes for four.