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 the town and on the outskirts. It’s considered one of my favourite locations to go to within the US.
Tampa is large, full of historical past, nature, tradition, and unbelievable gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you can 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 urged I’d prefer it. They had been proper, and I’ve revisited numerous occasions since.
On this submit, I’ll share my experiences in Tampa. By the top of this learn, you’ll have a curated checklist of issues to do, and also you’ll be raring to get began.
Finest Issues To Do in Tampa
The very first thing you have to 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 can end up wandering round aimlessly and losing time. By having a plan, you might be rather 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 assist you 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’ll 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. When you can time your go to for sundown, you’ll catch the most effective picture alternatives round. The perfect information is that it’s free, so that you’ll have additional cash for the opposite points of interest on this checklist.
Tackle: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Middle
When you’re searching for Tampa points of interest that let you 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 your complete Florida space, together with the primary identified pirates.
It’s additionally fairly low-cost which is good for those who’re touring with youngsters and also you’re eager for them to be taught 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.
Tackle: 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, 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 beautiful animals actually are and what we will do as a society to assist them thrive.
Tackle: 12802 Straightforward St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Tampa Theater
From previous films to new exhibits, no journey to Tampa could be full with out visiting the attractive Tampa Theater.
Positioned 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 films 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.
Tackle: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
5. Amalie Enviornment
Amalie Enviornment 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 reasonably 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 extraordinary, that is the spot for you. You’ll must ebook tickets forward of time for ice hockey matches and main concert events, however the web site supplies up-to-date details about its occasions. Click on right here for particulars of upcoming exhibits.
Tackle: 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
6. Glazer Youngsters’s Museum
There are numerous issues to do in Tampa with youngsters however a number of hours within the top-class Glazer Youngsters’s Museum is an ideal thought. The on-site cafe is an efficient spot for fogeys to chill out whereas their youngsters blow off some steam and presents a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
Every thing right here is interactive, which means youngsters can run, play, discover, and be taught on the go. They’ll doubtless 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 presents completely different camps all year long and might be booked prematurely. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Tackle: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
7. Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church
The gorgeous Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church is among the metropolis’s oldest, courting again to 1905. You don’t should be spiritual to get pleasure from a go to to this serene and picturesque church, however for those who do want to attend mass, companies run each day and are open to everybody.
The constructing itself is among 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 it is best to positively try.
Tackle: 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 area of time.
Ybor Metropolis is the middle of the town’s cigar manufacturing historical past, and this tour will take you thru all an important areas, with the assistance of a educated information. You’ll study cigars, meals, structure, and tradition, all inside a number of informative hours.
My toes harm on the finish of it, however I extremely advocate 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.
Tackle: 1603 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
9. Wat Mongkolratanaram
Wat Mongkolratanaram is among 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 fantastic thing about this Buddhist temple is that it means that you can study a Tampa group that won’t instantly soar to thoughts.
Not solely is the structure spectacular, however the temple acts as a help heart and likewise homes a Sunday market the place you possibly can attempt all varieties of Thai meals. Imagine me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this type of delicacies. You may attempt distinctive dishes and likewise purchase elements to take house to create your personal.
Tackle: 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 among the most enjoyable issues to do in Tampa. Masking an enormous 335 acres of area, Busch Gardens is an African-themed park with rides, exhibits, meals, and every little thing else you possibly can think about. You may must spend greater than in the future right here to essentially respect all it has to supply.
When you’re anxious 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 at the moment, I might. Guide your tickets forward of time to keep away from the massive queues and to provide your self extra time to discover this huge expanse of enjoyable within the solar. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Tackle: 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 certain to be tempted towards the water no 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 gratifying 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 completely completely different viewpoint. Your legs will burn by the top, 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.
Tackle: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
12. Ben T Davis Seaside
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 Seaside is a spot straight from trip brochures, with clear, blue sea, and white sand. It’s the only finest method to sit back 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 might be quieter and much more stress-free. 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.
Tackle: 7740 W Courtney Campbell Cswy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Lettuce Lake Park
Positioned simply exterior of the town heart, Lettuce Lake Park transports you into considerable nature. Right here, you possibly can 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 dimension, with biking and strolling actions to get pleasure from.
The lake does include alligators, so that you’re most likely finest to only have a look at the water somewhat than get in it, however I discovered the park to be an exquisite break from the norm. Don’t get me improper; the town is unbelievable, however typically you simply need to hear your self breathe with nothing however timber and open areas beside you.
