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 certainly one of my favourite places to visit in the US.
Tampa is large, full of historical past, nature, tradition, and improbable gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you can presumably want. Sightseeing in Tampa is a blast, however it pays to do your analysis beforehand and know the perfect spots to go to.
The primary time I visited Tampa, I wasn’t actually positive what to anticipate; in any case, I went on a whim after a buddy instructed I’d prefer it. They have been proper, and I’ve revisited numerous occasions 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 you might want to know is that Tampa is a really giant metropolis so prior information of the perfect spots to go 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.
In the event you don’t know the place you’re going, you can end up wandering round aimlessly and losing time. By having a plan, you will be rather more focused and get extra out of your time.
So, whether or not you’re in search of 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 enable you out.
1. Tampa Riverwalk
One of many prime 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 finest sights and alongside the Hillsborough River.
It is going to additionally showcase how engaging 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 perfect 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.
Handle: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Heart
In the event you’re in search of Tampa points of interest that assist you to be taught 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 whole Florida space, together with the primary identified pirates.
It’s additionally fairly low-cost which is right should you’re touring with children 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 good selection for an exceptionally sizzling or wet day.
Handle: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
3. Massive Cat Rescue
This big cat sanctuary left me feeling extraordinarily emotional, however it’s wonderful to see very important work in rehabilitating these majestic creatures again into their pure habitats.
It’s among the best locations to go to in Tampa just because by heading there, you’re serving to out and giving one thing again.
The corporate rescues and rehabilitates lions, tigers, and different species with the hope of nursing them again to well being and releasing them into the wild. Additionally they assist orphaned species combine into new households. You’ll find out about simply how endangered these gorgeous animals actually are and what we are able to do as a society to assist them thrive.
Handle: 12802 Simple St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA. Click here for directions.
4. Tampa Theater
From outdated films 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 inbuilt 1926 and has been a mainstay within the metropolis ever since. They present the newest films in snug environment, in addition to blasts from the previous and occasions all year long. So, seize your self some popcorn, make your self snug, and luxuriate in your go to. Click here to check what’s on.
Handle: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
5. Amalie Area
Amalie Arena is the official residence of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Nonetheless, that’s not all this area is legendary for.
I’ll admit I do know nothing about ice hockey, however I did handle to catch a live performance right here and 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 must guide 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 here for details of upcoming shows.
Handle: 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
6. Glazer Youngsters’s Museum
There are numerous issues to do in Tampa with kids however a couple of hours within the top-class Glazer Children’s Museum is an ideal concept. The on-site cafe is an efficient spot for fogeys to calm down whereas their kids blow off some steam and gives a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
Every part right here is interactive, that means children can run, play, discover, and be taught on the go. They’ll seemingly 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 here for more details.
Handle: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
7. Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church
The gorgeous Sacred Heart Catholic Church is likely one of the metropolis’s oldest, courting again to 1905. You don’t need to be spiritual to get pleasure from a go to to this serene and picturesque church, however should you do want to attend mass, providers run day by day and are open to everybody.
The constructing itself is likely one of the finest locations to go to in Tampa for historical past alone. The stained-glass home windows are crafted to perfection, and the structure maintains its authentic particulars. It’s a surprising place of historic significance, and someplace you need to undoubtedly take a look at.
Handle: 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, however it’s exhausting 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 the town’s cigar manufacturing historical past, and this tour will take you thru all crucial areas, with the assistance of a educated information. You’ll find out about cigars, meals, structure, and tradition, all inside a couple 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 here for more details.
Handle: 1603 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click here for directions.
9. Wat Mongkolratanaram
Wat Mongkolratanaram is likely one of the locations to go to in Tampa which may elevate some eyebrows; in any case, it sounds Thai, however you’re in Florida, not Bangkok. Nonetheless, the fantastic thing about this Buddhist temple is that it lets you find out about a Tampa neighborhood that won’t instantly soar to thoughts.
Not solely is the structure spectacular, however the temple acts as a help heart and in addition homes a Sunday market the place you possibly can strive all varieties of Thai meals. Consider me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this type of delicacies. You may strive distinctive dishes and in addition purchase elements to take residence to create your personal.
