Family-Friendly Tampa Bay

AquaGlow – Adventure Island Tampa Bay
2026-08-06 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-08-07 20:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | 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
2026-08-07, 2026-08-08 | 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
2026-08-07, 2026-08-08 | 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
2026-08-07 07:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-08 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.

Father's Day at Imagine Museum: Dad's World
2026-08-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-08 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
2026-08-07 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-08 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

Småland Kids Play Area at IKEA Tampa
2026-08-07 14:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-08 14:00 - 18:00 | 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

Back 2 School Bash – Balm Recreation Center
2026-08-07 17:00 - 19:00 | Balm Park & Recreation Center, 14747 Balm Wimauma Rd, Wimauma, 33598, United States
Back 2 School Bash – Balm Recreation Center
A fun end-of-summer celebration exclusively for Balm Summer Camp 2026 enrollees, featuring arts & crafts, lawn games, popcorn, snow cones, and more. The first 100 participants will receive a free book bag and school supplies.
Date and Time: August 7, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Balm Park & Recreation Center, 14747 Balm/Wimauma Road, Wimauma, FL 33598
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Arts & crafts, lawn games, popcorn, snow cones
Contact: Heather Gay, GayH@HCFL.gov | (813) 285-8816

Impact Martial Arts Patents Night Out
2026-08-07 18:00 - 22:00, 2026-08-08 18:00 - 22:00 | Impact Martial Arts, 13038 Race Track Rd, Tampa, United States
Karate Parents Night Out in Tampa

Now, Every Friday AND Saturday Night is
Parent’s Night Out at Impact Martial Arts!
Parents, need an evening without the kids? Our Parents Night Out gives you the opportunity to take a well-deserved break. Go out for a night on the town feeling confident that your little ones are safe and having the time of their lives with their favorite Karate teachers.
This incredible evening for your children is filled with a variety of fun games, activities, and they won’t want the night to end! And don’t worry about food – we’ll take care of that too!!
Every Parents Night Out event activities are different, and include themes like Fortress Dodgeball, Nerf Wars, Ninja night with obstacle courses and more!
Our Parents Night Out events always include:
– Fun games on the mat such as dodgeball, moon ball and much more
– Obstacle Courses
– 2 slices of Pizza
– Drinks
– Staff of certified martial arts instructors
– 4 hours of fun for kids from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
*For safety reasons, PNOs are for kids ages 6 yrs to 11 yrs only.
The cost for PNO is $30 per child. PNO often sells out quickly due to its bodacious fun and limited space, so register ASAP if you would like your child to attend PNO!

Register here for this weekends Parent’s Night Out!

Clearwater Threshers Baseball Fireworks & Theme Game Day- Comic Book
2026-08-07 18:30 - 22:00 | BayCare Ball Park, 601 Old Coachman Rd., Clearwater, 33765, United States
Clearwater Threshers Fireworks & Comic Book
Join the Clearwater Threshers on Friday,August 7th at 6:30 PM at BayCare Ballpark.
After the game, stay in your seats for a spectacular post-game fireworks show, presented by Sysco. It’s a great opportunity for families to enjoy baseball, honor hometown heroes, and experience one of the best fireworks displays in Clearwater.
🎟️ Tickets are available now.

Game Highlight (2): Fireworks

Stick around after Comic Book Characters Night for a Spectacular Fireworks Show! | More Info

Game Highlight: Comic Book Characters Night
Dress as your favorite superhero or villain for Comic Book Characters Night. Stay after the game for a special Friday night showing of Fireworks. | More Info

Your Pizza Shop: Kids Make Their Own Pizza for FREE!
2026-08-08 | Your Pizza Shop, 1200 8th Ave SW, Largo, 33770, United States
EVERY SATURDAY!
KIDS MAKE THEIR OWN PIZZA FREE!
CREATE IT. TOP IT. LOVE IT!
😊 FUN FOR THE KIDS!❤️ MEMORIES THAT LAST!🍕 PIZZA THE WAY THEY LIKE IT!
Your Pizza ShopLargo, FL
1200 8th Ave SW, Largo, FL, United States, 33770
(727) 581-1101

GOOD FOOD. GREAT TIMES. MADE THEIR WAY!
DINE-IN • CARRY-OUT • DELIVERY
One free kids pizza per child age 12 and under with purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only. Not valid with any other offers.

Celebration Station Clearwater Summer Early Bird Deal
2026-08-08 10:00 - 12:00 | FL
Celebration Station Clearwater Early Bird Deal: Unlimited Attractions for $19.95
Looking for a fun and affordable family activity in Clearwater? Beat the heat this summer with Celebration Station’s Early Bird Deal. Arrive before noon and enjoy an All-Day Unlimited Attractions Pass for just $19.95 per person.
This deal is available when the park opens at 10:00 AM on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, giving families plenty of time to enjoy go-karts, mini golf, batting cages, bumper boats, arcade games, and more.
Deal Details

Price: $19.95 per person
Includes: All-Day Unlimited Attractions Pass
When: Arrive before noon
Available: Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays
Park Opening Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Celebration Station Clearwater

If you’re looking for cheap family fun in Clearwater or a way to keep the kids entertained during summer break, this is one of the best attraction deals in the Tampa Bay area.

