Tampa Culture, Arts, & Entertainment

You’ll find the area has abundant cultural and entertainment attractions and events. Tampa’s crown jewel is David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, the largest of its kind in the southeast, with four theaters under one roof and beautifully situated on the east bank of the Hillsborough River. Along downtown’s scenic waterfront and river walk are The Florida Aquarium, new Tampa Bay History Center, new Tampa Museum of Art, and Henry B. Plant Museum. Meanwhile, the new Glazer Children’s Museum will open in September 2010. Restaurants, shops, iconic Tampa Theatre and entertainment venues have made downtown Tampa a 24/7 center of activity.
 

Visitors throughout the state and beyond come to experience the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) for a combination of learning, fun and inspiration.
 
The beginning of festival activity for the area is Gasparilla, the annual pirate invasion complete with beads, coins, boats and floats, costumes and bands. With that festive start, the season continues with the Florida State Fair, Florida Strawberry Festival and Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, to mention just some of the most popular events.
 
Tampa’s Latino heritage comes alive in historic Ybor City. The city’s cultural sights, shops, nightlife and restaurants cater to every palate, making it a favorite destination.
 
Outdoor attractions such as Busch Gardens with its thrilling rides, live shows and more than 2,500 animals; Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo (rated the Best Zoo in the United States by Parents Magazine), more than 11,000 acres of parks with 100 acres in trails; and 200 golf courses bring together the perfect mix of nature, fun and relaxation.
 
The Arts Council of Hillsborough County offers a comprehensive picture of the arts and cultural activities for individuals and families throughout the Greater Tampa area.