Family-Friendly Tampa Bay

Småland Kids Play Area at IKEA Tampa
2026-08-04 14:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-05 14:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-06 14:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | IKEA Tampa, 1103 N 22nd St, Tampa, 33605, United States
Småland Kids Play Area at IKEA Tampa
A simple option for parents who want a little breathing room while shopping. Kids can spend time in a supervised play space, giving you a short window to walk through the store without distractions.
Date and Time: May 18 – August 31, 2026
Weekdays: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Weekends: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Location: IKEA Tampa, FL
Age: 3–10 years (must be potty trained, 37″–54″ height)
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Supervised playtime (30 minutes, extra time for IKEA Family members)
Contact: 1-888-888-4532

Paws for Literacy - Humane Society
2026-08-04 14:45 - 16:00, 2026-08-06 14:45 - 16:00 | Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N Armenia Ave, Tampa, 33607, United States
Paws for Literacy

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay wants to give children who love animals a chance to spend time with them while catching up on their reading or improving their reading skills.
Our Paws for Literacy Program at the HSTB Hillsborough campus pairs children with homeless pets who love to hear the stories and look at the pictures.
Paws for Literacy is a free program offered for children ages 5 and up. We provide reading stools, books and treats (for the animals), but children are welcome to bring their own books if they wish. Books provided include animal tales, stories of the animal-human bond and books that teach empathy to young readers.
Parents should accompany children for this program.

Ages: Children ages 5+
When: 2:45 pm – 4:00 pm | Tuesdays & Thursdays
Where: HSTB Hillsborough Campus | 3607 N. Armenia Ave. Tampa, Fl 33607
Register: Sign Up Today!

Imagine Museum's $10 Tuesday Nights
2026-08-04 17:00 - 20:00 | FL
$10 Tuesday Nights

Looking for cool things to do in St. Pete? Join us at Imagine Museum every Tuesday night for a range of select events, admission just $10 from 5-8 PM! From artist features to live music nights and comedy nights, there’s always something new and exciting to experience. Join us & experience the best events in town!

Learn more about this Imagine Museum deal.
Imagine Museum
1901 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33713, USA

AquaGlow – Adventure Island Tampa Bay
2026-08-04 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-08-05 20:00 - 23:00 | Adventure Island Tampa Bay, 10001 N. McKinley Drive,, Tampa, 33612, United States
AquaGlow – Adventure Island Tampa Bay
Adventure Island transforms into a neon paradise after dark for AquaGlow, a family-friendly nighttime event with vibrant lights, pulsing music, and immersive surprises around every corner. With limited capacity, it’s a more relaxed, exclusive experience — perfect for glowing, dancing, and making summer memories with the whole family.
Date and Time: Select nights May 22 – August 8, 2026, 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Adventure Island Tampa Bay, 10001 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Starting at $39.99/person (single night); $34.99/person for groups of 15+; optional meal add-on $10 (entrée + fountain drink). Cabana and lounger upgrades available starting at $69.00
Activities Include: Neon light experience, live entertainment, glowing atmosphere, dancing, wave pool, water slides, access to park attractions

Toddler Takeover at Glazer Children's Museum
2026-08-05, 2026-08-06 | Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL, 33602, United States
Toddler Takeover

August 1 – September 30

When big kids head back to school, toddlers take the lead with programs designed just for them—full of movement, sensory play, and age-appropriate exploration.

Learn about Toddler Takeover

Glazer Children’s Museum

110 W Gasparilla Plaza
Tampa,FL33602United States
(813) 443-3861

Visit a National Park for FREE Today - See Florida List
2026-08-05, 2026-08-06 | FL
2026 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
Come experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply). Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates:

February 16: Presidents Day (Washington’s Birthday)
May 25: Memorial Day
June 14: Flag Day/President Trump’s birthday
July 3-5: Independence Day weekend
August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service
September 17: Constitution Day
October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday
November 11: Veterans Day

Beginning in 2026, free entrance on these days will be for US citizens and residents only. Nonresidents will pay the regular entrance fee and any applicable nonresident fees.
For more information on these free days, visit nps.gov

Florida National Parks
Big Cypress National Preserve (Ochopee)
Explore more than 729,000 acres of swamps, wetlands, and forests that help support the Everglades ecosystem. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including alligators, wading birds, and the endangered Florida panther. Learn more.
Biscayne National Park (Miami, Key Biscayne & Homestead)
Just outside Miami, Biscayne National Park protects crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, islands, and historic shipwrecks. It’s a popular destination for boating, snorkeling, fishing, and enjoying beautiful coastal scenery. Learn more.
Canaveral National Seashore (Titusville & New Smyrna Beach)
This undeveloped stretch of coastline offers pristine beaches, sand dunes, wildlife viewing, and a glimpse into Florida’s rich history. It’s one of the longest stretches of untouched beach on the East Coast.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (St. Augustine)
Step back in time at the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Built by the Spanish more than 300 years ago, this historic landmark overlooks Matanzas Bay in downtown St. Augustine.