Learn more about this summer deal.
24546 US Hwy 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33763

Lowe's Kids Workshops 2026: Free DIY Projects for Kids
2026-08-08 10:00 - 13:00 | FL
Lowe’s Kids Workshops 2026: Free DIY Projects for Kids
Looking for a free activity for kids? The Lowe’s Kids Workshops give children the opportunity to build a new hands-on project each month while learning basic building skills and creativity. These popular workshops are designed for kids ages 4–11 and are held at participating Lowe’s stores.
2026 Lowe’s Kids Workshop Schedule

June 13, 2026 – Toy Box (Registration Open Now)
July 11, 2026 – Mini Toy Box (Registration Opens June 13)
August 15, 2026 – Dino Island Volcano (Registration Opens July 11)
September 12, 2026 – Haunted House (Registration Opens August 15)
October 17, 2026 – Firefighting Plane (Registration Opens September 12)
November 14, 2026 – Holiday Engine (Registration Opens October 10)
December 12, 2026 – Holiday Trolley Car (Registration Opens November 14)
January 16, 2027 – Winter Play Lodge (Registration Opens December 12)

Workshop Details

Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Multiple workshop sessions are available during this time frame.
Registration is required.
Participants will receive a confirmation email that serves as their workshop ticket.
Recommended for children ages 4–11, but all kids are welcome.

Lowe’s Builder Rewards Program
Kids can collect a commemorative badge after completing each workshop and work toward special Builder recognition levels.

Earn 6 eligible badges to become a Junior Builder.
Earn 12 eligible badges to become a Senior Builder.
Senior Builders may qualify for a free Kobalt Tool Bag, which includes kid-friendly tools and supplies.

These free workshops are a great way for kids to learn, build, and create while enjoying a fun family outing.

Kids Market at the Carrollwood Market
2026-08-08 10:00 - 14:00 | Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL, 33618, United States
Kids Market Draft Template for events.

Tampa Back 2 School Bash (Westshore Plaza)
2026-08-08 10:00 - 14:00 | WestShore Plaza, 250 Westshore Plaza, Tampa, FL, 33609, United States
Join us on Saturday, August 8th at Westshore Plaza. Stop by from 10:00-2:00 pm to learn, shop and play!

As a parent trying to get ready for a new school year, sometimes planning can be overwhelming. This event is loaded with important information from family-friendly resources and fun afterschool & year-round programs to help with that process!
The first 500 kids get a free backpack! So many fun, free activities too!

Arts & crafts
Axe throwing
Balloon animals
Face painting
Family Bingo (play to win amazing prizes!)
Interactive Exhibits
Meet & greets
Photo booth with keepsake photo magnet to take home
Youth group performances & more

RSVP
Register below to let us know you’re coming! You’ll receive important updates like where to get your free backpack and the event schedule the week of the event.
Become Involved
Promote your family-friendly resource or kid-friendly program to over 2,500 families! To learn more, email info@touchofmagicevents.com.
This event is organized by Touch of Magic Events https://touchofmagicevents.com

Brick Fan Event Tampa
2026-08-08 10:00 - 17:00 | Entertainment Hall, 4800 U.S. Hwy 301 N, Tampa, FL, 33610, United States
Explore incredible LEGO® creations, interactive build zones, games, contests, and meet special LEGO® guests at the South’s premier LEGO® fan event.

Enjoy two days of family-friendly fun with displays from expert builders, hands-on activities like racing and mosaics, a STEM zone, Kids Zone, and a massive vendor area packed with rare LEGO finds.
A must-see experience for LEGO fans of all ages!

Brick Fan Event Tampa – A LEGO® Fan Expo | FL Fairgrounds| August 8-9, 2026
2026-08-08 10:00 - 2026-08-09 16:00 | Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301, Tampa, FL, 33610, United States
Explore breathtaking LEGO® creations, games, contests, interactive zones, and meet special LEGO® guests. The South’s premier LEGO® fan event

Come inside and join thousands of LEGO fans for two days filled with everything LEGO
Brick Fan Event – A LEGO Fan Experience!
The South’s largest LEGO fan event.
Come join us either Saturday or Sunday at this family-friendly event and enjoy LEGO attractions and activities throughout.
Florida State Fairgrounds
Entertainment Hall
4800 US-301, Tampa, FL 33610
Show Hours:
Saturday, August 8, 2026 10AM – 5PM
Sunday, August 9, 2026 10AM – 4PM

This is a must see event for the LEGO fan of any age. There will be lots of LEGO creations to view, building zones, games, speakers, character meets and more.

See amazing LEGO Displays created by LEGO Fans and professional builders from around the US including a moon base, trains/monorail models, castles, LEGO cities and more.

