Visiting Tampa from Anna Maria Island makes for an ideal day trip — you may have even flow in through Tampa International Airport (TPA)!
With a scenic journey, plenty of things to do, and a vibe different from the island to experience something a little different. With an Anna Maria Island Beach Rental as your home base, it's easy to get out and explore more of what Florida has to offer!
Check out our ultimate guide to taking a day trip from Anna Maria Island to Tampa, from the best ways to get there to 18 things to do once you arrive!
Getting to Tampa from Anna Maria Island
Photo Credit: Andriy Blokhin
On the way there, you can opt to pass through the 'St. Pete' peninsula on the Gulf of Mexico side or head north through the mainland. Driving is the easiest way to get from AMI to Tampa. The drive north covers about 55 miles and takes around 1 hour, regardless of whether you travel via I-275 N or I-75 N.
Stops Along the Way from AMI to Tampa
Skyway Bridge View
Photo Credit: Yaroslav13
If you travel via I-75 N from AMI, you'll go through St. Petersburg. You'll cross the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which not only offers gorgeous views over Tampa Bay but also provides a perfect opportunity for a photo stop at the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, where the old bridge has become a favorite spot to cast a line. If you've got the time, Clearwater also makes for a nice (although somewhat farther) detour.
Manatee Viewing Center at Apollo Beach
Photo Credit: Robert Jay Photography
This educational and ecological site is a fantastic spot to get up close and personal with Florida's native manatees during the cooler months when they gather in the warm waters near the power station. The Manatee Viewing Center is an option if you take I-275 N via the mainland. It's worth noting that it is open seasonally from November 1 to April 15.
Things to Do on a Day Trip to Tampa
1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt
You can easily spend an entire day here! The family will love the thrilling roller coasters, live entertainment, and exotic animal exhibits. Busch Gardens is one of the top draws in the area, and if you want to avoid crowds, consider a weekday visit!
2. The Florida Aquarium
Head to one of the top-rated aquariums in the country to discover an incredible array of aquatic and terrestrial animals! Kids can get up close and personal at the Florida Aquarium with the stingray petting tank or marvel at the sharks and gators mere inches away.
3. Tampa Riverwalk
Photo Credit: Fotoluminate LLC
This popular walkway spans 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River and connects many of Tampa's major attractions. You'll find parks, restaurants, museums, and more, the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
4. Tampa Museum of Art
Art and history enthusiasts will love a stop at the Tampa Museum of Art, home to a variety of both modern and contemporary art, as well as antiquities from the Greeks, Romans, and Etruscans.
5. Ybor City
Photo Credit: Heidi Besen
Once known as the 'cigar capital of the world,' Ybor City is a historic neighborhood that's known for its delicious Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, nightlife, and of course, cigars.
6. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
This is a fantastic thing to do for a family day trip to Tampa. ZooTampa offers a range of ethical close encounter experiences with animals such as penguins, koalas, and white rhinos, making it one of the most kid-friendly zoos in the area.
7. Bayshore Boulevard
Photo Credit: Michael O'Keene
Known as the longest continuous sidewalk in the world, this scenic boulevard stretches for 4.5 miles parallel to Tampa Bay and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or an energetic run. Bayshore Boulevard is a popular spot for locals and visitors looking for outdoor exercise with a view!
8. Hyde Park Village
This distinguished shopping and dining district is home to a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and bars, all situated within beautifully restored historic buildings. Hyde Park Village is perfect for a full day of retail therapy and relaxation.
9. Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
Photo Credit: Art_Gants
Explore more than 150 hands-on science exhibits or catch a film in the IMAX theater at this world-class science museum! MOSI provides educational and fun experiences for all ages.
10. Armature Works
This beautifully restored mixed-use building from the early 1900s is now home to an upscale indoor market with tasty restaurants, bars, and different retail vendors. Armature Works offers great views of the Hillsborough River and is a hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
11. Tampa Bay History Center
Photo Credit: Chad Robertson Media
Right on the Riverwalk, you can learn all about the history of Tampa Bay and Florida at this surprisingly large museum. You'll find exhibits on everything from native populations to Spanish conquistadors and the local cigar industry. If you're looking to grab a bite, the on-site cafe offers a tasty menu of Spanish and Cuban-inspired dishes!
12. Cigar City Brewing
Tour Tampa's favorite craft brewery to learn about the brewing process and sample craft beers unique to Tampa. Cigar City Brewing offers a wide selection of different beers, most of which have a fairly unique flavor profile, in a subtle tribute to the city's cigar marking heritage.
13. Adventure Island
Photo Credit: Khairil Azhar Junos
Need to beat the heat? Enjoy this tropical water park right across from Busch Gardens, featuring water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and even sunbathing areas. Adventure Island is the perfect spot to cool off and relax on a hot Florida day.
14. Oxford Exchange
Experience this European-inspired restored building that combines a bookstore, restaurant, cafe, and gift store. The Oxford Exchange is a great spot to grab brunch or just peruse the space for a stress-free afternoon. Bring your camera for this one!
15. American Victory Ship & Museum
Photo Credit: Sunshower Shots
You can find one of the only fully operational WWII ships in the USA in Tampa. Take a tour at the American Victory Ship & Museum to discover what life at sea was really like during that period.
16. Henry B. Plant Museum
Step back in time to this historic hotel turned museum where you can learn about Tampa's tourism boom and the extravagant lifestyle of its patrons. The Henry B. Plant Museum is filled with original furnishings and period pieces.
17. Sparkman Wharf
Photo Credit: Sunshower Shots
Experience this exciting part of Tampa's Channel District, where you can enjoy outdoor dining, retail shops, fitness classes, and waterfront views. There's a little something for everyone - even a bowling alley!
18. Channelside Bay Plaza
Similar to Sparkman Wharf, this entertainment complex features a variety of restaurants, retail stores, a movie theater, and a bowling alley amid a European-style plaza lined with palm trees.
Explore the Best of Florida with an AMI Beach Rental
We hope this guide has inspired you to explore beyond the shores of AMI! While there are so many things to see and do on Anna Maria Island, when you need a break from the relaxing beachfront, Tampa awaits with urban offerings. And surely, after a fun-filled day spent exploring all that Tampa has to offer, you'll be eager to return to the Old Florida ambiance and get back on the beaches of our beloved barrier island.
Haven't booked accommodations for your getaway yet? Get in touch with us at Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals. We have a number of locations across the island, setting you up with a great home base in Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, or Longboat Key.
