In the event you’re in search of enjoyable within the solar, lots to see and do, and a few of the most scrumptious meals your tastebuds have ever skilled, Tampa ought to undoubtedly be in your go to listing. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and developing with an thrilling itinerary, it is advisable know the place to remain in Tampa and the realm greatest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my listing of the perfect locations to go to in Florida. Nonetheless, Tampa is an enormous metropolis. That can assist you determine on the perfect spot so that you can lay your head, I’ve lined the perfect areas to base your self (relying in your preferences), inside this put up.
The primary time I visited Florida, I went to Orlando, like most individuals do. However after some time, I needed to see one thing extra genuine.
The primary time I visited Tampa was in 2014 and I’ve returned many instances since. For me, the town is the proper mix of tourist-friendly enjoyable within the solar, native life, and genuine experiences. From the beautiful Tampa Bay seashores and theme parks to the historical past, nature, and enjoyable bars, there’s a lot to like about this metropolis.
When selecting the perfect space to remain in Tampa, it is advisable do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however general, I’d say there are 5 major ones to contemplate.
Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa
Fast Look: Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa (click on to leap down the web page to be taught extra)
Channelside: Finest Place To Keep in Tampa for Your First Time
In the event you do a fast search on-line, you may assume that Downtown Tampa is the perfect space to remain in Tampa for a first-timer, however I’ve a distinct take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and may be overwhelming should you don’t know the place you’re going. Nonetheless, Channelside, or Channel District, is the proper center floor.
In the event you’re an outdoorsy sort, you’ll love Channelside, however the magnificence is which you could simply stroll to Downtown alongside the scenic Hillsborough River. Breathe in some recent air and take a look at the view whereas realizing that you simply’re actually a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle.
Execs of Staying in Channelside
- Downtown may be reached on foot
- Lovely views and Insta-worthy photograph alternatives
- A relaxing-out base
- Decrease value lodging in comparison with Downtown
Cons of Staying in Channelside
- Riverwalk can get very busy
- When it rains, there isn’t a complete lot of shelter
- Very touristic; if you need authenticity, you is perhaps higher off staying elsewhere
Finest Locations to Keep in Channelside
In the event you really feel Channelside is the perfect place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these accommodations:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A glossy, trendy, five-star alternative with a shocking outside pool and terrace to take in the solar. The onsite restaurant is especially spectacular, providing a complete host of Mediterranean selections. Click on right here for particulars.
2. J W Marriott Tampa Water Avenue: If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, this lodge is the best alternative. It additionally has an enormous outside pool for chilling and a incredible restaurant with all method of scrumptious dishes. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District: This lodge has an incredible rooftop pool with the proper view. It is a nice alternative for households as there are many issues to do on website for little ones. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Channelside
I take pleasure in Channelside’s chilled-out vibe, however that doesn’t imply there isn’t a complete lot to see and do on this waterside neighborhood. As among the finest locations to remain in Tampa Heart, you wouldn’t count on anything.
1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t need to be the most popular day to spend a while splashing round and having enjoyable, and Water Works Park is the perfect place to do exactly that. It is a enormous water park with slides, actions, and loads of house to sit back out. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Sparkman Wharf: Purchasing, meals, drinks, and occasions; Sparkman Wharf is a vibrant spot that particularly comes alive through the early night hours. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: Certainly, the perfect factor to do in Channelside is to wander down the Riverwalk and take a look at its many retailers, eating places, museums, and occasions. It’s my favourite spot for a selfie. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Channelside
Channelside’s eating scene is fairly eclectic and also you received’t wrestle to search out one thing for even the pickiest eater:
1. The Pearl: I cherished the calm vibe on this restaurant and it’s an ideal spot for beer lovers too. The menu is basically attention-grabbing and the presentation is very Insta-worthy. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Lilac: Particular occasions ought to all the time be held at Lilac, in my view. It is a top-class Mediterranean restaurant that gives a four-course fastened menu that includes the perfect produce round. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Firestick Grill: Positioned at Amalie Enviornment, Firestick Grill is a very fashionable spot for the best-grilled meats and sushi, and likewise makes a speciality of delicacies native to the realm. Click on right here for instructions.
