Visiting Tampa is all the time a thrill. Whether or not it’s your first time, otherwise you’re returning for the tenth time, there are all the time loads of issues to do in Tampa; each proper within the coronary heart of town and on the outskirts. It’s one in all my favourite locations to go to within the US.
Tampa is big, filled with historical past, nature, tradition, and implausible gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you possibly can probably want. Sightseeing in Tampa is a blast, however it pays to do your analysis beforehand and know the most effective spots to move to.
The primary time I visited Tampa, I wasn’t actually positive what to anticipate; in spite of everything, I went on a whim after a buddy advised I’d prefer it. They had been proper, and I’ve revisited numerous instances since.
On this publish, I’ll share my experiences in Tampa. By the tip of this learn, you’ll have a curated checklist of issues to do, and also you’ll be raring to get began.
Greatest Issues To Do in Tampa
The very first thing you want to know is that Tampa is a really massive metropolis so prior data of the most effective spots to move to is all the time helpful. Fortunately, I had a Tampa-native buddy to assist me on my first journey, and the excellent news is that I can share all of these hidden gems with you.
Should you don’t know the place you’re going, you possibly 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 to out.
1. Tampa Riverwalk
One of many high issues to do in Tampa is to wander down the Riverwalk. Protecting 2.6 miles, this pedestrianized pathway takes you thru a few of Channelside’s finest 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 Large Ray’s Fish Camp and River’s Edge. Should you can time your go to for sundown, you’ll catch the most effective picture alternatives round. The very best information is that it’s free, so that you’ll have extra cash for the opposite points of interest on this checklist.
Handle: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Middle
Should you’re in search of Tampa points of interest that help you be taught whereas additionally exploring, the Tampa Bay Historical past Middle is for you.
This museum is super-interactive and has three flooring filled with 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’ll be able to 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 on right here for instructions.
3. Large Cat Rescue
This massive cat sanctuary left me feeling extraordinarily emotional, however it’s wonderful to see important work in rehabilitating these majestic creatures again into their pure habitats.
It’s probably the greatest locations to go to in Tampa just because by heading there, you’re serving to out and giving one thing again.
The corporate rescues and rehabilitates lions, tigers, and different species with the hope of nursing them again to well being and releasing them into the wild. In addition they assist orphaned species combine into new households. You’ll find out about simply how endangered these beautiful 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 on right here for instructions.
4. Tampa Theater
From outdated motion pictures to new reveals, no journey to Tampa could 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 inbuilt 1926 and has been a mainstay within the metropolis ever since. They present the newest motion pictures in comfy environment, in addition to blasts from the previous and occasions all year long. So, seize your self some popcorn, make your self comfy, and luxuriate in your go to. Click on right here to test what’s on.
Handle: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
5. Amalie Area
Amalie Area is the official dwelling 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 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 abnormal, that is the spot for you. You’ll have to e-book tickets forward of time for ice hockey matches and main live shows, however the web site supplies up-to-date details about its occasions. Click on right here for particulars of upcoming reveals.
Handle: 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 couple 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 affords a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
Every thing 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 highly regarded Camp Think about program, which affords totally different camps all year long and will be booked upfront. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
7. Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church
The attractive Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church is among 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 should you do want to attend mass, companies run every 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 you must positively try.
Handle: 509 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
8. Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour
Many individuals ask what to see in Tampa for historical past, however it’s onerous to pinpoint particular locations that aren’t far aside.
That’s the place the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour is available in helpful, because it helps you see rather a lot in a brief area of time.
Ybor Metropolis is the middle of town’s cigar manufacturing historical past, and this tour will take you thru all crucial areas, with the assistance of a educated information. You’ll find out about cigars, meals, structure, and tradition, all inside a couple of informative hours.
My toes damage on the finish of it, however I extremely suggest this tour. It’s simple to include into half a day earlier than heading off to fill the remainder of your time with one other exercise. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 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 increase 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 permits you to find out about a Tampa neighborhood that will not instantly soar to thoughts.
