Inexpensive Attractions in Tampa, Florida
If you’re seeking to make the most of your time in Florida without straining your budget for activities, Tampa offers a variety of free and affordable attractions. From observing gentle manatees in their natural environments to vibrant scavenger hunts for unique murals, the city is rich in diverse history and local culture.
Whether you’re aiming for staycation inspiration or looking for family-friendly day trips, here are some of the best inexpensive attractions in Tampa.
Manatee Viewing Center
One of Florida’s extraordinary wildlife encounters is the opportunity to observe manatees in the warm-water discharge canals of power plants. These serene mammals appear regularly from November through April, transforming this location into a protected sanctuary. Visitors can also spot tarpon and sharks, and engage with a new interactive stingray exhibit in a sizable tank where you may touch the stingrays (using two fingers only).
This site includes a snack bar, restrooms, and picnic tables. It’s about a half-hour drive from downtown Tampa; simply take I-75 south to exit 246 and follow the directions.
Tampa Murals
Tampa is adorned with colorful murals that catch your eye in unexpected places. You can easily create a free, self-guided walking tour using the listings from the Tampa Murals website or opt to stroll around and see where your curiosity leads you.
Florida Botanical Gardens
This 100-acre garden features a variety of native plants, palms, cacti, succulents, tropical fruits, and special themed gardens, including a butterfly garden and a children’s discovery garden. Admission is entirely free, with numerous pathways to explore, including ADA accessible trails. The garden also boasts areas that highlight Florida’s unique wetland landscape, such as the Wetlands Walkway boardwalk.
The Tampa Firefighter’s Museum
The Tampa Firefighter’s Museum is a thrilling destination for all ages. Located in a restored 1911 firehouse, it showcases historic firefighting equipment and includes an interactive play area for children, where they can experience firefighting through fun, hands-on activities. While the museum is donation-based for entry, visits are by appointment only due to ongoing health considerations. You can schedule a visit by calling (813) 964-6862 or emailing Tampafiremuseum@gmail.com.
The Tampa Riverwalk
Downtown, the scenic Tampa Riverwalk links various attractions along the Hillsborough River. This beautiful green space includes playgrounds and restrooms, making it an inviting path from the museums surrounding Curtis Hixon Park, past the Convention Center, to the aquarium at the end of the walk.
Ride the TECO Line Streetcars
HART operates free electric streetcars connecting downtown’s Marion Transit Center with a range of attractions downtown and Ybor City, running every 20 to 30 minutes. It provides a delightful way to explore the area, particularly on warm Florida afternoons.
Wat Mongkolratanaram
This exquisite Buddhist temple attracts hundreds of visitors on Sundays for its food and flower markets. Guests line up for delicious beef soup with fish balls, enjoy traditional music, and have the opportunity to purchase orchids and bonsai trees, among other unique offerings.
Bayshore Boulevard
True to its name, this 4.5-mile walking path runs along the shoreline, featuring benches for enjoying the views, public workout equipment, bike racks, and several nearby restaurants.
The Pinellas County Heritage Village
The Pinellas County Heritage Village is a living history museum showcasing various historic structures, including the McMullen-Coachman Log Cabin, established in 1852 as the oldest structure in the county. The village also includes educational demonstrations of traditional skills like sugar cane boiling and weaving.
Ybor City Saturday Market
This vibrant outdoor market features local arts, crafts, and food products right in the heart of Tampa’s historic district. With over twenty years of operation, vendors include beekeepers, farmers, cigar rollers, and creators of custom bowties.
The Sulphur Springs Museum
Sulphur Springs, known as “Florida’s Coney Island” in the 19th century, showcases local mineral springs. Today, this museum explores the area’s rich history with exhibitions including Indigenous accounts, pottery, vintage postcards, and much more—all available at no cost.
Henry B Plant Museum
The Henry B Plant Museum, housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel, gives insight into the luxurious lifestyle of the 1890s. This landmark features stunning Venetian mirrors and ornate furnishings. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
This intimate photography museum located on the upper floors of the Cube displays collections from renowned photographers and hosts temporary exhibitions. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students.
Ybor City Museum State Park
Home to historic cigar-worker houses and captivating photographs, the Ybor City Museum features a self-guided multimedia tour of the area that can be accessed via internet-connected devices. Admission is $4 for adults; children enjoy free entry.
Tampa Theater
This historic theater, built in 1926, provides a beautiful setting for independent films, often featuring live music from the mighty Wurlitzer organ before screenings. However, with limited showtimes, it’s wise to check for special events. Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for children aged 2-12.
