Unique and Fun Things to Do in Tampa for Adults (Including a Luxe Chef Experience)

So, you’ve made it to Tampa. The sun’s shining, your outfit’s on point, and you’re not here to get trapped in another touristy gimmick involving alligators and overpriced slushie margaritas. You’re hunting for something different. Something spicier. Something that says: “We’re cool, cultured adults who know how to vacation right.” 

Good news — we’ve got you covered.

Here’s your ultimate guide to fun things to do in Tampa for adults that’ll light up your camera roll, spark your curiosity, and leave your belly more than satisfied (without you even lifting a spatula). 

Fun Things to Do in Tampa: Get Weird (In the Best Way)

You didn’t come to Tampa to play it safe. You came for the strange, funky, and “wait, WHAT is that?!” kind of adventure. Here’s where to start: 

Dysfunctional Grace Art Co. 

Tampa’s quirkiest side lives here. Think taxidermy meets haunted boutique meets indie art gallery. This is your holy grail if you’re into offbeat, slightly spooky trinkets and weirdly beautiful oddities. One minute, you’re browsing; the next, you’re buying a Victorian snake-in-a-jar.

Ulele Fairyland Figures

Once part of a long-lost fantasy park, these slightly eerie, totally nostalgic statues now haunt the grounds around Ulele. Strange? Absolutely. Insta-worthy? Even more so. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Tampa style, this quirky spot delivers the whimsy. 

Animals, But Make It Bougie: More Fun Things to Do in Tampa for Adults

Forget petting zoos. Tampa lets you interact with animals in ways you actually want to brag about.

Breakfast with the Animals at ZooTampa

Why settle for basic brunch when you can have eggs Benedict while giraffes casually munch nearby? This experience is peaceful, adorable, and one of the most unique and fun things to do in Tampa for adults looking for more than just mimosas.

Swim with Manatees & Airboat Adventures

Glide alongside gentle giants in their natural habitat before jumping onto an airboat for a wind-in-your-hair adventure. This is one of those bucket list fun things to do in Tampa that’s unforgettable (and full of hilarious photo ops).

Florida Aquarium

Hypnotic jellyfish, epic underwater views, and even weddings — yes, people tie the knot here. Whether or not you’re exchanging vows, the Florida Aquarium remains top-tier when looking for stuff to do in Tampa that’s both chill and mesmerizing. 

Culture That’s Actually Cool: Stuff to Do in Tampa Beyond the Beach

Sure, museums and history lessons can sound dry — but not in Tampa. The city brings serious culture without the snoozefest.

Parque Amigos de Jose Marti

This tiny park isn’t just charming — it’s technically Cuban soil. It’s a peaceful spot with deep history and hidden-away beauty, making it one of the more meaningful, fun things to do in Tampa style.

Hindu Temple of Florida

Breathtaking architecture and peaceful vibes await. Even if you’re not spiritual, slowing down to admire the detailed carvings and serene atmosphere is worth it.

Tampa Bay History Center

Twelve thousand years of pirates, Spanish explorers, and frontier legends packed into one spot — with interactive exhibits that make history way more fun than your 9th-grade class ever did. Perfect for adults seeking fun things to do in Tampa that also flex the brain a little.

Art, Style & Eye Candy: Fun Things to Do Tampa Edition

Tampa’s art scene is pure eye candy and totally worth the photo ops.

Henry B. Plant Museum

Old-world glam meets velvet everything. Wander through this opulent time capsule and pretend you’re the scandalous mistress of a 1900s railroad tycoon.

Chihuly Collection

Blown glass creations that feel like they’ve arrived from another galaxy. For those who love surreal beauty, this is a must for your list of fun things for adults to do in Tampa. 

Tampa Museum of Art & MOSI

High culture meets science. Wander through ancient statues, modern masterpieces, mind-bending exhibits, and even a planetarium show — all excellent picks when looking for diverse stuff to do in Tampa.

Culinary Delights (Including a Private Chef at Your Airbnb) 

After a long day exploring, you deserve more than just takeout. Tampa’s food scene — and a luxe private chef experience — deliver on every level.

Hyde Park Village

Chic shopping, leafy streets, and foodie-approved cafes. Spend a leisurely afternoon here before heading back to your Airbnb — trust us, the best part is still coming.

CookinGenie: Private Chef Experience

Here’s the adulting move you need: hire a CookinGenie private chef. Why? Because:

• Customized menu? Yep. You can customize the menu to fit your tastes and preferences. This convenience means you don’t have to restrain your choices to basic restaurant menu items. Your meals are exactly how you want them to be.

• You can eat homemade scrumptious food without worrying about cooking, cleaning, or even shopping for the ingredients. Having a CookinGenie private chef includes all these services.

This is hands down one of the most luxurious and fun things to do in Tampa for adults. Wine, pajamas, and a five-star feast — all without leaving the couch. 

Fun Things to Do Tampa After Dark: Night Owls Welcome

When the sun sets, Tampa transforms into a whole different playground.

Ybor City

Ghost tours, live music, rooftop cocktails, cigars, drag shows — sometimes all at once. Ybor doesn’t believe in boring nights. If you’re searching for wild, unforgettable stuff to do in Tampa, this is where the party lives. 

Sports, Smoke Rings & Heritage Vibes: More Fun Things to Do in Tampa

Tampa’s history runs deep — especially in baseball and cigars.

Tampa Baseball Museum

Even if you don’t know a fastball from a curveball, you’ll appreciate the vintage charm and stories at this local gem. It’s one of the cooler, fun things to do in Tampa for adults who love a little nostalgia.

J.C. Newman Cigar Factory

Roll cigars, sip whiskey, and step into Tampa’s Cuban-American roots. It smells like tobacco, history, and a good time.

Touch Grass and Breathe Deep: Nature-Fueled Stuff to Do in Tampa

When the city buzz gets too loud, Tampa’s green spaces offer a perfect reset.

Lettuce Lake Regional Park

Kayak through peaceful waters, wander shaded trails and spot wildlife without a single souvenir stand in sight. It’s the ideal break for couples craving laid-back, fun things to do in Tampa. 

Ending the Day Like Royalty (and Full as Royals, Too)

Tampa isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about soaking up new vibes, tasting new flavors, and taking those sweet, quiet moments to feel grateful you came.

After a day of finding all the best fun things to do in Tampa, kick back, pour a glass of wine, and let your CookinGenie private chef work their magic. No reservations, no waiting — just you, your people, and a luxury meal that feels like the cherry on top of a perfect Tampa adventure.

Follow this guide, and you’ll experience Tampa like a legend, dine like royalty, and collect memories that’ll beat out every tourist trap on the map.