Hotels Near ZooTampa Kids Fun Run 2026 — Tampa, FL Sep 2026

Date

September 12, 2026

Location

Tampa, FL

Venue

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Start Time

7:15 AM

Sunrise

7:12 AM

Entry Fee

$30.00 – $45.00

Events

2K Kids Fun Run - ZooTampa Member, 2K Kids Fun Run - Non-Member, 1K Kids Fun Run - ZooTampa Member, 1K Kids Fun Run - Non-Member, Adaptive/Wheelchair - Zoo Tampa Member, Adaptive/Wheelchair - Non-Member

ZooTampa Kids Fun Run takes place on September 12, 2026, at ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa, Florida. The event offers two running distances: 0.6 miles and 1.2 miles, designed for younger participants and families. The race starts at 7:15 AM, giving runners an early morning experience at the zoo venue. Entry fees range from $30 to $45 depending on distance and registration timing. This short-distance format makes it accessible for beginners and children building running fitness. If you're traveling to Tampa for a race and need family-friendly accommodation options, consider hotels within reasonable distance of Lowry Park for convenient race-day logistics.

From the Race Organizer

Run, hop, or crawl your way to the 4th Annual ZooTampa Kids Fun Run presented by Muma Children's Hospital at TGH. This kid-friendly event features five exciting races; a Diaper Dash, Toddler Trot, Adaptive Dash, and a 1K or 2K Fun Run. Don’t miss this unique event that encourages a healthy lifestyle while enjoying wildlife! Every registration helps support ZooTampa's mission to protect and preserve wildlife and wild places. Learn more about our conservation efforts here . All registrations include: Entry into ZooTampa for the day of the race is for race participants (not applicable for any other date) Race Bib Race Medal Race Bag Access to Race Day Expo (6:30 am - 9:30 am) Race Day Details: Gates open at 6:30am. Entry will be at the Saunders Pavilion located to the right of the main entrance. Parking is free for all guests. Participants will receive their race packets upon entry. Participants will need to be at the starting line 15 minutes before race start time. PARENTS: This race is for children only. Parents will be able to run with their child for the Toddler Trot and Diaper Dash, but do not need to register for themselves. Parents will have a designated section for viewing the 1k and 2K races but will not be allowed to race with their child . If special accommodations need to be made, please see a race representative upon arrival. After the race, participants and their families are invited to explore the Race Day Expo in Saunders Pavilion until 9:30 am. All participants and their families will be required to exit the Zoo upon completion of the event. If you would like to visit the Zoo for the day, you will need to enter through the main gates at Zoo opening (9:30 am) and show your Membership card or general admission ticket. Reminder: race participants receive FREE admission for the day. If you would like to purchase additional tickets ahead of time, please click here . This event is rain or shine. No refunds will be given for inclement weather. Please review our Zoo policies and rules before arrival for more information ( https://zootampa.org/visit/admissions/ ).

Course & Travel Notes

The ZooTampa Kids Fun Run takes place at a low elevation of 36 feet, so altitude adjustment won't be a concern for your pacing. The race starts at 7:15 AM, just two minutes after sunrise at 7:13 AM on September 12, so expect to begin in near-darkness before the sun breaks through. September in Tampa typically brings high temperatures around 90°F with lows near 75°F, and there's roughly a 43% chance of measurable rain on race day, so plan accordingly with hydration and weather-appropriate gear. Tampa International Airport is conveniently located just 4.7 miles from the venue, making it easy to arrange your travel logistics.

⛰️ 36 ft elevation☀️ Typically 90°F / 75°F · 43% chance of rain✈️ Tampa International Airport (TPA) — 4.7 mi

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for September 12.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Tampa, FL. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
Emergency medical up to $250,000
Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
24/7 real-time support

Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is ZooTampa Kids Fun Run 2026 — Tampa, FL?

ZooTampa Kids Fun Run 2026 — Tampa, FL takes place on September 12, 2026. The race is held in Tampa, Florida.

Where is ZooTampa Kids Fun Run 2026 — Tampa, FL held?

ZooTampa Kids Fun Run 2026 — Tampa, FL is held at ZooTampa at Lowry Park in Tampa, Florida.

Where can I find hotels near ZooTampa Kids Fun Run 2026 — Tampa, FL?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Tampa. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.