10 Best things to do in Tampa under 10 Bucks
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
6. Admire the cultural & scenic offerings of Riverwalk
Most of Tampa’s major cultural & entertainment offerings are connected via a walkable/bikeable 2.4 mile trail known as Riverwalk. Besides enjoying gorgeous views of the Bay, you will pass by a number of art exhibits, public parks, and historical attractions. Free fun along the way includes Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, The Historic Monument Trail, and the Heroes plaza dedicated to war veterans.
A few budget friendly ideas for affordable fun under 10 bucks include exploring the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts ($10pp) and grabbing a bite at the Heights Public Market.
- Cost: Free parking north of Kennedy Blvd after 6pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
- Address: 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best time to visit: Holiday Harbour, Taste of the Riverwalk, Free yoga in the park (every Sunday at 6pm).
7. Hike at Hillsborough River State Park
This large park is located just minutes from downtown Tampa and features 7 miles of wooded hiking trails. Here you can enjoy the unique opportunity to kayak or canoe on Class II river rapids. Bird and alligator watching are popular past times here.
Consider starting your visit along the River Rapids Nature trail, which not only features great views of natural rapids, but also crosses a historic suspension bridge. The swimming pool ($4 pp admission) also makes this park an affordable summer cool down destination.
- Cost: $6 per vehicle
- Address: 15402 US-301 N, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
- Best time to visit: Anytime of the year should be find due to the ample shade coverage.
8. See a movie at the renowned Tampa Theater
BBC has placed the Tampa Theater in the company of theaters around the world, from Greece to France, as one of the “10 most beautiful cinemas.” Once you step through the doors and see the gorgeous Mediterranean architecture and domed starry night sky ceiling, you will see why this theater made the list. A Tampa iconic landmark since the 1920’s, the theater continues to please locals and tourists alike with its’ stunning beauty and interesting lineup of events.
During the summer season, the theater screens nostalgic classics like Jaws, Jurassic Park, and The Wizard of Oz. Tickets are just 8 bucks making this a fun & affordable activity. Not to mention relaxing in an air conditioned theater is the perfect alternative to sweating your butt off at the beach. If you happen to be in town in October, their popular “Nightmare on Franklin Street,” featuring 14 nights of Halloween movies, is an awesome event. My favorite experiences here was seeing The Breakfast Club (one of my ultimate favorite movies!) on the big screen!
- Cost: $10 pp
- Address: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
- Best time to visit: Summer movies series & Nightmare on Franklin Street Halloween Fest
9. Cool down with a frozen treat
Most anytime you visit Tampa, you will likely be craving something cool and sweet, especially after a long day out in the heat. Fortunately, there are more than enough refreshing smoothie cafes, froyo bars, and homemade ice cream shops around. Menchie’s is a wonderful frozen yogurt bar which offers about 10 flavors daily including a vegan option. Twistee Treat is a popular local ice cream chain with numerous locations. They are known for their waffle tacos and cookiewich ice cream sandwiches.
If you are up for trying something a bit different, consider an acai bowl. As a nice dairy-free alternative, these creamy treats feature pureed acai fruit, granola, and assorted toppings like sliced fruit, chocolate, and peanut butter. In Tampa, look into Grain and Berry, Raining Berries, or Juice Factory (all offer wonderfully delicious, refreshing acai bowls!).
- Cost: Varies (although all options listed are under ten bucks)
- Best time to visit: Anytime you are craving a cool treat
10. Cycle the Upper Tampa Bay trail
Featuring 7 miles of paved multi-use trail, the Upper Tampa Bay trail is one of the best places in the city to enjoy a leisurely bike ride. This is one of Tampa’s favorite urban trails due to the ease of access. The overall vibe here is fantastic with locals and visitors alike enjoying basically any type of exercise, whether it be walking, running, biking, or even skating. Bonus: cold water stations along the way and easy access to restaurants and bike repair shops.
- Cost: $2 per vehicle
- Address: 9201 Waters Avenue
- Best time to visit: Avoid the summer due to a lack of shade
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