Things To Do in Tampa Bay with a Newborn (updated July 2022)
Postpartum, babymoon, maternity leave… what do you call the period AFTER your baby is born?
Even more importantly, what do you DO in this time?
First and foremost you should rest and let your body recover. But once you are feeling up for getting out of the house, you may be wondering what you can do in Tampa Bay with your newborn in tow?
As postpartum doulas, it’s our job and to pamper mothers after baby is born and we’re experts in this field. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of things to do with your newborn in Tampa Bay.
1. First, hire a postpartum doula!
Did you guess this one ahead of time? Listen, the first week after baby is born should be considered “bed rest.” Yes, that’s right, new mothers should try to spend the entire week in bed, off her feet, nuzzling, snuggling and bonding with baby, eating delicious and nutritious foods to heal her body and build her milk supply and resting from the marathon that was birth. Who will prepare this food? Change diapers? Play with older siblings? Wash the laundry or run a vacuum around? The postpartum doula, of course! Call us today to set up a complimentary consultation.
2. Hit the beach.
We live in the place others dream of being, especially in the winter months. So, let’s take advantage and get loaded up on magnesium and vitamin D (safely, of course) and natural exfoliants. Breathe in that salty air! If you can’t make it out yet, check out this post on how to get the benefits at home. Our favorite beaches to take your little ones are: Honeymoon Island, Treasure Island and Fred Howard Park. For great tips on preparing for your beach day with your newborn read more here.
3. Gaze at sea life at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa.
Relaxing, fun and educational! Be sure to bring a suit and towel for the bigger kids… the on site splash park is a must! Also a must? An adult beverage while you relax in the shade.
4. Get support from other mothers at Community Roots Collective.
Check out their calendar of events. They host weekly meet ups for new parents and babies with lots of different themes.
5. Take the big kids to your local splash park.
Because we live in the paradise that is year-round gorgeous weather, our local splash park in Tarpon Springs is open year-round. It’s new, clean, fun, offers shade and a playground and dog park all in one convenient location near the Sponge Docks. We know there are a many other great splash parks in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties that are just as great.
6. Browse deals at Stellie Bellie’s Kiddie & Maternity Resale Boutique or Once Upon A Child.
You’ve got a lot of pregnancy supplies that you don’t need anymore. Trade in those maternity pants or extra baby gear and get the stuff you really need: lots of onesies, a Bobby pillow, more diapers and that sound machine you’ve been eyeing.
7. Redesign, rearrange, redecorate.
Out with the tasteful, pricey decor, in with the bins! Yes, you’ll need lots and lots of bins and baskets for: toys, diapers, shoes, clothes, laundry, diapers, laundry, diapers… did we say diapers? Make a day of it and splurge with yummy meatballs and mashed potatoes. There’s an IKEA trip in your future!
8. Align your spine!
Giving birth is so tough on our bodies that a post-birth chiropractic adjustment is an absolute must. While there are many terrific chiropractors in Tampa Bay here are a few of our favorites: in Wesley Chapel or for home visits Innate Chiropractic, in St. Pete Happy Healthy Spine, and in Clearwater Hartley Chiropractic.
9. Eat all the yummy food and relax at Armature Works.
This place has so many delicious options to choose from and comfortable seating as well as outdoor shaded areas. If you haven’t been, you must try it!
10. Get some nursing bras and nursing tanks.
We lived in our nursing tanks after our babies were born. And it was so nice and convenient to have a shirt that made breastfeeding easier. It also made nursing around other people more comfortable and they come in all kinds of cute colors. “The clip-down nursing tanks from motherhood.com took over my wardrobe and I highly recommend them,” says Christie.
11. Stroll around somewhere shady.
Babies love the outdoors! We love the outdoors! But let’s get real, strenuous stuff may be off limits for awhile. We love places like Heritage Village and the Florida Botanical Gardens. Break out the new stroller and give it a spin.
12. Take your placenta capsules .
For improved mood, milk production and faster healing consider placenta encapsulation.
13. Pick out a new ornament for the Christmas tree.
We think your little peanut needs some representation on the O’ Tannebaum. Robert’s Christmas Wonderland is a local legend.
14. Get breastfeeding support.
La Leche League, Babycafe, and in home support are all great options… Hillsborough County Breastfeeding Task Force has a great list of options. In this article we discuss the different types of support from lactation counselors to community support that are available.
15. Go see a movie!
Once your baby is a toddler it’s going to be a while before you’ll be able to see a “grown up” movie with your partner, in the actual movie theater, again. Seize the day! Or night. Your newborn baby will sleep right through it.
16. Ready for more baby gear?
Lastly, Butter Bug Boutique in Tampa has toys, natural products, baby furniture, clothes and more. You’re sure to find all your necessities.
Tampa Bay is full of so many family friendly locations and activities. We hope you enjoy your adventures once you decide to tackle these things to do in Tampa Bay with your newborn!
