30+ Things to Do Near MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa and Surrounding Areas

MacDill AFB is located on the southwestern tip of the Interbay Peninsula in Hillsborough County, just 4 miles away from downtown Tampa. This dreamy beach location offers so much, from thriving nightlife to family-friendly and fur-friendly adventures on the water. You will always be close to your next adventure here! Check out our list below of our favorite places to eat and visit.

5 Places in Tampa That Are Military Friendly

Tampa is proud of its military history and community and offers many free or discounted destinations to honor the service and sacrifices of the military members stationed at MacDill Air Force Base.

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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens is an iconic park with thrilling rides, animal encounters, special events, and so much more. Beginning May 15, active-duty service members can get a complimentary button that will unlock exclusive in-park savings and perks.

Through the Waves of Honor military salute program, military families can receive free admission to Busch Gardens. Click the link here to learn more and get your tickets today.

• Address: 10165 N McKinley Dr., Tampa, FL 33612
• Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10:00-20:00; Friday and Saturday, 10:00-22:00, Sunday, 10:00-21:00. Park hours may vary due to special events.
• Admission: Single-day tickets begin at $59.99

American Victory Ship & Museum

The American Victory Ship & Museum is one of three fully-operational Victory Class World War 2 ships remaining. Explore all 9 decks of the SS American Victory to see artifacts, exhibits, medals, and more.

• Address: 705 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602
• Hours: Monday, 12:00-17:00; Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00-17:00
• Admission: Adults $15, Youth (4-17) $10, Children under 3 FREE, Veterans $12

Veterans Memorial Park & Museum

This beautiful park is home to over 20 memorials to honor those who’ve served and given their all. The park and grounds are supported and managed by three organizations that came together to support the military, veterans, and families. A must-visit for military families to gain a sense of community in the city of Tampa.

• Address: 3602 North US 301, Unit # 3, Tampa, Florida 33619
• Hours: Daily, 0700-1700
• Admission: Free

Tampa Bay History Center

From exhibits to summer camps, the Tampa Bay History Center aims to help the community discover, preserve, and learn from the region’s past to inform the future. With over 90,000 artifacts, something is sure to catch your eye. You can even grab history-to-go kits for your classroom or special group for off-site education.

• Address: 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL 33602
• Hours: Daily 1000-1700
• Admission: Military Free May 16 through September 7

Tampa Museum of Art

With exhibitions to attract all kinds, the Tampa Museum of Art is a great way to fuel creativity while admiring the work of others. Check the website linked above for know-before-you-go topics like parking and museum rules.

Thanks to the Blue Star Museums Program, active-duty military get in free all summer long, making this one of our top choices for military-friendly things to do in Tampa.

• Address: Cornelia Corbett Center, 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602
• Hours: Monday through Sunday, 1000-1700; Thursday, 1000-2000
• Admission: Military Free May 16 through September 7

5 Restaurants Near MacDill AFB That Are Sure to Please

Whether you’re looking for beachfront views, a place to help you eat clean, or food with a side of fun, these restaurants near MacDill AFB are sure to please everyone in your party.

We even have a restaurant on the list located right on base, showing you don’t have to go far for great dining experiences in Tampa.

Hula Bay Club

Looking to get into the island state-of-mind? Hula Bay Club has what you’re looking for.

Featuring Luau parties, island drinks, and a sensational menu, this tropical eatery will help you lie back and relax.

Naked Farmer

The Naked Farmer features fresh, locally-sourced food from the surrounding area farms, cooked and prepared by chefs who know what they are doing.

Hoping to build a food system that connects farmers to the community, the Naked Farmer has what you need to eat clean, naked food.

SeaScapes

Located right on base at MacDill AFB, Seascapes is a place you can unwind, refresh, and dine with the salty air and sand at your feet. Serving up bar classics and yummy sweet treats, there’s something for everyone on this menu.

Bayshore Mediterranean Grill

Bayshore Mediterranean Grill has the authentic Turkish foods you’ve been looking for. Chefs here have over 30 years of experience preparing food the way it was meant to be, so you get the full experience.

