Attractions...........
                     

BUSCH GARDENS - This 300-acre African-themed park and zoo includes the world-class Montu and Kumba roller coasters, Hollywood Live on Ice, the "Myombe Reserve: The Great Ape Domain", "Tanganyika Tidal Wave," Clydesdale Hamlet, Land of the Dragons; kennels available; wheelchair access. 3000 E. Busch Blvd., Tampa. Open daily, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Prices adjusted seasonally:  $47.95 for adults, $38.95 for children ages 3 - 9, children under 3 free. (813) 987-5082 www.buschgardens.com

ADVENTURE ISLAND - A 36-acre water theme park open March-October features 17 water play area including the new Key West Rapids, the "Aruba Tuba" inner tube flume, the "Spike Zone" volleyball park, pools and slides. 4500 Bougainvillea Ave., near Busch Gardens, Tampa Open daily during season, hours 9 a.m. until dusk, weather permitting Adults, $25.95 (+ tax); children 3-9, $23.95 (+ tax); 2 and younger, free.
(813) 987-5660 

CLEARWATER MARINE CENTER - A nonprofit aquarium museum with guided tours, exhibits of marine environment, sea life including dolphins and sea turtles, feedings daily. 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Adults, $7.75; children 3-11, $5.25; tour groups, $4.75 per person.
(813) 441-1790
www.cmaquarium.org 

FLORIDA AQUARIUM - Discover the flora, fauna, aquatic creatures and wildlife of Florida as you journey through the various stages of the state's water from underground springs to the Everglades, the beaches and the sea. Education and ecology combine in special programs and films. Highlights include a half-million gallon Coral Reefs Gallery. 701 Channelside Drive, in Tampa's port district. Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Adults $12.95, youth (13-18) and seniors $11.95, child (3-12) $7.95, Florida resident discounts. 
(813) 273-4020
www.flaquarium.net 

LOWRY PARK ZOOLOGICAL GARDEN - All-natural animal habitats, aviary, Native Florida Boardwalk, Asian Domain, Primate World and Manatee and Aquatic Center, ``Reptile Encounters,'' strollers available. Dinosaurs and the Dragon Dinamation exhibit through July 28. Sligh Avenue at North Boulevard, Tampa. Open daily, 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Adults, $9.50; seniors 50 and older, $8.50; under 12, $5.95; 2 and younger, free. 
(813) 935-8552
www.lowryparkzoo.com

PIER AQUARIUM - Exhibits include ``Florida Sea Turtles, '' ``Shark Research,'' ``Florida Ecosystems,'' California sharks and Tampa Bay species. 800 Second Ave., at the Pier in St. Petersburg. Open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Sat., noon-6 p.m. Sun. $1 donation suggested (813) 895-7437

SUNKEN GARDENS - Botanical attraction, 500 birds and animals, bird shows daily, alligator show. 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. Open daily, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Adults, $14; children 3-11, $8; younger than 3, free.
(813) 896-3186

BOATYARD VILLAGE - The Village features Yesterday's Air Force Museum and Florida Museum of Holography as well as shopping and dining. 16100 Fairchild Drive, Clearwater. Open 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Mon.-Thurs. ; 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat.; noon-6 p.m., Sun. No admission.
(813) 535-4678

COLUMBIA RESTAURANT - Ybor City's historic landmark restaurant features Gisela Sotomayor Spanish Flamenco Dance Company plus world famous food. 2117 East Seventh Avenue, Ybor City. Dance show Mon .-Sat. 8:30 p.m.; restaurant hours vary. Admission for show $5.
(813) 248-4961 reservations recommended

TAMPA THEATRE - This restored 1926 movie palace features films, concerts and special events that are enhanced by an elaborate setting. 711 Franklin St., Tampa. Open daily depending on event schedule. (813) 274-8981

USF CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM - "Two Cents: Works on Paper by Jean-Michel Basquiat and Kevin Young through Aug. 17; "Symbolized Signifier" though Aug. 17. University of South Florida college of Fine Arts, 4202 E. Fowler Ave. Hours 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mon-=Fri., 1-4 p.m. Sat. Free admission.
(813) 974-2849

HISTORICAL AND FLIGHT MUSEUM - A museum commemorating the wonders of flight; wheelchair access. 335 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m Mon.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. Adults, $4.50; 62 and older, $3.50; children 7-17, $1.50; 6 and younger, free.
(813) 894-1052

MILITARY AVIATION MUSEUM - Includes a collection of military aircraft, vehicles and weapons systems, including an F-86 Sabre and an F-105 Thunderchief. St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport, 16055 Fairchild Drive, Clearwater. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m Tues., Thurs., Sat..; 1-5 p.m. Sun. Adults, $2; children under 6, $1. (813) 535-9007