De Soto National Memorial (Bradenton)
Located along Tampa Bay, this memorial commemorates the 1539 landing of Hernando de Soto and his expedition. Visitors can enjoy waterfront trails, history exhibits, and scenic views.
Dry Tortugas National Park (Near Key West)
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas is known for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, abundant birdlife, and the massive Fort Jefferson. It’s one of Florida’s most unique national parks.
Everglades National Park (South Florida)
Covering 1.5 million acres, Everglades National Park protects one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. Visitors can spot alligators, manatees, birds, and other wildlife while exploring wetlands, trails, and waterways.

Fort Caroline National Memorial (Jacksonville)
Learn about one of the earliest European settlements in what is now the United States. The memorial shares the story of French settlers and their struggle for survival in 16th-century Florida.
Fort Matanzas National Monument (St. Augustine)
This small but fascinating fort helped protect St. Augustine from attacks arriving by sea. Visitors can explore the historic watchtower and surrounding beaches, marshes, and nature trails.

Gulf Islands National Seashore (Florida & Mississippi)
Known for sugar-white sand beaches and emerald waters, Gulf Islands National Seashore offers swimming, wildlife viewing, hiking, and historic sites along the Gulf Coast.
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve (Jacksonville)
Discover coastal wetlands, salt marshes, forests, and thousands of years of history at this beautiful preserve. The area also includes Fort Caroline and the historic Kingsley Plantation.

Florida Botanical Gardens- Free Admission
2026-08-05 07:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-06 07:00 - 17:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, 33774, United States
Florida Botanical Gardens
The Florida Botanical Gardens is one of the best free outdoor attractions in Pinellas County, featuring more than 100 acres of gardens, walking trails, native Florida plants, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. It’s a great spot for families, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful place to explore.
Admission: Free
Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Christmas Day and the day after Thanksgiving
Entrances:

12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL
12211 Walsingham Road, Largo, FL

What You’ll Find

Butterfly and pollinator gardens
Tropical and native Florida plants
Walking and nature trails
Wetlands and wildlife viewing areas
Children’s garden areas
Seasonal events and plant festivals throughout the year

The gardens are located next to Heritage Village, making it easy to combine both attractions into a free day trip for families.
Tip: Visit in the morning during the summer months for cooler temperatures and the best chance to see butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.

Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse 2026 Movie Deals- Wednesday
2026-08-05 09:30 - 11:00 | FL
Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse 2026 in Lakeland – $1.75 Kids Movies
Looking for cheap summer movies in Lakeland? The 2026 Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse at Cinemark Lakeland Square Mall 12 offers family-friendly movies for just $1.75 per ticket all summer long.
This popular summer movie program features kid-friendly films at discounted prices from June 1 through August 6, 2026.
Summer Movie Clubhouse Details
Location: Cinemark Lakeland Square Mall 12 & XD
Address: 3800 US Highway 98 N, Lakeland, FL 33809
Dates: June 1–August 6, 2026
Ticket Price: $1.75 per person (plus tax)
Showtime: Wednesdays at 9:30 AM
Additional showtimes may be available. Check with the theater for the most current schedule.
Summer Movie Clubhouse Concession Deals
During Summer Movie Clubhouse showtimes, guests can also enjoy:

$1 off Snack Packs
$1 off any size Popcorn & Drink Combo

2026 Cinemark Summer Movie Schedule
Week of:
June 1–4 – Paddington (2015)
June 8–11 – Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)
June 15–18 – KPOP Demon Hunters Sing-Along (2025)
June 22–25 – Shrek Forever After
June 29–July 2 – The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants
July 6–9 – A Minecraft Movie
July 13–16 – Dog Man
July 20–23 – How to Train Your Dragon
July 27–30 – The Bad Guys 2
August 3–6 – Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie

See the full schedule on Cinemark’s website.
More Cheap Summer Movies Near Tampa Bay
Looking for additional summer movie deals? Be sure to check out other affordable movie programs at Regal, CMX, B&B Theatres, and local independent theaters throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Touchstar Cinemas Summer Kids Movies
2026-08-05 09:30 - 11:00 | FL
Spring Hill 8 brings all the luxury of modern moviegoing without the premium pricing. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the latest movies in their reserved reclining seats which include plenty of space & a tray and drink holder for every guest.
Visit Spring Hill 8 for their Summer Kids Movie series for 2026!

