Here is a list of kid friendly FREE places to visit around Tampa. Head to the events section of the blog for even more local fun!
VISIT A MURAL
Tampa Bay is covered in murals perfect for photoshoots and making memories.
LIBRARIES
The local libraries are full of adventure! Each library has its own schedule of events and classes for children and adults. There is also internet access, computers, play areas for the kids and of course lots and lots of books. Each county has dozens of library locations to choose from.
ESPORTS LOUNGES
If you have a gamer, check out the two Esports Lounges in Hillsborough County. Northdale Recreation Center hours are Mondays and Wednesdays – 6:30 to 8:30 PM, Saturdays – 1:30 to 3:30PM, postponed until October, due to renovations. Emanuel P. Johnson Recreation Center hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays – 6:30 to 8:30 PM, Saturdays – 1 to 4:30 PM.
PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS
There are so many parks and playgrounds around Tampa Bay to enjoy!
CITY OF TAMPA CREATIVE ARTS THEATRE
This theatre company’s next show runs October 22-December 13 and plays at libraries and recreation centers around Hillsborough County. Schedule of Syliva South and the Word Catcher performances.
MIDTOWN TAMPA
There is a nice area in Midtown Tampa off Dale Mabry Highway and Cypress Street. There are murals, this turtle structure and an outdoor area to hang out.
MALL PLAY AREAS
There are a lot of malls in the bay area. The play areas are always an idea for something free to do. Some malls have multiple play areas for the kids.
SPLASHPAD
Splashpads are located all around Tampa!
MAHAFFEY THEATER IN ST. PETE
Students can enjoy live performances for free at this theater.
TAMPA RIVERWALK
Take a stroll along the Riverwalk in Downtown Tampa. There is plenty to see and explore.
STREETCARS
There is a streetcar line that runs through Downtown Tampa and Ybor. It’s a fun way to visit local attractions without having to drive around and get in and out of the car.
TAMPA ART MUSEUM
Thursday afternoons the Tampa Art Museum in Downtown Tampa offers pay what you can for entry to the museum.
CHESS CLUB
Monday evenings at New Port Richey Library is Chess Club.
LOCAL THEATER
If you are into acting, singing, dancing or stage crew, check out your local theater. With so many community theaters in the area, there are plenty of audition opportunities. Daughter has been in two local theater shows. Auditions were free and hardly any cost to being in the shows.
TOUR A FIRESTATION
With a fire station in every community, it’s a great place for a field trip or educational outing.
TOUR THE AIRPORT
Take a tour of Tampa international airport. For the kids there is a scavenger hunt that starts at the information desk on the third floor. The giant pink flamingo is picture ready.
CHILDREN’S BOARD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTERS
There are seven of these facilities in Hillsborough county that provide free services for families. They offer classes, events, car seat safety, dental services and much more. Click through to see the monthly calendar of events for each individual resource center.
At an event at one of the Family Resource Centers in Hillsborough County. 
Calendar for Family Resource Center in South Hillsborough County. 
Calendar for Family Resource Center in North Tampa. 
Calendar for Family Resource Center in Plant City. 
Calendar for Family Resource Center in Brandon. 
Calendar for Family Resource Center in Central Tampa. 
Calendar for Family Resource Center in Temple Terrace. 
Calendar for Family Resource Center in Town ‘n’ Country.
LEARN N PLAY TAMPA BAY
Free learning program for children at multiple locations around the bay area.
THE BEACH
TAMPA FIREFIGHTER MUSEUM
This museum is located in Downtown Tampa.
DISNEY SPRINGS
Outside of Tampa in Orlando is Disney Springs which is free to explore.
FLORIDA ORCHESTRA INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO
The Instrument Petting Zoo gives children a hands on experience with the instruments of the Orchestra.
Here’s a list of free things to do in New Port Richey, FL.
Below is event listings in the area!
Momudaughter 