How to Plan Your Tampa Bay CityPASS Tour

Are you planning to visit Tampa and looking for ways to explore its top tourist attractions while saving some cash? The Tampa Bay CityPASS may be just what you need.

This pass allows you to visit five of the most popular attractions in Tampa, including Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, the Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park. In addition, you can choose admission to two more attractions from a list of four options, which includes the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, The Tropics Boat Tours Dolphin or Sunset Cruise, the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), or the Glazer Children’s Museum.

Here’s how to plan your Tampa Bay CityPASS tour, step by step.

Step 1: Purchase Your Tampa Bay CityPASS

You can purchase your Tampa Bay CityPASS online, from the official website or from third-party sellers. The cost is $119 for adults and $109 for children aged 3-9. The pass is valid for nine consecutive days from the first date of use, which means you can visit the attractions at your leisure and based on your own schedule.

Once you purchase your CityPASS, you’ll receive a voucher that you can exchange for a physical booklet at any of the included attractions. Keep in mind that the voucher must be used within six months of purchase, so plan accordingly.

Step 2: Plan Your Itinerary

As mentioned earlier, the Tampa Bay CityPASS includes admission to five attractions:

• Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay
• The Florida Aquarium
• ZooTampa at Lowry Park
• Choose admission to two more attractions from:
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• The Tropics Boat Tours Dolphin or Sunset Cruise
• Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)
• Glazer Children’s Museum

Take some time to research each attraction and decide which ones you’d like to visit. You can either visit all attractions in one day or spread them out over the nine days that the pass is valid. It’s up to you.

Step 3: Plan for Transportation

The Tampa Bay CityPASS does not include transportation, so you’ll need to plan how you’ll get to and from each attraction. If you’re renting a car, this should be easy. Otherwise, you can use ride-sharing apps or public transportation, depending on your preference and budget.

Step 4: Know What’s Included

The Tampa Bay CityPASS includes admission to the core five attractions, but there may be some special ticketed attractions or exhibits within each attraction that require an additional fee. Food and drink are also not included, so plan to budget for those separately.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Tour!

Once you’ve purchased your Tampa Bay CityPASS, planned your itinerary, and arranged for transportation, you’re ready to go! Make sure to bring your pass with you and present it at each attraction for admission.

With the Tampa Bay CityPASS, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of Tampa’s top attractions while saving money and adding flexibility to your itinerary. Book the tour here here and start planning your Tampa adventure today.

The Insider’s Guide to Tampa Bay CityPASS Tour

Tampa Bay is a vibrant and bustling city located in Florida, known for its sunny weather, gorgeous beaches, and rich cultural offerings. Visitors to Tampa Bay can explore its many attractions, sample its delicious cuisine, and immerse themselves in its history and culture. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top spots to visit in Tampa Bay and offer tips and suggestions for planning your CityPASS tour.

Top Attractions to Visit in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is home to a variety of exciting attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top spots to visit during your CityPASS tour:

• Busch Gardens: This popular amusement park features thrilling roller coasters, animal exhibits, and live entertainment shows.
• The Florida Aquarium: Home to more than 20,000 aquatic animals, the Florida Aquarium offers visitors a chance to see everything from sea turtles to sharks up close.
• ZooTampa at Lowry Park: This award-winning zoo features an impressive collection of animals, including giraffes, tigers, and orangutans.
• Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): Known for its interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, MOSI is a must-visit for science enthusiasts.
• Tampa Bay History Center: Visitors can learn about Tampa Bay’s rich history and culture through exhibits and interactive displays.

Where to Eat in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is home to a diverse culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes offering everything from classic American cuisine to international dishes. Here are some top picks for dining during your CityPASS tour:

• Bern’s Steak House: This iconic steakhouse is known for its perfectly cooked steaks and extensive wine list.
• Columbia Restaurant: Established in 1905, this family-owned restaurant serves up classic Spanish cuisine and boasts a gorgeous outdoor courtyard.
• Datz: A popular spot for brunch, Datz serves up creative twists on classic comfort food, such as mac and cheese with bacon and truffle oil.
• Oxford Exchange: This elegant bookstore and cafe is a great spot for coffee, sandwiches, and pastries.
• Ulele: Located on the banks of the Hillsborough River, this restaurant serves up delicious and innovative dishes inspired by Native American and Spanish cuisine.

Cultural Experiences in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is a city rich in culture and history, with many opportunities to learn and explore. Here are some top cultural experiences to check out during your CityPASS tour:

• The Tampa Theatre: This historic movie theater is known for its ornate architecture and hosts a variety of events and screenings throughout the year.
• Henry B. Plant Museum: Housed in a former luxury hotel, this museum offers a glimpse into the history of Tampa Bay and the Gilded Age.
• Ybor City: Once known as the “Cigar Capital of the World,” Ybor City is now a vibrant neighborhood filled with restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
• The Dalí Museum: Located in nearby St. Petersburg, the Dalí Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s artwork.
• The University of Tampa: The university’s campus is home to many beautiful and historic buildings, including the stunning Plant Hall.

Off the Beaten Path in Tampa Bay

While Tampa Bay has plenty of popular tourist attractions, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions to explore during your CityPASS tour:

• Bayshore Boulevard: This scenic route is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or jog and offers stunning views of Tampa Bay.
• The Tampa Riverwalk: This beautiful waterfront path stretches for two-and-a-half miles and is lined with parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
• Hyde Park Village: A charming outdoor shopping center, Hyde Park Village is home to a variety of boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes.
• Ballast Point Park: This scenic park boasts sweeping views of Tampa Bay and is a great spot for picnicking or watching the sunset.
• Big Cat Rescue: This animal sanctuary is home to a variety of rescued big cats, including tigers, lions, and leopards.

Final Thoughts

Tampa Bay offers an incredible array of attractions, dining options, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in thrill rides and animal exhibits or history and art, there’s something for everyone in this sunny Florida city. By using the CityPASS to plan your tour, you’ll save time and money and get the most out of your visit. So start planning your Tampa Bay CityPASS tour today and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer!