Tampa Bay’s “Big Three” Attractions (and What You Need to Know About Them)

Tampa has three big attractions: Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium and Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park. Here’s what to know about them.

If you’re buying a home for sale in Tampa Bay, you probably already know that there are three big deals here: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, The Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park. Here’s your guide to each.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Website: https://www.buschgardens.com/tampa

Admission: Adults start at $89, kids (3-9) start at $81

Location: 10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612

This huge attraction is a true destination unto itself, with more than enough to fill an entire day (or two). In addition to the rides and animals, there are shows, a water park, dining, and shopping. Plus, if you buy a annual pass, you’ll get free parking.

Best restaurants nearby:

Three Sisters Speakeasy – this hidden gem is located right next to the park, and has a great patio for people watching.
The Rusty Pelican – this is a classic Florida seafood spot with views of the water.
Ulele – this creative Native American-inspired restaurant has Tampa Bay’s only on-site brewery.

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The Florida Aquarium

Website: https://www.flaquarium.org

Admission: Adults start at $24.95, kids (3-12) start at $19.95

Location: 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602

This aquarium is focused on marine life native to Florida, so you can expect to see a lot of fish, alligators, turtles, and more. They also have an extensive rescue and conservation program, which is something that kids will love learning about. There are also behind-the-scenes tours available for an additional fee.

Best restaurants nearby:

Columbia Restaurant – this iconic spot has been serving Spanish and Cuban food since 1905.
The Sail Pavilion – this is a great place to get a quick bite, and has outdoor seating with views of the water.
Rick’s on the River – this is a casual seafood spot with a relaxed vibe.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Website: https://www.zootampa.org

Admission: Adults start at $32, kids (3-11) start at $22

Location: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604

This zoo is one of the most popular in the country, and it’s easy to see why. In addition to the expected animals, they also have a rides, a water park, and dining options. Plus, they offer several different behind-the-scenes tours (for an additional fee) that will give you an up-close look at the animals and the zoo’s operation.

Best restaurants nearby:

Datz – this popular spot is known for its massive sandwiches and over-the-top desserts.
Tampa Bay Brewing Company – this is a great place to grab a beer after a day at the zoo, and they have a full menu of pub fare.
The Oxford Exchange – this is a beautiful spot for brunch, lunch, or afternoon tea.

Other Notable Attractions in Tampa Bay

If none of these are right for you – or if you’ve already been to each of them – check out these other notable attractions in Tampa Bay:

The Tampa Riverwalk: This 2.4-mile walkway along the Hillsborough River is a great way to get some exercise while taking in the sights of downtown Tampa.
Ybor City: This historic district is known for its Cuban roots, and it’s a great place to grab a bite or do some shopping.
Clearwater Beach: This beach is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, and it’s only a short drive from Tampa.

$259,000 Active

8662 Hunters Key Circle Tampa, Florida

2 Beds 3 Baths 1,152 SqFt 0.020 Acres

COZY AND CLEAN HOME ON A BEAUTIFUL LARGE LOT. LOCATION, LOCATION! NW Carrollwood. Nicely kept singlewide manufactured home nestled into a gorgeous shady grandfather oak canopy. Lot is wide and over a third of an acre. 5 minutes from Erlich and Dale Mabry but super SUPER quiet DEAD END St with several lovely newer custom-built homes on it. This is a GREAT place to build a custom site-built home or enjoy it as is. NO HOA fees! Huge primary bedroom with room for sitting or exercise equipment! Walk in tiled shower in the bath. Carport and shed outside. Deep well with great drinking water. Septic. NO water and sewer bills to pay. The roof is metal and is approx. 8 years old. See attached seller disclosure. CASH ONLY.

$234,900 Active

5109 Alice Road Tampa, Florida

2 Beds 1 Baths 1,192 SqFt 0.340 Acres

$525,000 Active

9724 Fox Chapel Road Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,350 SqFt 0.160 Acres

This is a rare opportunity to own a newer home next to Plant high school with custom upgrades and an expansive backyard, all in the heart of desirable South Tampa! Located just minutes from Tampa International Airport, Downtown Tampa, MacDill Air Force Base and Bayshore Boulevard. No expense was spared in this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home which has been upgraded throughout. As you pull up to the house, the first thing that you will notice is the large circular driveway combined with lush landscape. Walk in the front door and look down at the beautiful hardwood floors combined with 5 ¼ inch baseboards. To the left is a formal living/sitting room at the entrance of the house with a custom built wine bar. Continue past the high-volume ceilings and decorative entryways into the open floor concept with the Kitchen, Breakfast Nook, & oversized Great Room. Custom window treatments have been installed throughout the house, providing the perfect combination of privacy and natural light. The chef’s gourmet kitchen includes white shaker style cabinets, a large built-in pantry, Miele refrigerator & Miele stove, and an oversized island with quartz countertops & cabinets on both sides. Upstairs you will find a large loft area, hardwood floors & four bedrooms as well as the laundry room. The master suite includes a giant walk in closet, and master bathroom with a stand-alone shower and his and her vanity sinks. The master closet features built in cabinets, perfect for maximizing storage. The remaining rooms are perfectly sized for any use. Step outside to the covered lanai and brick paver patio! The sprawling back yard, which features a privacy fence, shady oak trees, and the perfect layout for adding a pool. Minutes from Tampa’s beaches but still located in a minimal flood risk zone (X) with no flood insurance requirement! Do not wait, see this house before its gone!

$1,300,000 Active

1906 S Church Avenue Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 5 Baths 3,177 SqFt 0.170 Acres

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