Enjoy $1 movie tickets, $2 popcorn and $2 drinks on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m.

2026 Kids Movies Schedule:
Movies occur Wednesdays at 9:30 AM • $1 Movies • $2 Popcorn • $2 Drinks

June 3 – SpongeBob: Search for SquarePants (2025)
June 10 – Transformers One (2024)
June 17 – How to Train Your Dragon (2025)
June 24 – Kung Fu Panda 4
July 1 – Shrek 2
July 8 – Trolls
July 15 – The Bad Guys 2
July 22 – Dog Man
July 29 – David
August 5 – Despicable Me 4

PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS
Touchstar Cinemas Spring Hill 8
2955 Commercial Way
Spring Hill, FL 34606
Touchstar Cinemas Sabal Palms 6
2539 South US Hwy 1
Fort Pierce, FL 34982

For more information, please visit Touch Star- Spring Hill 8 for more information.

Spring Hill 8 can be found on US19 located behind the Pizza Hut on-site parking available. We look forward to welcoming you to Spring Hill 8.

Father's Day at Imagine Museum: Dad's World
2026-08-05 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-06 10:00 - 17:00 | Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL, 33713, United States
Father’s Day at Imagine Museum: Dad’s World
Treat dad to a one-of-a-kind Father’s Day experience at Imagine Museum, where kids design their own planet inspired by their dad, create mission cards and keepsake crafts, and explore stunning contemporary glass art exhibitions. Best of all, dads get in free all weekend long — spots fill quickly so book ahead.
Date and Time: Friday, June 19 – Sunday, June 21, 2026 (regular museum hours apply)
Location: Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Fathers receive free admission; Kids $5 (June 19–21 only)
Activities Include: “Dad’s World” interactive planet-design experience, Mission Cards and keepsake creations, glass-inspired collage and hands-on art activities, full access to contemporary glass art exhibitions

250th Celebration – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
2026-08-05 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-06 10:00 - 17:00 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, 33612, United States
250th Celebration – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens goes all-American this summer with a patriotic limited-time celebration packed with world-class coasters, live shows, Americana-inspired food, and the brand-new Wild Skies Drone & Fireworks Show lighting up the night sky every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Pass Members 21+ get two complimentary 7 oz beers per day at Overlook Taproom, and all guests 21+ receive one free pour — plus special military appreciation experiences and exclusive patriotic merchandise throughout the park.

Date and Time: May 22 – July 5, 2026 (Wild Skies Drone & Fireworks Show every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at sunset — weather permitting; check daily show schedule for showtimes)
Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Included with park admission; tickets required (buschgardens.com/tampa/tickets)
Activities Include: World-class roller coasters with extended evening hours, live shows (Beach Bash, Cirque Electric), Wild Skies Drone & Fireworks Show, complimentary beer (21+), Americana-inspired food and summer treats, military appreciation experiences, exclusive Pass Member perks, patriotic merchandise and commemorative souvenirs

CMX Cinema Summer Film Fest
2026-08-05 10:00 - 2026-08-06 12:00, 2026-08-06 10:00 - 2026-08-07 12:00 | FL
2026 CMX Cinema Summer Film Fest

Visit CMX Cinema this summer for their 2026 $1.99 kids movies at 10 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this Summer. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and only same day ticketing is available for this summer movie series. You’ll find more movie options on our 75 Free & Cheap Summer Things to do Guide.
There are multiple CMX Cinema locations across Tampa Bay for your viewing convenience. The movie schedule are the exact same for all CMX Cinema locations.
Don’t have a CMX cinema near you? Check out our master Summer Movies Guide for other local theatres.

2026 Summer Film Fest List:
It’s finally that time again, the 2025 summer kids movies at CMX cinema run from Tuesday,

CMX Summer Fun Fest Schedule
June 17–19 – Sonic the Hedgehog
June 24–26 – PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie
July 1–3 – The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
July 8–10 – IF
July 15–17 – Transformers One
July 22–24 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
July 29–31 – Sonic the Hedgehog 3
August 5–7 – Clifford the Big Red Dog

Ticket Price
$1.99 per ticket
Summer Fun Fest is available at select CMX Cinema locations.

