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 every of my favourite places to visit in the US.
Tampa is big, full of historical past, nature, tradition, and unbelievable gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you might presumably 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 good friend recommended I’d 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 giant metropolis so prior information of the most effective spots to move to is at all times helpful. Fortunately, I had a Tampa-native good friend to assist me on my first journey, and the excellent news is that I can share all of these hidden gems with you.
In the event you don’t know the place you’re going, you might 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 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. Overlaying 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 actually nice eating places alongside this stroll, together with Big Ray’s Fish Camp and River’s Edge. In the event you can time your go to for sundown, you’ll catch the most effective picture alternatives round. One of the best information is that it’s free, so that you’ll have more money for the opposite points of interest on this record.
Deal with: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Heart
In the event you’re searching for Tampa points of interest that will let you study whereas additionally exploring, the Tampa Bay History Center is for you.
This museum is super-interactive and has three flooring full of 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 right if you happen to’re touring with children and also you’re eager for them to study one thing from their journey. You may see this museum inside 2-3 hours most, which frees up lots extra time to discover the remainder of Downtown. It’s additionally a sensible choice for an exceptionally scorching or wet day.
Deal with: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
3. Large Cat Rescue
This big 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 top-of-the-line 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 study 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 here for directions.
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 luxuriate in your go to. Click here to check what’s on.
Deal with: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
5. Amalie Area
Amalie Arena is the official house of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Nonetheless, 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 evening in Tampa, however if you wish to do one thing memorable and out of the strange, that is the spot for you. You’ll have to guide tickets forward of time for ice hockey matches and main live shows, however the web site offers up-to-date details about its occasions. Click here for details of upcoming shows.
Deal with: 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
6. Glazer Youngsters’s Museum
There are lots of issues to do in Tampa with youngsters however just a few hours within the top-class Glazer Children’s Museum is an ideal concept. The on-site cafe is an effective spot for fogeys to calm down whereas their youngsters blow off some steam and provides a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
Every thing right here is interactive, that means children can run, play, discover, and study on the go. They’ll probably be having a lot enjoyable, they received’t even understand they’re studying! The museum additionally runs its very talked-about Camp Think about program, which provides totally different camps all year long and will be booked upfront. Click here for more details.
Deal with: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
7. Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church
The attractive Sacred 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 get pleasure from a go to to this serene and picturesque church, however if you happen to do want to attend mass, providers run every 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 unique particulars. It’s a shocking place of historic significance, and someplace it’s best to positively take a look at.
Deal with: 509 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL, USA. Click here for directions.
8. Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour
Many individuals ask what to see in Tampa for historical past, nevertheless it’s onerous to pinpoint particular locations that aren’t far aside.
That’s the place the Ybor City Historic Walking Tour is available in helpful, because it helps you see loads in a brief area of time.
Ybor Metropolis is the middle of 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 study cigars, meals, structure, and tradition, all inside just a few informative hours.
My toes harm 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 here for more details.
Deal with: 1603 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click here for directions.
9. Wat Mongkolratanaram
Wat Mongkolratanaram is without doubt 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. Nonetheless, the great thing about this Buddhist temple is that it lets you study a Tampa neighborhood that will not instantly bounce to thoughts.
Not solely is the structure spectacular, however the temple acts as a assist middle and in addition homes a Sunday market the place you possibly can attempt all kinds of Thai meals. Consider me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this type of delicacies. You may attempt distinctive dishes and in addition purchase substances to take house to create your personal.
Deal with: 5306 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619, USA. Click here for directions.
10. Busch Gardens
With no shadow of a doubt, Busch Gardens is without doubt one of the most enjoyable issues to do in Tampa. Overlaying an enormous 335 acres of area, Busch Gardens is an African-themed park with rides, exhibits, meals, and every part else you possibly can think about. You may have to spend greater than at some point right here to essentially recognize all it has to supply.
In the event 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 might return at the moment, I’d. Ebook 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 here for more details.
Deal with: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA. Click here for directions.
11. Kraken CycleBoats
When searching for issues to do in Tampa, you’re certain to be tempted towards the water at the least 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 pleasurable actions I took half in.
Somewhat than strolling across the metropolis, you’ll pedal your approach round on the water, testing the cityscape from a very totally different viewpoint. Your legs will burn by the tip, however that’s when you realize 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 here for directions.
