Tampa continues to solidify its reputation as a city that knows how to have a good time. For the second consecutive year, WalletHub has named Tampa one of the Most Fun Cities in America for 2024, ranking it 17th overall.
WalletHub evaluated over 180 U.S. cities across 65 factors, including the number of fitness clubs, accessibility of dance clubs, local parks, and movie costs. Tampa stands out as a city that balances affordability with fun, excelling in several key categories.
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Major attractions and community events in Tampa
Tampa took the top spot for Festivals per capita, showcasing its jam-packed calendar of events. From the lively Gasparilla Parade to its nationally celebrated Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day festivities, Tampa’s vibrant festival scene keeps locals and visitors entertained year-round.
The city also boasts an impressive food scene, ranking 13th for Restaurants per capita, as Tampa’s food scene offers everything from fresh seafood to trendy culinary experiences. For fitness enthusiasts, Tampa ranks 10th for Fitness Centers per capita, providing plenty of options to stay active. Other notable rankings include 20th for dance clubs and 23rd for attractions.
While Tampa excels in many areas, it ranks 75th for playgrounds and 57th for movie costs. Still, its overall appeal more than compensates for these shortcomings.
A city for thrill seekers and foodies alike
Tampa’s iconic attractions add to its fun factor. Busch Gardens, one of America’s top amusement parks and known for some of the country’s best roller coasters, offers thrills for adventure seekers. For a more relaxed outing, the Florida Aquarium features interactive exhibits and stunning marine life.
The city’s waterfront plays host to numerous large, often free, community events throughout the year, providing a mix of outdoor fun and cultural activities. Sports fans can also dive into the excitement by catching a Lightning game or cheering on the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium.
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