Over the next month, schools all across the country will be taking a week off of class for Spring Break. For most students that means flying down to somewhere warm and with a beach. If heading for us here in the Bay Area, here are some fun things that don't involve the beach. For those of us in Tampa year around are lucky enough to be able to go to the beach every day of the year, here are 10 things to do that don't involve that beautiful blue ocean.
Make the food you always save on Facebook
With all the fresh fruits and veggies you can get at your local farmer's market it is time to finally make those recipes that you've been saving on your Facebook. I mean, is there ever a bad time for crock pot bacon mac-and-cheese?
Top Golf
Top Golf isn't your typical driving range. It's a tri-level arena that offers number golf based games and believe me you don't have to be a pro. The wait staff is fantastic (Ask for Katie), the food is superb and with a full bar, it is the ultimate Spring Break hangout. It is a fun hangout and the experience cannot be described - Just go!
Local Attractions
There are so many local attractions that are best visited in the Spring. Visit Busch Gardens where you can pay for a day and come back all year. The Museum of Science and Industry is also a fun spot to check out. If science isn't your thing, visit the penguins at the Florida Aquarium or Elephants at Lowry Park Zoo!
YMCA
The Tampa YMCA offers a multitude of fun things to do! From waterparks to indoor basketball courts and my favorite, racquetball at the Central City Y. The Y is for more than just a workout and can be a great alternative to the hot outdoors!
The Great Escape Room
This exciting "Sherlock Holmes" themed adventure is sure to get you and your friends thinking. Get a group of your best friends, frat brothers, or sorority sisters and try to escape. You have 60 minutes - can you do it?
Riverwalk
If you are looking for relaxation, the Tampa Riverwalk is right for you. You can easily spend the day walking the coast of Downtown, enjoying the beautiful city. Grab a cool drink at the Sail Pavillion, or check it out on St. Patty's Day when the river turns green. Day or night, the Riverwalk is a great place to be.
Splitsville
Splitsville in Channelside has reinvented bowling. It offers a light atmosphere to enjoy dinner and 10 frames with a group of friends or coworkers. Nothing beats a night of bowling and billiards. Plus, on "2 for Tuesdays,", you can get shoes and rent a lane for $2 a piece - how can you beat that?
Yankees Spring Training Game
You don't have to be a Yankee's fan to enjoy a day at the ballpark. Steinbrenner field in Tampa offers a wicked atmosphere to enjoy an afternoon of baseball.
Ybor
I can't stress enough how much you need to spend a day in Ybor City. This place is full of the heritage and history that helped make Tampa what it is today. From the Nutella empanadas and hot-pressed Cuban sandwiches (a Tampa creation) at The Stone Soup Co to an evening glass of cafe con leche and a cigar at King Corona, Ybor is a must visit exclusive of Tampa. Don't forget to catch HamBingo at Hamburger Mary's where you always get dinner and a show - every night of the week!
Groupon a Spa day (or anything else for that matter)
Groupon offers unbeatable deals on just about everything on this list and more in Tampa. If you are looking for a "me day" or some relaxation time, check out what Groupon has to offer.
You could just visit the beach
Yes yes yes, I know I began by saying I was going to offer beach alternatives but nothing beats a good ole fashioned day on the beach. There is nothing as relaxing as your butt in the sand and toes in the cool, Gulf waters. And you can always end the day at John's Pass Boardwalk. If you're lucky you may even see some dolphins!
I hope over the next few weeks you are able to enjoy some of my favorite things around the city. These are the best gems that my hometown has to offer! Comment below and let me know what places you check out on your spring break!
