Museums are the cultural hubs of TBAY. Whether you’re looking to learn something new about Tampa or St. Pete, or simply plotting a way to spend your Saturday afternoon, here are 20 museums to visit in our area.
History
The Henry B. Plant isn’t your typical hotel.
Photo via @mary_ponomaryova
Henry B. Plant Museum, Tampa | $12
Immerse yourself in the rich Tampa history and stunning architecture of the restored Victorian mansion that was once the winter home of railroad magnate Henry B. Plant.
Don’t miss: The Parlor Suite’s elegantly carved Victorian double bed.
Tampa Bay History Center, Tampa | $0-$16.95
The museum, spanning three stories, narrates the rich history of the Tampa Bay region, chronicling the journey of its inhabitants from ancient times to the modern era.
Don’t miss: The giant wooden 19th century steamship replica and waterfront dining eats from the famous Columbia Cafe.
The Florida Holocaust Museum, St. Petersburg | $0-$16
This museum commemorates the millions of innocent individuals who experienced or perished in the Holocaust while promoting awareness and education. Plus, there’s a whole section on Florida during WWII.
St. Petersburg Museum of History, St. Petersburg | $0-$15
At this museum, visitors can explore a diverse range of exhibits, such as the Civil War exhibit and a collection of Native American artifacts.
Don’t miss: The scaled model of the city from the 1870s.
Arts
How could you knot love the FMOPA
Photo via @itsjonkim
The Dalí Museum, St. Petersburg | $0-$29
This glass and concrete architectural marvel contains the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's artwork outside of Spain.
Don’t miss: The massive wall-to-wall paintings, portraits, photos, the spiral staircase, and the gift shop.
Museum of the American Arts & Crafts Movement, St. Petersburg | $0-$25
The modern building lives right in the heart of downtown St. Pete with 2,000+ objects related to the American Arts and Crafts movement, from rare furniture and ceramic tiles to fine art and leaded glass. Plus, you can grab buttermilk chicken tender sandwiches and sherry cream soup from the popular cafe in the lobby.
Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa | $0-$25
At this museum, you can find 5,000 years of artwork from around the world.. Its permanent collection includes priceless masterpieces by legendary artists such as Picasso, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
FloridaRAMA, St. Petersburg | $19-$27
Enter St. Pete’s very own dreamscape blending art and technology with works by 70+ artists. The plethora of artist-commissioned custom dioramas includes strawberry and mermaid motel-themed displays.
Don’t miss: There’s too many gems to name, but we love the mirrored manatee and the life-sized shrimp cocktail — and we wish both were real.
Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, Tampa | $0-$12
The collection is comprised of photographs ranging from historical to contemporary times. The museum currently boasts an exhibit on Ybor City’s past + several online exhibits.
Safety Harbor Art and Music Center, Safety Harbor | $0+
The nonprofit, mirrored mosaic venue boasts an ODD-itorium, magical unicorn, and giant elephant sculptures — in addition to its slate of classes and events.
Don’t miss: Best of all, wander next door to explore Whimzeyland: a vibrant folk art wonderland with a colorful home and yard filled with recycled shrines and 600 bowling balls, or across the street to Casa Loco, which features Mexican and South American folk art, photo ops, and mosaic art made out of vintage dishes.
Kids
Hang around at the MOSI
Photo via @mosi_tampa
Museum of Science and Industry, Tampa | $0-$14
MOSI is an excellent destination for science-curious children. The spot features a 3D theater, a rope course, and a zipline. Pro tip: It’s across the street from a USF Tampa soccer field for all your family picnicking needs.
Don’t miss: Gaze upon the endless amount of stars in our universe at The Saunders Planetarium.
Glazer Children’s Museum, Tampa | $18
Bring the kids along for a day in TBAY’s 53,000-sqft interactive learning laboratory. Bonus points: This museum is super accommodating + accessible.
Don’t miss: Meet “Big John,” the world’s largest triceratops fossil.
Great Explorations Children’s Museum, St. Petersburg | $0-$15
This spot is perfect for kiddos aged ten and below. Here, young ones can enjoy a mini Publix shopping experience, learn about dental hygiene by cleaning oversized teeth, and discover various career options for their future through toys and games.
Dinosaur World, Plant City | $12+
“Jurassic World” is here to stay. Kiddos and dino aficionados alike will be entranced by hundreds of life-sized casts of discovered dinosaur skeletons, slides, and digging for treasures in Uncle Rex’s Gem Mine in Dinosaur World.
Don’t miss: Special seasonal events like Jurassic Haunt — the attractions Halloween adventure.
Sports + Vehicles
Tampa Baseball Museum, Tampa | $0-$12
This small museum showcases Tampa’s rich baseball history over 130 years. Fun fact: It was the home of former baseball player Al Lopez.
Don’t miss: The wall of game-used baseballs + the micro baseball diamond.
Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, Pinellas Park | $0-$14
Take a look at the assortment of unique automobiles (both new-age and classic models). Pro tip: You can purchase most of the cars, just ask the staff for help.
Don’t miss: The knowledgeable staff and the early 1900s electric vehicle collection.
Special interest
Tampa Bay Firefighters Museum, Tampa | Free, donations accepted
Nestled within a 1900s firehouse,stands an immersive historical exhibition. The exhibit boasts an array of badges, tools, and vintage uniforms.
Don’t miss: If you walk across the street, sometimes you can check out the new fire station and tour all the modern gizmos and gadgets.
Tampa Bay Watch and Discovery Center, St. Petersburg | $0-$3
You’ve probably walked right by this learning hub on your morning stroll down the Pier. Next time, stop in the center to check out the interactive exhibits, video presentations, touch tank, or hop on a tour.
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, St. Petersburg | $0-$23
One gallery flows to another at this museum that aims to educate about the old American West, Native American life, and the history of the pioneers and immigrants that shaped the US.
American Victory Ship & Museum, Tampa | $10-$12
This museum is a living history lesson that will transport you back to the days of World War II + the Vietnam War as you board the decommissioned military ship. Fun fact: It’s one of only four fully-operational WWII ships in the country.
City Guides are presented by Water Street Tampa.
