Visiting Tampa is at all times a thrill. Whether or not it’s your first time, otherwise you’re returning for the tenth time, there are at all times loads of issues to do in Tampa; each proper within the coronary heart of town and on the outskirts. It’s one in all my favourite locations to go to within the US.
Tampa is big, filled with historical past, nature, tradition, and unbelievable gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you might probably want. Sightseeing in Tampa is a blast, nevertheless it pays to do your analysis beforehand and know the most effective spots to move to.
The primary time I visited Tampa, I wasn’t actually certain what to anticipate; in spite of everything, I went on a whim after a buddy instructed I would prefer it. They have been proper, and I’ve revisited numerous instances since.
On this submit, I’ll share my experiences in Tampa. By the tip of this learn, you’ll have a curated record of issues to do, and also you’ll be raring to get began.
Greatest Issues To Do in Tampa
The very first thing that you must know is that Tampa is a really massive metropolis so prior data of the most effective spots to move to is at all times helpful. Fortunately, I had a Tampa-native buddy to assist me on my first journey, and the excellent news is that I can share all of these hidden gems with you.
When you don’t know the place you’re going, you might end up wandering round aimlessly and losing time. By having a plan, you might be way more focused and get extra out of your time.
So, whether or not you’re on the lookout for nature in Channelside, partying in Downtown, otherwise you’re all about historical past in Ybor Metropolis, this record of locations to go to in Tampa will show you how to out.
1. Tampa Riverwalk
One of many high issues to do in Tampa is to wander down the Riverwalk. Masking 2.6 miles, this pedestrianized pathway takes you thru a few of Channelside’s finest sights and alongside the Hillsborough River.
It can additionally showcase how engaging this metropolis actually is.
I discovered some really nice eating places alongside this stroll, together with Large Ray’s Fish Camp and River’s Edge. When you can time your go to for sundown, you’ll catch the most effective picture alternatives round. The most effective information is that it’s free, so that you’ll have extra cash for the opposite sights on this record.
Deal with: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Heart
When you’re on the lookout for Tampa sights that help you study whereas additionally exploring, the Tampa Bay Historical past Heart is for you.
This museum is super-interactive and has three flooring filled with reveals and tales from the earliest beginnings of the complete Florida space, together with the primary recognized pirates.
It’s additionally fairly low-cost which is good if you happen to’re touring with youngsters and also you’re eager for them to study one thing from their journey. You possibly can see this museum inside 2-3 hours most, which frees up lots extra time to discover the remainder of Downtown. It’s additionally a good selection for an exceptionally scorching or wet day.
Deal with: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Large Cat Rescue
This massive cat sanctuary left me feeling extraordinarily emotional, nevertheless it’s wonderful to see important work in rehabilitating these majestic creatures again into their pure habitats.
It’s probably the greatest locations to go to in Tampa just because by heading there, you’re serving to out and giving one thing again.
The corporate rescues and rehabilitates lions, tigers, and different species with the hope of nursing them again to well being and releasing them into the wild. Additionally they assist orphaned species combine into new households. You’ll find out about simply how endangered these gorgeous animals actually are and what we are able to do as a society to assist them thrive.
Deal with: 12802 Simple St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Tampa Theater
From previous motion pictures to new exhibits, no journey to Tampa can be full with out visiting the gorgeous Tampa Theater.
Situated within the coronary heart of Downtown, you’ll immediately be drawn to the historic look of the constructing, transporting you again in time. The structure inside doesn’t disappoint both.
The theater was in-built 1926 and has been a mainstay within the metropolis ever since. They present the most recent motion pictures in comfy environment, in addition to blasts from the previous and occasions all year long. So, seize your self some popcorn, make your self comfy, and revel in your go to. Click on right here to test what’s on.
Deal with: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
5. Amalie Enviornment
Amalie Enviornment is the official residence of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Nevertheless, that’s not all this enviornment is legendary for.
I’ll admit I do know nothing about ice hockey, however I did handle to catch a live performance right here and revel in a fairly scrumptious meal.
There are many issues to do at evening in Tampa, however if you wish to do one thing memorable and out of the unusual, that is the spot for you. You’ll must guide tickets forward of time for ice hockey matches and main live shows, however the web site supplies up-to-date details about its occasions. Click on right here for particulars of upcoming exhibits.
