Going to Tampa to watch LSU take on Iowa in the Outback Bowl? Need something to do before the big day? Need a place to kiss that special someone as the country rings in the new year?
Here’s a list of some fun things to check out while in the 727, in no particular order.
10. Big Cat Rescue — If you’re feeling home sick, go visit some of Mike the tigers’ distant relatives at the largest accredited abused and abandoned big cat sanctuary in the world. This non-profit organization is home to 14 different types of big cats including lions, cougars, ocelots and of course tigers.
9. Busch Gardens theme park — Another animal-friendly attraction, but this time with a little more thrill. This 335-acre theme park puts its guests in the middle of an African adventure, complete with 24 rides including eight rollercoasters. The park does have a few Mikes roaming around, but Busch Gardens also plays host to a slew of creatures ranging from elephants, lions, gorillas, giraffes, rhinos and more. Busch Gardens also hosts a New Years Eve party where the Golden Band from Tigerland will face off in a battle of the bands against the Hawkeye Marching Band just before the park sets off a fireworks display a midnight.
8. Clearwater Beach —Maybe tigers and rollercoaster aren’t quite your thing and you just want a nice, sandy beach to dig your toes into and watch the fireworks paint the skyline to kick off 2014. Named the No. 1 place in the country to watch a sunset, Clearwater Beach is the place to go in Tampa for sand, sun and waves. It may be a little too chilly for some fun in the sun this time of year, but Clearwater hosts a free fireworks show at midnight on New Years Eve.
7. Clearwater cruises — Whether you’re looking for a nice dinner cruise along the Clearwater shore or hoping to see dolphins splashing through the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach has several day cruises to enjoy on bowl weekend.
6. Shepard’s Beach Resort — For a little more adult fun on New Years Eve, check out the Shepards Beach Resort New Years bash. Claiming to be “the best party in town,” this 21 and older soirée promises plenty of live music, party favors and a champagne toast all within sight of the Clearwater Beach fireworks show.
5. Ybor City — The closest thing a Louisianan will get to the charms of the New Orleans French Quarter, Tampa’s Ybor City is known as the “Latin Quarter” and is famous for its music, food, culture and, most importantly, its cigars. One of only two National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida, Ybor City will also play host to the Tampa General Hospital New Years Eve Parade in conjunction with the Outback Bowl. Both school’s bands will march in the parade and perform with cheerleaders at a pep rally during the event.
4. Channel District — Another popular nightlife district in Tampa, Channelside offers fun for the whole family and adults alike. Home to the Florida Aquarium, the American Victory Museum, NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning and enough bars and restaurants to keep everyone busy for the bowl weekend, Channelside has plenty to offer.
3. Hyde Park District — This 265,000 square foot shopping district provides shoppers with a unique mix of national, regional and local retailers of everything from upscale clothing boutiques to a French bakery. Claiming to be one of the most desirable residential districts in the Tampa area, Hyde Park’s majestic oaks and brick walkways are a perfect setting for a relaxing day at the shops.
2. International Mall and Bay Street — With everything from Apple to Gucci, the International Mall of Tampa has everything to fill even the biggest shopaholic’s cravings. With three department stores, 200 specialty shops and 15 restaurants, this mall is a one-stop shop for all of your shopping needs.
1. Pregame Bowl Bash — The Outback Bowl hosts a tailgate party outside Raymond James Stadium leading up to the game on Jan. 1. Get there early, as kickoff is set for 1 p.m.