10 Top Things to Do This Fall in Tampa

10 Top Things to Do This Fall in Tampa

As fall arrives in Tampa, the city offers a wide variety of activities to enjoy, from festivals and haunted houses to football games and outdoor adventures. Here’s a guide to the top 10 things to do in Tampa this fall, with dates included for time-sensitive events.

1. Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream
Dates: Select nights from September 8 – October 31, 2024  
If you're a fan of thrills and chills, Busch Gardens’ annual Howl-O-Scream is a must-visit. The park transforms into a haunted wonderland with spooky mazes, terrifying scare zones, and nighttime roller coaster rides.

2. Explore the Tampa Riverwalk
While this isn't a date-specific event, the fall weather makes it the perfect time to stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk. Take in views of downtown, check out art installations, and visit attractions like the Tampa Museum of Art.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Game
Football season is in full swing, and catching a Buccaneers game is a great way to experience the excitement of the NFL in person. Raise the Flags! 🏴‍☠️

4. Ybor City Ghost Tour
Nightly tours run year-round, but the spooky season makes fall the best time to go. Delve into Tampa’s haunted history with a ghost tour of Ybor City. This historic neighborhood is full of eerie stories and haunted spots that come to life on this guided tour.

5. Oktoberfest Tampa
Dates: October 11–13, 2024
Held at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Oktoberfest Tampa celebrates Bavarian culture with traditional German beer, food, and games. It’s a lively, family-friendly event perfect for a weekend outing.

6. ZooTampa’s Creatures of the Night
Dates: Select nights from September 27 – October 27, 2024  
This family-friendly Halloween event at ZooTampa transforms the zoo into a spooky wonderland. There are themed displays, animal encounters, and seasonal treats to enjoy in a not-too-scary setting.

7. Fall Festivals at Tampa Bay Markets 
Dates: Hyde Park Village Fresh Market is held on the first Sunday of each month, and the Tampa Downtown Market runs every Sunday from October through May  
Tampa’s fall markets are brimming with local produce, artisan crafts, and delicious seasonal foods. These markets offer a laid-back way to enjoy the fall atmosphere while supporting local vendors.

8. Tampa International Fringe Festival
Dates: October 17-20, 2024
This annual festival brings together performers from around the world for theater, music, comedy, and more. The Tampa International Fringe Festival is perfect for art lovers looking to experience something new.

9. Explore Hillsborough River State Park
While Hillsborough River State Park is open year-round, the cooler fall weather makes it an ideal time to explore. Whether hiking, biking, or kayaking, you’ll enjoy the beautiful fall landscape in one of Tampa’s most scenic parks.

10. Tampa Bay Seafood & Music Festival
Dates: October 25–27, 2024
Combining live music with fresh seafood, the Tampa Bay Seafood & Music Festival is a fall favorite. Held at various locations, this event offers everything from oysters to shrimp, accompanied by local bands playing a variety of genres.

From spooky experiences to cultural festivals and outdoor fun, Tampa offers plenty of exciting things to do this fall. Make sure to mark your calendars for these special events and enjoy everything the season has to offer!