Tampa area suggestions

[E(ticket)lizabeth]

Grammy has decided she really wants to go to Busch Gardens before she gets too decrepit to enjoy it, so we now have a condo in Indian Rocks Beach for the week of Jan. 13. We know we're going to BG, and we're planning on seeing the Florida Aquarium, and then we've decided we can't possibly fly to central Florida without doing at least one day in WDW, so we're going to pop over and hit the MK one day. Other than that, we're still going through guide books. What else is a must-see? Just this morning, DH told me he really wants to go to a cigar factory--that could be cool, but I don't think DS (2-1/2) would care for it, but that's okay. Grammy will probably agree to play with him for long enough! What else?

DH also really wants to drive over to Orlando to go to Sea World--I don't really want to take another day to drive, plus I think DS will not have as much fun there yet. He doesn't really like to sit still long enough for the shows, and he's certainly not big enough for the rides yet. I think the FL Aquarium will be good for him, because it's smaller (and cheaper!), so he won't get bored while we're still trying to see Shamu. Don't get me wrong, I love Sea World, and I'm sorry we've missed it the last several trips, but I just don't think this is the time. What do you think? Any personal experiences with active, curious 2-yo kids?

DS loves boat rides, so I'm hoping to talk Grammy into popping for a short cruise--maybe a pirate cruise, for fun? Suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[spiceycat]

here the visitors bureau for st peterburg/clearwater - and then tampa
http://www.floridasbeach.com/

http://www.visittampabay.com/

mother use to love the sunken gardens - but for an active 2 1/2 years I don't know.

there is a Dinosaur World - might be too much for a 2 1/2 year old.

take a day at least to enjoy the beaches - they are lovely!!!

 

[GOODoldPAL]

Maybe check what the Children's museum in Tampa has to offer for your DS - it does have fun hands on activities.

I have family north of Tampa who recommended this when my DD was 7 but we went to a science museum in Orlando instead (it had a comedy/magic show that included pizza - big hit!).
If I remember correctly, fam said the Tampa children's museum was next to or near a park too.