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Guide to Tampa

Scenic views for kids

You want to enjoy a scenic environment without the stress of worrying if your children are welcome there.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Water Works Park image 1
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Park offers riverside setting with beautiful views and plenty of space to relax. Atmosphere stays peaceful and calm when quiet, turning fun and exciting during events with colorful decor. Features include splash pad and playground areas that attract families and children for active play.

Magnificent city views and relaxing water scenes define the park. The playground sits near the city center with a wonderful river view and a walking area.

Kids enjoy the splash pad and play area with features like a huge bucket that dumps water. The park offers clean water play spaces and enough bathrooms for families.

People are saying

"It's a really fun place for kids with a great playground and splash pool."

"It's a great place for dogs, with a well-conditioned dog park."

"I loved the beautiful city views here."

Good to know

1

The park is free to enter and very family-friendly.

2

Restrooms are wheelchair accessible for convenience.

3

During hot days, the water feature provides relief for visitors.

02
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park image 1

Park offers beautiful riverfront views and a large open green space with a well-equipped playground and interactive fountains. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and safe, with live music and festivals adding energy. Boardwalk and riverwalk provide peaceful spots for walking and biking.

Stunning river views define the walkway and waterfront park. The area offers beautiful city and riverfront sights both day and night, with spots perfect for walking and biking.

Open spaces and a splash pad offer plenty of room for kids to run and play. A playground stays lively with families even after sunset, and a fountain water spray provides fun ways to cool off during warm days.

People are saying

"The parks here are beautiful and right on the water."

"This place is so kid friendly, my kids loved playing here."

"The waterfront views of the city and river are stunning."

Good to know

1

Parking at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park can be difficult, with costs around $20.

2

There are only two bathrooms for hundreds of people to use during events.

3

The park is dog-friendly and great for outdoor activities.

03
Rivercrest Park image 1

Wide open green space borders a river with a paved circular walking path that offers shade and sun. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere suits walking, jogging, or relaxing by the water. Family-friendly features include a well-maintained, fenced-in playground and picnic shelter.

Walking paths provide beautiful views of the Hillsborough River and surrounding water. The area stays quiet, making it easy to enjoy nature and the river scenery.

A nice playground with toddler swings offers a safe play area set back from the river. Trails and a good-sized play area make it inviting for kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with lovely views and calm walking paths."

"It's a really nice playground for kids here."

"I loved the beautiful water views here."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms available in Rivercrest Park.

2

The playground is well maintained and great for kids.

3

The park is always neat, clean, and well kept.

04
Upper Tampa Bay Park image 1

Park offers kayak and canoe launches along shallow waters surrounded by mangrove forests and coastal habitats. Trails include interactive media with QR codes for learning about the environment. The atmosphere is quiet and secluded, with well-maintained playgrounds and picnic areas near water views.

Second-floor views offer a stunning river and bay panorama. Boardwalk trails showcase the ecosystem between water and land, featuring mangroves and serene water scenes.

A kids' playground and a picnic area make the park great for families. Trails offer easy hiking that kids enjoy.

People are saying

"The park's bathrooms were surprisingly pristine and well-stocked."

"You'll love the scenic views of the river and bay."

"The playground here is clean and well maintained, making it kid friendly."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is $2 per car.

2

Canoe rentals cost $25 for a 5-hour ride.

3

The park has a good picnic area with a kids' playground.

05
ROOST Tampa image 1

Hotel offers beautifully designed rooms with modern, chic decor and home-like amenities including kitchens and laundry facilities. Atmosphere feels quiet, intimate, and inviting, contrasting with the lively surrounding area. Rooftop pool and complimentary bicycles add to the luxurious, relaxed vibe.

Rooms offer great views, especially from the street corner unit 515. The amenity area is aesthetically pleasing and provides excellent views along with good services.

Spacious suites fit large families with kids and grandparents comfortably. Front desk staff give kids Tampa Bay flags and stickers. Amenities include a dishwasher for pacifiers and a washer and dryer for soiled clothes.

People are saying

"The hotel staff was outstanding and inviting."

"The staff truly care about guests and shine in their roles."

"This place is so kid friendly, they even give your child a flag and stickers."

Good to know

1

Parking while checking in can be tough due to limited street parking.

2

The hotel is within walking distance to the arena and many restaurants.

3

Access to the building is safe and secure.