Handle: 5306 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619, USA. Click here for directions.
10. Busch Gardens
With out a shadow of a doubt, Busch Gardens is likely 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 would possibly must spend greater than at some point right here to essentially respect 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 right this moment, I’d. E-book your tickets forward of time to keep away from the massive queues and to provide your self extra time to discover this large expanse of enjoyable within the solar. Click here for more details.
Handle: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA. Click here for directions.
11. Kraken CycleBoats
When in search of issues to do in Tampa, you’re positive 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.
Somewhat than strolling across the metropolis, you’ll pedal your means round on the water, trying out the cityscape from a completely totally different viewpoint. Your legs will burn by the tip, however that’s when you recognize you’ve had a exercise, and also you’re free to eat an enormous meal on the finish of it.
Handle: 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 seaside gained’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 finest option to relax and calm down, clearing your thoughts of the hustle and bustle of the town. It’s additionally solely half an hour away from Downtown by automotive.
What I like about this seaside is that it’s a hidden gem in some ways. Most individuals head to Clearwater, however a day right here can be quieter and way 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.
Handle: 7740 W Courtney Campbell Cswy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA. Click here for directions.
13. Lettuce Lake Park
Situated simply outdoors 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 measurement, with biking and strolling actions to get pleasure from.
The lake does include alligators, so that you’re in all probability finest to only have a look at the water relatively than get in it, however I discovered the park to be a beautiful break from the norm. Don’t get me flawed; the town is improbable, however generally you simply wish to hear your self breathe with nothing however bushes and open areas beside you.
Handle: 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 go 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. Positively have your digital camera prepared for this one, and put together in your jaw to drop while you see the sundown. Meals and drinks aren’t included on this tour, so you should definitely gasoline up beforehand or plan dinner for after you dock. Click here for more details.
Handle: 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 likely 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 might have imagined.
It is a one-hour-long strolling tour that takes you thru among 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 be taught extra concerning the metropolis’s previous as you go. Click here for more details.
Handle: 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 likely one of the finest issues to do in Tampa for {couples} and makes for an important evening out for foodies. I beloved the chilled-out vibe and the friendliness of everybody; I had a improbable night right here and bought to strive many varieties of beers I didn’t even know existed.
The beer menu is sort of in depth, and there are numerous occasions held all year long. I visited in the course of the Badass Beer Competition, 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.
Handle: 1600 E eighth Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click here for directions.
17. Tiki Boat Downtown Tampa
Sticking with the ingesting vibe, should you’re in search of 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 soak up.
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 seemingly you gained’t wish to get off the boat as soon as your time is up. Click here for more details.
Handle: 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 among the best issues to do in Tampa should you’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you possibly can expertise on land, however this cruise will enable you 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 loads into its length.
You’ll go alongside the homes of well-known figures from the world’s historical past, and the infamous Plant Lodge. The multi-language commentary will provide you with loads of info and enable you to essentially respect the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click here for more details.
Handle: Historical past Heart/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
19. Tampa Museum of Artwork
Artwork and tradition followers would possibly surprise what to do in Tampa to fulfill their inventive cravings, effectively, the Tampa Museum of Art is the perfect spot.
Full of reveals courting again to Historic Greek and Roman occasions, this museum will depart you greater than fulfilled.
You can too seize a scrumptious snack on the on-site cafe and choose up some souvenirs to take again residence in your family members. The museum has a number of rotating reveals all year long and occasions are held every now and then. Make sure to 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 here for directions.
20. Journey Island
One of many prime issues to do in Tampa for households is an exciting day trip at Adventure Island. When the solar is thrashing down, the perfect factor to do is soar within the water, and this big water park is right for simply that. Surprisingly, it’s additionally an important place to sit back out, which isn’t one thing you possibly can typically 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 here for more information.
Handle: 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 among the best issues to do in Tampa and it was a particular spotlight of my complete time within the metropolis. It’s one thing I’ve accomplished greater than as soon as.