TAMPA BAY HOLOCAUST MUSEUM - Jewish exhibits, photography, artifacts, manuscripts and other memorabilia. "A Day in the Warsaw Ghetto: A Birthday Trip to Hell," through Aug. 23. 5001 Duhme Road, Madeira Beach. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., noon-4 p.m. Sun. Admission $6. (813) 392-4678

YBOR CITY STATE MUSEUM - Exhibits present Ybor City culture and history. 1818 Ninth Ave., Ybor City, in the former Ferlita Bakery building. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tues. - Sat., closed noon to 1 p.m. Admission $2; younger than 6, free.
(813) 247-6323

FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM - Opening Oct. 1, "Alexander the Great," ancient Greek exhibit. 100 Second St. N., St. Petersburg Open daily, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $14.50, seniors $13.25, child (5-16) $5. Reservations suggested.
(813) 821-1448 or (800) 777-9882
www.floridamuseum.org

GREAT EXPLORATIONS: THE HANDS-ON MUSEUM - Displays on home safety and a mock-up fire station, ``Explore Galore'' features 25 exhibits for all ages, six activity areas with participatory exhibits. "Creatures of the Dark," through Nov. 1120 Fourth St. S., St. Petersburg. Open 10 a.m. -5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Ages 18-65, $6; age 66 and older, $5.50; ages 4-17, $5; younger than 4, free.
(813) 821-8992

GULF BEACHES HISTORICAL MUSEUM - Exhibits on the history of the Gulf beaches; wheelchair access available. 115 10th Ave., Pass-A-Grille. Open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m Sat.; 1-4 p.m Sun. Admission free.
(813) 360-2491

HERITAGE PARK - (Pinellas County Historical Museum) A 21-acre park with 19 structures reflecting turn-of-the-century lifestyles of Pinellas pioneers. 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues.-Sat., 1-4 p.m. Sun. Admission free.
(813) 582-2123

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS - European, American, pre-Columbian and Far Eastern exhibits including photography, prints and sculptures. Artists include Renoir, Monet, Georgia O'Keeffe, Degas, Lebrun, Corot and a gallery of Steuben glass. Call about changing exhibitions, lectures and concerts. 255 Beach Drive, N.E., St. Petersburg. Hours 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Tues - Sat., 1 -5 p.m. Sun. Adults, $5; seniors, $3; student, $2; children under 6, free.
(813) 896-2667

JOHN'S PASS - The pass, cut by a hurricane in 1848, separates Madeira Beach and Treasure Island. In recent years the pass has become one of the area's hottest attractions, with dozens of restaurants and shops. On the Madeira Beach side, power boats, Wave Runners and the jet-propelled rubber rafts, are available for rent. Johns Pass also is the home port of two cruise ships that go several miles offshore for dancing, dining and gambling. 150th Avenue, Madeira Beach. No admission charged. Hours vary by business establishment, open 7 days.
(813) 397-1571 or (813) 399-8989

ADMIRAL DINNER DANCE BOAT - A 1 1/2-hour sightseeing, meal and bird-feeding cruise. 25 Causeway Blvd., Clearwater. Sightseeing 12:30-2:30 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; luncheon cruises Wed., Fri. and Sat.; 3 1/2-hour dinner-dance cruises Tues.- Sat. and some Sundays, board at 7 p.m. Sightseeing: Adults, $7.75, children 3-12, $4.95; seniors, $6; call for dinner prices.
(813) 462-2628 for reservations

CAPTAIN ANDERSON DINNER BOAT - A variety of cruise options including wildlife sightseeing, gospel music, lunchtime, and dinner and dance cruises. 3400 Pasadena Ave., St. Petersburg Beach. Tues. - Sat.: Luncheon cruise, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., $11.95 adults, $10.95 seniors, $6.95 children. Dolphin Watch & Bird-Feeding cruise, 2-4 p.m., $5.25 adults, $4.75 seniors, $2.50 children. Wed., Fri. and Sat.: Gospel Music Cruise, 7-9:30 p.m., $16.25 adults, $15.25 seniors, $9.50 children. Dinner and Dance Cruise, 7 - 10 p.m., $21.50 adults, $20.50 seniors, $12.50 children.
(813) 367-7804

EUROPA SEAKRUZ - Six-hour cruise featuring a gourmet buffet, live entertainment and Las Vegas style casino. Call for schedule and prices. 150 153rd Ave., Madeira Beach.
(813) 393-5110 or (800) 668-PLAY

STARLITE CRUISES - The Starlite Princess Riverboat offers a variety of cruises including dinner dance, luncheon sightseeing, ecological sightseeing and Dixieland Jazz. Departs from Garrison Seaport Center next to Florida Aquarium. The Starlite Majesty departs from Clearwater Beach Marina. Garrison Seaport Center, Tampa, and Clearwater Beach Marina.
(813) 229-1200

DERBY LANE GREYHOUND RACING - Enjoy dog racing action and dining in The Derby Club restaurant. 10490 Gandy Blvd., St. Petersburg. Hours change seasonally.
(813) 576-1363 or (813) 576-1361

