11 Free and Affordable Things to Do in Tampa

April 6, 2020

Perched on Tampa Bay along Florida’s Gulf Coast, the city of Tampa is both a major business centre and a hugely popular tourist destination. Visitors come to enjoy the area’s wide range of cultural attractions, fun-filled adventure parks, and easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

There are countless things to see and do in Tampa, but not all of them are easy on the wallet. If you’re planning a trip and want to create an itinerary that keeps costs low, here are some of the best free or affordable attractions and experiences around the city.

Henry B Plant Museum and Park

Situated on the campus of the University of Tampa, this unique public museum preserves the historic splendour of the Tampa Bay Hotel, an opulent Victorian railroad resort built in the late 19th century. Free entry is available on the first Friday of every month as part of Tampa’s “First Friday” initiative.

The exhibits explore Gilded Age tourism, the luxurious lifestyle of the hotel’s guests, and the building’s use during the Spanish–American War.

Location: 401 West Kennedy Boulevard
Hours: Tues–Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 12pm–5pm, Closed Mon

The Tampa Firefighters Museum

This fascinating museum preserves the history and culture of the Tampa Fire Department. Designated as a local historical landmark, it features an impressive collection of artefacts including restored historic fire trucks, antique firefighting equipment, and uniforms worn by city firefighters over the decades.

The museum is free and open to the public.

Location: 720 East Zack Street
Hours: Tues–Sat 10am–2pm, Closed Sun–Mon

Spongeorama Sponge Factory

About 30 miles west of Tampa lies Tarpon Springs, widely known as the sea sponge capital of the world. Spongeorama Sponge Factory celebrates this unusual heritage with what is believed to be the world’s largest collection of natural sea sponges.

The attraction also includes a small museum and movie theatre where visitors can learn more about the history of sponge diving and these fascinating marine creatures.

Location: 510 Dodecanese Boulevard, Tarpon Springs
Hours: Mon–Sun 10am–6pm

Tampa Bay Food Tour

A short drive west of Tampa takes you to the charming coastal town of Dunedin, known for its vibrant food and craft beer scene. A food-themed walking tour around Main Street lets visitors explore a range of restaurants, cafés, and breweries.

The experience typically lasts around three hours and offers the chance to sample local cuisine while learning about the town’s history and culinary traditions.

Yuengling Brewing Co.

America’s oldest operating brewery, Yuengling Brewing Co., is an iconic name in the country’s independent brewing scene. The Tampa facility offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the brewing process, discover the company’s history dating back to 1829, and sample a selection of beers.

There is also a gift shop where visitors can purchase branded souvenirs.

Location: 11111 North 30th Street
Hours: Weds–Sat 10am–3pm, Closed Sun–Tues

Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a memorable experience, consider a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscapes around Wesley Chapel, New Tampa, and Lutz. Flights usually depart in the early morning when the winds are calm and typically last around an hour.

After landing, many experiences conclude with a traditional champagne toast and a light brunch.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival

One of the largest pirate-themed events in the United States, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival is named after the legendary pirate José Gaspar. The festival takes place over an entire weekend and features an exciting schedule of events.

The highlight is a spectacular parade that recreates a pirate invasion, with hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators lining the streets. The celebrations continue with live music, food trucks, and a lively street festival atmosphere.

Location: Venues across Tampa
Dates: Last Saturday in January

Glazer Children’s Museum

Located in downtown Tampa along the scenic Riverwalk, this family-friendly museum features more than 150 interactive exhibits covering topics such as science, art, communication, and weather.

The museum encourages children to learn through play, with hands-on experiences like the Vet Clinic and the Twinkle Stars Theater helping to spark creativity and curiosity.

Location: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza
Hours: Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–6pm, Sun 1pm–6pm

Florida Cane Distillery

This respected micro-distillery produces Florida-made spirits including gin, vodka, moonshine, and whiskey using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can take a free guided tour to learn about the distillation process and enjoy complimentary tastings.

Location: 1820 North 15th Street
Hours: Thurs 5pm–11pm, Fri 3pm–11pm, Sat 12pm–11pm, Sun 12pm–6pm

Tampa Bay Farmers Market

The Tampa Bay Farmers Market is a fantastic place to experience the local food scene. Vendors sell fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, dairy products, meats, and specialty pantry goods.

The market attracts both local residents and restaurant buyers looking for high-quality produce.

Location: 1718 West Fletcher Avenue
Hours: Mon–Sat 8am–6pm, Sun 8am–5pm

J. C. Newman Cigar Company

America’s oldest family-owned premium cigar company has been producing cigars since the late 1800s. The historic El Reloj factory offers free guided tours along with a small museum that explores more than a century of cigar-making tradition.

Location: 2701 North 16th Street
Hours: Weds–Fri 8am–5pm

By Paul Joseph