Deal with: 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
6. Glazer Kids’s Museum
There are various issues to do in Tampa with youngsters however just a few hours within the top-class Glazer Kids’s Museum is an ideal thought. The on-site cafe is an effective spot for fogeys to calm down whereas their youngsters blow off some steam and gives a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
Every little thing right here is interactive, that means youngsters can run, play, discover, and study on the go. They’ll possible be having a lot enjoyable, they received’t even understand they’re studying! The museum additionally runs its highly regarded Camp Think about program, which gives completely different camps all year long and might be booked prematurely. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
7. Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church
The attractive Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church is likely one of the metropolis’s oldest, relationship again to 1905. You don’t must be non secular to get pleasure from a go to to this serene and picturesque church, however if you happen to do want to attend mass, companies run day by day and are open to everybody.
The constructing itself is likely one of the finest locations to go to in Tampa for historical past alone. The stained-glass home windows are crafted to perfection, and the structure maintains its unique particulars. It’s a surprising place of historic significance, and someplace you must positively try.
Deal with: 509 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
8. Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour
Many individuals ask what to see in Tampa for historical past, nevertheless it’s arduous to pinpoint particular locations that aren’t far aside.
That’s the place the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour is available in helpful, because it helps you see loads in a brief house of time.
Ybor Metropolis is the middle of town’s cigar manufacturing historical past, and this tour will take you thru all crucial areas, with the assistance of a educated information. You’ll find out about cigars, meals, structure, and tradition, all inside just a few informative hours.
My ft damage on the finish of it, however I extremely advocate this tour. It’s simple to include into half a day earlier than heading off to fill the remainder of your time with one other exercise. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: 1603 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
9. Wat Mongkolratanaram
Wat Mongkolratanaram is likely one of the locations to go to in Tampa which may elevate some eyebrows; in spite of everything, it sounds Thai, however you’re in Florida, not Bangkok. Nevertheless, the great thing about this Buddhist temple is that it permits you to find out about a Tampa neighborhood that won’t instantly soar to thoughts.
Not solely is the structure spectacular, however the temple acts as a assist heart and likewise homes a Sunday market the place you’ll be able to attempt all forms of Thai meals. Imagine me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this type of delicacies. You possibly can attempt distinctive dishes and likewise purchase substances to take residence to create your individual.
Deal with: 5306 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
10. Busch Gardens
With out a shadow of a doubt, Busch Gardens is likely one of the most enjoyable issues to do in Tampa. Masking an enormous 335 acres of house, Busch Gardens is an African-themed park with rides, exhibits, meals, and the whole lot else you’ll be able to think about. You may must spend greater than at some point right here to essentially recognize all it has to supply.
When you’re apprehensive about visiting as a solo traveler or with out youngsters, don’t be; this can be a place that has one thing for everybody. If I might return right now, I’d. E book your tickets forward of time to keep away from the massive queues and to present your self extra time to discover this large expanse of enjoyable within the solar. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
11. Kraken CycleBoats
When on the lookout for issues to do in Tampa, you’re certain to be tempted towards the water a minimum of as soon as – I do know I used to be.
That’s when I discovered Kraken Cycleboats, and for me, it was one of many quirkiest however most pleasing actions I took half in.
Quite than strolling across the metropolis, you’ll pedal your method round on the water, trying out the cityscape from a very completely different viewpoint. Your legs will burn by the tip, however that’s when you recognize you’ve had a exercise, and also you’re free to eat an enormous meal on the finish of it.
Deal with: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
12. Ben T Davis Seashore
There aren’t that many free issues to do in Tampa however a day on the seashore received’t value you a dime. Ben T Davis Seashore is a spot straight from trip brochures, with clear, blue sea, and white sand. It’s the only finest strategy to sit back and calm down, clearing your thoughts of the hustle and bustle of town. It’s additionally solely half an hour away from Downtown by automotive.
What I like about this seashore is that it’s a hidden gem in some ways. Most individuals head to Clearwater, however a day right here might be quieter and much more stress-free. Take your individual picnic and blanket, as there are only a few facilities, however from there, simply get pleasure from what Mom Nature has to supply.
