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 places to visit in the US.
Tampa is big, full of historical past, nature, tradition, and unbelievable gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you may presumably want. Sightseeing in Tampa is a blast, but it surely pays to do your analysis beforehand and know the most effective spots to move to.
The primary time I visited Tampa, I wasn’t actually certain what to anticipate; in spite of everything, I went on a whim after a pal steered I would prefer it. They had been proper, and I’ve revisited numerous occasions since.
On this submit, I’ll share my experiences in Tampa. By the tip of this learn, you’ll have a curated listing of issues to do, and also you’ll be raring to get began.
Greatest Issues To Do in Tampa
The very first thing you could know is that Tampa is a really massive metropolis so prior information of the most effective spots to move to is all the time helpful. Fortunately, I had a Tampa-native pal to assist me on my first journey, and the excellent news is that I can share all of these hidden gems with you.
When you don’t know the place you’re going, you may end up wandering round aimlessly and losing time. By having a plan, you might be way 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 listing of locations to go to in Tampa will allow you to out.
1. Tampa Riverwalk
One of many high issues to do in Tampa is to wander down the Riverwalk. Masking 2.6 miles, this pedestrianized pathway takes you thru a few of Channelside’s greatest sights and alongside the Hillsborough River.
It’s going to additionally showcase how enticing this metropolis actually is.
I discovered some really nice eating places alongside this stroll, together with Big Ray’s Fish Camp and River’s Edge. When you can time your go to for sundown, you’ll catch the most effective picture alternatives round. The most effective information is that it’s free, so that you’ll have more money for the opposite points of interest on this listing.
Handle: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Heart
When you’re in search of Tampa points of interest that let you study whereas additionally exploring, the Tampa Bay History Center is for you.
This museum is super-interactive and has three flooring full of reveals and tales from the earliest beginnings of all the Florida space, together with the primary identified pirates.
It’s additionally fairly low-cost which is right in the event you’re touring with youngsters and also you’re eager for them to study one thing from their journey. You may see this museum inside 2-3 hours most, which frees up loads extra time to discover the remainder of Downtown. It’s additionally a sensible choice for an exceptionally scorching or wet day.
Handle: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
3. Large Cat Rescue
This big cat sanctuary left me feeling extraordinarily emotional, but it surely’s superb to see very 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. Additionally they assist orphaned species combine into new households. You’ll find out about simply how endangered these beautiful animals actually are and what we will 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 can be full with out visiting the gorgeous Tampa Theater.
Situated within the coronary heart of Downtown, you’ll immediately be drawn to the historic look of the constructing, transporting you again in time. The structure inside doesn’t disappoint both.
The theater was in-built 1926 and has been a mainstay within the metropolis ever since. They present the newest films in comfy environment, in addition to blasts from the previous and occasions all year long. So, seize your self some popcorn, make your self comfy, and revel 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 Enviornment
Amalie Arena 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 revel in a reasonably scrumptious meal.
There are many issues to do at night time in Tampa, however if you wish to do one thing memorable and out of the unusual, that is the spot for you. You’ll have to e book tickets forward of time for ice hockey matches and main concert events, however the web site offers 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 youngsters 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 folks to calm down whereas their youngsters blow off some steam and affords a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
Every part right here is interactive, that means youngsters can run, play, discover, and study on the go. They’ll probably 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 might be booked upfront. 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 must be non secular to take pleasure in a go to to this serene and picturesque church, however in the event you do want to attend mass, companies run day by day and are open to everybody.
The constructing itself is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Tampa for historical past alone. The stained-glass home windows are crafted to perfection, and the structure maintains its unique particulars. It’s a shocking place of historic significance, and someplace it’s best to undoubtedly try.
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, but it surely’s laborious 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 lots in a brief house of time.
Ybor Metropolis is the middle of town’s cigar manufacturing historical past, and this tour will take you thru all an important areas, with the assistance of a educated information. You’ll 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 increase some eyebrows; in spite of everything, it sounds Thai, however you’re in Florida, not Bangkok. Nonetheless, the great thing about this Buddhist temple is that it lets you find out about a Tampa group that will not instantly leap to thoughts.
Not solely is the structure spectacular, however the temple acts as a assist middle and likewise homes a Sunday market the place you’ll be able to strive all forms of Thai meals. Consider me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this sort of delicacies. You may strive distinctive dishes and likewise purchase substances to take dwelling 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. Masking an enormous 335 acres of house, Busch Gardens is an African-themed park with rides, exhibits, meals, and every little thing else you’ll be able to think about. You would possibly have to spend greater than someday right here to essentially admire all it has to supply.
