Top 5 Things to Do with Kids Over Christmas Break in Tampa Bay
Top 5 Things to Do with Kids Over Christmas Break in Tampa Bay
Christmas break is the perfect time to create magical memories with your kids, and Tampa Bay offers an abundance of activities to make the holiday season truly unforgettable. From dazzling lights to outdoor adventures, this area has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, here are the top five things to do with kids over Christmas break in Tampa Bay.
1. Visit Busch Gardens Christmas Town
Busch Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland during its annual Christmas Town event, making it a must-visit destination for families. Your kids will be enchanted by millions of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and special holiday-themed shows. Don’t miss out on visiting Santa’s House and enjoying seasonal treats like hot cocoa and cookies. Thrill-seekers can ride roller coasters while younger kids enjoy family-friendly rides and attractions. With so much to see and do, Christmas Town is a magical way to celebrate the season.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of discounted tickets available online.
2. Explore the Florida Aquarium’s Holiday Events
The Florida Aquarium in downtown Tampa brings a unique twist to holiday festivities. During Christmas break, the aquarium hosts special seasonal activities, including visits from Santa and holiday-themed exhibits. Kids can learn about marine life while enjoying a festive atmosphere. The outdoor Splash Pad is also a big hit, offering a chance for kids to burn off energy (even in December, Tampa’s weather is mild enough for outdoor play). This is a great option for families looking to combine education with holiday fun.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for marine-themed holiday gifts!
3. Visit the Glazer Children’s Museum
The Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa is a perfect spot for hands-on holiday fun. During Christmas break, the museum hosts seasonal activities like holiday crafts, storytime, and interactive exhibits designed to engage kids’ imaginations. The museum’s themed play areas and STEM-focused activities make learning fun for kids of all ages. It’s an ideal place to spend a few hours, especially on cooler or rainy days.
Pro Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for special holiday programming and events.
4. Enjoy Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa transforms into a Winter Village during the holiday season. This family-friendly event features an outdoor ice-skating rink, holiday-themed vendors, and cozy cafes serving seasonal treats. The picturesque setting along the Tampa Riverwalk adds to the charm, and there are plenty of photo opportunities with festive backdrops. Kids will love gliding on the ice (or attempting to!), while parents can sip hot chocolate and enjoy the waterfront views.
Pro Tip: Rent skates early in the day to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.
5. Explore ZooTampa at Lowry Park’s Christmas in the Wild
ZooTampa at Lowry Park comes alive at night during its Christmas in the Wild celebration. This festive event features dazzling light displays, holiday music, and themed animal exhibits. Kids can visit Santa, watch live entertainment, and enjoy seasonal snacks like s’mores and peppermint treats. Many of the zoo’s animals are more active during the cooler evenings, making this a unique opportunity to see them in action.
Pro Tip: Bundle up and bring a stroller for younger kids, as the event covers a lot of ground.
Bonus: See Christmas Lights in Temple Terrace
If you’re looking for a light show, as locals we always go to the resident light show in Temple Terrace. The Temple Terrace Light Show runs every day from 6-9 and is located at 7804 river ridge dr. Tune your car radio to 95.5fm!
Final Thoughts
Tampa Bay is bursting with family-friendly activities to make your Christmas break unforgettable. From twinkling light displays and holiday-themed events to outdoor adventures and educational outings, there’s no shortage of ways to keep your kids entertained. Whether you’re soaking up the magic at Busch Gardens or skating at Winter Village, these experiences will create memories your family will treasure for years to come. Happy holidays and enjoy your time in Tampa Bay!
If you need some ideas of what to bring to an amusement park, look at our post Essentials for taking toddlers to a theme park !
