Located on the southeastern edge of downtown Tampa, the Florida Aquarium houses a massive collection of marine life — 20,000 animal and plant life, by the last count. Some say it'll take you at least three hours to make your way through the maze of stingrays, moray eels and sea turtles that live here. Some shortcut advice involves a swing by the shark tanks, the African penguins and the polar bears especially. Also recommended, a stop by the Wetlands Trail exhibit, which includes alligators, otters and Burmese Pythons. Young kids are sure to enjoy the "Explore A Shore" exhibit, a 2-acre outdoor zone that includes a waterslide and geysers for youngsters to play in.

Make the most of Tampa's coastal location with a boat tour around its bay. You'll have your pick of tour options, including sunset sails, half-day trips and dolphin cruises. If you're already planning to visit the Florida Aquarium, consider penciling in some time for its Wild Dolphin Cruise. The tour, which departs from the aquarium daily, includes a 75-minute ride on a 72-foot catamaran. The aim of the tour is to get far enough into Tampa Bay to see the hundreds of bottlenose dolphins that call the area home, but you'll also likely spot several bird species and the occasional sea turtle.

Spanning 297 acres and boasting more than 12,000 animals, live shows, restaurants, shops and games, Busch Gardens is a popular way to spend a day under the Tampa sun. Did you know that Busch Gardens is actually older than nearby Disney World? It's also cheaper and includes themed lands on Morocco, the Congo, Timbuktu, Egypt and Nairobi; plus animal exhibits based on the Serengeti Plain and the Myombe Reserve (and that's just scratching the surface).

Even if you're not in town for a film screening or performance, visitors highly recommend a stop at the beautifully ornate Tampa Theatre. When it was built in 1926, the theater was considered one of the world's most elaborate theaters. Designed by architect John Eberson, the interior features a 900-pipe Wurlitzer organ and was constructed to look like a Mediterranean garden with flowers and gargoyles. Take a look at the ceiling and you'll spot 99 bulbs meant to resemble stars in the night sky. If you can't attend a show here, consider taking a tour instead.

Pronounced ee-bore, this northeast enclave of Tampa was once a hotbed for coffee manufacturing and hand-rolled cigars — factory workers would roll millions of them annually. Now it’s a mash of old and new; the vibrating bars and pubs represent the modern city; the brick streets and historic streetcar serve as a tribute to the neighborhood's past. Recent visitors were divided on when to visit: some said the nighttime entertainment is the most interesting feature of Ybor City, while others recommended stopping by during the day for delicious, authentic Cuban food and an amazing selection of cigars.