Visiting Tampa is all the time a thrill. Whether or not it’s your first time, otherwise you’re returning for the tenth time, there are all the time loads of issues to do in Tampa; each proper within the coronary heart of the town and on the outskirts. It’s certainly one of my favourite locations to go to within the US.
Tampa is big, full of historical past, nature, tradition, and improbable gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you would probably want. Sightseeing in Tampa is a blast, however 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 positive what to anticipate; in spite of everything, I went on a whim after a buddy urged I’d prefer it. They had been proper, and I’ve revisited numerous instances since.
On this publish, I’ll share my experiences in Tampa. By the tip of this learn, you’ll have a curated checklist of issues to do, and also you’ll be raring to get began.
Greatest Issues To Do in Tampa
The very first thing it’s essential know is that Tampa is a really giant metropolis so prior data of the most effective spots to move to is all the time 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.
Should you don’t know the place you’re going, you would end up wandering round aimlessly and losing time. By having a plan, you will be far more focused and get extra out of your time.
So, whether or not you’re searching for nature in Channelside, partying in Downtown, otherwise you’re all about historical past in Ybor Metropolis, this checklist of locations to go to in Tampa will make it easier to out.
1. Tampa Riverwalk
One of many prime 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 greatest sights and alongside the Hillsborough River.
It’s going to additionally showcase how enticing this metropolis actually is.
I discovered some really nice eating places alongside this stroll, together with Huge Ray’s Fish Camp and River’s Edge. Should you can time your go to for sundown, you’ll catch the most effective photograph alternatives round. The very best information is that it’s free, so that you’ll have extra cash for the opposite points of interest on this checklist.
Handle: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Middle
Should you’re searching for Tampa points of interest that mean you can be taught whereas additionally exploring, the Tampa Bay Historical past Middle is for you.
This museum is super-interactive and has three flooring full of reveals and tales from the earliest beginnings of all the Florida space, together with the primary identified pirates.
It’s additionally fairly low-cost which is right for those who’re touring with children and also you’re eager for them to be taught one thing from their journey. You possibly can see this museum inside 2-3 hours most, which frees up a lot extra time to discover the remainder of Downtown. It’s additionally a good selection for an exceptionally sizzling or wet day.
Handle: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Huge Cat Rescue
This massive cat sanctuary left me feeling extraordinarily emotional, however it’s superb to see very 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 beautiful animals actually are and what we will do as a society to assist them thrive.
Handle: 12802 Simple St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Tampa Theater
From outdated motion pictures to new exhibits, no journey to Tampa could be full with out visiting the attractive 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 newest 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 luxuriate in your go to. Click on right here to examine what’s on.
Handle: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
5. Amalie Area
Amalie Area is the official residence of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Nevertheless, that’s not all this area is known for.
I’ll admit I do know nothing about ice hockey, however I did handle to catch a live performance right here and luxuriate in a fairly scrumptious meal.
There are many issues to do at night time in Tampa, however if you wish to do one thing memorable and out of the extraordinary, that is the spot for you. You’ll have to ebook tickets forward of time for ice hockey matches and main concert events, however the web site gives up-to-date details about its occasions. Click on right here for particulars of upcoming exhibits.
Handle: 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 kids however a number of hours within the top-class Glazer Kids’s Museum is an ideal concept. The on-site cafe is an efficient spot for fogeys to chill out whereas their kids blow off some steam and gives a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
All the pieces right here is interactive, that means children can run, play, discover, and be taught on the go. They’ll probably be having a lot enjoyable, they gained’t even notice they’re studying! The museum additionally runs its extremely popular Camp Think about program, which gives totally different camps all year long and will be booked prematurely. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 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 without doubt one of the metropolis’s oldest, relationship again to 1905. You don’t need to be non secular to take pleasure in a go to to this serene and picturesque church, however for those who do want to attend mass, providers run each day and are open to everybody.
The constructing itself is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to in Tampa for historical past alone. The stained-glass home windows are crafted to perfection, and the structure maintains its authentic particulars. It’s a surprising place of historic significance, and someplace it’s best to undoubtedly take a look at.
Handle: 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, however it’s exhausting 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 rather a lot in a brief house of time.