Deal with: 7740 W Courtney Campbell Cswy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Lettuce Lake Park
Situated simply outdoors of town heart, Lettuce Lake Park transports you into ample nature. Right here, you’ll be able to wander to your coronary heart’s content material with out bumping into anybody and benefit from the contemporary air throughout you. The park is a large 240-acre in measurement, with biking and strolling actions to get pleasure from.
The lake does comprise alligators, so that you’re in all probability finest to only have a look at the water moderately than get in it, however I discovered the park to be an exquisite break from the norm. Don’t get me improper; town is unbelievable, however generally you simply wish to hear your self breathe with nothing however timber and open areas beside you.
Deal with: 6920 E Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33637, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
14. Sundown Cruise With Sunshine Skyway Bridge
One cool factor to do in Tampa is to move off on the Sundown Cruise, by way of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The journey solely takes two hours, so it’s the proper begin to a night. The cruise units off from St. Petersburg, which is only a 20-minute drive away from Downtown Tampa, and permits you to get pleasure from a serene night on the water.
As you float gently round Tampa Bay, the imposing Sunshine Skyway Bridge comes into view, with its ever-changing colours. Undoubtedly have your digicam prepared for this one, and put together in your jaw to drop whenever you see the sundown. Meals and drinks aren’t included on this tour, so make sure you gasoline up beforehand or plan dinner for after you dock. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: Dock Q48 on St. Petersburg Pier, 400 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
15. Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour
The Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour is likely one of the most unusual issues to do in Tampa, nevertheless it’s not for the faint of coronary heart. I booked this as a result of I’ve a ugly fascination with all issues spooky, and it didn’t disappoint.
It seems that Tampa is much extra haunted than I ever might have imagined.
This can be a one-hour-long strolling tour that takes you thru a few of the most ghostly streets and places in central Tampa. Will you see some spirits or expertise different paranormal exercise? Who is aware of, however you’ll definitely have enjoyable and study extra concerning the metropolis’s previous as you go. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
16. Tampa Bay Brewing Firm
Craft beer followers will adore this place. A go to to the Tampa Bay Brewing Firm is likely one of the finest issues to do in Tampa for {couples} and makes for a terrific evening out for foodies. I beloved the chilled-out vibe and the friendliness of everybody; I had a unbelievable night right here and received to attempt many forms of beers I didn’t even know existed.
The beer menu is sort of intensive, and there are numerous occasions held all year long. I visited throughout the Badass Beer Competition, and I’m planning on heading again once more. When you’re visiting throughout this time, I’d advocate you go; it’s a extremely enjoyable evening out.
Deal with: 1600 E eighth Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
17. Tiki Boat Downtown Tampa
Sticking with the consuming vibe, if you happen to’re on the lookout for distinctive stuff to do in Tampa, it needs to be the Tiki Boat. I went on this tour with a buddy of mine, and we had a blast, whereas additionally appreciating the great thing about Downtown Tampa with out having to stroll. It’s additionally a comparatively low-cost exercise, with loads of picture alternatives to absorb.
You’ll must take your individual drinks, nevertheless, you’re given a free cooler and a Bluetooth stereo so you’ll be able to play your individual music. From there, you float down the Hillsborough River and revel in a chilled-out but extraordinarily enjoyable 90 minutes. It’s fairly possible you received’t wish to get off the boat as soon as your time is up. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: Water Works Park, 1701 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
18. Tampa Historical past Cruise
The Tampa Historical past Cruise is palms down probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa if you happen to’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you’ll be able to expertise on land, however this cruise will show you how to study concerning the area’s maritime historical past, together with its bloodthirsty pirates. The tour lasts for 1.5 hours and manages to pack loads into its length.
You’ll move alongside the homes of well-known figures from the realm’s historical past, and the infamous Plant Resort. The multi-language commentary will provide you with loads of data and show you how to to essentially recognize the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Deal with: Historical past Heart/Amalie Enviornment, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
19. Tampa Museum of Artwork
Artwork and tradition followers may surprise what to do in Tampa to fulfill their creative cravings, nicely, the Tampa Museum of Artwork is the most effective spot.
Filled with reveals relationship again to Historic Greek and Roman instances, this museum will depart you greater than fulfilled.