Not solely is the structure spectacular, however the temple acts as a assist heart and likewise homes a Sunday market the place you’ll be able to strive all sorts of Thai meals. Consider me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this type of delicacies. You’ll be able to strive distinctive dishes and likewise purchase substances to take dwelling to create your individual.
Handle: 5306 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
10. Busch Gardens
And not using a shadow of a doubt, Busch Gardens is among the most enjoyable issues to do in Tampa. Protecting an enormous 335 acres of area, Busch Gardens is an African-themed park with rides, reveals, meals, and every thing else you’ll be able to think about. You may have to spend greater than someday right here to actually recognize all it has to supply.
Should you’re fearful 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 in the present day, I might. E-book your tickets forward of time to keep away from the large queues and to present your self extra time to discover this large expanse of enjoyable within the solar. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
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.
Moderately than strolling across the metropolis, you’ll pedal your means 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 understand you’ve had a exercise, and also you’re free to eat an enormous meal on the finish of it.
Handle: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
12. Ben T Davis Seashore
There aren’t that many free issues to do in Tampa however a day on the seaside gained’t price you a dime. Ben T Davis Seashore is a spot straight from trip brochures, with clear, blue sea, and white sand. It’s the one finest option to relax and chill out, clearing your thoughts of the hustle and bustle of town. It’s additionally solely half an hour away from Downtown by automotive.
What I really like about this seaside is that it’s a hidden gem in some ways. Most individuals head to Clearwater, however a day right here will likely be quieter and much more enjoyable. Take your individual picnic and blanket, as there are only a few facilities, however from there, simply get pleasure from what Mom Nature has to supply.
Handle: 7740 W Courtney Campbell Cswy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Lettuce Lake Park
Situated simply exterior of town heart, Lettuce Lake Park transports you into ample nature. Right here, you’ll be able to wander to your coronary heart’s content material with out bumping into anybody and benefit from the contemporary air throughout you. The park is a big 240-acre in dimension, with biking and strolling actions to get pleasure from.
The lake does comprise alligators, so that you’re most likely finest to only have a look at the water reasonably than get in it, however I discovered the park to be a beautiful break from the norm. Don’t get me improper; town is implausible, however typically you simply wish to hear your self breathe with nothing however timber and open areas beside you.
Handle: 6920 E Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33637, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
14. Sundown Cruise With Sunshine Skyway Bridge
One cool factor to do in Tampa is to move off on the Sundown Cruise, 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 permits you to get pleasure from a serene night on the water.
As you float gently round Tampa Bay, the imposing Sunshine Skyway Bridge comes into view, with its ever-changing colours. Positively have your digital camera 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 to gasoline up beforehand or plan dinner for after you dock. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: Dock Q48 on St. Petersburg Pier, 400 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
15. Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour
The Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour is among the most original 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 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.
It is a one-hour-long strolling tour that takes you thru a number of the most ghostly streets and areas in central Tampa. Will you see some spirits or expertise different paranormal exercise? Who is aware of, however you’ll definitely have enjoyable and be taught extra in regards to the metropolis’s previous as you go. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
16. Tampa Bay Brewing Firm
Craft beer followers will adore this place. A go to to the Tampa Bay Brewing Firm is among the finest issues to do in Tampa for {couples} and makes for a fantastic evening out for foodies. I cherished the chilled-out vibe and the friendliness of everybody; I had a implausible night right here and bought to strive many sorts of beers I didn’t even know existed.
The beer menu is sort of in depth, 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. Should you’re visiting throughout this time, I’d suggest you go; it’s a extremely enjoyable evening out.
Handle: 1600 E eighth Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
17. Tiki Boat Downtown Tampa
Sticking with the ingesting vibe, should you’re in search of distinctive stuff to do in Tampa, it needs to be the Tiki Boat. I went on this tour with a buddy of mine, and we had a blast, whereas additionally appreciating the 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 have to take your individual drinks, nonetheless, you’re given a free cooler and a Bluetooth stereo so you’ll be able to play your individual music. From there, you float down the Hillsborough River and 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 on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: Water Works Park, 1701 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
18. Tampa Historical past Cruise
The Tampa Historical past Cruise is fingers down probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa should you’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you’ll be able to expertise on land, however this cruise will enable you to 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 rather a lot into its period.