06
Heights Public Market image 1

Food court combines industrial vibe with waterfront views and spacious indoor-outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from family-friendly daytime with kids' games to live music and dancing at night. Outdoor areas feature life-sized chess and checkers, creating an energetic and social environment.

Outdoor seating offers river views and a beautiful cityscape. Sunsets provide an amazing backdrop while dining by the water.

Outdoor areas offer lots of space and branches for kids to explore and play. Games and soccer fields keep children active while parents relax in beach chairs by the bay or watch from outdoor seating.

People are saying

"The Market has so many diverse food options, from sushi to pizza."

"I found so many diverse food options here."

"It's so Kid Friendly with tons of diverse food options."

Good to know

1

Heights Public Market offers a great variety of food and drinks.

2

Parking in the area is limited, so arrive early.

3

Events and vendors selling art, plants, and food occur almost every weekend.

07
Cypress Point Park image 1

City park offers beach access with gorgeous bayfront views and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Amenities include playgrounds, picnic tables, and barbecue facilities, making it suitable for families and outdoor activities.

Sunset views over the bay stand out with planes landing nearby adding to the scene. The park offers a quiet spot with easy beach access and a cool pier with a restaurant.

A great playground area offers kids a fun spot to play. The beach stays quiet and shallow with gentle waves, plus a lagoon perfect for little ones to explore safely.

People are saying

"I found this park's beach to be a beautiful hidden gem."

"The sunset views here are spectacular and gorgeous."

"You'll love the beautiful bayfront views and watching planes land."

Good to know

1

Parking is free from Monday to Friday, from sunrise until 12 noon.

2

Parking costs $1 to $2 per hour outside free hours, max $12 per day.

3

Avoid entering the water due to high bacteria levels.

08
Channelside Bay Plaza image 1

Outdoor shopping area on the water offers live music, amusement options like bowling and pool, and a modern, well-maintained vibe. The space features beautiful bay views with plenty of seating and grassy areas, creating a comfortable atmosphere for food, drinks, and relaxation.

Waterfront views showcase the bay and passing boats clearly. Live music and a lively atmosphere add to the experience while walking around or dining outdoors.

Lots of grassy areas and seating make it easy for kids to play and relax. Live music adds to the fun atmosphere while families enjoy treats like ice cream.

People are saying

"It's a great place for a date night with a chill vibe."

"You can enjoy spectacular waterfront views and a lively atmosphere here."

"It's a great, family-friendly place to hang out with kids."

Good to know

1

There are plenty of food choices available at Channelside Bay Plaza.

2

Parking options include a garage, but it can be expensive.

3

The parking garage is not ADA accessible.

09
American Victory Ship & Museum image 1

Large WWII ship offers free roam through well-preserved interiors with authentic atmosphere and interactive exhibits. Warm, calm environment includes air-conditioned cool down rooms to offset heat. Visitors enjoy historic views from bridge and bow gun, plus hands-on experiences like ringing the deck bell.

Views from the bridge and bow gun offer excellent sights of the downtown area and the bay. The nearby Jose Gasparilla Pirate ship adds a fun element to the scenery.

Kids find the ship exciting to explore with plenty of military vehicles to see. The crew stays friendly and patient, answering many questions from young visitors.

People are saying

"This historical site is a well-preserved ship that makes you feel like you're back in time."

"It's really Kid Friendly; my son loved exploring the ship."

"You get great views of the bay and downtown."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available at the ship.

2

The ship is still operational, which is a unique feature.

3

Expect a unique hands-on experience suitable for all ages.

10
Lowry Park image 1

Park runs alongside a calm river with stunning views and large open spaces. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, ideal for walking, picnics, and family outings. Features include boat ramps, playgrounds, and plenty of picnic and barbecue areas.

Large open spaces run alongside a calm river, offering stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere. Paved trails wind through the park, providing picturesque views of the Hillsborough River for walking or biking.

Kids enjoy a play area with slides and equipment. Feeding animals adds to the fun. The park offers a walkable space suitable for little ones.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful park perfect for walking and reconnecting with nature."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with a wonderful play area."

"I found the park's scenic views by the calm river so peaceful."

Good to know

1

Lowry Park is great for hosting events with covered picnic areas and BBQ grills.

2

The park has a playground with slides and swings for children.

3

There is a boat launch on the Hillsborough River at Lowry Park.

11
Rowlett Park image 1

Large park spans 65 acres along a river, featuring shaded trails, sports courts, and picnic pavilions. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere suits relaxation, exercise, and family activities. Facilities include dog parks, playgrounds, and accessible paved paths.