Downtown Tampa: Finest Space in Tampa for Nightlife
In the event you’re in search of locations to remain in Tampa for nightlife, don’t assume twice about staying in Downtown Tampa. Because the identify suggests, that is the central a part of the town, the place all the intense lights shine and evenings by no means appear to finish.
Downtown is within the south of Tampa and it has a picturesque spot overlooking the Hillsborough River. I actually benefit from the vibrant really feel in Downtown and should you’re after a spot of luxurious, you’ll definitely discover it right here.
The one actual draw back of Downtown is simply how frenetic it may be. This isn’t a spot for leisurely walks, however it’s the superb place to do rather a lot in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic pictures at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Execs of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- Every part is inside straightforward attain
- Unbelievable nightlife
- Loads of buying alternatives
- Many sights are positioned in Downtown
Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- An especially busy space
- Costly foods and drinks
- Lodging is costly
- A loud space
Finest Locations to Keep in Downtown Tampa
The fantastic thing about Downtown Tampa is that you simply received’t need to stroll very far to something. In the event you’re in search of the perfect Tampa accommodations close to nightlife, listed here are some options:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You possibly can’t get any extra central than this lodge, which is what makes it stand out, significantly should you’re eager to discover Downtown. The opposite plus level is the superior swimming pool, which presents a metropolis view as you swim. Click on right here for particulars.
2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this lodge extraordinarily central and superb for sightseeing, nevertheless it’s among the finest accommodations with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a scorching tub you possibly can relax in, or just relax within the backyard after a day of exploring. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Le Meridien Tampa, The Courthouse: The beauty of this lodge is the sheer variety of facilities in your room, making it an actual home-from-home expertise. From iPod docking stations to espresso machines, you’ll be wanting nothing. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa definitely saved me occupied; there’s lots to see and do right here. Let’s check out some issues so as to add to your to-do listing:
1. Tampa Tiki Bar Boat Cruise: Floating down the Hillsborough River with a drink in hand, what could possibly be higher? This chilled-out and super-scenic tour is a top-seller for a cause. The factor I favored most about this tour is that you simply deliver your individual drinks, which means you don’t need to spend a small fortune on the bar. Click on right here to be taught extra and e-book.
2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: Just a few hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the best technique to calm down on the finish of an extended day, whereas additionally testing the reasonably spectacular interactive fountains. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Theater: Because it opened its doorways in 1926, Tampa Theater has showcased a few of the greatest performances round. The inside is as particular because the present you’ve chosen to see, and I actually love the old-world vibes. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Downtown Tampa
Personally, I don’t really feel that Downtown is the perfect neighborhood in Tampa for meals, however there are nonetheless some fairly epic choices:
1. Oxford Trade: Some eating places are simply particular, and for me, that’s Oxford Trade. Not solely is that this a restaurant, nevertheless it’s additionally a bookstore and champagne spot all rolled into one. It has such a chilled-out vibe, but a few of the most scrumptious meals out there. Take a look at the paella – it’s my favourite. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Mise en Place: In the event you fancy some French meals whereas in Tampa, this spot has you lined. Taking conventional French dishes and giving them a contemporary twist, you’ll discover dishes on this menu to make your mouth water. My go-to is the crusted rack of lamb. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Oak And Ola: Let’s be sincere, everybody loves a restaurant with an enormous roof terrace and a view. That’s what Ola and Ola has to supply, alongside critically spectacular cocktails, scrumptious pizzas, and seasonal dishes that change with the climate. Click on right here for instructions.
Seminole Heights: Coolest Place to Keep in Tampa
The second time I visited Tampa, I stayed in Seminole Heights, and from then on, it’s the place I’ve all the time chosen to return to. It has the perfect of each worlds; lots to see and do, nevertheless it additionally has a relaxed residential vibe happening.