12. Ben T Davis Seaside
There aren’t that many free issues to do in Tampa however a day on the seashore received’t price you a dime. Ben T Davis Beach is a spot straight from trip brochures, with clear, blue sea, and white sand. It’s the one greatest method to chill and calm down, clearing your thoughts of the hustle and bustle of 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 might be quieter and way more enjoyable. Take your personal 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 here for directions.
13. Lettuce Lake Park
Situated simply outdoors of town middle, Lettuce Lake Park transports you into plentiful nature. Right here, you possibly can wander to your coronary heart’s content material with out bumping into anybody and benefit from the recent 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 greatest to simply take 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 flawed; town is unbelievable, however typically you simply wish to hear your self breathe with nothing however bushes and open areas beside you.
Deal with: 6920 E Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33637, USA. Click here for directions.
14. Sundown Cruise With Sunshine Skyway Bridge
One cool factor to do in Tampa is to move off on the Sunset Cruise, via the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The journey solely takes two hours, so it’s the right begin to a night. The cruise units off from St. Petersburg, which is only a 20-minute drive away from Downtown Tampa, and lets you 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 on your jaw to drop while you see the sundown. Meals and drinks aren’t included on this tour, so make sure to gasoline up beforehand or plan dinner for after you dock. Click here for more details.
Deal with: Dock Q48 on St. Petersburg Pier, 400 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA. Click here for directions.
15. Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour
The Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour is without doubt 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 number 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 here for more details.
Deal with: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
16. Tampa Bay Brewing Firm
Craft beer followers will adore this place. A go to to the Tampa Bay Brewing Company is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Tampa for {couples} and makes for an excellent evening out for foodies. I cherished the chilled-out vibe and the friendliness of everybody; I had a unbelievable night right here and acquired to attempt many kinds 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 in the course of the Badass Beer Pageant, and I’m planning on heading again once more. In the event you’re visiting throughout this time, I’d suggest you go; it’s a very enjoyable evening out.
Deal with: 1600 E eighth Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click here for directions.
17. Tiki Boat Downtown Tampa
Sticking with the consuming vibe, if you happen to’re searching for distinctive stuff to do in Tampa, it must be the Tiki Boat. I went on this tour with a good friend 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 have to take your personal drinks, nevertheless, you’re given a free cooler and a Bluetooth stereo so you possibly can 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 received’t wish to get off the boat as soon as your time is up. Click here for more details.
Deal with: Water Works Park, 1701 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
18. Tampa Historical past Cruise
The Tampa History Cruise is arms down top-of-the-line issues to do in Tampa if you happen to’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you possibly can 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 period.
You’ll go alongside the homes of well-known figures from the realm’s historical past, and the infamous Plant Lodge. The multi-language commentary offers you loads of info and show you how to to essentially recognize the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click here for more details.
Deal with: Historical past Heart/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
19. Tampa Museum of Artwork
Artwork and tradition followers may marvel what to do in Tampa to fulfill their creative cravings, effectively, the Tampa Museum of Art is the most effective spot.
Full of reveals relationship again to Historical Greek and Roman instances, this museum will go away you greater than fulfilled.
You can even seize a scrumptious snack on the on-site cafe and choose up some souvenirs to take again house on your family members. The museum has a number of rotating reveals all year long and occasions are held once in a while. Remember to take a look at their web site to see what’s on while you’re visiting Tampa.
Deal with: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
20. Journey Island
One of many high issues to do in Tampa for households is an exciting day trip at Adventure Island. When the solar is thrashing down, the most effective factor to do is bounce within the water, and this large water park is right for simply that. Surprisingly, it’s additionally an excellent place to sit back out, which isn’t one thing you possibly can usually say about theme parks.
Young children will love the most recent attraction, referred to 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 non-public cabana, and there are many eating places and cafes round for ice cream and refreshments. Click here for more information.
Deal with: 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. Click here for directions.
21. Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise
The Tampa Bay waters are brimming with sealife, not least a lot of bottlenose dolphins. In the event you’re something like me, any probability to identify these lovable creatures is a must-do.
I discovered this dolphin sightseeing cruise to be top-of-the-line issues to do in Tampa and it was a particular spotlight of my total time within the metropolis. It’s one thing I’ve finished greater than as soon as.
The cruise lasts for 90 minutes, so preserve your eyes peeled. In the meantime, you’ll study 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 received’t be too dissatisfied. Click here for details.
