Background

Glazer Children's Museum: A World of Playful Learning

Inspire your child's imagination at the Glazer Children's Museum in Tampa, where hands-on exhibits and playful learning create unforgettable family experiences along the scenic Riverwalk.

4.5

The Glazer Children's Museum in downtown Tampa offers a vibrant and engaging space for kids aged 0-10 to learn through play. With over 170 interactive exhibits spanning various themes, children can explore concepts from science and art to culture and community. Imagine them running a pretend grocery store, enacting medical scenarios in a mini-hospital, or building structures in the engineering workshop. The museum's commitment to hands-on learning makes it a must-visit destination for families seeking an enriching and fun experience. The museum is located along the Tampa Riverwalk, offering a scenic and convenient location for visitors.

A brief summary to Glazer Children's Museum

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays or late afternoons) to avoid crowds and allow for a more relaxed and immersive experience.
  • Check the museum's website for special events, exhibitions, and programs that may be available during your visit to enhance your experience.
  • Take advantage of the reciprocal discounts offered with the Pirate Water Taxi for a scenic and convenient way to reach the museum.
  • Consider purchasing a Tampa Bay CityPASS to save up to 54% on admission to the Glazer Children's Museum and other top Tampa attractions.
  • If parking in the William F. Poe Garage, be aware that event rates may apply during downtown events, potentially increasing the cost to a flat rate.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Tampa Convention Center or many downtown hotels, the Glazer Children's Museum is easily accessible by foot. Head north along the Tampa Riverwalk, enjoying the scenic views. The museum is located next to the Tampa Museum of Art and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-15 minutes, depending on your starting point.

  • Public Transport

    The Glazer Children's Museum is accessible via the HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) bus system. Several bus routes, including 1, 19, 30, 360, 400, 8, and 9, stop near the museum. Check the HART website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the Tampa Bay Area Transit Center, take bus number 5 towards downtown and get off at Ashley Dr and W Gasparilla Plaza. A single ride fare is $2.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Tampa. Simply request a ride to the Glazer Children's Museum at 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602. The cost from downtown Tampa typically ranges from $8-$15, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, the most convenient parking option is the William F. Poe Garage adjacent to the museum (802 N. Ashley Drive). Be aware that the garage uses a ticketless ParkMobile system. Standard hourly rates typically apply, but a flat rate of $15 may be charged during events. Street parking is also available, but availability can be limited, especially during peak hours. Check the City of Tampa Parking Division website for real-time availability maps. Metered street parking typically costs $2.50 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Glazer Children's Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Glazer Children's Museum

The Glazer Children's Museum, a beacon of interactive learning and playful discovery, stands proudly in the heart of downtown Tampa along the picturesque Riverwalk. This 53,000-square-foot museum is more than just a place to spend an afternoon; it's a dynamic environment where children aged 0 to 10 can explore, create, and connect with the world around them through hands-on exhibits and engaging programs. Founded in 1986 as the Children's Museum of Tampa, the institution has evolved significantly over the years. Originally operating from a small storefront and later known as Kid City, the museum found its permanent home and new identity as the Glazer Children's Museum in 2010. This transformation marked a commitment to providing a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to early childhood education and family engagement. Inside, the museum unfolds into a world of 12 themed gallery areas, each designed to spark curiosity and foster a love of learning. With over 170 "interactivities," children can immerse themselves in a variety of roles and scenarios. In the Publix supermarket exhibit, they can scan groceries, manage money, and learn about the food cycle. At the St. Joseph's Children's Hospital exhibit, they can become doctors and nurses, caring for patients and understanding the basics of healthcare. Budding engineers can experiment with structures and mechanisms in the Engineers' Workshop, while aspiring firefighters can slide down a firepole and learn about fire safety in the Firehouse exhibit. The museum's exhibits are carefully crafted to align with educational standards, ensuring that playtime is filled with valuable brain-building experiences. From the Central Bank, where children learn about saving and spending, to the Global Café, where they explore diverse culinary traditions, each exhibit offers a unique opportunity for discovery. The Big John exhibit transports children back to the age of dinosaurs, while the Water's Journey Climber allows them to summit a two-story structure and learn about the importance of water in Tampa Bay. Beyond the exhibits, the Glazer Children's Museum offers a variety of programs and special events throughout the year. These include daily workshops, themed camps during school breaks, and special events like holiday celebrations and cultural festivals. The museum also hosts guided tours for school groups and other organizations, providing an in-depth exploration of its offerings. The Glazer Children's Museum is not just a place for children; it's a place for families to connect and create lasting memories. The museum's welcoming atmosphere and diverse range of activities make it a destination that appeals to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist visiting Tampa, the Glazer Children's Museum is a must-see attraction that will inspire and delight the whole family. The museum also provides several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. These include a Creativity Cafe serving food and drinks, water bottle refill stations, and stroller parking. The museum is committed to accessibility, with accessible parking available in the adjacent William F. Poe garage and an accessible entrance on the west side of the building. Visiting the Glazer Children's Museum is an investment in your child's future. It's a place where they can develop critical thinking skills, unleash their imagination, and discover the joy of learning. So, plan your visit today and embark on a journey of discovery and play at this fascinating museum that ignites imaginations and encourages engagement in interactive learning experiences. The Glazer Children's Museum is more than just a museum; it's a community resource that supports families and promotes early childhood education. Through its exhibits, programs, and events, the museum strives to create a world where children play, discover, and connect to the world around them to develop as lifelong learners and leaders. It stands as a testament to the power of play and the importance of investing in the next generation.

Popular Experiences near Glazer Children's Museum

Popular Hotels near Glazer Children's Museum

Select Currency