Most locals will inform you that Seminole Heights is fairly up-and-coming, and it’s definitely bought a reasonably trendy really feel. You’ll discover plenty of road artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as among the finest neighborhoods in Tampa.
Execs of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Plenty of road artwork
- A relaxing-out pavement cafe vibe
- Best for craft beer followers
- Decrease value eating
- A residential really feel
Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Not as many lodging choices out there
- You’ll need to make use of a automobile or public transport to get round
- Nightlife right here is sort of low-key
Finest Locations to Keep in Seminole Heights
Whereas it’s not as straightforward to search out lodging in Seminole Heights as different areas, there are nonetheless some nice choices; you’ll discover that almost all are vacation properties. Both means, I nonetheless assume it’s among the finest locations to remain in Tampa. Listed here are my prime picks:
1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: The fantastic thing about staying on this explicit spot is that it’s a house away from house; precisely how you’ll describe this lodging. This explicit vacation house presents a shared lounge and kitchen. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Lovely Neighborhood Seminole Heights: I loved the nights I spent on this vacation house and it actually did really feel like my very own place. The backyard is the best house to calm down, and inside options the whole lot you want to your journey, together with a washer, which makes life a lot simpler – particularly while you’re staying for longer intervals. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Seminole Heights Authentic Bungalow: This vacation house is right for households because it has two bedrooms, an out of doors terrace, a big front room, and all of the mod-cons. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Seminole Heights
Combining a chilled-out lifestyle with close by sights is the order of the day while you select to base your self in Seminole Heights. Nonetheless, there are many high-quality selections close by:
1. Amalie Enviornment: It’s very easy to get to Amalie Enviornment from Seminole Heights. Take a look at exhibits and sports activities, and revel in some actually good meals throughout your go to. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Seminole Heights Avenue Artwork Path: Strolling round central Seminole Heights will present you numerous forms of road artwork, together with some enormous murals. Merely take a stroll round and also you’re positive to search out much more.
3. Seminole Heights Farmer’s Market: Foodies will love wandering round this enormous farmer’s market, filled with scrumptious fare to strive. Vegans, and those that are significantly eager on natural produce, will certainly discover this market to their style. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Seminole Heights
Seminole Heights doesn’t focus its consideration on subtle eating places and high-class eating, however as an alternative, encourages you to strive extra laid-back gastronomy. I personally loved a number of eating places on this neighborhood. Listed here are a few of my favorites:
1. American Social: Take a look at the view over the waterfront and revel in a chilled-out meal with household and mates at this restaurant. Top-of-the-line locations for craft beers, this gastropub presents dwell sports activities and a pleasant vibe. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Rooster & The Until: Nominated for a Michelin award, you’ll discover regionally sourced substances reworked into essentially the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you simply’ll have to e-book nicely forward to get a desk, nevertheless it’s well worth the ahead planning. Click on right here for instructions.
3. The Impartial: I cherished the vibe on this restaurant and I used to be fortunate sufficient to go to once they had a film evening. Craft beer lovers will likely be of their aspect right here, because the menu is big, and eating is relaxed, with burgers, tacos, and pizzas. Click on right here for instructions.
North Tampa: Finest for Households
Certainly, households or mates who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of alternative. It’s among the finest locations to remain in Tampa for teams. Right here, you’re proper subsequent door to some recognizable sights, together with one among my private favorites – Busch Gardens.
Being so near theme parks ought to point out that North Tampa is fairly touristy, but when that’s what you’re after, you received’t thoughts the crowds. It by no means felt ‘excessive,’ and I discovered lodging was cheaper. Plus, it all the time felt like a secure neighborhood in Tampa to me.