Tackle: 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, through 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 means that you can 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. Positively have your digicam prepared for this one, and put together in your jaw to drop once 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.
Tackle: 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 among 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 grotesque 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 actually have enjoyable and be taught extra in regards to the metropolis’s previous as you go. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Tackle: 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 among the finest 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 varieties of beers I didn’t even know existed.
The beer menu is sort of intensive, and there are lots of occasions held all year long. I visited in the course of the Badass Beer Pageant, and I’m planning on heading again once more. When you’re visiting throughout this time, I’d advocate you go; it’s a very enjoyable evening out.
Tackle: 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 fantastic 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 personal drinks, nonetheless, 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 doubtless you received’t need to get off the boat as soon as your time is up. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Tackle: 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 top-of-the-line issues to do in Tampa for those who’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you possibly can expertise on land, however this cruise will assist you be taught in regards to 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 cross alongside the homes of well-known figures from the world’s historical past, and the infamous Plant Lodge. The multi-language commentary provides you with loads of data and assist you to essentially respect the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Tackle: Historical past Middle/Amalie Enviornment, 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, properly, the Tampa Museum of Artwork is the most effective spot.
Full of reveals courting again to Historical Greek and Roman occasions, this museum will depart 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 in your family members. The museum has a number of rotating reveals all year long and occasions are held occasionally. Remember to try their web site to see what’s on once you’re visiting Tampa.
Tackle: 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 day trip at Journey Island. When the solar is thrashing down, the most effective factor to do is soar within the water, and this big water park is good 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.
Babies will love the latest attraction, known 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.
Tackle: 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 cute 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 complete time within the metropolis. It’s one thing I’ve executed greater than as soon as.
The cruise lasts for 90 minutes, so maintain your eyes peeled. In the meantime, you’ll study 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 dissatisfied. Click on right here for particulars.
Tackle: Historical past Middle/Amalie Enviornment, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
22. Zip Line Journey
When you’re seeking to scream on the high of your lungs, Zip Line Adventures is simply the ticket.
I’ve to confess that I used to be slightly nervous about making an attempt 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 some of the marketed points of interest, you received’t should queue or battle for area.
Positioned 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 be capable to say “I did that” for a very long time afterward. Click on right here for extra data.
Tackle: Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, 423 Lafayette Blvd, Oldsmar, FL 34677, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
23. TPC Tampa Golf Course
There are numerous sporting points of interest in Tampa, however the year-round delicate climate implies that golf is certainly on the menu. The TPC Tampa Golf Course is among 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 wished 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 situated in a few of the greenest landscapes across the metropolis, which is usually welcome when visiting a big metropolis.
Tackle: 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 each day to benefit from the well-known Cuban sandwich. When you eat only one factor in Tampa, let it’s this.
You may marvel what’s so particular a few sandwich, however imagine me, it’s a must 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.
When you ask any of the locals, they’ll let you know this sandwich is the most effective exterior of Cuba itself.
Tackle: 2117 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, US. Click on right here for instructions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
When you’re searching for issues to see in Tampa that 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 best spot to run free and discover the pure aspect of this big 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 payment to enter, however from there, it’s simply whole R&R all the way in which. Nonetheless, for those who 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.
Tackle: 15402 U.S. 301 North Thonotosassa FL 33592, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Tampa
It’s straightforward to take a look at a listing of issues to do in Tampa and perceive the truth that there are lots of points of interest, however piecing collectively your time might be fairly difficult.
Points of interest are sometimes far other than each other; for those who 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 need to see. To not point out, driving in a brand new location might be annoying.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries provides you with an thought of the varieties of points of interest you possibly can group collectively inside a day. Be at liberty 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
When you’re brief on time and also you solely have in the future 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 lots of unbelievable eating places and retailers 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 you could 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 actually received’t be bored when evening falls. It’s a good suggestion to ebook 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 3 days in Tampa isn’t sufficient time to see every little thing, nevertheless it’s a superb period of time to whet your urge for food for extra. After all, you possibly can at all times return. I believe the most effective place to begin is at all times Riverwalk and for those who 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 Middle for an hour or two. When night falls, try Tampa Theater and absorb 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. 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 considered 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 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 the 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 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 completely different aspect of this typically hectic metropolis. On day three, it’s time to move to Busch Gardens big African-themed park.
