If you’re planning a trip to Tampa Bay and want to maximize your experience without breaking the bank, the Tampa Bay CityPASS® could be just what you need. It’s a flexible, cost-effective way to see some of the most popular sights across nine days—perfect for travelers who prefer a mix of planned adventures and leisure time.
What makes this pass particularly appealing are its significant savings—up to 55%—and the ease of digital access, which means no paper tickets or lengthy queues. Plus, with five major attractions included, you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Tampa Bay’s wildlife, thrills, and culture.
However, potential visitors should note that transportation and food are not included**, so plan to arrange your own logistics and meals around your visits. This pass suits travelers who enjoy a flexible schedule and want to skip the ticket lines while exploring at their own pace.
Key Points
- Flexible 9-day validity allows plenty of time to explore without rushing
- Includes 5 major attractions with significant savings compared to individual tickets
- Instant digital confirmation makes planning seamless
- Choose from additional activities like boat tours or museums
- Entry includes all shows and exhibits at Busch Gardens and other parks
- Ideal for families and solo travelers wanting a comprehensive Tampa Bay experience
What’s Included in the Tampa Bay CityPASS®?
The pass provides single-entry tickets to five top attractions, including Tampa Bay’s highlights like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa. Plus, you select two from a choice of boat tours, aquariums, or museums—tailoring your experience based on your interests.
Looking for more options in Florida? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
A highlight for many visitors, Busch Gardens offers a full day of rides, animal exhibits, and live shows. The pass grants one-day admission, which includes access to all the rides, shows, and exhibits. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to animal encounters, this park is a versatile attraction suited for thrill-seekers and animal lovers alike.
The Florida Aquarium
A favorite among reviewers, the Aquarium showcases marine life exhibits that are both educational and fun. Expect to see colorful fish, sharks, and touch tanks. One reviewer mentioned, “The staff was fantastic, and the exhibits are well-organized,” which highlights the quality of the experience.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Another must-see, ZooTampa offers animal chats, wildlife connections, and unlimited rides. It’s a bright, engaging zoo that’s perfect for families. The reviewer Sonya praised the “fantastic staff and educational facilities,” making it clear that the zoo staff go the extra mile to educate and entertain.
More Great Tours NearbyYour Choice of Two Activities
You have options like:
- Tropics Boat Tours (Dolphin Exploration or Sunset Cruise): You’ll love the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat or enjoy a serene sunset cruise, with one reviewer noting the boat tours are a “great way to relax and see Tampa’s waterways.”
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Known for rehabilitating marine animals, this aquarium offers close-up encounters with rescued dolphins and sea turtles.
- Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI): Perfect for curious minds, MOSI boasts exhibits like Dinovations Lab and a planetarium, including innovative interactive displays.
- Glazer Children’s Museum: A hands-on space where kids can learn through play, highly praised for its engaging exhibits.
How the Experience Works
Once you purchase the pass, you can download your mobile tickets instantly and begin planning. Most attractions require a reservation, so visiting my.citypass.com in advance is recommended. The 9-day validity from first use provides ample opportunity to spread out your visits, giving you flexibility if you prefer a relaxed pace or want to revisit favorites.
The Practicalities and Logistics
The pass’s cost of $149 per person offers excellent value. When you tally individual ticket prices, the savings become clear—up to 55% less than buying at each attraction separately. For families or groups, this can translate into significant savings, especially with the included access to popular parks and aquariums.
Travelers should note that transportation, food, and drinks are not included, so planning meals around your attraction visits is necessary. The attractions are within easy reach of each other, but you’ll want to consider how you’ll get between sites—whether by car, ride-share, or public transit.
Reviews and Personal Experiences
The reviews paint a picture of a hassle-free, well-organized experience. One commenter called CityPASS “PERFECT,” highlighting its efficiency and cost-effectiveness—no waiting in long lines and straightforward entry. Sonya appreciated the knowledgeable staff at attractions, which enhances the overall experience.