SEMINOLE GAMING PALACE - Indian Village and Museum; Seminole Smoke Shop and legal gambling, cafeteria and snack bar. Interstate 4 at Orient Road (Exit 5), Tampa. $10 pot limit poker and video gaming machines 24 hours a day; daily bingo: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 2:15-5 p.m.
(813) 621-1302 or (800) 282-7016

TAMPA BAY DOWNS - Seasonal horse racing. 11225 Race Track Road, Oldsmar. Race times 12:30 p.m. Tues.- Fri.; 1 p.m. Sat.-Sun.; $1.50 grand stand; $3 clubhouse; $1 parking.
(813) 855-4401
www.tampadowns.com 

BIG RED BALLOON BY FANTASY FLIGHT INC. - Sunrise flights daily over the Tampa area. 16302 East Course Drive, Tampa. Office open 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. Call for fees.
(813) 969-1518 or (800) 44-TAMPA

SEA WINGS AVIATION - Floatplane sightseeing tours around Tampa Bay; 20-minute tours. Tours leave from Castaway Restaurant, 7720 Courtney Campbell Parkway, Tampa. $54 for one person, $94 for two, $139 for three; hour-long tours are $250; out island photo tours also available; call for reservations. (813) 445-9464

SUNSHINE SPEEDWAY - Stock car racing every Saturday through mid-November featuring late models, sportsmen, open wheel modifieds, mini stocks, street stocks, oval drags and figure eights. Fridays feature N.H.R.A. drag racing with pro, super pro, street and motorcycle divisions. 4500 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater. Gates open 5 p.m.; racing starts at 7 p.m. Adults, $8-$10; children ages 6-12, $4; children under 6, free.
(813) 573-4598

TAMPA THEATRE - This restored 1926 movie palace features films, concerts and special events that are enhanced by an elaborate setting. 711 Franklin St., Tampa. Open daily depending on event schedule. (813) 274-8981

YBOR CITY BREWING COMPANY - Home of Ybor Gold, "Tampa Bay 's "first hand-crafted" beer. The microbrewery is in a renovated 100-year-old brick cigar factory. Open for tours. 2205 N. 20th St., Tampa Open 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Mon.-Sat.
(813) 242-9222
www.ycbc.com 

HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM - Original furniture and decorative artifacts from the elegant 1891- era Tampa Bay Hotel. Exhibits relating to Plant's railroad and steamship lines; gift shop. "Strolling in a Perfect Paradise," gardens of the Tampa Bay Hotel, through Aug. 31; "The Spanish American War and its Tampa Connection." South wing of Plant Hall on the University of Tampa campus, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. Suggested donation: adults, $3; children 12 and younger, $1.
(813) 254-1891

MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ART - Featuring a permanent display of the Barnett-Aden African-American Art Collection and travelling exhibitions. 1308 Marion St., Tampa. Open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tues. - Sat ., 1 p.m. -4:30 p.m. Sun. Admission $3.
(813) 272-2466

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY - MOSI is the southeast 's largest science center (over 110,000 square feet). Featuring MOSIMAX, a large screen IMAX movie dome. Films "Search for the Giant Sharks" and " Antarctica," exhibits include "Antarctica," "Butterfly Encounters," fossil collection, space and flight, energy, weather and hurricanes, Florida geology. 4801 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa. Open daily at 9 a.m., closing hours are seasonal. Admission: $8 adults; $7 students and seniors; $5 children; free under age 2. Admission to MOSIMAX movie:$6 adults, $5 students and seniors $4 ages 2-12. Combination admission available.
(813) 987-5082

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART - "Artists Look at Themselves" though Aug. 18; "Face Value: American Portraits" through Aug. 25; "Such Sweet Thunder: Photography by Herb Snitzer" though Sept. 1. Permanent exhibits include "Antiquities From Greece and Rome" and sculpture. Call for changing exhibit schedule and daily tours. 600 N. Ashley, downtown Tampa. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon., Tues., Thurs.-Sat.; 1-5 p.m Sunday. Admission $5 adults, $4 seniors and students, $3 age 6-18; free admission on Sun. and Wed. 5-9 p.m.
(813) 274-8130

SALVADOR DALI MUSEUM - Waterfront St. Petersburg is home to the world's largest collection of Salvador Dali's works; daily guided tours. "From Gaudi to Tapies," works by 14 20th century masters from Catalonia, Spain, runs through Sept. 22. Downtown St. Petersburg next to Great Explorations Museum at 1000 3rd Street S. Open 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Mon. - Sat., noon - 5:30 pm. Sun. Call for tour times. Adults, $8; seniors, $7; children under 10, free.
(813) 823-3767
www.daliweb.com

SCIENCE CENTER OF PINELLAS - Hands-on exhibits; state-of -the-art laser animation and museum. 7701 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Open 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Museum visit is free; charge for laser show varies.
(813) 384-0027