You can even seize a scrumptious snack on the on-site cafe and decide up some souvenirs to take again residence in your family members. The museum has a number of rotating reveals all year long and occasions are held every so often. Be sure you try their web site to see what’s on whenever you’re visiting Tampa.
Deal with: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
20. Journey Island
One of many high issues to do in Tampa for households is an exhilarating time out at Journey Island. When the solar is thrashing down, the most effective factor to do is soar within the water, and this large water park is good for simply that. Surprisingly, it’s additionally a terrific place to relax out, which isn’t one thing you’ll be able to typically say about theme parks.
Young children will love the most recent attraction, referred to as Shaka-Laka Shores, whereas older youngsters will benefit from the quite a few water slides and wave swimming pools. Personally, I loved chilling out in my non-public cabana, and there are many eating places and cafes round for ice cream and refreshments. Click on right here for extra data.
Deal with: 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
21. Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise
The Tampa Bay waters are brimming with sealife, not least a lot of bottlenose dolphins. When you’re something like me, any likelihood to identify these lovable creatures is a must-do.
I discovered this dolphin sightseeing cruise to be probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa and it was a particular spotlight of my total time within the metropolis. It’s one thing I’ve accomplished greater than as soon as.
The cruise lasts for 90 minutes, so hold your eyes peeled. In the meantime, you’ll find out about conservation efforts for the marine life inside the bay, together with sea turtles and manatees. The opposite plus level is that the surroundings round you is breathtaking too; even when a dolphin doesn’t grace you with its presence, you received’t be too upset. Click on right here for particulars.
Deal with: Historical past Heart/Amalie Enviornment, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
22. Zip Line Journey
When you’re trying to scream on the high of your lungs, Zip Line Adventures is simply the ticket.
I’ve to confess that I used to be a bit nervous about attempting this out, however I’m so glad I did. It’s one of many high vacationer sights in Tampa that can have you ever speaking about it for a very long time afterward.
A bonus of including this exercise to your itinerary is that, because it’s not up there with one of the vital marketed sights, you received’t must queue or battle for house.
Situated within the stunning Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Protect, the course has 5 zip strains, an enormous suspension bridge, and loads of different adrenaline pastimes to attempt. It’s the proper half-day journey to get out of town limits, and also you’ll have the ability to say “I did that” for a very long time afterward. Click on right here for extra data.
Deal with: Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, 423 Lafayette Blvd, Oldsmar, FL 34677, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
23. TPC Tampa Golf Course
There are various sporting sights in Tampa, however the year-round gentle climate implies that golf is certainly on the menu. The TPC Tampa Golf Course is likely one of the most well-known, having hosted occasions on the PGA Tour for many years. When you’re somebody who loves golf, otherwise you’ve at all times needed to attempt, TPC is a good place to begin.
Not solely is that this 18-hole course very picturesque, however eager golfers will discover it fairly difficult too. You’ll discover a grill restaurant on-site, and plenty of occasions and tournaments happen all year long. The course is situated in a few of the greenest landscapes across the metropolis, which is usually welcome when visiting a big metropolis.
Deal with: 5300 W Lutz Lake Fern Rd, Lutz, FL 33558, US. Click on right here for instructions.
24. Strive a Cuban Sandwich at Columbia Restaurant
Sampling the unique Cuban sandwich on the well-known Columbia Restaurant is a ceremony of passage and one of many high issues to do in Tampa. Having opened its doorways in 1905, the unique cigar staff in Ybor Metropolis descended right here day by day to benefit from the well-known Cuban sandwich. When you eat only one factor in Tampa, let or not it’s this.
You may surprise what’s so particular a few sandwich, however imagine me, you must attempt it to grasp. Layers of meat are proportioned rigorously between the freshest bread, together with pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard. It’s a style explosion and your time in Tampa isn’t full with out it.
When you ask any of the locals, they’ll inform you this sandwich is the most effective outdoors of Cuba itself.
Deal with: 2117 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, US. Click on right here for instructions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
When you’re on the lookout for issues to see in Tampa that help you drench your self in nature and leisure, a day within the Hillsborough River State Park is on the agenda.
Based in 1938, that is the best spot to run free and discover the pure aspect of this large metropolis.