The cruise lasts for 90 minutes, so maintain your eyes peeled. In the meantime, you’ll find out about conservation efforts for the marine life inside the bay, together with sea turtles and manatees. The opposite plus level is that the surroundings round you is breathtaking too; even when a dolphin doesn’t grace you with its presence, you gained’t be too dissatisfied. Click here for details.
Handle: 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 prime of your lungs, Zip Line Adventures is simply the ticket.
I’ve to confess that I used to be a 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 probably the most marketed points of interest, you gained’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 strive. It’s the right 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 here for more information.
Handle: Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, 423 Lafayette Blvd, Oldsmar, FL 34677, USA. Click here for directions.
23. TPC Tampa Golf Course
There are numerous sporting points of interest in Tampa, however the year-round gentle climate implies that golf is certainly on the menu. The TPC Tampa Golf Course is likely one of the most well-known, having hosted occasions on the PGA Tour for many years. In the event you’re somebody who loves golf, otherwise you’ve at all times wished to strive, 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 situated 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 here for directions.
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 day by day to benefit from the well-known Cuban sandwich. In the event you eat only one factor in Tampa, let it’s this.
You would possibly surprise what’s so particular a couple of sandwich, however imagine me, you need to strive it to grasp. 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.
In the event you ask any of the locals, they’ll let you know this sandwich is the perfect outdoors of Cuba itself.
Handle: 2117 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, US. Click here for directions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
In the event you’re in search of issues to see in Tampa that assist you to 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 big metropolis.
The views from listed here are additionally second to none and provide you with some improbable picture alternatives to refill your digital camera reel.
There’s a small price to enter, however from there, it’s simply whole R&R all the way in which. Nonetheless, should you do really feel the necessity for adrenaline calling, the park can also 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 here for directions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Tampa
It’s straightforward to take 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; should you don’t do your analysis, you’ll spend far an excessive amount of time on the street and never sufficient time exploring the stuff you wish to see. To not point out, driving in a brand new location will be traumatic.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries will provide you with an concept of the varieties of points of interest you possibly can 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 possibly can pack into your time, the higher in my eyes.
1 Day in Tampa Itinerary
In the event you’re brief on time and also you solely have at some point in Tampa, the Riverwalk is the perfect spot to start your journey. Spending your day right here means you get to soak up an outline of Channelside and into Downtown, plus, there are numerous improbable 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 great 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 definitely gained’t be bored when evening falls. It’s a good suggestion to book a hotel 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 3 days in Tampa isn’t sufficient time to see every part, however it’s a superb period of time to whet your urge for food for extra. In fact, you possibly can at all times return. I feel the perfect start line is at all times Riverwalk and should you 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 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 prime of your lungs. In case you have a automotive, you’re good to go, but when not, public transport can take you there.
In your last day, take the Ybor City Historic Walking Tour, and bear 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 depart.
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, 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 Massive 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 generally hectic metropolis. On day three, it’s time to go to Busch Gardens big African-themed park.
In your fourth day, you’ll must get well, so a full day having fun with the surprise of Ben T Davis Seaside 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 City Historic Walking Tour, earlier than heading over to Amalie Area to catch a recreation, 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 a variety of issues to do in Tampa, so in your last day, it’s time to unwind earlier than heading residence. Which means immersing your self in nature at Hillsborough River State Park and taking loads of pictures 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 totally respect earlier than I visited. The easiest way 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 website may lead you to remain in part of the town that’s distant from what you actually wish to see and do.
There are a number of neighborhoods within the Tampa space, so let’s have a look at the perfect ones for a brief keep of as much as one week, and the varieties of issues they’re finest for. Inside these of those major neighborhoods, you’ll discover loads of lodge selections.
Downtown Tampa – Greatest for Nightlife
Downtown Tampa options all the perfect 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 finest to guide a desk prematurely should you don’t wish 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’s 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—among the best 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 preferrred for strolling, and it’s a barely extra serene neighborhood for {couples} too. Try The Tampa EDITION.
