University of South Florida: Fun Things to Do Near the Tampa Campus
Here is a list of the most fun things to do near the campus, all within minutes of the school:
Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens is a 335 acre fun-filled amusement park located a few miles from the University of South Florida on Busch Boulevard. In addition to the assortment of rides, Busch Gardens features shows, dining, and an Anheuser-Busch hospitality house where park guests can sample Anheuser-Busch products. Busch Gardens is also home to several phenomenal roller coasters. Gwazi is the largest double wooden roller coaster in the Southeast and SheiKra is the first dive roller coaster in the U.S. Busch Gardens provides guests with plenty of shops and restaurants too. Florida residents receive special ticket prices, but check the Busch Gardens website for seasonal hours and prices. www.buschgardens.com
Adventure Island
Adventure Island, a 30 acre water park, adjoins Busch Gardens. This fun park features water slides, a water playground, and a 17,000 square foot wave pool. In addition, Adventure Island offers an area for sunbathing and a sand volleyball court. There is plenty to eat at one of the park's outdoor cafes and lots to buy at any of the park gift shops. Guests can also rent cabanas for the day. The price of admission is $35.95 for adults, $33.95 for children 3-9, and free for children 2 and under. Check the website for seasonal hours of operation. www.adventureisland.com
Imax Dome Theater
The Imax Dome Theater is located on Fowler Avenue across the street from the university. Part of the Museum of Science and Industry, the theater is the only Imax Dome in Florida and 1 of only 250 in the world. The theater's screen completely surrounds patrons and the picture is ten times bigger than a standard movie picture. The largeness of the theater and screen can cause some viewers to become dizzy, so be careful. Also, if you exit the theater during a movie, you cannot return. Check the Museum of Science and Industry website for show times and prices. http://www.mosi.org/index.html
GameWorks
GameWorks is located on 8th Avenue in Ybor City which is about fifteen minutes from USF. The entertainment complex was designed Steven Spielberg and consists of a vast array of games and serves great food and drinks. Although GameWorks is a little further from the school than the other attractions listed, it's worth the trip. Admission to GameWorks is free, but you must be at least 18 to enter after 10 PM. Hours vary, so make sure that you call ahead. http://www.gameworks.com
Published by Dana Barnett
Dana is currently attending graduate school but enjoys writing in her very limited spare time. She also has two dogs who are the loves of her life. View profile
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