The views from listed here are additionally second to none and offer you some unbelievable picture alternatives to replenish your digicam reel.
There’s a small price to enter, however from there, it’s simply complete R&R all the way in which. Nevertheless, if you happen to do really feel the necessity for adrenaline calling, the park can be residence to Class 2 rapids. I handed on the rapids and determined to easily take a picnic and unwind in some shade.
Deal with: 15402 U.S. 301 North Thonotosassa FL 33592, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Tampa
It’s simple to take a look at an inventory of issues to do in Tampa and perceive the truth that there are numerous sights, however piecing collectively your time might be fairly difficult.
Sights are sometimes far other than each other; if you happen to don’t do your analysis, you’ll spend far an excessive amount of time on the street and never sufficient time exploring the stuff you wish to see. To not point out, driving in a brand new location might be nerve-racking.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries will provide you with an thought of the forms of sights you’ll be able to group collectively inside a day. Be at liberty to combine up and change some sights that decision out to you extra, however the extra you’ll be able to pack into your time, the higher in my eyes.
1 Day in Tampa Itinerary
When you’re brief on time and also you solely have at some point in Tampa, the Riverwalk is the most effective spot to start your journey. Spending your day right here means you get to absorb an outline of Channelside and into Downtown, plus, there are numerous unbelievable eating places and outlets alongside the way in which.
Watching the hustle and bustle of town is intoxicating in itself, and naturally, a free factor to do in Tampa. The fantastic thing about spending time right here is which you can simply transition from day to nighttime. Benefit from the sundown over the water and devour a top-class meal within the night.
There’s loads of nightlife round this space, so that you definitely received’t be bored when evening falls. It’s a good suggestion to guide a lodge on this space (Channelside) as you received’t have far too enterprise again on the finish of a really tiring night.
2-3 Days in Tampa Itinerary
Two to a few days in Tampa isn’t sufficient time to see the whole lot, nevertheless it’s an excellent period of time to whet your urge for food for extra. In fact, you’ll be able to at all times return. I believe the most effective place to begin is at all times Riverwalk and if you happen to select to remain in Channelside or Downtown, you’re centrally primarily based with ease of motion.
Spend a while strolling across the space and go to the Tampa Bay Historical past Heart for an hour or two. When night falls, try Tampa Theater and soak up a film or a particular occasion. On day two, head to Busch Gardens for a full and exhausting day of screaming on the high of your lungs. When you’ve got a automotive, you’re good to go, but when not, public transport can take you there.
In your ultimate day, take the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour, and keep in mind to name into the Columbia Restaurant to seize one in all their well-known Cuban sandwiches. Within the night, go to the Tampa Bay Brewing Firm to wind down and absorb some last-minute enjoyable earlier than it’s time to depart.
1 Week in Tampa Itinerary
One full week in Tampa means you’ll be able to match lots into your time. As at all times, I like to recommend beginning off on the Tampa Riverwalk to get your bearings and the texture of town. Within the night, try the Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour. When you’re into all issues spooky, this stroll will certainly offer you a thrill.
In your second day, immerse your self in native wildlife by heading over to the Large Cat Rescue Heart and spending half a day there, earlier than taking the Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise within the afternoon.
Each of those actions will present you a very completely different aspect of this generally hectic metropolis. On day three, it’s time to move to Busch Gardens large African-themed park.
In your fourth day, you’ll must get better, so a full day having fun with the surprise of Ben T Davis Seashore is a good thought. Keep in mind to take some snacks, refreshments, and a blanket. Then, spend your fifth day exploring historical past on the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour, earlier than heading over to Amalie Enviornment to catch a recreation, present, or a meal.
In your penultimate day, splash round at Journey Island, earlier than heading over to Riverwalk for a meal. You’ve packed in loads of issues to do in Tampa, so in your ultimate day, it’s time to unwind earlier than heading residence. Which means immersing your self in nature at Hillsborough River State Park and taking loads of images alongside the way in which to seize your keep.
The place to Keep in Tampa
Tampa is a large metropolis, and that’s one thing I didn’t absolutely recognize earlier than I visited. The easiest way to get essentially the most out of your time is to base your self in the best space. Merely writing ‘Tampa’ right into a lodge search web site may lead you to remain in part of town that’s far-off from what you actually wish to see and do.