Ybor Metropolis – Greatest for Historical past Buffs
Ybor Metropolis is the historic heart of Tampa, and that is the place the cigar manufacturing business was based mostly again within the day.
There are numerous outdated cigar factories and museums right here, and the structure alone is dripping with old-world attraction, excellent for studying extra past the modern-day fare.
Ybor Metropolis can also be cheaper than Downtown and Channelside, with a variety 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 exhausting to know the perfect spots to fill your abdomen after an extended day of sightseeing.
A lot of the finest eating places in Tampa would require you to guide a desk forward of time, however inside Seminole Heights and North Tampa specifically, you’ll discover extra laid-back eating experiences, and you may normally simply drop in and discover a desk.
Barterhouse
{Couples} and teams in search of 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. 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 a bit totally different. Click here for directions.
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 well to be allowed inside, and I’d suggest calling no less than two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
Make sure to take a look at their in depth wine checklist too; it’s one of many largest I’ve ever seen, and it’s an important spot for romantic evenings or particular events. Click here for directions.
Donatello
Donatello is taken into account among the best Italian eating places in Tampa, which additionally doubles up as a stay jazz lounge on sure nights of the week.
It has a classy and vibrant environment for everybody to get pleasure from, with affordable costs, and portion sizes are predictably giant. The contemporary seafood pasta is legendary across the native space, and the menu options an enormous vary of starters. Click here for directions.
Ella’s American Folks Artwork Cafe
Ella’s American Folk Art Cafe is situated in low-key Seminole Heights, and it’s an important spot to get pleasure from a scrumptious meal and relax after an extended day.
The restaurant capabilities as an artwork gallery and music venue all on the similar time and is at all times stuffed with locals. Nonetheless, for my part, the perfect 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 extremely popular spot in Tampa and one you need to undoubtedly head to for an gratifying night out. You may select to sit down outdoors and gaze on the water or inside should you want, making it the right chilled-out eating choice.
The menu is in depth, and my favorites have been the charbroiled oysters and the coconut ice cream. I additionally beloved the vary of selections out there from their big wine checklist. Click here for directions.
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 out there. You can too easily hire a car from the airport and drive round by yourself steam should you want.
In the event 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 may drive comfortably by following the I-4 W route. It’s potential to spend simply at some point in Tampa, however should you can, guide no less than a few days to discover the principle sights.
It’s finest to rent a automotive while you’re in Tampa as it’s going to permit you extra freedom and assist you to get round and see extra. Distances between points of interest will be fairly giant, and driving will provide 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 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 seemingly 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 gained’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.
In the event you can keep for 7 days, you’ll be capable to see loads in per week, however should you’re pressed for time, 3 days would assist you to see a superb quantity. In the event you go to for lower than two days, it’s very seemingly that you just’ll must return to expertise the opposite issues in your checklist.
Sure. Tampa is taken into account a safe US city. Whereas the principle touristic elements of Tampa endure from petty crime, reminiscent of pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any giant metropolis worldwide. You merely must maintain your frequent 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 also be up there amongst the preferred issues to do. It actually depends upon what you’re fascinated with as to the place you need to goal your time. Nonetheless, Tampa can also be a metropolis that’s full of historical past.
Whereas there are some wonderful, quieter seashores round Tampa, Clearwater is likely 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 strive. The contemporary seafood right here is one thing else.
In the event you’re pushed for time, it’s potential to see a superb quantity of Tampa in three days. Nonetheless, you gained’t see every part. In the event you can, per week will provide you with extra time to see every part that pursuits you and actually take up 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 realizing the place to start out and even the place to remain. The great 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 foremost Tampa points of interest.
Tampa has at all times 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 right mix of historical past, gastronomy, enjoyable, nature, and tradition. I can’t consider something that it lacks, however for positive, you might want to learn up earlier than you go and know a bit background info; that means, you gained’t miss something.
A pair of snug footwear will definitely serve you effectively on this big metropolis, and it’s possible you’ll discover that when you come back residence, you’re pining to go again to Tampa and throw your self into the intense lights as soon as extra.