1983 Restaurant, Bar & Arcade

Looking for great food with a side of fun? Look no further than 1983 Restaurant, Bar & Arcade. Serving up elevated comfort food, craft drinks, and interactive arcade games, this place is sure to be a hit!

What Are Some Pet-Friendly Places MacDill AFB?

With a town as beautiful as Tampa, Florida, you’ll want to get outside. But don’t leave your four-legged family member at home. Tampa offers plenty of outdoor spaces and eateries that not only allow but also welcome your furry friends.

Below are several pet-friendly outdoor spaces and restaurants in the areas surrounding MacDill AFB.

Outdoor Spaces

You’ll find plenty of outdoor spaces in Tampa to keep your furry friend happy. Tampa.gov gives some guidelines and a list of dog parks. Below are a few of the area favorites.

Davis Islands Dog Park & Dog Beach

Davis Islands has a designated dog beach allowing your furry friends to enjoy the sand and surf. Not wanting to get wet, Davis Islands also has a dog park, allowing your four-legged friend to get the wiggles out.

Picnic Island Park Dog Beach

This spacious park is big enough for the whole family. Children can enjoy the sandy playground and beach, adults and older kids might enjoy disc golf or volleyball, and your four-legged friend can enjoy the dog beach.

Gadsden Park

Gadsden Park is a city park with a lake, walking trails, picnicking, and a dog area. This outdoor location is a great place to sit, stay, and play.

Tampa Riverwalk

Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian pathway along the Hillsborough River. Because it’s outdoors and open 24 hours a day, you can bring your four-legged friend any time for a stroll.

Fur-Family Friendly Restaurants

Mad Dogs and Englishmen

This unique restaurant encourages you to bring your pup, offering a special, secret “pet menu.” On the menu you’ll find traditional English pub food as well as other worldly dishes. You and your pup will rave about this sweet spot.

Salt Shack on the Bay

Salt Shack on the Bay is a rustic waterfront restaurant with patio and outdoor seating, making it a great spot to take in the views and the food with your four-legged friend. You’ll find fresh seafood and island-infused cocktails in a casual beachfront bar setting.

Big Ray’s Fish Camp

From the bay to your belly, this neighborhood favorite is sure to please. Featuring outdoor dining and patio areas, it’s a great spot to chill with your furry friend.

Sparkman Wharf

At Sparkman Wharf, you can find any number of sweet treats or tasty dishes while you’re out adventuring with your four-legged friend. Dogs at Sparkman Wharf must be kept on a leash, but are free to enjoy the sights and smells along with you.

Two Shepherds Taproom

Two Shepherds Taproom is the first indoor and outdoor dog park and bar in Tampa. Dogs must have proof of vaccinations. You can bring hard copies with you or upload them to the website.

Come for the day, and you’ll want to join because this one-of-a-kind park allows them to play freely while you relax and sip a beverage.

5 Things For Couples to Do in Tampa

Tampa has an exciting nightlife and beautiful views. From exploring old cigar factories to taking a tiki cruise, you are sure to find something you and your date can agree on in Tampa.

Dine in Ybor City

Stroll the city and find any number of places to grab a bite to eat. This historic town displays charming brick buildings that pay homage to Ybor City, the Cigar Capital of the World.

Stroll the Tampa Riverwalk

Completely free, open 24 hours a day, enjoy a stroll along this 2.6-mile path along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa.

Take a Tiki Cruise

Why take a regular boat on a sunset cruise when you can take a tiki! BYOB, grab a friend or two, and float around awhile in your private Tiki Bar.

Take a Kayak Glow Tour

Enjoy a nighttime adventure in a glowing, clear kayak on the Hillsborough River. You will paddle past a number of cultural locations, and might even see an otter, manatee, or dolphin. This date night is sure to be a hit!

Try Your Luck at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino

The Seminole Hard Rock Casino has something for everyone looking to try their luck. Enjoy the music memorabilia and modern music videos as you walk around this exciting venue.

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

MacDill AFB is located close to many major cities, making day trips easy and fun and all within a few hours. From theme parks to dolphin cruises, you’re never far from your next great adventure.

Below is a list of the many things you can do in the three big cities surrounding MacDill AFB.

