Things to do in the Tampa Bay Area this Spring Break

Anna Woodward, Staff Writer

With Spring Break quickly approaching, many students are left without something to do. But, even if you don’t take a trip next week, you can still find tons of things to do around Tampa Bay besides the beach.

Hozier

Irish singer-songwriter Hozier recently released his second album, Wasteland, Baby! earlier this month and is currently on tour following its release. Next week, he’ll make a stop at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg on Wednesday, March 20. Hozier is best known for the smash hit “Take Me to Church” and his concert will be an unforgettable experience for concertgoers that only he can provide.

If you go:

400 1st St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

March 20, 8pm

Adventure Island

Adventure Island has been a staple for Tampa tourists and residents since its opening in 1980. The park is opening for this season this Saturday, March 23. All your favorite rides from Key West Rapids to Wahoo Run are still there, with the recent addition of Vanish Point last year. Vanish Point plunges riders from a 70 foot drop and sends them through over 400 feet of tubes. While it may not be as well-known as Busch Gardens, Adventure Island is a great way to beat the heat and have fun.

If you go:

10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612

Hours: 9:30am-6:00pm, with a few exceptions

Bay Area Renaissance Festival

Much like Adventure Island, the Bay Area Renaissance Festival has been a great way for both tourists and residents to go and have fun. This year, the festival is lasting every weekend from Feb. 16-March 31 from 10am-6pm. Among the countless attractions are pickle jousting, vendors and even a “unicorn”. This festival hosts themed weekends as well, with the upcoming weekend titled “Shamrocks and Shenanigans” as a way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

If you go:

11315 N. 46th St., Tampa, FL 33617

Hours: 10:00am-6:00pm

Feb.16-March 31

Slime Rodeo

This Saturday, the Tampa Convention Center will host the Slime Rodeo, for both creators and fans of slime alike. At the Slime Rodeo, attendees can experience a variety of attractions, including sellers, appearances from famous “slimers” and games and activities. With slime exploding in popularity this past year, this event is a must for anyone who’s a fan of the satisfying content.

If you go:

333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602

March 16

Haslam’s Book Store

For book lovers across the state, Haslam’s is the place to be. The bookstore, located in St. Petersburg, has been open since 1933 and is known as Florida’s largest new and used book store. Not only does the store offer a variety of books, but it is hosting an autograph session with mystery author John Vanek. He is signing his latest book, Miracles, at 2pm on Sunday, March 17. If you’re looking for a new place to get some good reading material, Haslam’s Book Store is a great place to check out.

If you go:

2025 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33713

Hours: 10:00am-6:30pm Monday-Saturday, 12:00pm-5:00pm Sunday