You’ll move alongside the homes of well-known figures from the realm’s historical past, and the infamous Plant Resort. The multi-language commentary offers you loads of data and enable you to to actually recognize the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: Historical past Middle/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
19. Tampa Museum of Artwork
Artwork and tradition followers may marvel what to do in Tampa to fulfill their creative cravings, properly, the Tampa Museum of Artwork is the most effective spot.
Full of reveals relationship again to Historical Greek and Roman instances, this museum will depart you greater than fulfilled.
You may also seize a scrumptious snack on the on-site cafe and choose up some souvenirs to take again dwelling in your family members. The museum has a number of rotating reveals all year long and occasions are held every now and then. Remember to try their web site to see what’s on once you’re visiting Tampa.
Handle: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
20. Journey Island
One of many 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 right for simply that. Surprisingly, it’s additionally a fantastic place to relax out, which isn’t one thing you’ll be able to typically say about theme parks.
Young children will love the most recent attraction, 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 non-public cabana, and there are many eating places and cafes round for ice cream and refreshments. Click on right here for extra data.
Handle: 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
21. Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise
The Tampa Bay waters are brimming with sealife, not least numerous bottlenose dolphins. Should you’re something like me, any probability to identify these cute creatures is a must-do.
I discovered this dolphin sightseeing cruise to be probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa and it was a particular spotlight of my complete time within the metropolis. It’s one thing I’ve completed greater than as soon as.
The cruise lasts for 90 minutes, so hold your eyes peeled. In the meantime, you’ll find out about conservation efforts for the marine life throughout the bay, together with sea turtles and manatees. The opposite plus level is that the surroundings round you is breathtaking too; even when a dolphin doesn’t grace you with its presence, you gained’t be too dissatisfied. Click on right here for particulars.
Handle: Historical past Middle/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
22. Zip Line Journey
Should you’re trying to scream on the high 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 high 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 some of the marketed points of interest, you gained’t need to queue or struggle for area.
Situated within the lovely Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Protect, the course has 5 zip traces, an enormous suspension bridge, and loads of different adrenaline pastimes to strive. It’s the proper half-day journey to get out of town limits, and also you’ll have the ability to say “I did that” for a very long time afterward. Click on right here for extra data.
Handle: Empower Adventures Tampa Bay, 423 Lafayette Blvd, Oldsmar, FL 34677, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
23. TPC Tampa Golf Course
There are numerous 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 among the most well-known, having hosted occasions on the PGA Tour for many years. Should you’re somebody who loves golf, otherwise you’ve all the time needed to strive, TPC is a good 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 a number of the greenest landscapes across the metropolis, which is commonly welcome when visiting a big metropolis.
Handle: 5300 W Lutz Lake Fern Rd, Lutz, FL 33558, US. Click on right here for instructions.
24. Strive a Cuban Sandwich at Columbia Restaurant
Sampling the unique Cuban sandwich on the well-known Columbia Restaurant is a ceremony of passage and one of many high issues to do in Tampa. Having opened its doorways in 1905, the unique cigar employees in Ybor Metropolis descended right here every day to benefit from the well-known Cuban sandwich. Should you eat only one factor in Tampa, let it’s this.
You may marvel what’s so particular a few sandwich, however imagine me, you must strive it to know. 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.
Should you ask any of the locals, they’ll inform you this sandwich is the most effective exterior of Cuba itself.
Handle: 2117 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, US. Click on right here for instructions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
Should you’re in search of issues to see in Tampa that help 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 facet of this big metropolis.
The views from listed here are additionally second to none and offer you some implausible picture alternatives to refill your digital camera reel.
There’s a small charge to enter, however from there, it’s simply complete R&R all the way in which. Nonetheless, should you do really feel the necessity for adrenaline calling, the park can be dwelling to Class 2 rapids. I handed on the rapids and determined to easily take a picnic and unwind in some shade.