Execs of Staying in North Tampa
- Best for households
- Cheaper lodging
- Laid-back, inexpensive eating choices
Cons of Staying in North Tampa
- You’ll need a automobile to get round (click on right here to seek for the perfect worth on rental automobiles)
- Very touristy
- Decrease high quality eating
Finest Locations to Keep in North Tampa
North Tampa is understood for its low-cost lodging which is right in case you have a gaggle of individuals wanting to remain collectively or should you’re a household. It’s additionally nice should you’re in search of the place to remain in Tampa with parking. Take a look at these listings under:
1. The City Nest: In the event you’re touring as a gaggle or with kids, this sequence of vacation bungalows is the proper alternative. Every part you can probably want for a soothing time is inside, and also you’re near all native facilities. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton: That is one other lodge that’s actually near all of North Tampa’s main parks, which makes it superb for thrill seekers. With snug environment, this lodge is fundamental but gives the whole lot you want, together with an outside swimming pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton: Sit back on the finish of the day within the scorching tub or the massive outside swimming pool, and make use of the shuttle to all main parks close by. There may be additionally an on-site video games room to maintain kids occupied. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in North Tampa
Adrenaline junkies rejoice! North Tampa’s rollercoasters will definitely check your nerves, however that’s not all there may be to do right here. Listed here are the perfect issues to do in North Tampa:
1. Journey Island: One other of North Tampa’s prime sights is Journey Island. It is a enormous waterpark that’s superb for cooling down in the summertime warmth. I significantly loved the wave pool and chilling in a non-public cabana. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Museum of Science & Business: If you wish to take a break from screaming on rollercoasters, this museum is a good spot to be taught. It’s an interactive place to go to, with loads of attention-grabbing occasions held all year long. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in North Tampa
What I actually loved about North Tampa is that I might exit for dinner after an extended day exploring and I didn’t need to get significantly dressed up. The entire eating scene is fairly laid-back.
1. Gino’s Restaurant & Bar: For relaxed Italian eating, it doesn’t get higher than Gino’s. I had Mama Mary’s Meatloaf and it was elegant. My buddy ordered the seafood pasta and she or he mentioned it was the perfect she ever had. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Skipper’s Smokehouse: Serving a Caribbean and Floridian combination of meals, this spot is super-popular for a great cause. Not solely is the meals wonderful nevertheless it’s additionally a dwell music venue. I had an ideal night right here and would undoubtedly advocate you test it out. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill: If scrumptious and recent Mediterranean meals is your desire, this restaurant will tick all bins. The flavors transport you to Greece, with an enormous vary of various dishes on supply. Click on right here for instructions.
Ybor Metropolis: Finest Place in Tampa on a Price range
Tampa is commonly referred to as the ‘Cigar Capital of The World’ and Ybor Metropolis can inform you a complete lot extra about that declare. That is the historic a part of the town nevertheless it’s additionally a prime spot for individuals who want to not splash the money once they don’t need to.
Ybor Metropolis takes you on a journey again in time, as you be taught extra about how Tampa grew and its roots with different nations, together with Cuba and Colombia. The truth is, you will discover a few of the greatest Colombian meals right here too.
seventh Avenue is Ybor’s nightlife spot and is a good space to go to if you wish to have a number of drinks, strive some scrumptious meals, social gathering somewhat, after which head house. In the event you’re extra of a historical past buff than a bar crawler and also you’re questioning the place to remain in Tampa, then this is also the neighborhood for you.
Execs of Staying in Ybor Metropolis
- Loads of historical past and tradition
- Unbelievable nightlife with out being too excessive
- An array of worldwide delicacies
- Low-cost
Cons of Staying in Ybor Metropolis
- Not a complete lot of nature to be discovered right here
- Very busy
- Fairly noisy
Finest Locations to Keep in Ybor Metropolis
Ybor Metropolis has some nice selections of locations to remain, and fortunately they’re fairly moderately priced. Listed here are some suggestions of locations to remain in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:
1. Resort Haya: This lodge presents a really snug place to remain proper within the coronary heart of Ybor Metropolis. For the variety of facilities you get, it’s additionally very moderately priced. The on-site restaurant and cocktail bar are explicit favorites. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Cozy AF Jungle-Home Hideaway: Not solely is that this place extremely rated nevertheless it’s so cute you possibly can’t assist however fall in love. It is a two-bedroom vacation house with its personal pool and jungle theme design. It’s tremendous cool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Hampton Inn & Suites, Ybor Metropolis: This lodge is a extremely snug base when sightseeing within the Ybor space, and it additionally presents a free shuttle to the native port. Rooms additionally characteristic a microwave and fridge, which is right for storing scrumptious snacks. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Ybor Metropolis
What’s there to see and do in Ybor Metropolis? Lots. In the event you’re a historical past fan, you’re going to like this place.