Ybor Metropolis is the middle of the town’s cigar manufacturing historical past, and this tour will take you thru all a very powerful areas, with the assistance of a educated information. You’ll find out about cigars, meals, structure, and tradition, all inside a number of informative hours.
My toes damage on the finish of it, however I extremely suggest this tour. It’s straightforward 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.
Handle: 1603 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
9. Wat Mongkolratanaram
Wat Mongkolratanaram is without doubt one of the locations to go to in Tampa that may increase 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 group that will not instantly leap to thoughts.
Not solely is the structure spectacular, however the temple acts as a help heart and in addition homes a Sunday market the place you’ll be able to attempt all varieties of Thai meals. Consider me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this type of delicacies. You possibly can attempt distinctive dishes and in addition purchase elements to take residence to create your personal.
Handle: 5306 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
10. Busch Gardens
And not using a shadow of a doubt, Busch Gardens is without doubt 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 have to spend greater than at some point right here to essentially recognize all it has to supply.
Should you’re nervous about visiting as a solo traveler or with out children, don’t be; it is a place that has one thing for everybody. If I may return immediately, I’d. E-book your tickets forward of time to keep away from the massive queues and to offer your self extra time to discover this large expanse of enjoyable within the solar. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
11. Kraken CycleBoats
When searching for issues to do in Tampa, you’re positive to be tempted towards the water not less than 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 satisfying actions I took half in.
Moderately than strolling across the metropolis, you’ll pedal your means round on the water, testing the cityscape from a completely totally different viewpoint. Your legs will burn by the tip, however that’s when you already know you’ve had a exercise, and also you’re free to eat an enormous meal on the finish of it.
Handle: 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 gained’t price you a dime. Ben T Davis Seashore is a spot straight from trip brochures, with clear, blue sea, and white sand. It’s the one greatest technique to chill and chill out, clearing your thoughts of the hustle and bustle of the town. It’s additionally solely half an hour away from Downtown by automobile.
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 shall be quieter and much more enjoyable. Take your personal picnic and blanket, as there are only a few facilities, however from there, simply take pleasure in what Mom Nature has to supply.
Handle: 7740 W Courtney Campbell Cswy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Lettuce Lake Park
Situated simply outdoors of the town heart, Lettuce Lake Park transports you into considerable 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 big 240-acre in measurement, with biking and strolling actions to take pleasure in.
The lake does include alligators, so that you’re in all probability greatest to simply have a look at the water somewhat than get in it, however I discovered the park to be a beautiful break from the norm. Don’t get me fallacious; the town is improbable, however generally you simply need to hear your self breathe with nothing however bushes and open areas beside you.
Handle: 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 take pleasure in 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 on your jaw to drop while you see the sundown. Meals and drinks aren’t included on this tour, so you’ll want to gas up beforehand or plan dinner for after you dock. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 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 without doubt one of the most unusual issues to do in Tampa, however 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 may have imagined.
This can be a one-hour-long strolling tour that takes you thru among the most ghostly streets and areas in central Tampa. Will you see some spirits or expertise different paranormal exercise? Who is aware of, however you’ll definitely have enjoyable and be taught extra concerning the metropolis’s previous as you go. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 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 without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Tampa for {couples} and makes for an important night time out for foodies. I liked the chilled-out vibe and the friendliness of everybody; I had a improbable night right here and received to attempt many varieties of beers I didn’t even know existed.
The beer menu is kind of intensive, and there are numerous occasions held all year long. I visited through the Badass Beer Competition, and I’m planning on heading again once more. Should you’re visiting throughout this time, I’d suggest you go; it’s a extremely enjoyable night time out.
Handle: 1600 E eighth Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
17. Tiki Boat Downtown Tampa
Sticking with the consuming vibe, for those who’re searching for distinctive stuff to do in Tampa, it must 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 photograph alternatives to soak up.
You’ll have to take your personal drinks, nevertheless, you’re given a free cooler and a Bluetooth stereo so you’ll be able to play your personal music. From there, you float down the Hillsborough River and luxuriate in a chilled-out but extraordinarily enjoyable 90 minutes. It’s fairly probably you gained’t need to get off the boat as soon as your time is up. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 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 arms down probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa for those who’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you’ll be able to expertise on land, however this cruise will make it easier to be taught concerning the area’s maritime historical past, together with its bloodthirsty pirates. The tour lasts for 1.5 hours and manages to pack rather a lot into its period.