When you’re anxious about visiting as a solo traveler or with out youngsters, don’t be; it is a place that has one thing for everybody. If I may return in the present day, I’d. Guide your tickets forward of time to keep away from the large 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 certain to be tempted towards the water a minimum of 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 pleasant actions I took half in.
Somewhat than strolling across the metropolis, you’ll pedal your method round on the water, trying out 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 here for directions.
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 Beach is a spot straight from trip brochures, with clear, blue sea, and white sand. It’s the one greatest method to sit back and calm down, clearing your thoughts of the hustle and bustle of 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 might be quieter and much more stress-free. Take your personal picnic and blanket, as there are only a few facilities, however from there, simply take pleasure in 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 exterior of town middle, Lettuce Lake Park transports you into considerable 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 recent air throughout you. The park is a big 240-acre in measurement, with biking and strolling actions to take pleasure in.
The lake does include alligators, so that you’re most likely greatest to only have a look at the water slightly than get in it, however I discovered the park to be a beautiful break from the norm. Don’t get me fallacious; town is unbelievable, however typically you simply need to hear your self breathe with nothing however timber 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 move off on the Sunset Cruise, via 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 lets you take pleasure in 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 on your jaw to drop once you see the sundown. Meals and drinks aren’t included on this tour, so make sure you gasoline up beforehand or plan dinner for after you dock. Click 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 original issues to do in Tampa, but it surely’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 way extra haunted than I ever may have imagined.
This can be a one-hour-long strolling tour that takes you thru a number of the most ghostly streets and places in central Tampa. Will you see some spirits or expertise different paranormal exercise? Who is aware of, however you’ll actually have enjoyable and study 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 greatest issues to do in Tampa for {couples} and makes for a terrific night time out for foodies. I liked the chilled-out vibe and the friendliness of everybody; I had a unbelievable night right here and received to strive many forms of beers I didn’t even know existed.
The beer menu is kind of in depth, and there are various occasions held all year long. I visited throughout the Badass Beer Pageant, and I’m planning on heading again once more. When you’re visiting throughout this time, I’d suggest you go; it’s a very enjoyable night time out.
Handle: 1600 E eighth Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, USA. Click here for directions.
17. Tiki Boat Downtown Tampa
Sticking with the ingesting vibe, in the event 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 pal of mine, and we had a blast, whereas additionally appreciating the great thing about Downtown Tampa with out having to stroll. It’s additionally a comparatively low-cost exercise, with loads of picture alternatives to soak up.
You’ll have to take your personal drinks, nevertheless, you’re given a free cooler and a Bluetooth stereo so you’ll be able to play your personal music. From there, you float down the Hillsborough River and revel in a chilled-out but extraordinarily enjoyable 90 minutes. It’s fairly probably you gained’t need 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 fingers down probably the greatest issues to do in Tampa in the event you’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you’ll be able to expertise on land, however this cruise will allow you to study concerning the area’s maritime historical past, together with its bloodthirsty pirates. The tour lasts for 1.5 hours and manages to pack lots into its period.
You’ll cross alongside the homes of well-known figures from the realm’s historical past, and the infamous Plant Lodge. The multi-language commentary offers you loads of info and allow you to to essentially admire the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click here for more details.
Handle: Historical past Heart/Amalie Enviornment, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
19. Tampa Museum of Artwork
Artwork and tradition followers would possibly marvel what to do in Tampa to fulfill their inventive cravings, effectively, the Tampa Museum of Art is the most effective spot.
Full of reveals courting again to Historic Greek and Roman occasions, this museum will depart you greater than fulfilled.
You can even seize a scrumptious snack on the on-site cafe and choose up some souvenirs to take again dwelling on your family members. The museum has a number of rotating reveals all year long and occasions are held occasionally. You’ll want 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 here for directions.
20. Journey Island
One of many high issues to do in Tampa for households is an exhilarating time out at Adventure Island. When the solar is thrashing down, the most effective factor to do is leap within the water, and this large water park is right for simply that. Surprisingly, it’s additionally a terrific place to relax out, which isn’t one thing you’ll be able to usually say about theme parks.
Babies will love the latest attraction, referred to as Shaka-Laka Shores, whereas older youngsters will benefit from the quite a few water slides and wave swimming pools. Personally, I loved chilling out in my 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. When you’re something like me, any probability to identify these lovely 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 accomplished greater than as soon as.
The cruise lasts for 90 minutes, so preserve 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 here for details.