Race on the all-new 125-foot LEGO RC off road course. Build LEGO cars for racing down the ramps, create in the architect zone, build one-of-a-kind mosaics or build part of the large mosaic displays.

Help us build an 5 foot tall LEGO minifigure out of bricks at the show by adding your own bricks to the display.

Meet the LEGO MASTERS Season 2 winners Mark and Steven Erickson and see some of their amazing displays

Test your skills on the Strongest Bridge LEGO competitions with Master Builder Dan Steininger.
Come and explore the exciting new STEM zone, where you can join LEGO Master Chapion Corey Samuels and Tacos Blandino as they guides you through a variety of games and activities. Get ready for an immersive experience filled with fun and learning!

Explore the Kids Zone with thousands of Duplo bricks for the littlest LEGO builders.

Check on the vendor area for all the hard to find LEGO sets, minifigures and more.

For more info: www.BrickFanEvent.com

CHILDREN 3+ REQUIRE A TICKET FOR ADMISSION . CHILDREN TWO YEARS OLD AND YOUNGER ARE FREE

TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.

By purchasing a ticket to Brick Fan Event, the attendee authorize Bricks, Minifigs and More, LLC, its assignees, and those acting with its authority to my name, likeness, company name, creations, logo or product in perpetuity in any lawful purpose, including, but not limited to promotion, advertising, social media, websites, print medium and all forms of communication, illustration, advertising and web content.

Glassy Artventures for Kids at Imagine Museum
2026-08-08 10:15 - 12:15 | Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL, 33713, United States
Glassy Artventures at Imagine Museum

Join us for a free-with-admission artistic journey geared toward young artventurers every Saturday! Led by our friendly associates, children ages 4-11 will be guided through our world-class glass art galleries. They will then have the opportunity to unleash their imagination and express themselves with a fun and engaging craft activity.
Don’t miss this chance to ignite your young adventurer’s passion for art —Please note: children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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

Saturday Learn to Skate Class – Skateworld Tampa
2026-08-08 11:00 - 17:00 | SkateWorld Tampa, 7510 Paula Dr., Tampa, FL, 33615, United States
Saturday Learn to Skate Class – Skateworld Tampa
A fun and beginner-friendly way for kids to get comfortable on skates while enjoying some time on the rink. The session includes a short lesson followed by open skating, so it feels more like play than practice—great for building confidence step by step.
Date and Time: Saturdays | Intermediate: 11:00 AM | Beginner: 11:30 AMLocation: Skateworld Tampa, 7510 Paula Dr, Tampa, FLAge: 3–17 (all guests must pay to enter)Cost: $12 (includes skate rental, wrist guards, lesson, and public skate) | Skate mates: $6
Activities Include: 30-minute skate lesson, public skating session, beginner and intermediate instruction, optional skate mates for support
Contact: 813-884-7688

Vertical Ventures St. Pete BOGO Saturdays
2026-08-08 18:00 - 22:00 | Vertical Ventures- St. Petersburg, 116 18th St S, St. Petersburg, 33712, United States
BOGO Saturdays — Climb Together, Pay Less
Looking for a fun, affordable Saturday night activity in St. Petersburg? BOGO Saturdays make it easy to climb with a friend and save.
Every Saturday evening, enjoy Buy One, Get One FREE climbing admission at Vertical Ventures. It’s perfect for date night, friend hangouts, college students, and anyone looking for an active alternative to bars or movies. Whether it’s your first time climbing or you’ve been at it for years, this is a low-pressure, high-fun way to spend your night.
Climbing together means cheering each other on, solving problems side-by-side, and sharing a win at the top—no experience required.
Why BOGO Saturdays rock:• One paid admission = two climbers• Great for couples, friends, and groups• Beginner-friendly & staff-supported• Active, social, and affordable• A favorite Saturday night activity in St. Pete
Details:• Every Saturday | 6:00–10:00pm• Buy One, Get One FREE climbing admission• Rental gear available• All experience levels welcome
Bring a friend. Try something new. Climb higher—together.

The Black Pirate (1926) – Free Community Screening
2026-08-08 20:00 - 22:00 | Sykes Chapel, University of Tampa campus, 711 N Franklin St,, Tampa, 33602, United States
The Black Pirate (1926) – Free Community Screening
Tampa Theatre and the Henry B. Plant Museum are teaming up for a free screening of The Black Pirate, the swashbuckling 1926 silent film starring Douglas Fairbanks — the second film ever shown at Tampa Theatre when it first opened. This special presentation features a live original musical score composed and performed by Steven Ball, Tampa Theatre’s artist-in-residence. Seating is limited and first-come, first-served, so arrive early — doors open at 7:30 PM.
Date and Time: Saturday, August 8, 2026, 8:00 PM (Doors open 7:30 PM)
Location: Sykes Chapel, University of Tampa campus, 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
Age: All ages
Cost: Free (no ticket required)
Activities Include: Silent film screening, live original musical score performed by Steven Ball
Contact: Tampa Theatre Box Office, (813) 274-8286
