Unique things to do in Tampa

Tampa is a classic Florida destination that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by the glittering waters of Tampa Bay, it’s the perfect place to explore and soak up the Floridian sunshine. 

There’s an abundance of things to do in Tampa, Florida. From its vast array of museums to its vibrant nightlife, you don’t have to go far to find something to do. Even when you’ve gone through all the usual tourist spots, you’ll have no trouble finding something unique to do. 

Discover some of the most fun things to do in Tampa so you can make your visit one to remember. From unique casino experiences and cigar tastings to adrenaline-pumping adventures and cultural discoveries, here are the cool places in Tampa you don’t want to miss. 

Casino cruise 

There’s gambling, and then there’s gambling with a twist. Hop aboard the Tropical Breeze Casino from the port on Bayview Street to enjoy an afternoon of lucky chances with a spectacular view of the horizon in the distance and the glittering bay passing you by. 

Once you board, you’ll sail out from Millers Bayou to the ocean and along the coast with the background noise of slot machines. Join others at the blackjack table, place bets on the classic roulette wheel, or go against the dealer with a game of craps. All of the classic casino games you’d get on land are here, but the views make this casino cruise a touch more special.

Make the most of your evening when you visit the bar and restaurant. Guests can order cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and nachos, as well as beers, spirits, and cocktails from the bar. You’ll even get free beers if you step on deck on Saturdays or free entry when you visit on Sundays. 

Wat Monkolratanaram Buddhist Temple

If you’re interested in learning about more new cultures and religions, then we recommend paying a visit to Wat Monkolratanaram Buddhist Temple

Those drawn to the practice are welcome to join other practitioners to absorb the teachings of the Buddha. At 89-feet long and 35-feet high with a spectacularly beautiful red and gold roof, the temple represents the Ayudhaya architecture commonly found in Thailand. Once inside, you’ll find several artifacts of religious importance and a statue depicting Buddha himself. 

The site is also the home of the local monks, who reside here to perform religious ceremonies and serve as a pillar of the local Thai community. While the temple is open every day between 9am and 6pm, it is asked that visitors respect the times when monks and other Buddhists are practicing meditations and chanting. 

If you visit on a Sunday, you can order delicious food freshly made by the monks at the drive-through market. Park up your car, and someone will kindly come to take your order. Choose from flavorsome beef, pork, or vegetable soup, and order a side of spring rolls and Thai ice tea. You can enjoy it in your car or at the picnic tables for a better view of the temple. 

Casa de Montecristo 

Skip the everyday bar and head to a local cigar lounge like Casa de Montecristo. This Tampa cigar lounge is a full-service bar, where you can enjoy a sultry evening sampling fresh tobaccos that are perfectly wrapped in premium rolling paper. 

Both Casa de Montecristo cigar lounges are ornately designed and feature an adjoining store where you can buy cigars to take home and enjoy later. If you’re hoping to smoke with the folk who know all about the tobacco industry, take a seat in a plush leather armchair and they’ll select you the perfect flavor. Cigars are hand-picked from cedarwood humidified lockers, where they are stored to maintain their optimal quality. 

You can also order food and drink while you’re here. Choose your favorite beer, wine, or spirit, or ask the staff for their recommended drink and cigar pairings. 

Axe throwing 

Unleash your inner Viking when you discover axe throwing in Tampa. Grab your weapon and throw it with all your might down the range at Axe Throwing Tampa

An expert coach will lead you during an hour-and-a-half session, during which you will be trained in perfecting one-handed and two-handed throws before demonstrating your newfound skills at the LumberLord contest. This is when you’ll have the chance to compete against other axe-throwers by ferociously aiming for the bullseye at the other end of the range. If you win, you’ll get to wear the iconic LumberLord belt with pride. 

If you’re already a fan of axe throwing and want to try something a little different, sign up for one of the Glow Throw nights. You’ll be shooting in the dark, with only the glow of UV paint and backlights guiding you through the target range. You’ll even be giving face glow paint to go crazy with your own designs, so you don’t need to worry about anyone not seeing you cross the target. 

Reserve group sessions with your friends for your birthday, bachelor party, or just a unique and fun thing to do in Tampa. It’s also a great date activity if you’re confident enough with your aim. 

Indoor skydiving 

Adventurous hearts are always looking for the next exhilarating thing to do, and this one will blow you away. Head to iFly for an experience like no other.

Soar beyond your wildest dreams when you try skydiving in Tampa at this state-of-the-art indoor skydiving chamber. Whether you’re bringing along your kids or your grandma, iFly is the perfect adrenaline-pumping activity for thrill-seekers of all ages. Flying experts will train you in safety and skydiving basics to ensure you’re fully prepped for your drop. Once you’re ready, zip up into your flight suit and clip on your helmet and goggles. You’ll then lean into the wind with your instructor to experience the delight of floating. 

As it’s indoors, you won’t have to go through the nerve-wracking buildup of flying in a plane and jumping out while strapped to someone else as you would with traditional skydiving. However, you’ll still feel the rush of the wind and the same level of excitement as you would with actual skydiving. 

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