For more information visit the Official CMX Cinemas Summer Film Fest Page HERE

Check for Participation Around The Tampa Bay Area:
Cinemax Cinema Tyrone Luxury 10 Tyrone Square Mall
6901 22nd Ave
St Petersburg, FL 33710
727.209.1950
CMX Cinemas Countryside 12
27001 US Highway 19
North Clearwater, FL 33761
727.683.0011
Cinemax Cinema Lakeside 18 & IMAX
1650 Town Center Drive
Lakeland, FL 33803
863.937.0555
Cinemax Cinema Grand 10
920 Springlake Square NW
Winter Haven, FL 33881
Movie Times: (863) 292-2466

Want to see more movie deals?
Check out our master Summer Movies Guide for other local theatres.

Regal Summer Kids Movies
2026-08-05 11:00 - 12:30, 2026-08-06 11:00 - 12:30 | FL
2026 Regal Summer Movies
What to do in Tampa for the summer? Kids’ movies are at a great price for the 2026 summer at Regal Cinemas.
During summer break, enjoy a series of great family movies returning to the big screen. Each week from Monday- Thursday at 11AM, get Summer Movie Express tickets for just $1.
From June 1- August 13, 2026, you and your family can watch your favorite movies on the big screen for a low price.
Admission to Regal Cinemas Summer Kids Movies is only $1 per person. Movie tickets will be available on-site at the box office and they all start at 10 a.m. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays this summer.

$1 Family Movies for Summer Break
All attendees of a Summer Movie Express title will receive $3 off a cup of refreshingly cold Dippin’ Dots ice cream and a Snack Pack, which includes a junior-sized drink, popcorn, and fruit gummies.

2026 Regal Summer Movie Express Schedule
Movies play Monday through Thursday at 11:00am. Always confirm showtimes at the Regal website before you go, times can vary by location.
June 1-4 – Sing + Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
June 8-11 – David + Kung Fu Panda 4
June 15-18 – KPop Demon Hunters (Sing-Along Event) + The Wild Robot
June 22-25 – The Bad Guys 2 + The Garfield Movie
June 29-July 2 – A Minecraft Movie + Sonic the Hedgehog 2
July 6-9 – How to Train Your Dragon + Sonic the Hedgehog 3
July 13-16 – Scoob! (only one movie currently listed)
July 20-23 – Animal Farm + The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants
July 27-30 – Dog Man + Paddington in Peru
August 3-6 – Charlie the Wonderdog + Despicable Me 4
August 10-13 – Muppets: Treasure Island + The Sandlot

NOTE: Movie listings are subject to change without notice. Please call ahead to confirm.

REGAL THEATERS IN THE TAMPA BAY AREA:
Click on this link to access the closest theatre to you and confirm movie dates.

Regal Citrus Park Stadium 20
Citrus Centre
7999 Citrus Park Town Center Mall
Tampa, FL 33625
(813) 920-9471

Regal Hollywood 18 Port Richey
6701 Cinema Drive
Port Richey, FL 34668
(727) 862-9567

Regal Park Place & RPX
7200 US Highway 19 North
Pinellas Park, FL, 33781

Regal Hollywood – Sarasota
1993 Main Street, Sarasota
Sarasota, FL 34236

AMC Summer Movie Camp for Kids and Families
2026-08-05 11:00 - 14:00 | FL
$6.29 Summer Movie Camp at AMC Theatres
AMC Theatres invite all ages to enjoy 4 weeks of their Summer Kids Series.
If you are looking for something to do with the kids once the school year ends and summer break kicks off, AMC Theatres has you covered.

Summer Movie Camp Is Back

Get discounted tickets to family favorites every Monday and Wednesday from 6/22-8/12. A portion of the proceeds will support the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation.

AMC $6.29 Summer Kids Movies Pack Schedule:
There are so many locations, these are only some of the locations. Please find your participating location.

AMC Veterans 24
AMC Highwoods 20
AMC The Regency 20
AMC West Shore 14

Paddington in Peru
Get 6/22 Tickets
Get 6/24 Tickets

David
Get 6/29 Tickets
Get 7/1 Tickets

How to Train Your Dragon
Get 7/6 Tickets
Get 7/8 Tickets

The Lego Movie
Get 7/13 Tickets
Get 7/15 Tickets

Check to see if your local AMC location is participating. Learn more by visiting their website.

