Best Ways to Entertain Kids at Tampa International Airport
Best Ways to Entertain Kids at Tampa International Airport
Traveling with children can feel overwhelming, but Tampa International Airport (TPA) makes the experience surprisingly stress-free. Whether you're a first-time parent navigating airport travel or a seasoned pro looking for new ideas, TPA offers numerous ways to keep your little ones entertained, engaged, and happy throughout your journey. Here's your complete guide to making airport time enjoyable for the whole family.
Shop, Explore, and Discover at Mindworks
Located in the Main Terminal, Mindworks is a novelty toy store that's practically a destination in itself for traveling families. This isn't just a place to buy last-minute entertainment—it's an experience.
What You'll Find
- Interactive display where kids can play while you browse
- Travel-sized games, puzzles, and activity books perfect for flights
- Brain-teasing toys and educational games
Parent Hack: Let your child pick out a small toy or activity book as a special 'flight surprise.' The novelty factor can buy you precious quiet time during the journey.
Turn Waiting Time into Learning Time: Airport Tours
For families with extra time before their flight, TPA offers something truly unique: airport tours and scavenger hunts. These educational programs transform potential boredom into an exciting adventure.
Tour Options
- Self-Guided Tours: Perfect for families with young children. TPA provides an itinerary highlighting points of interest you can explore at your own pace, any day of the week.
- Guided Tours: Book in advance for a comprehensive walking tour showcasing the airport's history, unique design, and daily operations.
- Scavenger Hunts: Fast-paced, team-building activities that get kids moving while teaching them about aviation.
Who Benefits Most: These tours are especially valuable for children who struggle with new environments or transitions. Familiarizing them with the airport can reduce anxiety and make the whole travel experience smoother. Contact Guest Services for details or to request a free coloring book!
Stay Connected with Free Wi-Fi
TPA offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout all airside buildings and the main terminal. This isn't just convenient—it's a lifesaver for modern families.
Smart Ways to Use It
- Download episodes of children's shows from streaming services before your flight
- Load up educational apps or games if you forgot to at home
- Video chat with family or friends as a distraction during long waits
- Stream calming music or white noise for naptime
Kid-Friendly Dining Options
Keeping kids fed and happy is half the battle when traveling. TPA offers numerous dining options that cater to young palates and family needs. The majority of TPA restaurants offer a children's menu.
Family Favorites with Children's Menus!
- P.F. Chang's and Hard Rock Cafe (Main Terminal): Sit-down options, with outdoor seating and a children's menu, if you have extra time and want a more relaxed meal
- Chick-fil-A (Main Terminal and Airside A): Kid's meals, nuggets, and the familiarity kids love
- Goody Goody Burger (Airside C): Great burgers, grilled cheese and milkshakes, available on their children's menu
- Four Green Fields (Airside E): Sit-down Irish pub with unique Irish flare and a children's menu
- The Eatery (Airside F): This popular eatery has various kid-friendly options, including Bella's Cafe (pizza), Square One (burgers), and Yogurtology (frozen yogurt)
Strategic Snacking: Many parents swear by using food as entertainment during flights. Stock up on healthy options before boarding, and save a special treat for mid-flight when energy starts to wane.
Breeze Through Security with Family Lanes
TPA is one of the first airports in the country to implement TSA's 'Families on the Fly' campaign, featuring dedicated family security screening lanes for travelers with children 12 and under. These lanes are available at each of the airport's four airsides, making the security process more efficient and less stressful.
What This Means for You
- More patient, family-oriented screening environment
- Reduced pressure when managing strollers, diaper bags, and multiple children
- TSA agents trained to work with families
Additional Entertainment Ideas
Window Watching
Never underestimate the entertainment value of watching planes take off and land. Find a spot near the windows and turn it into a game: count planes, identify airline logos, or guess destinations based on the aircraft type.
Coloring Sheets from Guest Services
Stop by any Guest Services desk to pick up complimentary coloring sheets—a quiet, screen-free activity that's perfect for downtime.
People Watching & Conversation Games
Make up stories about other travelers, play 'I Spy,' or practice counting in different languages. These no-equipment activities cost nothing and can be surprisingly engaging.
Explore the Art
TPA features an impressive public art collection spanning over 40 years. Turn your wait time into a mini art tour—it's educational and gets kids moving.
Planning Tips for Stress-Free Travel
- Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time to explore the play areas and amenities without rushing.
- Pack Light Entertainment: Even with TPA's amenities, bring a small backup—stickers, a favorite small toy, or a tablet with downloaded content.
- Use the Bathroom Before Security: Family bathrooms are available throughout the airport.
- Check Flight Status: Delays happen. If you have extra time, embrace it—book a tour, explore more, or let kids play longer.
The Bottom Line
Tampa International Airport has earned its reputation as one of the most family-friendly airports in the country, and for good reason. From the moment you arrive, you'll find thoughtful amenities designed to make traveling with children easier and more enjoyable. Whether it's interactive shops like Mindworks, complimentary entertainment options, or the family security lanes, TPA understands what families need. The key to successful airport entertainment is flexibility and creativity. Combine TPA's excellent facilities with your own strategies, and you'll find that 'airport time' can actually be enjoyable family time. Before you know it, you'll be boarding your flight with happy, entertained children—and that's the best travel victory of all.