You’ll cross alongside the homes of well-known figures from the world’s historical past, and the infamous Plant Lodge. The multi-language commentary gives you loads of data and make it easier to to essentially recognize the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: Historical past Middle/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
19. Tampa Museum of Artwork
Artwork and tradition followers may marvel what to do in Tampa to fulfill their creative cravings, nicely, the Tampa Museum of Artwork is the most effective spot.
Full of reveals relationship again to Historic Greek and Roman instances, this museum will depart you greater than fulfilled.
You too can seize a scrumptious snack on the on-site cafe and decide up some souvenirs to take again residence on your family members. The museum has a number of rotating reveals all year long and occasions are held now and again. Be sure you take a look at their web site to see what’s on while you’re visiting Tampa.
Handle: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
20. Journey Island
One of many prime issues to do in Tampa for households is an exciting time out at Journey Island. When the solar is thrashing down, the most effective factor to do is leap within the water, and this enormous water park is right for simply that. Surprisingly, it’s additionally an important place to relax out, which isn’t one thing you’ll be able to usually say about theme parks.
Babies will love the most recent attraction, known as Shaka-Laka Shores, whereas older children will benefit from the quite a few water slides and wave swimming pools. Personally, I loved chilling out in my personal cabana, and there are many eating places and cafes round for ice cream and refreshments. Click on right here for extra data.
Handle: 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. Should you’re something like me, any probability to identify these cute 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 whole time within the metropolis. It’s one thing I’ve achieved 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 throughout 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 gained’t be too dissatisfied. Click on right here for particulars.
Handle: Historical past Middle/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
22. Zip Line Journey
Should you’re trying to scream on the prime of your lungs, Zip Line Adventures is simply the ticket.
I’ve to confess that I used to be a little bit nervous about making an attempt this out, however I’m so glad I did. It’s one of many prime vacationer points of interest 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 marketed points of interest, you gained’t need to queue or combat for house.
Situated within the lovely 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 the 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.
Handle: 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 points of interest in Tampa, however the year-round delicate climate signifies that golf is certainly on the menu. The TPC Tampa Golf Course is without doubt one of the most well-known, having hosted occasions on the PGA Tour for many years. Should you’re somebody who loves golf, otherwise you’ve all the time needed to attempt, TPC is a superb place to start out.
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 lots of occasions and tournaments happen all year long. The course is positioned in among the greenest landscapes across the metropolis, which is commonly welcome when visiting a big metropolis.
Handle: 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 prime issues to do in Tampa. Having opened its doorways in 1905, the unique cigar employees in Ybor Metropolis descended right here each day to benefit from the well-known Cuban sandwich. Should you eat only one factor in Tampa, let or not it’s this.
You may marvel what’s so particular a couple of sandwich, however consider me, it’s important to attempt it to know. Layers of meat are proportioned fastidiously 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.
Should you ask any of the locals, they’ll let you know this sandwich is the most effective outdoors of Cuba itself.
Handle: 2117 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, US. Click on right here for instructions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
Should you’re searching for issues to see in Tampa that mean you can 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 perfect spot to run free and discover the pure aspect of this enormous metropolis.
The views from listed here are additionally second to none and provide you with some improbable photograph alternatives to replenish your digicam reel.
There’s a small price to enter, however from there, it’s simply whole R&R all the way in which. Nevertheless, for those who 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.
Handle: 15402 U.S. 301 North Thonotosassa FL 33592, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Tampa
It’s straightforward to have a look at an inventory of issues to do in Tampa and perceive the truth that there are numerous points of interest, however piecing collectively your time will be fairly difficult.
Sights are sometimes far aside from each other; for those who don’t do your analysis, you’ll spend far an excessive amount of time on the highway and never sufficient time exploring the stuff you need to see. To not point out, driving in a brand new location will be tense.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries gives you an concept of the varieties of points of interest you’ll be able to group collectively inside a day. Be happy to combine up and change some points of interest 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
Should you’re quick 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 soak up an summary of Channelside and into Downtown, plus, there are numerous improbable eating places and outlets alongside the way in which.