Handle: 15402 U.S. 301 North Thonotosassa FL 33592, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Tampa
It’s simple to have 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 will be fairly difficult.
Sights are sometimes far other than each other; should you 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 hectic.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries offers you an thought of the sorts of points of interest you’ll be able to group collectively inside a day. Be happy to combine up and substitute some points of interest that decision out to you extra, however the extra you’ll be able to pack into your time, the higher in my eyes.
1 Day in Tampa Itinerary
Should you’re quick on time and also you solely have someday in Tampa, the Riverwalk is the most effective spot to start your journey. Spending your day right here means you get to soak up an summary of Channelside and into Downtown, plus, there are lots of implausible eating places and outlets alongside the way in which.
Watching the hustle and bustle of town is intoxicating in itself, and naturally, a free factor to do in Tampa. The great thing about spending time right here is which 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 e-book a resort on this space (Channelside) as you gained’t have far too enterprise again on the finish of a really tiring night.
2-3 Days in Tampa Itinerary
Two to a few days in Tampa isn’t sufficient time to see every thing, however it’s a great period of time to whet your urge for food for extra. In fact, you’ll be able to all the time return. I feel the most effective start line is all the time Riverwalk and should you 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. You probably have a automotive, you’re good to go, but when not, public transport can take you there.
In your last day, take the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour, and keep in mind to name into the Columbia Restaurant to seize one in all their well-known Cuban sandwiches. Within the night, go to the Tampa Bay Brewing Firm to wind down and 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’ll be able to match lots into your time. As all the time, I like to recommend beginning off on the Tampa Riverwalk to get your bearings and the texture of town. Within the night, try the Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour. Should you’re into all issues spooky, this stroll will certainly offer you a thrill.
In your second day, immerse your self in native wildlife by heading over to the Large Cat Rescue Middle and spending half a day there, earlier than taking the Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise within the afternoon.
Each of those actions will present you a very totally different facet 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 have to get better, so a full day having fun with the marvel of Ben T Davis Seashore is a good thought. Bear in mind to take some snacks, refreshments, and a blanket. Then, spend your fifth day exploring historical past on the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour, earlier than heading over to Amalie Area to catch a recreation, present, or a meal.
In your penultimate day, splash round at Journey Island, earlier than heading over to Riverwalk for a meal. You’ve packed in a whole lot of issues to do in Tampa, so in your last day, it’s time to unwind earlier than heading dwelling. Meaning 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 absolutely recognize earlier than I visited. The easiest way to get essentially the most out of your time is to base your self in the fitting space. Merely writing ‘Tampa’ right into a resort search web site may lead you to remain in part of 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 most effective ones for a brief keep of as much as one week, and the sorts of issues they’re finest for. Inside these of those important neighborhoods, you’ll discover loads of resort selections.
Downtown Tampa – Greatest for Nightlife
Downtown Tampa options all the most effective nightlife within the metropolis, whereas additionally being dwelling 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 finest to e-book a desk upfront should you don’t wish to be dissatisfied.
It’s additionally a fantastic spot to base your self if evenings are your focus and whereas it may be busy and loud, it should 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 proper space for first-timers. It’s additionally the place you’ll discover the Riverwalk—probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa—together with nature, outlets, eating places, and points of interest overlooking the Hillsborough River.
Channelside additionally runs into Downtown, so it’s supreme for strolling, and it’s a barely extra serene neighborhood for {couples} too. Try The Tampa EDITION.
Ybor Metropolis – Greatest for Historical past Buffs
Ybor Metropolis is the historic heart of Tampa, and that is the place the cigar manufacturing trade was primarily based again within the day.
There are numerous outdated 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 go well with all budgets. Try Hampton Inn & Suites.
Greatest Eating places in Tampa
Among the best issues to do in Tampa is to eat. As an enormous metropolis, there’s naturally an abundance of locations to dine, however it may be onerous 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 e-book 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 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 a bit totally different. Click on right here for instructions.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Big, juicy steaks and supremely contemporary 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 neatly to be allowed inside, and I’d suggest calling no less than two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
Remember to try their in depth wine checklist too; it’s one of many greatest I’ve ever seen, and it’s a fantastic spot for romantic evenings or particular events. Click on right here for instructions.
