Tampa Bay CityPASS®

Thinking about visiting Tampa and want to see the city’s highlights without breaking the bank? The Tampa Bay CityPASS offers a smart way to experience some of Tampa’s top attractions while saving money. It’s especially appealing if you’re planning to make the most of your trip across several days, rather than cramming everything into one.

What we like about this pass is its flexibility—you’re given nine days to visit five major attractions, giving you room to relax and explore at your own pace. Plus, the convenience of a mobile ticket makes getting into places smooth. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get from one stop to another. Still, if you’re a traveler who enjoys sightseeing at a leisurely pace, this pass can be just the ticket.

This tour setup suits travelers looking for value and convenience, families wanting a variety of attractions, or anyone planning to hit multiple spots in Tampa over a few days. It’s ideal if you’re okay with sticking to the included attractions and managing your own transportation.

Key Points

• Flexible 9-day validity helps you spread out your visits comfortably
• Includes 5 major attractions, with options to choose 2 more
• Cost-effective—saving significantly compared to paying at each attraction
• Mobile ticketing streamlines entry and reduces hassle
• No transportation included, so plan accordingly
• Some reviews highlight the ease of use and good value, while others note issues like parking costs or reservation limits

An In-Depth Look at the Tampa Bay CityPASS®

If you’re considering whether this pass is a good fit, here’s what you need to know about each part of the itinerary and the overall experience.

Visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

First up is Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which is probably the highlight for many visitors. You get admission included, and based on reviews, this can be a hit or miss. Some travelers, like Milton, loved it, calling it “worth it” and enjoyed the rides, shows, and animal encounters. They appreciated the easy entry via the app, making the start of their day smooth.

However, others, like Todd, weren’t thrilled. He mentioned parking costs—$36—and felt that many rides were closed or not as appealing as he remembered from years past. His experience highlights that attractions can vary, and sometimes the day’s readiness depends on factors outside the pass’s control. Still, for most, Busch Gardens offers a fun mix of rides and animal exhibits, especially if you’re traveling with kids or thrill-seekers.

Exploring The Florida Aquarium

Next is the Florida Aquarium, where you can expect a more relaxed, family-friendly environment. Reviewers describe it as quaint but enjoyable, especially for those who love seeing different marine life. With around four hours allocated, you’ll have enough time to wander and soak in the exhibits without feeling rushed.

The aquarium’s inclusion in the pass makes it a fantastic value, considering that separate admission can be costly. Many are pleased with how straightforward the process is—your mobile ticket grants quick entry. If marine life and interactive exhibits appeal, this is a worthwhile stop.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is another highlight. Visitors often comment on the animal encounters, with reviews mentioning monkeys, rhinos, manatees, and penguins. One reviewer even called it “awesome” and appreciated the variety of animals, making it a great spot for animal lovers or families.

The four-hour visit is adequate for seeing the key exhibits and enjoying some of the shows. Some reviews note that the zoo has lost some of its former charm compared to years past, but overall, it remains a solid attraction for animal fans.

Additional Sightseeing Options: Your Choice

What makes the pass flexible is your ability to pick two attractions from a list that includes:

• The Tropics Boat Tours (Dolphin OR Sunset Cruise)
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)

Many travelers, like one who raved about the dolphin tour, find these add-ons are well worth the reservation, especially since you can book ahead through the app. The dolphin cruise is a favorite for animal and nature lovers, offering a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat.

Museums and Other Attractions

The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) offers around four hours of exploration, featuring hands-on exhibits, though some reviews suggest it’s a bit disappointing or less engaging than expected. Still, it’s an easy addition if you’re into science or want a quieter activity.

The Glazer Children’s Museum is also available but is more geared toward families with young children. For most travelers, the museum offers around five hours of fun, especially if your kids love interactive exhibits.

Practical Aspects and Tips

• Reservations: For certain activities like the dolphin tour, booking in advance is recommended. The app makes this straightforward, but some reviews mention that reservation limits or availability can be an issue.
• Parking: Keep in mind that parking costs aren’t included. Several reviewers pointed out parking fees—usually around $32 to $36—and some noted cash isn’t accepted everywhere, so bring a credit card.
• Validity: The pass is valid for nine consecutive days from the first use, giving you ample time to spread out your visits. Several reviewers appreciated this flexibility, especially those who like to take their time.

Value for Money and Who It’s Perfect For

When you compare the cost of individual tickets—like Busch Gardens, which can be over $100—you’ll see that the CityPASS at $149 offers great savings. Many reviewers echo this sentiment, highlighting the excellent value especially when visiting multiple attractions.

For travelers wanting a cost-effective way to experience Tampa’s main sights without hassle, this pass delivers. It’s particularly good for families, couples, or groups who want to make the most of their trip without worrying about planning logistics every step of the way.

But be aware: if you’re someone who prefers spontaneous plans or isn’t keen on pre-booking, some reviews have flagged issues with reservation limitations or availability at certain attractions. Also, if you’re not planning on visiting more than one or two spots, it might be less economical.

The Sum Up

The Tampa Bay CityPASS offers a practical, money-saving way to explore Tampa’s main attractions over nine days. Its flexibility and ease of use make it appealing to travelers who want to see a mix of wildlife, marine life, and fun rides without the hassle of buying multiple tickets.

While the pass is packed with value, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included and reservation requirements can sometimes be a sticking point. Still, for those who enjoy planning a multi-day sightseeing itinerary, this pass simplifies entry and offers considerable savings.

Overall, it’s an excellent choice if you’re looking to maximize your Tampa experience while keeping costs in check. Whether you’re with family, friends, or a partner, this pass helps you enjoy the highlights at your own pace without the stress of last-minute ticket purchases.

FAQ

Does the Tampa Bay CityPASS include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the attractions isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way around Tampa.

How long is the pass valid?
It’s valid for nine consecutive days starting from your first use, giving you plenty of time to visit all selected attractions.

Can I visit the attractions in any order?
Yes, once you have your mobile ticket, you can visit the attractions in whichever order suits your schedule.

Are reservations required for activities like the dolphin tour?
Yes, some activities, such as the dolphin exploration tour or sunset cruise, require booking in advance through the app.

Is parking included?
No, parking isn’t included. You should budget for parking fees, which can be around $32 to $36, and be aware that cash might not be accepted everywhere.

Can I buy the pass on the day of my visit?
It’s recommended to book at least 22 days in advance for better availability, but you can purchase the pass online and use it within the nine-day window.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of animal encounters, fun rides, and interactive museums, and you like the idea of spreading out your sightseeing, this pass could be just what you need for a memorable Tampa trip.