Free & Affordable Things to Do in Hillsborough County This Summer (2025)

From splash pads to museum tours, Hillsborough County has everything you need for a fun and affordable summer with kids.

Use the Hillsborough Discovery Pass

Reserve a pass online and visit:

  • Glazer Children’s Museum
  • Tampa Museum of Art
  • American Victory Ship
  • Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
  • Henry B. Plant Museum

Splash Pad Adventures

  • Curtis Hixon Park
  • Julian B Lane Park
  • Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park
  • Giddens Park
  • Northdale Park

Kids Bowl Free

Movie Deals for Summer

  • Regal: $1 tickets
  • AMC: $3 kids’ movies
  • Tampa Theatre: Free tour with Discovery Pass

Hillsborough Libraries = Summer Fun

STEAM labs, bilingual storytime, animal shows, family movie days.

ZooTampa – Best Deal of the Year

One ticket = unlimited visits through 2025:

  • Ages 12+: $49.95
  • Ages 3–11: $39.95
    Includes parking, events, and member perks.
    👉 zootampa.org

ResortPass – Pool Day Without the Hotel Stay

Book a local hotel pool day for as low as $25.
Perfect for summer birthdays, surprises, or chill time.
👉 resortpass.com

Pro Tip: Local parks often host movie nights and nature scavenger hunts—check your city’s recreation website or Facebook page regularly!