There are a number of neighborhoods within the Tampa space, so let’s have a look at the most effective ones for a brief keep of as much as one week, and the forms of issues they’re finest for. Inside these of those fundamental neighborhoods, you’ll discover loads of lodge decisions.
Downtown Tampa – Greatest for Nightlife
Downtown Tampa options all the most effective nightlife within the metropolis, whereas additionally being residence to a few of the high eating places and sights too.
That is the place essentially the most upmarket eating places might be discovered, and it’s finest to guide a desk prematurely if you happen to don’t wish to be upset.
It’s additionally a terrific spot to base your self if evenings are your focus and whereas it may be busy and loud, it should imply you don’t must journey far as soon as your evening is over. Try Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown.
Channelside – Greatest for First-Time Guests
Channelside is vibrant and busy however barely much less overwhelming than Downtown; making it the proper space for first-timers. It’s additionally the place you’ll discover the Riverwalk—probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa—together with nature, outlets, eating places, and sights overlooking the Hillsborough River.
Channelside additionally runs into Downtown, so it’s ideally suited for strolling, and it’s a barely extra serene neighborhood for {couples} too. Try The Tampa EDITION.
Ybor Metropolis – Greatest for Historical past Buffs
Ybor Metropolis is the historic heart of Tampa, and that is the place the cigar manufacturing business was primarily based again within the day.
There are various previous cigar factories and museums right here, and the structure alone is dripping with old-world allure, good for studying extra past the modern-day fare.
Ybor Metropolis can be cheaper than Downtown and Channelside, with a variety of eating places and bars to go well with all budgets. Try Hampton Inn & Suites.
Greatest Eating places in Tampa
Among the best issues to do in Tampa is to eat. As an enormous metropolis, there’s naturally an abundance of locations to dine, however it may be arduous to know the most effective spots to fill your abdomen after an extended day of sightseeing.
Many of the finest eating places in Tampa would require you to guide a desk forward of time, however inside Seminole Heights and North Tampa specifically, you’ll discover extra laid-back eating experiences, and you’ll often simply drop in and discover a desk.
Barterhouse
{Couples} and teams on the lookout for someplace stylish and classy ought to head to Barterhouse in Ybor Metropolis.
I can solely describe this restaurant as tapas-style, just because the dishes are small and mix-and-match. Nevertheless, the meals is firmly American with a slight Cuban twist.
The ocean scallops have been to die for and also you should try their cocktail menu for one thing a bit completely different. Click on right here for instructions.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Large, juicy steaks and supremely contemporary seafood on the order of the day at Bern’s Steakhouse, which has been serving comfortable visitors since 1956. You’ll want to decorate neatly to be allowed inside, and I’d advocate calling a minimum of two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
Be sure you try their intensive wine record too; it’s one of many largest I’ve ever seen, and it’s a terrific spot for romantic evenings or particular events. Click on right here for instructions.
Donatello
Donatello is taken into account probably the greatest Italian eating places in Tampa, which additionally doubles up as a stay jazz lounge on sure nights of the week.
It has a complicated and vibrant environment for everybody to get pleasure from, with affordable costs, and portion sizes are predictably massive. The contemporary seafood pasta is legendary across the native space, and the menu options an enormous vary of starters. Click on right here for instructions.
Ella’s American People Artwork Cafe
Ella’s American People Artwork Cafe is situated in low-key Seminole Heights, and it’s a terrific spot to get pleasure from a scrumptious meal and sit back after an extended day.
The restaurant features as an artwork gallery and music venue all on the similar time and is at all times filled with locals. Nevertheless, in my view, the most effective factor about it’s the Soul Meals Sunday menu. I had the meat brisket sandwich and selfmade key lime pie—I might eat all of it once more proper now. Click on right here for instructions.
Ulele
Housed within the renovated Water Works constructing, Ulele is a highly regarded spot in Tampa and one you must positively head to for an pleasing night out. You possibly can select to sit down outdoors and gaze on the water or inside if you happen to favor, making it the proper chilled-out eating possibility.