Handle: Historical past Heart/Amalie Enviornment, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click here for directions.
22. Zip Line Journey
When you’re seeking to scream on the high of your lungs, Zip Line Adventures is simply the ticket.
I’ve to confess that I used to be a bit nervous about attempting this out, however I’m so glad I did. It’s one of many high vacationer points of interest in Tampa that may have you ever speaking about it for a very long time afterward.
A bonus of including this exercise to your itinerary is that, because it’s not up there with one of the marketed points of interest, you gained’t must queue or battle for house.
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 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 delicate climate signifies that golf is unquestionably 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. When 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 lots 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 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 high 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. When you eat only one factor in Tampa, let it’s this.
You would possibly marvel what’s so particular a couple of sandwich, however imagine me, you need to strive it to grasp. Layers of meat are proportioned rigorously between the freshest bread, together with pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard. It’s a style explosion and your time in Tampa isn’t full with out it.
When 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 here for directions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
When you’re in search of issues to see in Tampa that let you drench your self in nature and leisure, a day within the Hillsborough River State Park is on the agenda.
Based in 1938, that is the best spot to run free and discover the pure aspect of this large metropolis.
The views from listed below are additionally second to none and provide you with some unbelievable picture alternatives to refill your digital camera reel.
There’s a small price to enter, however from there, it’s simply complete R&R all the way in which. Nonetheless, in the event you do really feel the necessity for adrenaline calling, the park can also 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 here for directions.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Tampa
It’s straightforward to have a look at an inventory of issues to do in Tampa and perceive the truth that there are various points of interest, however piecing collectively your time might be fairly difficult.
Points of interest are sometimes far aside from each other; in the event you don’t do your analysis, you’ll spend far an excessive amount of time on the highway and never sufficient time exploring the stuff you need to see. To not point out, driving in a brand new location might be demanding.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries offers you an concept of the forms 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
When 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 outline of Channelside and into Downtown, plus, there are various unbelievable eating places and retailers 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 fantastic 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 actually gained’t be bored when night time 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 a few days in Tampa isn’t sufficient time to see every little thing, but it surely’s 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 in the event 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 Heart for an hour or two. When night falls, try Tampa Theater and soak up a film or a particular occasion. On day two, head to Busch Gardens for a full and exhausting day of screaming on the high of your lungs. You probably have a automotive, you’re good to go, but when not, public transport can take you there.
In your remaining day, take the Ybor City Historic Walking 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 absorb some last-minute enjoyable earlier than it’s time to go away.
1 Week in Tampa Itinerary
One full week in Tampa means you’ll be able to match loads 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. When you’re into all issues spooky, this stroll will certainly provide you with a thrill.
In your second day, immerse your self in native wildlife by heading over to the Large Cat Rescue Heart and spending half a day there, earlier than taking the Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise within the afternoon.
Each of those actions will present you a totally totally different aspect of this typically hectic metropolis. On day three, it’s time to move to Busch Gardens large African-themed park.
In your fourth day, you’ll have to recuperate, so a full day having fun with the marvel of Ben T Davis Seashore is a good 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 Enviornment to catch a sport, present, or a meal.
In your penultimate day, splash round at Adventure Island, earlier than heading over to Riverwalk for a meal. You’ve packed in a number of issues to do in Tampa, so in your remaining 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 admire earlier than I visited. One of the simplest ways to get essentially the most out of your time is to base your self in the proper space. Merely writing ‘Tampa’ right into a resort search website may lead you to remain in part of town that’s distant from what you actually need to see and do.
There are a number of neighborhoods within the Tampa space, so let’s have a look at the most effective ones for a brief keep of as much as one week, and the forms of issues they’re greatest for. Inside these of those most 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 might be discovered, and it’s greatest to e book a desk upfront in the event you don’t need to be dissatisfied.
It’s additionally a terrific spot to base your self if evenings are your focus and whereas it may be busy and loud, it can imply you don’t must journey far as soon as your night time is over. Take a look at 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, retailers, eating places, and points of interest overlooking the Hillsborough River.
Channelside additionally runs into Downtown, so it’s ultimate for strolling, and it’s a barely extra serene neighborhood for {couples} too. Take a look at The Tampa EDITION.
Ybor Metropolis – Greatest for Historical past Buffs
Ybor Metropolis is the historic middle of Tampa, and that is the place the cigar manufacturing 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 allure, 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. Take a look at Hampton Inn & Suites.
Greatest Eating places in Tampa
The most effective 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 laborious to know the most effective spots to fill your abdomen after an extended day of sightseeing.
