Things To Do Around Tampa
Planned Pre-Convention Group Activities
Golf at Westchase Golf Club
City Showcase Bike Tour
-
Westchase Golf Club is called one of the most beautiful pubic-access courses in the Tampa area, this is an affordable and highly rated course from Golf Digest. Course approximately 20 minutes from hotel.
-
$80/golfer. Club rental $60/set includes 2 sleeves TaylorMade golf balls.
-
Sunday, October 19: Mini shotgun begins at 10 am – 4:15-4:30 pace of play.
Florida Aquarium
-
Rated among the best aquariums in the US, visit The Florida Aquarium with exciting exhibits including simulated wetlands, a simulated beach, and a coral reef community. This will be a self-guided tour that can be done independently or as a whole NIFDA group. The average visit time is approximately 2 hours.
-
$37 (this price will be confirmed 90 days out and could fluctuate a few dollars)
-
Sunday, October 19: Depart Hotel @ 8:45 am - Return to Hotel approximately 1 pm
-
Enjoy a private bike tour that will give you more than a glimpse of Tampa. You will see and learn about historical and notable locations throughout the city. Along the way, you’ll explore Tampa’s Riverwalk, Downtown, Old Hyde Park, the beautiful Bayshore Blvd, Harbour Island, and more! This is an easy ride and a leisurely pace. Price includes 7-speed bike rental, helmet, bottled water, and an informative tour guide. Tour is just under three hours.
-
$69 per person includes bike rental
-
Sunday, October 19: Depart Hotel @ 8:30 am - Return to Hotel approximately 1:15 pm
Tiki Boat Cruise with Sand Bar
-
The Tiki adventure perfectly combines a beach day and a boat activity. The private 6-person tiki boats include USCG-certified captains, coolers with ice, and Bluetooth speakers. Bring your favorite beverages and snacks, and enjoy the views of Clearwater Beach as we make our way to a local sandbar. The tiki bar will anchor to allow us to swim and explore the sandbar. 6 guests per boat (Tikibar), with a maximum of 24 guests. We can arrange drinks and snacks among the attendees when we get the final numbers.
-
$52 (will depend on the final count).
-
Sunday, October 19: Depart Hotel @ 9:30 am - Return to Hotel approximately 1:15 pm
Please contact members@nifda.net if you have any questions about these pre-convention activities. You’ll have the opportunity to let us know which of these pre-convention group activities you’re interested in when you register.
Places to Visit
Attractions
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
A family-oriented theme park featuring up-close encounters with exotic animals, thrilling rides, and live entertainment.Tampa Riverwalk
A scenic walkway along the Hillsborough River, connecting parks, museums, and restaurants, perfect for walking or biking.Salvador Dalí Museum
Located in St. Petersburg, this museum houses an extensive collection of Salvador Dalí's works, showcasing surrealist art.Adventure Island
Tampa's largest water park, featuring numerous water slides, a lazy river, and kid-friendly attractions.Fort De Soto Park
A beautiful park with pristine beaches, camping facilities, and historic fortifications to explore.John's Pass Village & Boardwalk
A rustic collection of shops, restaurants, and bars embracing coastal roots, offering jet-ski rentals, sunset cruises, and more.Tampa Bay History Center
A museum offering exhibits on the rich history of the Tampa Bay region, including its cigar industry and maritime heritage.Glazer Children's Museum
An interactive learning laboratory where children can play, discover, and connect to the world around them.Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
A science museum in Tampa offering interactive exhibits and educational programs on science, technology, and industry.A botanical paradise in the midst of the city, featuring cascading waterfalls and over 50,000 tropical plants.
Sunsets at Pier 60
A nightly festival on Clearwater Beach featuring artisans, street performers, and beautiful sunset views.Tampa Museum of Art
A museum showcasing modern and contemporary art, as well as Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities.A historic movie palace known for its stunning architecture and a variety of films and events.
Henry B. Plant Museum
A museum located in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel, focusing on the Gilded Age and the hotel's role in Tampa's development.American Victory Ship & Museum
A restored World War II cargo ship offering tours and exhibits on maritime and military history.Florida Botanical Gardens
A 182-acre park in Largo featuring cultivated gardens, native plant habitats, and wildlife.Caladesi Island State Park
A pristine barrier island accessible by ferry, known for its white sandy beaches and nature trails.Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise
A family-friendly pirate-themed cruise offering entertainment and scenic views of Clearwater Bay.Ybor City
Tampa's historic Latin Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife, cigar shops, and rich cultural heritage is also referred to as the "Cigar Capital of the World”As the oldest family-owned premium cigar maker in America, they offer factory tours that delve into Tampa's cigar industry history.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Famous for its live mermaid shows, this park also offers boat rides and a water park, showcasing Florida's natural springs.
Restaurants Within Walking Distance
A lively seafood and bar spot just steps from the resort, Bar Fly is known for its fresh fish tacos, craft cocktails, and laid-back beachy atmosphere.
This charming French bistro, housed in a beautifully restored 1936 bungalow, offers a cozy atmosphere with classic French dishes like escargot, duck confit, and crème brûlée.
A seafood and steakhouse offering premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails, all served in a stylish yet relaxed setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Southern comfort food at its finest, Southern Fresh serves up fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and other classic dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
A great spot for fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, and salads. This casual eatery is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
A hidden gem serving a fusion of American and Caribbean cuisine with bold flavors and fresh ingredients, all in a laid-back, tropical setting.
This small but highly rated pizzeria specializes in wood-fired pizzas made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. A must-visit for pizza lovers!
A classic American diner with a welcoming atmosphere, offering all-day breakfast, burgers, sandwiches, and Greek-inspired dishes.
A unique restaurant featuring house-brined meats, creative comfort food, and craft beers. Perfect for those looking for bold flavors and hearty portions.
A vibrant Mexican restaurant serving up flavorful tacos, burritos, and fresh margaritas in a fun and casual atmosphere.