St. Petersburg

Drive time: 35-45 minutes

• The Dali Museum: Featuring art from the renowned artist, Salvador Dali, you can find iconic melting clocks, visual illusions, and more.
• St. Pete Pier: A Pier for everyone, this beach-front attraction has everything from food, museums, fishing, and more.
• St. Pete Beach: The St. Pete Beach is set on a barrier island, offering a laid-back vibe on gorgeous white sand.

Orlando

Drive time: 1.5-2 hours

• Walt Disney World Resort: Visit Mickey and all his friends while enjoying a day at this magical park.
• Universal Orlando: Universal Orlando has four incredible theme parks, making sure everyone in your crew has a great time.
• Shopping: Orlando has options for every shopper. Offering premier malls, outlets, and local boutiques, you’ll find all your favorites and a few local specialties.

Tarpon Springs

Drive time: 50 minutes

• Spongeorama Sponge Factory: Tarpon Springs is known as the sponge capital of the world. Visit a sponge factory to get all the inside info about sponges (what they are and where they come from).
• Greek Dining: Tarpon Springs is home to some of the best Greek restaurants in the country. You can experience authentic dishes like saganaki, spanakopita, moussaka, and grilled octopus at places like Mama’s Greek Cuisine, Mr. Souvlaki Greek Restaurant, and more.
• Boat Tours: Whether you prefer a quiet sunset cruise or dolphin watching, Tarpon Springs has a tour for you. A few options include Suncoast Sailing, Odyssey Cruises, and Island Adventure Dolphin Cruise.

5 Things For Kids to Do in Tampa

The military-friendly area surrounding MacDill AFB includes many kid-friendly museums and activities!

• Florida Aquarium: Want to get a closer look at sea life? Visit the Florida Aquarium to see all your favorite sea creatures and for experiences like penguin encounters, stingray feeding, and a wild dolphin cruise.
• Museum of Science and Innovation: At the Museum of Science and Innovation, the wonders of science come to life. An interactive, hands-on center of rotating exhibits makes this a place for everyone.
• Game Time Tampa: Game Time is an entertainment center with over 100 arcade games, a restaurant, and a bar all under one roof.
• Glazer Children’s Museum: Explore the Glazer Children’s Museum with over 35,000 square feet of interactive exhibits. This is a place for your children to follow their curiosity and get wiggles out.
• Tampa Pirate Ship: Set sail on board the Lost Pearl for an hour and a half pirate adventure for all ages. You will be a part of the crew, complete with swashbuckling, water gun battles, and more.

Don’t Miss These Seasonal Events!

We’re sharing 5 seasonal events taking place in Tampa that you won’t want to miss.

Gasparilla Pirate Fest

A Tampa Bay tradition since 1904, the Gasparilla Pirate Fest is a massive pirate-themed celebration centered around a mythical pirate, Jose Gaspar. Arrr ye ready?

Busch Howl-O-Scream

Every year, Busch Gardens transforms its grounds into something terrifying for the Halloween season. Get your fright on here with haunted houses, scare zones, and thrill rides in the dark! Visit Busch Gardens' website here to learn more.

Stars & Stripes Beach Bash

Hosted on MacDill AFB, this summer celebration has waterfront recreation, sandcastle building, and family entertainment.

Summer Sing-Along Series

The Summer Sing-Along Series is a free community outdoor musical movie event held at different locations around Tampa in partnership with the Tampa Theatre. Visit the Tampa Theatre website here to learn more.

Oktoberfest Tampa

Oktoberfest Tampa is an annual 3-day outdoor event at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park featuring traditional Bavarian food, German beers, and live music. Get this on your October calendar so you don’t miss it.

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near MacDill AFB!

Being stationed at MacDill Air Force Base places you right in the heart of one of Florida’s most vibrant and diverse regions. Whether you are craving the thrill of world-class theme parks, looking to unwind on sugar-sand beaches, or hoping to explore local history and incredible culinary scenes, the Tampa Bay area truly has something for everyone.

From quick day trips across the bay to sunny weekends spent kayaking with your family and four-legged friends, MacDill isn't just a duty station—it’s an invitation to experience the ultimate Florida lifestyle. So grab your sunscreen, gather your crew, and get ready to make unforgettable memories during your time in Tampa!