Summer Movies: Xscape Theatres Riverview
2026-08-06 09:30 - 11:00 | FL
$1 Summer Kids Movies at Xscape Theatres Riverview 14 (2026)

2026 $1 Summer Movies in Riverview, FL
Free and cheap summer movie offerings are popping up everywhere in the Tampa Bay area. There is enough movie options to satisfy a variety of interest for your family.
We are excited to add Xscape Theatres Riverview 14 as a Tampa Bay area summer movie option for kids. The doors open at 9 a.m. and free movies begin at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday from June 2- July 23, 2026.

Xtreme Theatres Riverview 14: Summer 2026 Kids Movie Schedule:
Summer is here and so is the return of our Summer Movie Series at Xscape Theatres! Bring the family and enjoy fun-filled mornings at Xscape! Tuesdays & Thursdays Doors open at 9:00 AM | Movies start at 9:30 AM Tickets: $1.00 per person $6.00 Summer Combo! (Popcorn & Drink)Get more info here -> https://xscapetheatres.com/summer-movie-series

XSCAPE RIVERVIEW 14
6135 Valleydale Dr, Riverview, FL 33578

Xscape Theatres – Summer Movie Series 2026

June 2 & 4 – Trolls
June 9 & 11 – The Bad Guys 2
June 16 & 18 – The Boss Baby
June 23 & 25 – The Croods

June 30 & July 2 – The Wild Robot
July 7 & 9 – Dog Man
July 14 & 16 – Kung Fu Panda 4
July 21 & 23 – Trolls Band Together

LOOKING FOR MORE FREE & CHEAP MOVIE OPTIONS FOR THE SUMMER?
Check out our Kids Summer Movies Guide.

Art on the House at the Tampa Museum of Art
2026-08-06 16:00 - 20:00 | Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL, 33602, United States
Art on the House
Every Thursday from 4 to 8 pm, the Tampa Museum of Art offers Art on the House where admission prices change to pay-as-you-will, and visitors choose whatever admission price they want to pay. Bring the family and celebrate 100 years of art in Tampa with exhibitions that emphasize ancient, modern, and contemporary art.
Beginning at 4 pm every Thursday, walk up to the Welcome Desk and tell the Visitor Experience and Engagement Representatives the admission price you chose to pay for your visit to the museum. Any donation amount is welcome.

Back 2 School Bash / Hope in the Park – Clearwater First Nazarene Church
2026-08-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Clearwater First Nazarene Church (Hope Park – Gym), 1875 Nursery Rd,, Clearwater, 33764, United States
Back 2 School Bash / Hope in the Park – Clearwater First Nazarene Church
Clearwater First Nazarene is opening its doors (and gym!) for a free community celebration packed with back-to-school giveaways, a free community dinner, food assistance, and family fun for all ages — rain or shine. Free backpacks with school supplies are available while supplies last, and children must be present to receive one.
Date and Time: Thursday, August 6, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Clearwater First Nazarene Church (Hope Park – Gym), 1875 Nursery Rd, Clearwater, FL 33764 (white gates at west end of front parking lot)
Age: All ages
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Free backpacks with school supplies (while supplies last, child must be present), free community dinner, food assistance (food box tickets distributed upon arrival, no documentation needed, while supplies last), free clothes and shoes closet, inflatable, crafts, games

Imagine Museum: $5 After 5 PM Thursday
2026-08-06 17:00 - 20:00 | Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL, 33713, United States
$5 After 5 PM Thursdays
Unwind at Imagine Museum every Thursday night from 5pm to 8pm for just $5! Explore mesmerizing sculptures and intricate designs in a cool, laid-back atmosphere perfect for young professionals, friends, or a unique date night. Immerse yourself in vibrant art installations, spark creativity, and connect with fellow art lovers as you escape the daily grind and experience the magic of contemporary glass art in a whole new light.
Learn more about this Imagine Museum deal.
Imagine Museum
1901 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33713, USA

2026-08-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 North Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL, 33602, United States
Rock the Park is a FREE monthly music series showcasing musical talents of all genres. Rock the Park is typically held at Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on the first Thursday of each month and facilitated through a 15+ year partnership between the Tampa Downtown Partnership & Brokenmold Entertainment.

Get updates here.
