Sightseeing in the Tampa Bay Area

Adventure Island - Tampa, FL

Key West Rapids

Exciting water rides are par for the course at Adventure Island.  ©2006 Busch Entertainment Corporation.  All rights reserved.

Tampa Bay is full of adventure and summertime fun. Whether you're taking the slides at Adventure Island, braving the thrill rides at Busch Gardens, or simply relaxing on one of the many area beaches, there will never be a lack of things to do or places to see on this trip.

For Everyone...

Busch Gardens. When visiting the Tampa Bay area, 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 with over 2,700 animals, live shows, restaurants, shops and games. Recently voted the most popular theme park in Florida, you're sure to love this Tampa Bay attraction.

Adventure Island. Do 30 acres of slides, corkscrews, waterfalls, wave pools and a children's water playground sound like something you'd enjoy? Then Adventure Island is the place to be. This water park has everything needed to satisfy your craving for excitement and thrills. Adventure Island also offers caf's, an arcade, picnic areas and gift shop.

University of South Florida Botanical Gardens. These gardens offer the perfect backdrop for an outdoor stroll. On your walk, you'll see collections that include orchids, begonias, mallows, bromeliads, gingers, ferns, aroids, fruit trees, palms, cycads, carnivorous plants, herb and scent gardens and more. Plants aren't the only things that contribute to the atmosphere. You'll see a butterfly garden, gopher tortoises and over 60 species of birds.

The Beaches. The area is also known for its abundance of outdoor beaches. Numerous beaches are scattered across the area, creating the perfect environment for sunbathing, fishing, snorkeling, diving, sailing and more. A few beaches in the area are Davis Island Beach in Tampa, Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, and St. Pete Beach in St. Pete Beach.

Cruise Lovers...

Starlite Majesty. Take a lunch or dinner cruise on the Starlite Majesty. The boat features a brass and mirrored interior and this 115-foot vessel offers three decks and ample room for observation. You can enjoy an exquisite meal at your specially reserved table. You will have your choice of entrees, and your meal will be prepared by an award-winning chef.

Starlite Princess. The Starlite Princess also offer lunch and dinner cruises. When you want to take a narrated cruise along the shores of Florida's inland waters, this cruise is exactly what you need. Nothing rivals the atmosphere this authentic paddleboat has to offer. Keep an eye out for the dolphins, it's not uncommon to see them frolicking in the water.

For Animal Enthusiasts...

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. For an additional cost, kids over six years and adults have the opportunity to swim in the Coral Reefs Exhibit.

Old McMickey's Farm. Located in Odessa, FL, 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.