Tampa Bay offers a little something for everyone regardless of your interest. Looking to immerse yourself in history, photography, and art? You will be pleased to find a variety of museums that cater to different interests.

Here are some notable museums in the Tampa Bay area worth visiting this summer:

1. Tampa Museum of Art: Situated in downtown Tampa, the Tampa Museum of Art features a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities. The museum also hosts traveling exhibitions and educational programs.

2. The Dalí Museum: Located in St. Petersburg, The Dalí Museum is dedicated to the works of the renowned Spanish artist Salvador Dalí. It houses the largest collection of Dalí's artwork outside of Spain, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings that showcase his unique style and surrealistic vision.

3. Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg: Also situated in St. Petersburg, the Museum of Fine Arts boasts an extensive collection of artworks spanning various periods and cultures. The museum showcases European, American, and Asian art, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Cézanne, among others.

4. Glazer Children's Museum: Designed for children and families, the Glazer Children's Museum in downtown Tampa offers interactive exhibits and educational experiences focused on science, art, and early childhood development. It encourages hands-on exploration and learning through play.

5. Henry B. Plant Museum: Housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel, a historic landmark, the Henry B. Plant Museum showcases the opulent lifestyle and Gilded Age history of the Tampa Bay region. The museum features period rooms, exhibits on the hotel's past, and artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

6. Florida Museum of Photographic Arts: Situated in downtown Tampa, the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts exhibits contemporary and historic photography from around the world. The museum showcases a diverse range of photographic styles and techniques, providing a platform for artistic expression through the medium of photography.

7. Chihuly Collection: Located in St. Petersburg's downtown district, the Chihuly Collection showcases the stunning glass artwork of renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The collection features his vibrant and intricate glass sculptures, including large-scale installations that highlight the interplay of light, color, and form.

8. Museum of Western and Wildlife Art: Situated in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, this museum showcases Western and wildlife art, including paintings, sculptures, and Native American artifacts.

9. Imagine Museum: The Imagine Museum focuses on contemporary American studio glass art. It features an extensive collection of glass artwork, including intricate sculptures, vessels, and installations.

10. Morean Arts Center: While not strictly a museum, the Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg is a vibrant hub for contemporary art. It features galleries showcasing works by local and national artists, as well as art classes and workshops.

11. Tampa Bay History Center: The Tampa Bay History Center presents the rich history of the Tampa Bay region through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling. It explores the area's diverse cultural heritage, from Native American history to the development of Tampa as a major city.

12. Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): MOSI is an interactive science museum featuring a range of exhibits on topics like space exploration, technology, biology, and robotics. It also has an IMAX Dome Theatre and a planetarium.

13. Ybor City Museum State Park: Located in the historic Ybor City neighborhood, this museum showcases the history and culture of the area, known for its cigar industry and immigrant heritage.

14. American Victory Ship Mariners Museum: This museum is housed on board the SS American Victory, a restored World War II-era ship. Visitors can explore the ship's interior, exhibits, and artifacts related to maritime history.

These are just a few of the many museums in the Tampa Bay area. Whether you're interested in art, history, science, or photography, you'll find something to pique your curiosity and expand your knowledge in this vibrant region.

Museums of Tampa Bay