River views dominate the parks, with spots overlooking the dam and plenty of trees around. Trails run alongside the water, and areas for fishing and kayaking add to the scenic appeal.

Multiple playgrounds for children offer plenty of space to run and play. Covered pavilions with grills and paved trails for scooters and bikes add to the kid-friendly setup.

People are saying

"The parks here offer beautiful river views and peaceful, shaded trails."

"It's really Kid Friendly with plenty of room for kids to play."

"I loved the beautiful river views and the dam."

Good to know

1

The park is 65 acres with tennis courts, picnic areas, and walking trails.

2

Rowlett Park is dog friendly with a fenced-in dog run.

3

There are plenty of picnic areas with BBQ grills available.

12
Desoto Park image 1
City park

City park offers waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere with quiet, tranquil vibes. It features diverse amenities including a swimming pool, skate park, basketball courts, playground, and picnic areas. The space balances natural beauty with recreational options for all ages.

Beautiful waterfront views offer a calm and peaceful setting. The park overlooks the bay with plenty of shade, making it a nice spot to relax and enjoy the quiet scenery.

Big playground, swings, and a water park offer plenty of fun for kids. Open fields, picnic tables, and shaded areas make it easy for families to relax together.

People are saying

"This park is so peaceful and beautiful on the water."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a big playground and pool."

"The waterfront view here is amazing and super calming."

Good to know

1

Desoto Park is a great venue for birthday parties and outdoor events.

2

Parking costs $6 for all day and allows for moving your car.

3

The bathrooms at Desoto Park are currently locked.

13
Leons Lobstah Shack image 1
American restaurant

Casual American seafood spot with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking calm bay waters and a skyline view. Atmosphere stays low key and relaxing, enhanced by proximity to a park and playground. Frequented by families and seafood lovers enjoying generous portions and a tranquil setting.

Views include a spectacular water scene and a great bay outlook. The spot offers lovely scenic vistas that stand out.

Kids enjoy chicken fingers and fries as a classic option. Shrimp also excites young eaters. Non-seafood choices cover typical kid favorites.

People are saying

"The view from here is beautiful, overlooking downtown."

"The scenic views from the shoreline trail were beautiful."

"The shrimp here are so plump and juicy, kids go crazy for them."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but can be limited during busy times.

2

Expect a $12 charge for soft drinks.

3

The fries cost an extra $1, which is not clearly disclosed on the menu.

14
Tampa Watersports image 1
Water sports equipment rental service

Jet ski rentals offer powerful, fast rides across gorgeous open waters with beautiful views and frequent sightings of dolphins and manatees. The atmosphere is energetic and lively, with well-maintained equipment and affordable prices that attract a steady flow of visitors without wait times.

Beautiful views of the city skyline and celebrity homes stand out during rides and tours. Jet skiing offers an even better vantage point for taking in the gorgeous scenery along the water.

Staff go out of their way to help kids get on boards and enjoy tubing safely. Activities like jet skiing with children and dolphin tours keep kids engaged and excited.

People are saying

"The staff made our fun activities feel safe and exciting."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the guides make everyone feel welcomed and safe."

"The city skyline and celebrity homes offered amazing views."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required for jet ski rentals, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect no wait times during weekday visits for jet ski rentals.

3

Rental prices for jet skis start at $110 for one hour.

15
Picnic Island Park image 1

City park with quiet beach and spacious layout offers sunset views across the bay and a dog-friendly beach. Atmosphere stays peaceful and tranquil, ideal for picnics, barbecues, and community events. Amenities include disc golf course, boat ramps, playgrounds, and rentable pavilions.

Sunsets here offer beautiful views across the Bay with clear sights of downtown St Pete and Tampa Bay. The spot is known for its great vantage points to watch the sun go down.

Access to the beach and a great playground make this park stand out for kids. Open spaces let children and dogs run freely, creating a fun and safe environment.

People are saying

"This park has so much room for exploring and outdoor fun."

"It's a great spot for kids to run around with a top-notch playground."

"I loved the great sunset views over the bay."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

2

The park has gates that are monitored by a ranger during certain hours.

3

Canoe launch and paddleboard rentals are available for visitors.

16
Seaplane Basin Park image 1

Park offers wide open water views with boats and planes nearby, creating a unique backdrop. It maintains a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with gentle bay breezes and shaded picnic areas. Visitors find plenty of space for family activities and dog play, with well-kept paths and swings enhancing the experience.