1. Historic Ybor Metropolis Meals Strolling Tour: The beauty of this strolling tour is that you simply get to eat and discover your environment concurrently. A educated information is readily available to inform you extra concerning the space and consider me, you’ll be full by the top. Click on right here to be taught extra and e-book. In the event you’re not likely into meals, this strolling tour is a good choice.
2. Ybor Metropolis Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on supply on this a part of Tampa, this can be a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing facility opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and also you’ll be taught all about this and extra inside this museum. I significantly favored the massive gardens. Click on right here for instructions.
3. TECOLine Avenue Automobile: I stumbled upon this hidden gem as a result of a) it was scorching, and b) my toes had been hurting, and I’m so glad I did. This old-world road automobile takes you from Ybor Metropolis right down to Downtown Tampa, and you should purchase an infinite day ticket. Click on right here for instructions. One other tremendous enjoyable technique to get round is by golf cart! Take a look at this highly-rated journey.
The place to Eat and Drink in Ybor Metropolis
The eating scene in Ybor Metropolis is basically eclectic and presents one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll wrestle to decide on. Listed here are some spots to look out for:
1. Columbia Restaurant: This is without doubt one of the most well-known eating places in all of Tampa, and it’s been open since 1905. I needed to wait some time for a desk, however the iconic Cuban sandwich was greater than price it. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Charley’s Steakhouse: When you have the urge for a steak, that is the perfect place to go. Open since 1974, many joyful prospects have left its doorways, together with me, with its scrumptious lobster Mac & cheese. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Acropolis Greek Taverna: I need to admit, once I first noticed this restaurant, I didn’t assume a lot of it from the skin, however once I went inside I used to be transported to Athens. The Acropolis blended platter and recent cocktails are main hits. Click on right here for instructions.
Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa: FAQ’s
Downtown Tampa, North Tampa, and Channelside are the three greatest spots for vacationers in Tampa. That is largely as a result of they’re filled with the town’s largest sights.
Tampa has a comparatively low crime price in comparison with the remainder of the nation and is taken into account quantity 4 on the listing of the perfect locations to retire. As such, you don’t want to fret unnecessarily about security. As when touring anyplace, nonetheless, handle your belongings and don’t go away costly gadgets unattended.
I personally felt very secure in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. Plenty of safety personnel? In fact.
When you have a automobile, it’s straightforward to get round, however should you don’t need the trouble of driving, it pays to do your analysis and keep centrally.
Channelside is a really engaging a part of the town.
It’s loud and brash at instances, nevertheless it’s additionally nice for nightlife. If that’s what you’re after, otherwise you wish to be someplace central, it’s a great place to remain.
To get round you want a automobile, nonetheless, it’s doable to stroll between Downtown and Channelside.
There are main sights in all of Tampa’s neighborhoods, however if you wish to be closest to the largest spots, Downtown Tampa is the perfect. Nonetheless, be aware that Busch Gardens continues to be distant.
In the event you can rent a automobile and also you’re snug driving, you’ll possible see rather more throughout your keep. Click on right here to seek for the perfect offers on rental automobiles in Tampa.
In Conclusion
Tampa is without doubt one of the greatest locations in Florida, if not the entire of the USA. For positive, that’s a reasonably sweeping assertion, however from private expertise, this metropolis has the whole lot you can probably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa incredible due to the theme parks, wonderful meals, and vivid lights. {Couples} will benefit from the gastronomy, the nice nightlife, and the attractive surroundings. And teams will discover Tampa the best spot because of its diversified vary of issues to do. Put merely, no one will likely be bored.