Lori emphasized the value of the pass in the Tampa area, saying, “Such a great price for all that is available,” which underscores how this ticket streamlines your sightseeing plans. Hasan’s review praised how smoothly the system works, enabling visitors to maximize their time and money.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This pass is ideal for families, solo travelers, and groups who want to see Tampa Bay’s highlights without the hassle of booking individual tickets. If you enjoy flexible itineraries and prefer skip-the-line access, it’s a perfect fit.
It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors eager to experience Tampa’s wildlife, theme parks, and museums, all while making the most of their budget. Those who appreciate educational content and guided interactions will find the zoo, aquarium, and museums particularly rewarding.
The Sum Up
The Tampa Bay CityPASS® offers a comprehensive, budget-friendly way to explore the city’s top attractions at your own pace. With up to 55% savings, 9 days to enjoy your tickets, and the flexibility to customize your visits, it’s a practical choice for travelers looking to get the most out of their trip.
For families seeking a fun-filled day at Busch Gardens, wildlife lovers eager to see ZooTampa, or curious minds wanting to explore MOSI, this pass packs plenty of value. Its ease of digital access and included attraction variety make it an excellent travel companion for Tampa visitors.
While transportation and meals are on you, the convenience of mobile tickets, combined with the positive reviews of well-organized attractions and friendly staff, makes this a smart investment. Whether you’re visiting Tampa for a weekend or spreading out your exploration, the CityPASS helps you focus on creating memorable moments without the stress of planning every detail.
Is the Tampa Bay CityPASS® valid for multiple days?
No, the pass is valid for one-time entry per attraction but can be used anytime within 9 days from first activation.
Can I buy the pass and use it later?
Yes, you can purchase the pass and start using it within one year of the purchase date, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.
Do I need to reserve my visits in advance?
Most attractions may require reservations, so it’s best to visit my.citypass.com beforehand to secure your spots and plan your itinerary.
Are the attractions wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the pass is noted to be wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.
What if I want to visit only a few attractions?
The pass offers significant savings if you visit multiple attractions; however, you’re not obligated to visit all five or two select activities.
Can I visit the attractions more than once?
No, the tickets are single-entry only to each attraction, so plan your visits accordingly.
Does the pass include food or transportation?
No, these are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own meals and transportation between sites.
What are the main attractions included?
The key sites are Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, and your choice of two from boat tours, museums, or marine aquariums.
Is the pass suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially if visiting Busch Gardens, ZooTampa, and interactive museums; check each attraction’s age policies for specific details.
This Tampa Bay CityPASS® presents a well-balanced, value-packed way to see Florida’s Gulf Coast highlights—perfect for curious explorers who seek both fun and convenience.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Evening Experiences in Florida
More Tours in Florida
- Silver Springs: Glass Bottom Kayak and Wildlife Tour
- Wynwood Graffiti Tour and Workshop: Create Your Own Street Art
- Explore in the Vibrant Art Scene of Wynwood Art Private Tour
- Semi-Private 1-Hour Airboat Tour of Miami Everglades
- Private South Beach, Wynwood Arts District and Little Havana Tour
- Clear Kayak Tours in Weeki Wachee
More Tour Reviews in Florida
Still browsing? Here are more Florida experiences we've covered recently
- Silver Springs: Glass Bottom Kayak and Wildlife Tour
- Juno Beach: All-Inclusive Beach Day Cabana Rental
- LEGOLAND® Florida Resort 1-Day Entry Ticket
- Miami Dolphins NFL Football Game Ticket
- From Miami: Bus transfer to Orlando Theme Parks
- Florida’s 3 Top Workshops & Classes
- 3 Best Walking Tours In Florida
- Florida’s 6 Top Sailing Experiences
- We Rank Florida’s 2 Top Jet-Ski Experiences
- Our 4 Favorite Florida Full-Day Tours
- 4 Fantastic 2 Hour Tours In Florida
- 2 Must-Try 2 Day Tours In Florida