While the settlement s name of Fort Brooke gave way to the original Indian name, Tampa, the fort remains today, a part of living history. The museum gives a deep insight into the life and times of early settlers to this region and gives all its visitors a realistic perspective into the past. A love for nature is near to the heart of many who live in the Tampa area. Nowhere in Hillsborough County is that love more evident than at Hillsborough River State Park, which offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures. Full facility camping, primitive camping, canoeing, nature trails and swimming are but a few of the opportunities open to the public.
Nature is fun to observe and study in the Tampa Bay area.
The Lowry Park Zoological Garden is a family favorite for visitors, offering more than 1500 animal exhibits. Special features include the Native Florida Exhibit, Primate World and the Aquatic Center. Young and old will find the Lowry Park Zoo a great way to spend the day and the little ones will enjoy getting to meet cuddly new animal friends at the petting zoo area. Getting face to face with sharks can be dangerous, but at the Florida Aquarium, it s fun. The Florida Aquarium offers the chance for observing thousands of aquatic animals in their own environment.