A lot of the greatest eating places in Tampa would require you to e book a desk forward of time, however inside Seminole Heights and North Tampa particularly, you’ll discover extra laid-back eating experiences, and you’ll often 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 here for directions.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Big, juicy steaks and supremely recent seafood on the order of the day at Bern’s Steakhouse, which has been serving pleased visitors since 1956. You’ll want to decorate neatly to be allowed inside, and I’d suggest calling a minimum of two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
You’ll want to try their in depth wine listing too; it’s one of many greatest I’ve ever seen, and it’s a terrific spot for romantic evenings or particular events. Click here for directions.
Donatello
Donatello is taken into account probably the greatest Italian eating places in Tampa, which additionally doubles up as a dwell jazz lounge on sure nights of the week.
It has a classy and vibrant ambiance for everybody to take pleasure in, with affordable costs, and portion sizes are predictably massive. The recent seafood pasta is legendary across the native space, and the menu options an enormous vary of starters. Click here for directions.
Ella’s American People Artwork Cafe
Ella’s American Folk Art Cafe is situated in low-key Seminole Heights, and it’s a terrific spot to take pleasure in a scrumptious meal and relax after an extended day.
The restaurant features as an artwork gallery and music venue all on the similar time and is all the time filled with locals. Nonetheless, in my view, the most effective factor about it’s the Soul Meals Sunday menu. I had the meat brisket sandwich and do-it-yourself key lime pie—I may eat all of it once more proper now. Click here for directions.
Ulele
Housed within the renovated Water Works constructing, Ulele is a highly regarded spot in Tampa and one it’s best to undoubtedly head to for an pleasant night out. You may select to take a seat exterior and gaze on the water or inside in the event you want, making it the proper chilled-out eating possibility.
The menu is in depth, and my favorites had been the charbroiled oysters and the coconut ice cream. I additionally liked the vary of selections out there from their large wine listing. Click here for directions.
Attending to Tampa
The beauty of visiting Tampa is how straightforward 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 out there. You can even easily hire a car from the airport and drive round by yourself steam in the event you want.
When 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’ll drive comfortably by following the I-4 W route. It’s doable to spend simply someday in Tampa, however in the event you can, e book a minimum of a few days to discover the principle sights.
It’s greatest to rent a automotive once you’re in Tampa as it can permit you extra freedom and let you get round and see extra. Distances between points of interest might be fairly massive, and driving offers you the chance to go at your personal tempo. Nonetheless, Lyft and Uber are available, in addition to buses and trolleys between main neighborhoods and vacationer points of interest.
Issues To Do in Tampa: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Tampa:
Tampa has a historical past of cigar manufacturing, however past that, it’s well-known for its thrill-seeking theme parks, superb seashores, vibrant nightlife, and scrumptious gastronomy. In fact, the climate is fairly good too, and it’s one of the action-packed cities you’ll probably go to.
To keep away from the most well liked 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.
When you can keep for 7 days, you’ll have the ability to see lots in every week, however in the event you’re pressed for time, 3 days would let you see quantity. When you go to for lower than two days, it’s very probably that you just’ll have to return to expertise the opposite issues in your listing.
Sure. Tampa is taken into account a safe US city. Whereas the principle touristic elements of Tampa undergo from petty crime, equivalent to pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any massive metropolis worldwide. You merely have to preserve your widespread 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 also be up there amongst the most well-liked issues to do. It actually relies on what you’re fascinated by as to the place it’s best 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 throughout 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 recent seafood right here is one thing else.
When you’re pushed for time, it’s doable to see quantity of Tampa in three days. Nonetheless, you gained’t see every little thing. When you can, every week offers you extra time to see every little thing that pursuits you and actually take up the texture of this vibrant metropolis.
In Closing
It’s straightforward to have a look at a big metropolis like Tampa and really feel overwhelmed, not realizing the place to start out and even the place to remain. The fantastic thing about Tampa is that each 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 foremost Tampa points of interest.
Tampa has all the time been one in all my favourite cities, and I hope this listing of issues to see and do has proven you why. For me, it’s the proper mix of historical past, gastronomy, enjoyable, nature, and tradition. I can’t consider something that it lacks, however for certain, you could learn up earlier than you go and know a bit background info; that method, you gained’t miss something.
A pair of comfy sneakers will definitely serve you effectively on this large metropolis, and you could discover that after you come dwelling, you’re pining to move again to Tampa and throw your self into the brilliant lights as soon as extra.
