Did you know that Tampa, Florida is home to 194 Tampa parks (Tampa.gov)? This means families with members of all ages can find something to do in any one of these locations. Besides parks, there are plenty of other ways to have family fun in Tampa, with this city boasting plenty of multigenerational activities for everyone to enjoy.
No matter what your hobbies or interests are, Tampa has something for everyone, including tons of senior-friendly activities so the whole family is included. Here’s what you and your family can look forward to in Tampa!
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Some of the best family outings include theme parks. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has plenty of senior-friendly attractions, including safaris and tours for everyone to enjoy.
Those looking for some adventure can enjoy the rides that Busch Gardens has to offer, while other family members can check out these activities offered at various times of the year:
- Food & Wine Festival
- Giraffes Galore
- Pin Trading Weekend
- Brews & BBQ
- Christmastown
No matter what you and your family are looking to do, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has great local entertainment to keep your entire family occupied.
The Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium is another excellent spot for families in search of activities and events, including a family-friendly brunch cruise. Anyone looking for a relaxed experience can enjoy an evening of talks and learning more about aquatic animals from professionals.
Independent senior living communities provide plenty of opportunities to take classes while learning something new, which is why The Florida Aquarium is a perfect outing for the whole family.
There are even different conservatories to enjoy, including sea turtles and coral. Visitors can enjoy a variety of habitats, exhibits, and experiences, making The Florida Aquarium a destination worth visiting.
Tampa Zoo at Lowry Park
Calling all animal enthusiasts! Tampa Zoo at Lowry Park has plenty of incredible exhibits for family members of all ages to enjoy, including its manatee rescue and rehab.
This zoo also features animal conservation programs and works to provide educational programs about animals. It also features special days, including:
- Penguin Awareness Day
- Toddler Tuesday
- Day of Discovery
Plus many more exciting events for the whole family to enjoy.
iFly Indoor Skydiving
What’s great about iFly Indoor Skydiving is that it features an All Abilities Night at iFly.
This program is great for anyone with a physical or cognitive limitation, making it an inclusive activity for the whole family to enjoy regardless of ability level. However, a doctor should always be consulted before engaging in activities such as this.
Henry B. Plant Museum
The Henry B. Plant Museum has plenty of exhibits for the entire family to check out. There are even special events to commemorate holidays throughout the year.
Even better, those attending the Henry B. Plant Museum can enjoy “May Free Saturday,” working to keep costs affordable for those looking to have a day out with their family.
Visit the Tampa Theatre
Another great activity for the whole family is a trip to the Tampa Theatre. Another looking to grab a behind-the-scenes pass to the theatre might enjoy the Balcony to Backstage Tour, or any number of annual events.
This includes:
- Hollywood Awards Night
- WineFest
Although you never know what events the Tampa Theatre will add to its exciting roster.
The Tampa Theatre even screens different movies, offering activities for the family to partake in all year long.
Benefits of Family Outings for Seniors
No matter what type of activities you and your family love to do, know that you’re spending quality time together. Here are some benefits of senior-friendly outings for the whole family:
Cognitive Stimulation
When seniors interact with their family and friends regularly, they receive much-needed cognitive stimulation. Coupled with educational adventures in Tampa Bay, seniors are more likely to stave off symptoms of dementia.
There is no shortage of activities in Tampa Bay that help improve mental health, and can be as low-key as a family picnic in one of the many picturesque parks to visiting a local restaurant for a nice meal out. The goal is to spend time together, talking and enjoying each other’s company.
Physical Activity
Physical activity is ideal for everyone, seniors included. By getting together as a family, seniors are encouraged to get up and move around. They can walk around the park or a zoo for the afternoon, getting in some steps while soaking up the Vitamin D.
Just don’t forget your sunblock!
Other family-friendly activities that offer physical activity include:
- Museums
- Historical locations
- Local shopping areas
And so much more.
Combat Feelings of Isolation
The National Poll on Healthy Aging reports that 34% of older adults feel isolated.
Feelings of loneliness affect people of all ages. But time spent as a family can combat these feelings, especially for seniors living alone. By taking an afternoon or an evening to enjoy an activity as a family, seniors can work to combat these feelings.
Emotional Health
When engaging in social activities, a person’s body releases endorphins. From there, they feel better, as a sense of happiness is usually the result. From there, seniors might feel a reduction in:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
When families get together, they can help each other to have fun and relax as they engage in social activities.
Boost Immune Health
Another benefit of family outings is a possible boost in immune health, something that’s important for seniors. Protective immunity wanes with age, but getting out and spending time with your family can help boost physical health, which plays a role in supporting immune health.
Are You Ready for Family Fun in Tampa?
Family fun in Tampa is geared for all ages, with theme parks boasting activities everyone can enjoy. For those looking to skip the sun and stay indoors, indoor destinations provide exciting ways of bonding as a family while enjoying the best that Tampa has to offer.
If you or a loved one is looking for the best independent living community in the Tampa area, then reach out to Aston Gardens at Tampa Bay today. We feature plenty of activities and events, perfect for socializing and making new friends. We also offer games, exercise classes, movie nights, and so much more.
Contact us today to learn more about our available programs and to tour our beautiful floor plans.