Wide open views of the water and gently swaying trees create a peaceful setting. Walking trails offer access to stunning sunrise and sunset views over the bay and passing boats.

Plenty of open space lets kids run and play freely. Nearby yacht club offers sailing lessons for kids and young adults, adding fun activities for families.

People are saying

"It's a quiet spot with beautiful water views."

"I loved the wide open views of the water and boats."

"It's so Kid Friendly with plenty of open space for the kids."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

2

Dogs are only permitted in the designated dog park area.

3

The park is open from sunrise to sunset.

17
George M. Steinbrenner Field image 1

Replica of Yankee Stadium offers an intimate and beautiful setting with great views from every seat. The atmosphere fills with Yankee fans and features fireworks and flashing lights during home runs. Amenities include free sunblock stations, misters, and cabanas in the outfield, enhancing comfort and enjoyment.

Every seat offers a great view with uninterrupted sightlines almost everywhere. The venue's size and design ensure fantastic views from the Cabanas and all sections, including spots near home plate.

Players stay engaged with young kids during games. Kids enjoy walking across the bridge and watching the action. Seeing favorite players live excites young fans, though getting autographs is challenging.

People are saying

"It's a great place to catch a baseball game."

"The scenic views from every seat were great."

"It's a great place for kids to see the players they watch on TV."

Good to know

1

Parking costs around $50, but availability is good if you arrive early.

2

Handicap accessibility is limited, making it difficult for some visitors.

3

Food and drinks are overpriced at the stadium.

18
Tampa Burgers and Pirates image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Pirate-themed hamburger restaurant with dim lighting, live music, and numerous TVs creates a lively and fun atmosphere. Decor includes pirate flags and wooden barrels, embracing Tampa's Gasparilla spirit. Outdoor seating offers a river view, enhancing the dining experience.

Views of the Tampa River and Tampa University create a pleasant backdrop. Outdoor seating offers a fun spot to enjoy these scenic sights.

Great kids-friendly choices and a diverse menu suit both kids and adults. A live pirate adds fun, and staff like Gia take good care of families.

People are saying

"The burgers here are amazing, especially the pineapple jalapeรฑo."

"The portions here are huge and the food is delicious!"

"The service here is world-class, truly friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts until 7 PM with great drink specials.

2

On Thursdays, appetizers are half price during happy hour.

3

$1 wing Wednesdays offer a fantastic deal for wing lovers.

19
Tampa Marriott Water Street image 1

Hotel offers spacious suites with breathtaking waterfront views and a rooftop pool overlooking the city. Atmosphere blends luxurious ambiance with lively energy, featuring cozy seating and warm lighting. Amenities include a large fitness center, well-stocked concierge lounge, and access to a water taxi for exploring nearby areas.

Rooms on higher floors offer breathtaking waterfront views. Balconies provide excellent sights of the sea and surrounding area.

Staff give kids stuffed animals and toys. Bellman Bill is very friendly with children. Toddlers get big stuffed animals in their rooms.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is perfect for exploring the Riverwalk and nearby attractions."

"I loved the fantastic city and water views from my room."

"They're so kid friendly, they even left stuffed animals for my toddlers."

Good to know

1

The hotel charges a $50 daily valet parking fee, which is mandatory.

2

Expect a $30 per night resort fee that is added upon arrival.

3

Room reservations may require a $900 hold on your credit card.

20
Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park image 1

Waterfront park offers stunning river views and wide, well-maintained paths shaded by palm and oak trees. The atmosphere is lively with joggers, families, and dogs, while children enjoy a modern playground and splash-pad. Public art and commemorative spaces add cultural depth to this small, green urban oasis.

Waterfront views along the Garrison Channel show boats drifting by and beautiful sunsets. The park is small but offers pleasant river scenery accessible near the history center.

A modern playground offers a safe spot for kids aged 2 to 5 to play. The park includes benches for parents and space for walks, bike rides, and picnics.

People are saying

"The park offers beautiful waterfront views and sunsets."

"It's a great spot with a modern, safe playground for kids."

"The park offers pleasant, amazing scenic views of the water."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but requires payment and is located blocks away.

2

The playground is modern and suitable for children, though one slide is closed.

3

The park has wide, well-maintained walking paths for leisurely strolls.

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Tampa, Florida

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