Watching the hustle and bustle of the town is intoxicating in itself, and naturally, a free factor to do in Tampa. The fantastic thing about spending time right here is that you may 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 gained’t be bored when night time falls. It’s a good suggestion to ebook a resort on this space (Channelside) as you gained’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, however it’s a great period of time to whet your urge for food for extra. In fact, you’ll be able to all the time return. I believe the most effective start line is all the time Riverwalk and for those who select to remain in Channelside or Downtown, you’re centrally based mostly with ease of motion.
Spend a while strolling across the space and go to the Tampa Bay Historical past Middle for an hour or two. When night falls, take a look at 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 prime of your lungs. If in case you have a automobile, you’re good to go, but when not, public transport can take you there.
In your closing day, take the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour, and keep in mind to name into the Columbia Restaurant to seize certainly one of their well-known Cuban sandwiches. Within the night, go to the Tampa Bay Brewing Firm to wind down and take in some last-minute enjoyable earlier than it’s time to go away.
1 Week in Tampa Itinerary
One full week in Tampa means you’ll be able to match a lot into your time. As all the time, I like to recommend beginning off on the Tampa Riverwalk to get your bearings and the texture of the town. Within the night, take a look at the Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour. Should you’re into all issues spooky, this stroll will certainly provide you with a thrill.
In your second day, immerse your self in native wildlife by heading over to the Huge Cat Rescue Middle 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 totally different aspect of this generally hectic metropolis. On day three, it’s time to move to Busch Gardens enormous African-themed park.
In your fourth day, you’ll have to get well, so a full day having fun with the marvel of Ben T Davis Seashore is a superb concept. 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 Area 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 a whole lot of issues to do in Tampa, so in your closing day, it’s time to unwind earlier than heading residence. Meaning immersing your self in nature at Hillsborough River State Park and taking loads of photographs alongside the way in which to seize your keep.
The place to Keep in Tampa
Tampa is a big metropolis, and that’s one thing I didn’t absolutely recognize earlier than I visited. One of the best ways to get essentially the most out of your time is to base your self in the suitable space. Merely writing ‘Tampa’ right into a resort search web site could lead on you to remain in part of the town that’s distant from what you actually need 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 varieties of issues they’re greatest for. Inside these of those important neighborhoods, you’ll discover loads of resort decisions.
Downtown Tampa – Greatest for Nightlife
Downtown Tampa options all the most effective nightlife within the metropolis, whereas additionally being residence to among the prime eating places and points of interest too.
That is the place essentially the most upmarket eating places will be discovered, and it’s greatest to ebook a desk prematurely for those who don’t need to be dissatisfied.
It’s additionally an important spot to base your self if evenings are your focus and whereas it may be busy and loud, it’ll imply you don’t need to journey far as soon as your night time 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 points of interest overlooking the Hillsborough River.
Channelside additionally runs into Downtown, so it’s splendid 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 trade was based mostly again within the day.
There are various outdated cigar factories and museums right here, and the structure alone is dripping with old-world allure, excellent for studying extra past the modern-day fare.
Ybor Metropolis can be cheaper than Downtown and Channelside, with a spread of eating places and bars to swimsuit all budgets. Try Hampton Inn & Suites.
Greatest Eating places in Tampa
The most effective 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 exhausting to know the most effective spots to fill your abdomen after a protracted day of sightseeing.
A lot of the greatest eating places in Tampa would require you to ebook a desk forward of time, however inside Seminole Heights and North Tampa particularly, you’ll discover extra laid-back eating experiences, and you’ll often simply drop in and discover a desk.
Barterhouse
{Couples} and teams searching for someplace stylish and trendy 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 had been to die for and also you should take a look at their cocktail menu for one thing a little bit totally different. Click on right here for instructions.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Enormous, juicy steaks and supremely contemporary seafood on the order of the day at Bern’s Steakhouse, which has been serving glad company since 1956. You’ll want to decorate neatly to be allowed inside, and I’d suggest calling not less than two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
Be sure you take a look at their intensive wine checklist too; it’s one of many greatest I’ve ever seen, and it’s an important 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 dwell jazz lounge on sure nights of the week.
