Thrill Rides & Marine Life in Tampa

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to see what Tampa has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

• What’s the best way to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay?

  To visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, plan your day using the interactive park map to navigate the various rides, roller coasters, and animal encounters. Start early to explore the expansive Serengeti Plain, home to free-roaming herds of giraffe, zebra, and antelope, and be sure to check out the new Wild Oasis in the Jungala area, featuring a reimagined drop tower and interactive water play land. Consider purchasing an annual pass for exclusive access to new attractions and upgraded benefits, and take advantage of the park’s shows and behind-the-scenes tours for a comprehensive experience.

• What’s the best place to launch a boat in Tampa Bay?

  For a seamless and scenic boat launch experience in Tampa Bay, head to Fort DeSoto Park, located at the tip of Tierra Verde. This expansive public boat ramp complex boasts between 15-25 ramps, making it one of the best facilities in the area. With its convenient access and ample space, it’s ideal for boaters of all skill levels, and there are no launch fees, though some areas may have a small entry fee.

• Where can I go kayaking near Tampa?

  For a memorable kayaking experience near Tampa, head to Weedon Island Preserve, where you can paddle through mangrove tunnels and observe a diverse array of wildlife, including dolphins and alligators. Another top spot is the Hillsborough River State Park, offering serene river paddling with opportunities to see critters up close. For a unique experience, visit Shell Key Preserve, where guided tours by Coastal Kayak Charters allow you to navigate mangrove tunnels and possibly encounter dolphins, all for around $49 per person.

• Are there any hiking trails in Tampa that are currently open after recent hurricane damage?

  In Tampa, several hiking trails are currently open despite recent challenges. The Upper Tampa Bay Trail, a nearly 14-mile paved route, remains accessible, though note the Rocky Creek Bridge is closed for reconstruction until 2025, with the trail sections north and south of the bridge still available. For a more immersive experience, Hillsborough River State Park has reopened, offering canoe, kayak, and bicycle rentals along its scenic trails.

• What’s a good picnic spot with a scenic view in Tampa?

  For a picnic with a scenic view in Tampa, consider Picnic Island Park, a hidden gem in South Tampa. Here, you can enjoy shaded picnic tables with stunning water views, or spread out on the beautiful white sand beach. The park also features a fishing pier, boat ramp, and a disc golf course, making it an ideal spot to catch a breathtaking sunset.

  Alternatively, Philippe Park in Safety Harbor offers sweeping views of Old Tampa Bay and ample shade under majestic oak trees. This park boasts a large grassy expanse, picnic shelters with grills, and a historic Temple Mound, providing a rich and scenic setting for your picnic.

  Lettuce Lake Park, once a cattle-grazing pasture, is another gem with 240 acres of lush mangrove forests and a 3,500-foot wooden boardwalk. For a nominal $2 entrance fee, you can enjoy picnic shelters, abundant tables, and shady trees, or rent a canoe for a picnic on the water.