The menu is intensive, and my favorites have been the charbroiled oysters and the coconut ice cream. I additionally beloved the vary of decisions out there from their large wine record. Click on right here for instructions.
Attending to Tampa
The beauty of visiting Tampa is how simple it’s to get to and get round. Town has its personal worldwide airport that’s simply quarter-hour away by street from Downtown, with common shuttle buses and taxis out there. You can even simply rent a automotive from the airport and drive round by yourself steam if you happen to favor.
When you’re visiting Orlando, you’ll be able to attain Tampa simply by street; the 2 cities are a 1.5-hour journey away from each other, and you’ll drive comfortably by following the I-4 W route. It’s doable to spend simply at some point in Tampa, however if you happen to can, guide a minimum of a few days to discover the primary sights.
It’s finest to rent a automotive whenever you’re in Tampa as it should permit you extra freedom and help you get round and see extra. Distances between sights might be fairly massive, and driving will provide you with the chance to go at your individual tempo. Nevertheless, Lyft and Uber are available, in addition to buses and trolleys between main neighborhoods and vacationer sights.
Issues To Do in Tampa: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Tampa:
Tampa has a historical past of cigar manufacturing, however past that, it’s well-known for its thrill-seeking theme parks, wonderful seashores, vibrant nightlife, and scrumptious gastronomy. In fact, the climate is fairly good too, and it’s one of the vital action-packed cities you’ll possible go to.
To keep away from the most popular temperatures, October to December is a good time to go to Tampa. This lets you discover extra comfortably. Nevertheless, do keep in mind that that is additionally the height of the Atlantic hurricane season and the occasional passing storm is feasible.
Sure! There’s a lot to see and do, and also you received’t be bored for a single second. Whereas so many individuals head to Orlando for theme park enjoyable and Mickey Mouse vibes, Tampa offers you all of that (minus Mickey) and a lot extra. It’s a metropolis that ticks each field.
When you can keep for 7 days, you’ll have the ability to see loads in per week, however if you happen to’re pressed for time, 3 days would help you see an excellent quantity. When you go to for lower than two days, it’s very possible that you just’ll must return to expertise the opposite issues in your record.
Sure. Tampa is taken into account a secure US metropolis. Whereas the primary touristic components of Tampa endure from petty crime, equivalent to pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any massive metropolis worldwide. You merely must hold your frequent sense on the forefront of your thoughts and don’t flash your valuables whereas out and about.
Busch Gardens is one in all Tampa’s most well-known sights, however Riverwalk can be up there amongst the preferred issues to do. It actually is determined by what you’re interested by as to the place you must goal your time. Nevertheless, Tampa can be a metropolis that’s filled with historical past.
Whereas there are some glorious, quieter seashores round Tampa, Clearwater is likely one of the most well-known and most stunning seashores within the Tampa Bay Space. Nevertheless, that is additionally a really busy spot, particularly throughout the hottest months of the 12 months.
Columbia’s restaurant’s Cuban sandwich is a 100% must-try. Tampa is a really worldwide metropolis that has been influenced by guests for many years, that means you’ll discover all method of delicacies to attempt. The contemporary seafood right here is one thing else.
When you’re pushed for time, it’s doable to see an excellent quantity of Tampa in three days. Nevertheless, you received’t see the whole lot. When you can, per week will provide you with extra time to see the whole lot that pursuits you and actually take in the texture of this vibrant metropolis.
In Closing
It’s simple to take a look at a big metropolis like Tampa and really feel overwhelmed, not realizing the place to begin and even the place to remain. The fantastic thing about Tampa is that each one neighborhoods appear to move into each other. Whereas there’s a truthful distance between them, you’ll be able to plan your time and ensure you don’t miss any of the main Tampa sights.
Tampa has at all times been one in all my favourite cities, and I hope this record of issues to see and do has proven you why. For me, it’s the proper mix of historical past, gastronomy, enjoyable, nature, and tradition. I can’t consider something that it lacks, however for certain, that you must learn up earlier than you go and know a bit background data; that method, you received’t miss something.
A pair of comfy sneakers will definitely serve you nicely on this large metropolis, and it’s possible you’ll discover that when you come residence, you’re pining to move again to Tampa and throw your self into the brilliant lights as soon as extra.