It has a classy and vibrant ambiance for everybody to take pleasure in, with affordable costs, and portion sizes are predictably giant. The contemporary seafood pasta is known across the native space, and the menu options an enormous vary of starters. Click on right here for instructions.
Ella’s American Folks Artwork Cafe
Ella’s American Folks Artwork Cafe is positioned in low-key Seminole Heights, and it’s an important spot to take pleasure in a scrumptious meal and relax after a protracted day.
The restaurant capabilities as an artwork gallery and music venue all on the identical time and is all the time 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 do-it-yourself key lime pie—I may 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 extremely popular spot in Tampa and one it’s best to undoubtedly head to for an satisfying night out. You possibly can select to take a seat outdoors and gaze on the water or inside for those who want, making it the proper chilled-out eating possibility.
The menu is intensive, and my favorites had been the charbroiled oysters and the coconut ice cream. I additionally liked the vary of decisions accessible from their enormous wine checklist. Click on right here for instructions.
Attending to Tampa
The beauty of visiting Tampa is how straightforward it’s to get to and get round. The town has its personal worldwide airport that’s simply quarter-hour away by highway from Downtown, with common shuttle buses and taxis accessible. You too can simply rent a automobile from the airport and drive round by yourself steam for those who want.
Should you’re visiting Orlando, you’ll be able to attain Tampa simply by highway; 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 attainable to spend simply at some point in Tampa, however for those who can, ebook not less than a few days to discover the principle sights.
It’s greatest to rent a automobile while you’re in Tampa as it’ll enable you extra freedom and mean you can get round and see extra. Distances between points of interest will be fairly giant, and driving gives you the chance to go at your personal tempo. Nevertheless, Lyft and Uber are available, in addition to buses and trolleys between main neighborhoods and vacationer points of interest.
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, superb seashores, vibrant nightlife, and scrumptious gastronomy. In fact, the climate is fairly good too, and it’s one of the action-packed cities you’ll probably go to.
To keep away from the most popular temperatures, October to December is a superb 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 gained’t be bored for a single second. Whereas so many individuals head to Orlando for theme park enjoyable and Mickey Mouse vibes, Tampa provides you all of that (minus Mickey) and a lot extra. It’s a metropolis that ticks each field.
Should you can keep for 7 days, you’ll have the ability to see rather a lot in every week, however for those who’re pressed for time, 3 days would mean you can see a great quantity. Should you go to for lower than two days, it’s very probably that you just’ll have to return to expertise the opposite issues in your checklist.
Sure. Tampa is taken into account a protected US metropolis. Whereas the principle touristic components of Tampa endure from petty crime, reminiscent of pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any giant metropolis worldwide. You merely have to hold your widespread sense on the forefront of your thoughts and don’t flash your valuables whereas out and about.
Busch Gardens is certainly one of Tampa’s most well-known points of interest, however Riverwalk can be up there amongst the most well-liked issues to do. It actually is dependent upon what you’re considering as to the place it’s best to goal your time. Nevertheless, Tampa can be a metropolis that’s full of historical past.
Whereas there are some wonderful, quieter seashores round Tampa, Clearwater is without doubt one of the most well-known and most lovely seashores within the Tampa Bay Space. Nevertheless, that is additionally a really busy spot, particularly through the hottest months of the yr.
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.
Should you’re pushed for time, it’s attainable to see a great quantity of Tampa in three days. Nevertheless, you gained’t see the whole lot. Should you can, every week gives you extra time to see the whole lot that pursuits you and actually soak up the texture of this vibrant metropolis.
In Closing
It’s straightforward to have a look at a big metropolis like Tampa and really feel overwhelmed, not understanding the place to start out and even the place to remain. The fantastic thing about Tampa is that each one neighborhoods appear to stream into each other. Whereas there’s a truthful distance between them, you’ll be able to plan your time and be sure to don’t miss any of the key Tampa points of interest.
Tampa has all the time been certainly one of my favourite cities, and I hope this checklist 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 positive, it’s essential learn up earlier than you go and know a little bit background data; that means, you gained’t miss something.
A pair of comfy footwear will definitely serve you nicely on this enormous metropolis, and it’s possible you’ll discover that after you come back residence, you’re pining to move again to Tampa and throw your self into the brilliant lights as soon as extra.
