Tampa Bay CityPASS®

Explore Tampa’s Top Attractions with the Tampa Bay CityPASS®

The Tampa Bay CityPASS® offers a practical way to visit five major Tampa attractions for $149 per person. The pass grants access to Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, The Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park, along with your choice of two additional experiences—such as a dolphin cruise, the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), or Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The pass is valid for nine consecutive days, providing flexibility to explore at a relaxed pace.

This pass is especially suited for families, groups, or travelers aiming to maximize their sightseeing in a limited timeframe. One of the biggest advantages is the considerable savings, as individual entry costs for some attractions exceed the pass price. However, it’s important to remember that transportation and food are not included, and attractions are often subject to availability and capacity limits.

Key Points

• Includes five major Tampa attractions with a $149 price tag.
• Valid for nine consecutive days, allowing flexible planning.
• Visit Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, plus select two additional attractions.
• Mobile tickets make entry simple and contactless.
• Attraction hours typically run from 8:00AM to 10:00PM daily.
• No transportation is included, so plan for parking or transit separately.

Tampa Bay CityPASS® Offers Easy Access to Major Tampa Attractions

The tour begins with admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, known for its mix of thrilling rides and animal exhibits. Guests can spend up to 8 hours exploring the park, which is noted for its variety of rides and shows. While some reviews mention parking costs—generally around $36—the ease of entry and the value of the pass still attract many visitors.

Next, visitors head to The Florida Aquarium, known for its quaint setting and marine exhibits. The 4-hour visit allows enough time to see the local sea life, including manatees, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium’s efficient entry process is appreciated, making it a convenient stop.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park: A Family-Friendly Highlight

A general admission ticket grants access to ZooTampa at Lowry Park, which is recognized for its animal collection and family-friendly environment. Visitors stay about 4 hours, experiencing monkeys, rhinos, and sea turtles. Several reviews praise the animal exhibits and well-maintained grounds, making it a popular choice for families with children.

The Tropics Boat Tours: Dolphin or Sunset Cruises

The Tropics Boat Tours, included as a free 2-hour experience, offers dolphin exploration or a sunset cruise. These reservations need to be made in advance through the My CityPASS app, but no additional charge applies. The dolphin cruise provides the chance to see pods of nursery dolphins in their natural habitat, adding a memorable nature experience to the trip.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Marine Life Encounters

Choosing the Clearwater Marine Aquarium as part of the two additional attractions lets visitors see rescue animals like dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees. The 4-hour visit highlights the conservation efforts of the facility and is praised for its interactive exhibits. The aquarium’s general admission makes it easy to include in the planned sightseeing schedule.

Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): Educational Fun

The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) is a key educational stop, with general admission allowing visitors to explore interactive exhibits, IMAX theaters, and science demonstrations. The 4-hour stay provides a hands-on experience, though some reviews mention it being disappointing compared to other attractions. Still, it offers a valuable indoor activity especially during inclement weather.

Glazer Children’s Museum: Engaging for Younger Visitors

The Glazer Children’s Museum is included as a free 5-hour experience, focusing on interactive learning and creative play for children. Its family-friendly design and engaging exhibits make it a favorite for those traveling with young kids. Opening hours are from 8:00AM to 10:00PM, so you can easily fit this in during your trip.

Practicalities: Ticket Use and Reservation Tips

The mobile ticket system simplifies entry to each attraction. Visitors should present their tickets on a mobile device or print them beforehand. The nine-day validity means you can visit attractions on any days within the period, giving flexibility for pacing your sightseeing.

Reservations are necessary for certain experiences like the dolphin cruise, which can be done via the My CityPASS app. It’s advised to reserve early to secure preferred times and avoid disappointment, especially during busy seasons.

What About the Experience and Reviews?

The CityPASS experience earns a 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 177 reviews. The most praised aspects include the value for money, ease of use, and the variety of attractions. Many reviewers highlight how the pass saves significant money—with one mention that Busch Gardens alone costs over $100.

However, some reviews point out challenges, such as parking fees, attraction closures, and reservation issues. Notably, some visitors have expressed disappointment with busch Gardens’ ride availability and crowd management, while others appreciate the smooth entry process and flexibility to visit attractions in any order.

The Sum Up: A Cost-Effective Way to Experience Tampa

The Tampa Bay CityPASS® stands out as a cost-efficient solution for travelers wanting to explore Tampa’s top sights over a nine-day period. Its easy-to-use mobile tickets and wide selection of attractions make it a practical choice, especially for families or groups aiming to see Busch Gardens, aquariums, and animal parks without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets.

While parking costs and reservation requirements are factors to consider, the overall value and diverse experiences make this pass appealing. It suits travelers who prefer flexible scheduling and want to maximize their Tampa visit with less stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Tampa Bay CityPASS® include transportation?
No, transportation to and from attractions is not included. Visitors need to arrange their own transit or parking.

Can I visit the attractions multiple times with this pass?
No, each attraction’s admission is one-time only. This is clearly stated and confirmed through reviews.

How long is the pass valid?
The pass is valid for nine consecutive days starting from the first use. It can be used on any days within this period.

Are there any blackout dates for the attractions?
There are no blackout dates for Tropics Boat Tours or other included attractions, but reservations are required. Some reviews mention sold-out cruises, so early booking is recommended.

Is the ticket delivery process complicated?
No, the mobile ticket system is straightforward. Present the ticket via your phone or print it for easy scanning at each attraction.

What should I do if I encounter issues with my ticket?
The Customer Care team is available at support.citypass.com to assist with any technical problems or questions regarding reservations and usage.