Deal with: Historical past Heart/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
22. Zip Line Journey
In the event 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 somewhat nervous about attempting this out, however I’m so glad I did. It’s one of many high vacationer points of interest in Tampa that may 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 probably the most marketed points of interest, you received’t need to queue or battle for area.
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 right half-day journey to get out of town limits, and also you’ll be capable to say “I did that” for a very long time afterward. Click here for more information.
Deal with: Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, 423 Lafayette Blvd, Oldsmar, FL 34677, USA. Click here for directions.
23. TPC Tampa Golf Course
There are lots of sporting points of interest in Tampa, however the year-round gentle climate implies that golf is unquestionably 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. In the event you’re somebody who loves golf, otherwise you’ve at all times 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 plenty of occasions and tournaments happen all year long. The course is positioned in a number 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 here for directions.
24. Attempt 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 every day to benefit from the well-known Cuban sandwich. In the event 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, 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.
In the event you ask any of the locals, they’ll let you know this sandwich is the most effective outdoors of Cuba itself.
Deal with: 2117 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, US. Click here for directions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
In the event you’re searching for issues to see in Tampa that will let you drench your self in nature and rest, 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 large metropolis.
The views from listed here are additionally second to none and provide you with some unbelievable picture alternatives to replenish your digicam reel.
There’s a small price to enter, however from there, it’s simply whole R&R all the best way. Nonetheless, if you happen to do really feel the necessity for adrenaline calling, the park can be house 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 here for directions.
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 other than each other; if you happen to don’t do your analysis, you’ll spend far an excessive amount of time on the highway and never sufficient time exploring the belongings you wish to see. To not point out, driving in a brand new location will be nerve-racking.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries offers you an concept of the kinds of points of interest you possibly can group collectively inside a day. Be happy to combine up and exchange some points of interest that decision out to you extra, however the extra you possibly can pack into your time, the higher in my eyes.
1 Day in Tampa Itinerary
In the event 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 absorb an outline of Channelside and into Downtown, plus, there are numerous unbelievable eating places and outlets alongside the best way.
Watching the hustle and bustle of town is intoxicating in itself, and naturally, a free factor to do in Tampa. The great 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 book a hotel 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 3 days in Tampa isn’t sufficient time to see every part, nevertheless it’s an excellent period of time to whet your urge for food for extra. In fact, you possibly can at all times return. I feel 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, 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 high of your lungs. You probably have a automobile, you’re good to go, but when not, public transport can take you there.
In your ultimate day, take the Ybor City Historic Walking Tour, and keep in mind to name into the Columbia Restaurant to seize one in every of 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 go away.
1 Week in Tampa Itinerary
One full week in Tampa means you possibly can 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, take a look at the Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour. In the event 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 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 totally totally different aspect of this typically hectic metropolis. On day three, it’s time to move to Busch Gardens large African-themed park.
In your fourth day, you’ll have to recuperate, so a full day having fun with the marvel of Ben T Davis Seaside is a superb concept. Bear in mind to take some snacks, refreshments, and a blanket. Then, spend your fifth day exploring historical past on the Ybor City Historic Walking Tour, earlier than heading over to Amalie Area to catch a sport, present, or a meal.
In your penultimate day, splash round at Adventure Island, earlier than heading over to Riverwalk for a meal. You’ve packed in lots of issues to do in Tampa, so in your ultimate day, it’s time to unwind earlier than heading house. Meaning immersing your self in nature at Hillsborough River State Park and taking loads of images alongside the best way 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. One of the simplest ways to get essentially the most out of your time is to base your self in the fitting 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 take a look at the most effective ones for a brief keep of as much as one week, and the kinds of issues they’re greatest for. Inside these of those fundamental neighborhoods, you’ll discover loads of lodge selections.
Downtown Tampa – Greatest for Nightlife
Downtown Tampa options all the most effective nightlife within the metropolis, whereas additionally being house to a number of the high 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 guide a desk upfront if you happen to don’t wish to be dissatisfied.
It’s additionally an excellent spot to base your self if evenings are your focus and whereas it may be busy and loud, it is going to imply you don’t need to 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 right space for first-timers. It’s additionally the place you’ll discover the Riverwalk—top-of-the-line 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 excellent 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 middle of Tampa, and that is the place the cigar manufacturing business was primarily based again within the day.
There are lots of previous cigar factories and museums right here, and the structure alone is dripping with old-world appeal, good 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
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 onerous 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 guide a desk forward of time, however inside Seminole Heights and North Tampa particularly, you’ll discover extra laid-back eating experiences, and you may normally simply drop in and discover a desk.