Donatello
Donatello is taken into account probably the greatest Italian eating places in Tampa, which additionally doubles up as a reside 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 massive. The contemporary seafood pasta is legendary across the native space, and the menu options an enormous vary of starters. Click on right here for instructions.
Ella’s American Folks Artwork Cafe
Ella’s American Folks Artwork Cafe is situated in low-key Seminole Heights, and it’s a fantastic spot to get pleasure from a scrumptious meal and relax after a protracted day.
The restaurant capabilities as an artwork gallery and music venue all on the similar time and is all the time 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 do-it-yourself key lime pie—I might eat all of it once more proper now. Click on right here for instructions.
Ulele
Housed within the renovated Water Works constructing, Ulele is a highly regarded spot in Tampa and one you must positively head to for an gratifying night out. You’ll be able to select to take a seat exterior and gaze on the water or inside should you favor, making it the proper chilled-out eating choice.
The menu is in depth, and my favorites had been the charbroiled oysters and the coconut ice cream. I additionally cherished the vary of selections accessible from their big wine checklist. Click on right here for instructions.
Attending to Tampa
The wonderful thing about visiting Tampa is how simple it’s to get to and get round. The town has its personal worldwide airport that’s simply quarter-hour away by highway from Downtown, with common shuttle buses and taxis accessible. You may also simply rent a automotive from the airport and drive round by yourself steam should you favor.
Should you’re visiting Orlando, you’ll be able to attain Tampa simply by highway; the 2 cities are a 1.5-hour journey away from each other, and you may drive comfortably by following the I-4 W route. It’s doable to spend simply someday in Tampa, however should you can, e-book no less than a few days to discover the primary sights.
It’s finest to rent a automotive once you’re in Tampa as it should permit you extra freedom and help you get round and see extra. Distances between points of interest will be fairly massive, and driving offers you the chance to go at your individual 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 some of the action-packed cities you’ll seemingly go to.
To keep away from the most popular temperatures, October to December is a good time to go to Tampa. This lets you discover extra comfortably. 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.
Should you can keep for 7 days, you’ll have the ability to see rather a lot in per week, however should you’re pressed for time, 3 days would help you see a great quantity. Should you go to for lower than two days, it’s very seemingly that you simply’ll have to 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, resembling pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any massive metropolis worldwide. You merely have to hold your frequent sense on the forefront of your thoughts and don’t flash your valuables whereas out and about.
Busch Gardens is one in all Tampa’s most well-known points of interest, however Riverwalk can be up there amongst the most well-liked issues to do. It actually relies on what you’re involved in as to the place you must goal your time. Nonetheless, Tampa can be a metropolis that’s filled with 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 yr.
Columbia’s restaurant’s Cuban sandwich is a 100% must-try. Tampa is a really worldwide metropolis that has been influenced by guests for many years, that means you’ll discover all method of delicacies to strive. The contemporary seafood right here is one thing else.
Should you’re pushed for time, it’s doable to see a great quantity of Tampa in three days. Nonetheless, you gained’t see every thing. Should you can, per week offers you extra time to see every thing that pursuits you and actually soak up the texture of this vibrant metropolis.
In Closing
It’s simple to have 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’ll be able to plan your time and be sure to don’t miss any of the main Tampa points of interest.
Tampa has all the time been one in all my favourite cities, and I hope this checklist of issues to see and do has proven you why. For me, it’s the proper mix of historical past, gastronomy, enjoyable, nature, and tradition. I can’t consider something that it lacks, however for positive, you want to learn up earlier than you go and know a bit background data; that means, you gained’t miss something.
A pair of comfy sneakers will definitely serve you properly on this big metropolis, and you could discover that when you come dwelling, you’re pining to move again to Tampa and throw your self into the intense lights as soon as extra.
