Family-Friendly Tampa Bay

Father's Day at Imagine Museum: Dad's World
2026-08-20 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-21 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-22 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 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
2026-08-20 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-21 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-22 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
2026-08-20 14:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-21 14:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-22 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

Paws for Literacy - Humane Society
2026-08-20 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!

Art on the House at the Tampa Museum of Art
2026-08-20 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.

Imagine Museum: $5 After 5 PM Thursday
2026-08-20 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

AquaGlow – Adventure Island Tampa Bay
2026-08-20 20:00 - 23:00, 2026-08-21 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
2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | 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
2026-08-21, 2026-08-22 | 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
2026-08-21 07:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-22 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.

Tarpons Baseball Friday Night Fireworks & Family 4 Pack Deal
2026-08-21 08:00 - 17:00 | FL
Tarpons Baseball Friday Night Fireworks
Looking for a fun and affordable family night out in Tampa Bay? Head to a Tarpons baseball game and stay after the final out for Fireworks Friday!
Enjoy America’s favorite pastime and then stick around for a spectacular post-game fireworks show that’s fun for all ages.
Event Details
📍 Tarpons Baseball Game
📺 Watch Live: Bally Sports Live or MiLB.TV
🎆 Promotion: Fireworks Friday
Every Friday home game features a post-game fireworks display included with game admission.
Whether you’re a baseball fan or simply looking for a family-friendly evening activity, Fireworks Friday is one of the best ways to enjoy summer nights in the Tampa Bay area.

Bring the family to the ballpark on Friday at a discounted rate!
The Family 4-Pack package includes 4 tickets, 4 Tampa Tarpons hats, and a Family Meal Discount at Concessions!

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE.

Game times, promotions, and schedules are subject to change. Check with the team before attending.

Pinellas County Solid Waste Disposal Complex Tour
2026-08-21 10:00 - 11:30 | Solid Waste Tour Classroom, 2940 110th Ave N., St. Petersburg, FL, 33716, United States
About this event

There’s no such place as away! Join us to find out what happens to your garbage when you throw it “away.”
Pinellas County manages over one million tons of garbage each year at the Solid Waste Disposal Complex! This free tour provides an overview of Pinellas County’s integrated solid waste management system, including the Waste-to-Energy Facility, landfill, recycling programs and the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Center.

Join the tour to see what happens to your garbage when you throw it away. Learn about the County’s vision of zero waste to landfill by 2050 and what you can do to reduce waste to conserve our landfill for future generations.
For audiences age 8 and up.
Tour Overview:
Approximately one hour and 30 minutes (varies based on the number of guests and mobility, weather and on-site conditions). Consists of a classroom component and a driving tour:
Classroom Component
Approximately 45 minutes. Typically includes a presentation and a question-and-answer session.
Driving Tour
Approximately 45 minutes. Includes the scalehouse, citizen hand unload area, tire processing and yard waste-to-mulch area, Waste-to-Energy Facility and landfill. The driving tour is subject to change depending on site conditions. Participants stay in the tour vehicle the entire driving tour.

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

No ID is required. For audiences age 8 and up.

What if I need to cancel my tour reservation?

We request a minimum 24-hour cancellation notice from your scheduled tour time notifying us that you will not be able to attend the tour. This allow others the opportunity to join as space is limited. Please call (727) 464-7500 or email recycle@pinellas.gov.

How do I book a field trip for a Pinellas County school class?

School field trip tours are available for students in Grade 3 and above. Contact Pinellas County Solid Waste directly to schedule a school tour by calling (727) 464-7500 or emailing recycle@pinellas.gov.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Please arrive in your own vehicle and park in designated area. Pinellas County will provide transportation during the driving tour of the site.

What if I need accessible transportation accommodations?

Please let us know which accommodations are needed 10 days prior to your tour date so arrangements can be made.

How much walking is involved?

Walking is not required for the tour. Walking is limited to and from the parking lot and to the tour classroom and tour vehicle. There are no stairs at the facility; however, there are several steps to get into the vehicle.

Are food or drinks available?

Food is not provided and vending machines are not available. Water fountains are available.

Are restrooms available?

Restrooms are located next to the tour classroom.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

It is not necessary to bring a printed ticket to the tour.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Contact us at (727) 464-7500 or recycle@pinellas.gov.

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Parents Night Out
2026-08-21 18:00 - 21:00 | Creative Junk Therapy, 772 West Lumsden Road, Brandon, FL, 33511, United States
You need a break and we got the kids! Crafts, movie, snacks and more!

Impact Martial Arts Patents Night Out
2026-08-21 18:00 - 22:00, 2026-08-22 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!

Storytime with Belle! - Clearwater Location
2026-08-22 10:00 - 11:00 | LaDee-Da Kids Spa, 2250 Florida 580, Clearwater, FL, 33763, United States
Let’s get those kiddos excited about back-to-school & reading! Make-up or face paint, dancing & storytime!

📚✨ It’s back-to-school time—let’s get those kiddos excited about reading again! ✨📚
Join us for an enchanted story time with Princess Belle herself! 💛We’ll start with makeup or face painting, dance and twirl on stage, and then wind down with cozy story time and read-alongs with our book-loving princess. 👑📖
A perfect mix of fun, imagination, and learning—memories guaranteed! 🌟

*Space is limited, pre-registration/ticket is required. Tickets are transferrable to another person, but non-refundable once purchased.

Ignite!
2026-08-22 10:00 - 14:00 | Great Explorations Children’s Museum
IGNITE! A Science Festival
Calling all scientists, tinkerers, engineers, artists, and mathematicians!
Get ready to spark your curiosity at IGNITE!, a high-energy celebration of creativity, discovery, and hands-on learning at Great Explorations Children’s Museum.
On August 22, the museum transforms into a dynamic science festival filled with interactive experiences, live demonstrations, and engaging activities for the whole family. From robotics and rockets to bubbles and biology, every corner of the museum invites you to explore, experiment, and create.
IGNITE! brings Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math to life in ways that are playful, inspiring, and unforgettable. Young innovators and their grown-ups will discover that learning doesn’t just happen, it’s something you build, test, and imagine together.
At Great Explorations, the greatest experiment is the one you create yourself. Come ready to explore, discover, and IGNITE your imagination.
Get more information and to learn how to become a sponsor here!

Glassy Artventures for Kids at Imagine Museum
2026-08-22 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
2026-08-22 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

Clearwater Threshers Baseball Fireworks & Theme Game Day- Harry Potter
2026-08-22 18:30 - 22:00 | BayCare Ball Park, 601 Old Coachman Rd., Clearwater, 33765, United States
Clearwater Threshers Fireworks & Christmas in July
Join the Clearwater Threshers on Saturday, August 22nd 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.

GET TICKETS HERE >>

🎟️ Tickets are available now.
Game Highlight (2): Harry Potter™ Night

Wands at the ready! The Clearwater Threshers are excited to host Harry Potter™ Night on August 22 at BayCare Ballpark. Fans will have a chance to show off their Hogwarts™ house pride with a House Baseball Cap Giveaway quantities limited. Whether you’re a Gryffindor™, Hufflepuff™, Ravenclaw™ or Slytherin™, get your tickets now for this magical night at the ballpark. | quantities limited

Game Highlight: Fireworks
After the Threshers take on Dunedin on Harry Potter™ Night, we’ll cast a spell to reveal the most magical fireworks show! | Presented By Good Boy Vodka | More Info