Barterhouse
{Couples} and teams searching 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. Nonetheless, the meals is firmly American with a slight Cuban twist.
The ocean scallops have been to die for and also you should take a look at their cocktail menu for one thing somewhat totally different. Click here for directions.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Large, juicy steaks and supremely recent seafood on the order of the day at Bern’s Steakhouse, which has been serving completely happy visitors since 1956. You’ll want to decorate well to be allowed inside, and I’d suggest calling at the least two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
Remember to take a look at their intensive wine record too; it’s one of many largest I’ve ever seen, and it’s an excellent spot for romantic evenings or particular events. Click here for directions.
Donatello
Donatello is taken into account top-of-the-line Italian eating places in Tampa, which additionally doubles up as a dwell jazz lounge on sure nights of the week.
It has a complicated and vibrant ambiance for everybody to get pleasure from, with affordable costs, and portion sizes are predictably giant. The recent seafood pasta is known across the native space, and the menu options an enormous vary of starters. Click here for directions.
Ella’s American People Artwork Cafe
Ella’s American Folk Art Cafe is positioned in low-key Seminole Heights, and it’s an excellent spot to get pleasure from a scrumptious meal and sit back after a protracted day.
The restaurant capabilities as an artwork gallery and music venue all on the identical time and is at all times filled with locals. Nonetheless, in my view, the most effective factor about it’s the Soul Meals Sunday menu. I had the meat brisket sandwich and home made key lime pie—I might eat all of it once more proper now. Click here for directions.
Ulele
Housed within the renovated Water Works constructing, Ulele is a very talked-about spot in Tampa and one it’s best to positively head to for an pleasurable night out. You may select to take a seat outdoors and gaze on the water or inside if you happen to choose, making it the right chilled-out eating choice.
The menu is intensive, and my favorites have been the charbroiled oysters and the coconut ice cream. I additionally cherished the vary of selections obtainable from their large wine record. Click here for directions.
Attending to Tampa
The wonderful thing about visiting Tampa is how straightforward it’s to get to and get round. Town has its personal worldwide airport that’s simply quarter-hour away by highway from Downtown, with common shuttle buses and taxis obtainable. You can even easily hire a car from the airport and drive round by yourself steam if you happen to choose.
In the event you’re visiting Orlando, you possibly can attain Tampa simply by highway; the 2 cities are a 1.5-hour journey away from each other, and you may drive comfortably by following the I-4 W route. It’s potential to spend simply at some point in Tampa, however if you happen to can, guide at the least a few days to discover the principle sights.
It’s greatest to rent a automobile while you’re in Tampa as it is going to permit you extra freedom and will let you get round and see extra. Distances between points of interest will be fairly giant, and driving offers you the chance to go at your personal tempo. Nonetheless, 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 here 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 probably the most 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. Nonetheless, 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 provides you all of that (minus Mickey) and a lot extra. It’s a metropolis that ticks each field.
In the event you can keep for 7 days, you’ll be capable to see loads in per week, however if you happen to’re pressed for time, 3 days would will let you see an excellent quantity. In the event 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 record.
Sure. Tampa is taken into account a safe US city. Whereas the principle touristic elements of Tampa undergo from petty crime, similar to pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any giant metropolis worldwide. You merely have to preserve your frequent sense on the forefront of your thoughts and don’t flash your valuables whereas out and about.
Busch Gardens is one in every 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 depends upon what you’re excited by as to the place it’s best to goal your time. Nonetheless, 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. Nonetheless, that is additionally a really busy spot, particularly in the course of 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 recent seafood right here is one thing else.
In the event you’re pushed for time, it’s potential to see an excellent quantity of Tampa in three days. Nonetheless, you received’t see every part. In the event you can, per week offers you extra time to see every part that pursuits you and actually take in 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 great thing about Tampa is that every one neighborhoods appear to movement into each other. Whereas there’s a honest distance between them, you possibly can plan your time and be sure to don’t miss any of the key Tampa points of interest.
Tampa has at all times been one in every of my favourite cities, and I hope this record of issues to see and do has proven you why. For me, it’s the right 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 somewhat background info; that approach, you received’t miss something.
A pair of comfy sneakers will definitely serve you effectively on this large metropolis, and it’s possible you’ll discover that after you come house, you’re pining to move again to Tampa and throw your self into the brilliant lights as soon as extra.