In your fourth day, you’ll must recuperate, so a full day having fun with the marvel of Ben T Davis Seaside is a superb 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 sport, 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 lots of issues to do in Tampa, so in your closing day, it’s time to unwind earlier than heading house. 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 big metropolis, and that’s one thing I didn’t absolutely respect earlier than I visited. The easiest way to get probably the most out of your time is to base your self in the correct space. Merely writing ‘Tampa’ right into a lodge 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 finest for. Inside these of those important neighborhoods, you’ll discover loads of lodge selections.
Downtown Tampa – Finest for Nightlife
Downtown Tampa options all the most effective nightlife within the metropolis, whereas additionally being house to a few of the high eating places and points of interest too.
That is the place probably the most upmarket eating places might be discovered, and it’s finest to ebook a desk prematurely for those who don’t need 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 should journey far as soon as your evening is over. Take a look at Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown.
Channelside – Finest 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—top-of-the-line issues to do in Tampa—together with nature, retailers, eating places, and points of interest overlooking the Hillsborough River.
Channelside additionally runs into Downtown, so it’s supreme for strolling, and it’s a barely extra serene neighborhood for {couples} too. Take a look at The Tampa EDITION.
Ybor Metropolis – Finest for Historical past Buffs
Ybor Metropolis is the historic heart of Tampa, and that is the place the cigar manufacturing trade was primarily based again within the day.
There are numerous 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 spread of eating places and bars to go well with all budgets. Take a look at Hampton Inn & Suites.
Finest 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 a protracted day of sightseeing.
A lot of the finest eating places in Tampa would require you to ebook 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 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 had been to die for and also you should try their cocktail menu for one thing slightly 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 completely satisfied company since 1956. You’ll want to decorate neatly to be allowed inside, and I’d advocate calling no less than two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
Remember to try their intensive wine checklist too; it’s one of many greatest I’ve ever seen, and it’s an excellent spot for romantic evenings or particular events. Click on right here for instructions.
Donatello
Donatello is taken into account top-of-the-line Italian eating places in Tampa, which additionally doubles up as a reside jazz lounge on sure nights of the week.
It has a complicated and vibrant environment for everybody to get pleasure from, with cheap costs, and portion sizes are predictably massive. 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 situated 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 similar time and is at all times filled with locals. Nonetheless, for my part, 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 on right here for instructions.
Ulele
Housed within the renovated Water Works constructing, Ulele is a very talked-about spot in Tampa and one it is best to positively head to for an gratifying night out. You may select to take a seat exterior and gaze on the water or inside for those who choose, 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 cherished the vary of selections obtainable from their big 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. Town has its personal worldwide airport that’s simply quarter-hour away by street from Downtown, with common shuttle buses and taxis obtainable. You can even simply rent a automobile from the airport and drive round by yourself steam for those who choose.
When you’re visiting Orlando, you possibly can 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 potential to spend simply in the future in Tampa, however for those who can, ebook no less than a few days to discover the primary sights.
It’s finest to rent a automobile once you’re in Tampa as it is going to permit you extra freedom and let you get round and see extra. Distances between points of interest might be fairly massive, and driving provides you with 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 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. After all, the climate is fairly good too, and it’s some of the action-packed cities you’ll doubtless go to.
To keep away from the most well liked 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 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 be capable to see loads in every week, however for those who’re pressed for time, 3 days would let you see a superb quantity. When you go to for lower than two days, it’s very doubtless that you just’ll must return to expertise the opposite issues in your checklist.
Sure. Tampa is taken into account a secure US metropolis. Whereas the primary touristic components of Tampa endure from petty crime, corresponding to pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any massive metropolis worldwide. You merely must maintain your widespread sense on the forefront of your thoughts and don’t flash your valuables whereas out and about.
Busch Gardens is considered 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 excited about as to the place it is 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 among 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, which 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 potential to see a superb quantity of Tampa in three days. Nonetheless, you received’t see every little thing. When you can, every week provides you with extra time to see every little thing that pursuits you and actually take in the texture of this vibrant metropolis.
In Closing
It’s straightforward to take 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 every one neighborhoods appear to move 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 most important Tampa points of interest.
Tampa has at all times been considered 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 certain, you have to learn up earlier than you go and know slightly background data; that method, you received’t miss something.
A pair of comfy footwear will definitely serve you properly on this big metropolis, and chances are you’ll discover that after you come back house, you’re pining to move again to Tampa and throw your self into the intense lights as soon as extra.
