Should you’re searching for enjoyable within the solar, plenty 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 record. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and developing with an thrilling itinerary, you could know the place to remain in Tampa and the world greatest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my record of the most effective locations to go to in Florida. Nonetheless, Tampa is a giant metropolis. That can assist you determine on the most effective spot so that you can lay your head, I’ve coated the most effective areas to base your self (relying in your preferences), inside this submit.
The primary time I visited Florida, I went to Orlando, like most individuals do. However after some time, I wished to see one thing extra genuine.
The primary time I visited Tampa was in 2014 and I’ve returned many instances since. For me, town is the right mix of tourist-friendly enjoyable within the solar, native life, and genuine experiences. From the gorgeous Tampa Bay beaches and theme parks to the historical past, nature, and fun bars, there’s a lot to like about this metropolis.
When selecting the most effective space to remain in Tampa, you could do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however total, I’d say there are 5 fundamental ones to think about.
Greatest Areas to Keep in Tampa
Fast Look: Greatest Areas to Keep in Tampa (click on to leap down the web page to be taught extra)
Channelside: Greatest Place To Keep in Tampa for Your First Time
Should you do a fast search on-line, you may assume that Downtown Tampa is the most effective space to remain in Tampa for a first-timer, however I’ve a unique take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and may be overwhelming in the event you don’t know the place you’re going. Nonetheless, Channelside, or Channel District, is the right center floor.
Should you’re an outdoorsy kind, you’ll love Channelside, however the magnificence is that you may simply stroll to Downtown alongside the scenic Hillsborough River. Breathe in some recent air and take a look at the view whereas understanding that you just’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 picture alternatives
- A relaxing-out base
- Decrease price 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 could be higher off staying elsewhere
Greatest Locations to Keep in Channelside
Should you really feel Channelside is the most effective place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these accommodations:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A smooth, trendy, five-star selection with a surprising out of doors pool and terrace to take in the solar. The onsite restaurant is especially spectacular, providing a complete host of Mediterranean selections. Click here for details.
2. J W Marriott Tampa Water Street: If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, this lodge is the best selection. It additionally has an enormous out of doors pool for chilling and a unbelievable restaurant with all method of scrumptious dishes. Click here for details.
3. Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District: This lodge has an incredible rooftop pool with the right view. This can be a nice selection for households as there are many issues to do on web site for little ones. Click here for details.
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 the most effective locations to remain in Tampa Middle, you wouldn’t count on anything.
1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t need to be the most well liked day to spend a while splashing round and having enjoyable, and Water Works Park is the most effective place to do exactly that. This can be a enormous water park with slides, actions, and loads of area to relax out. Click here for directions.
2. Sparkman Wharf: Purchasing, meals, drinks, and occasions; Sparkman Wharf is a vibrant spot that particularly comes alive through the early night hours. Click here for directions.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: For sure, the most effective 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 here for directions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Channelside
Channelside’s eating scene is fairly eclectic and also you received’t battle 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 incredible spot for beer lovers too. The menu is basically fascinating and the presentation is very Insta-worthy. Click here for directions.
2. Lilac: Particular occasions ought to all the time be held at Lilac, in my view. This can be a top-class Mediterranean restaurant that provides a four-course mounted menu that includes the most effective produce round. Click here for directions.
3. Firestick Grill: Positioned at Amalie Area, Firestick Grill is a very fashionable spot for the best-grilled meats and sushi, and likewise focuses on delicacies native to the world. Click here for directions.
Downtown Tampa: Greatest Space in Tampa for Nightlife
Should you’re searching for 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 town, the place all the brilliant 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 in the event 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 very best place to do loads in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic pictures at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Execs of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- Every thing is inside simple attain
- Unbelievable nightlife
- Loads of procuring alternatives
- Many points of interest are positioned in Downtown
Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- A particularly busy space
- Costly food and drinks
- Lodging is costly
- A loud space
Greatest Locations to Keep in Downtown Tampa
The fantastic thing about Downtown Tampa is that you just received’t need to stroll very far to something. Should you’re searching for the most effective Tampa accommodations close to nightlife, listed below are some recommendations:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You possibly can’t get any extra central than this lodge, which is what makes it stand out, notably in the event you’re eager to discover Downtown. The opposite plus level is the superior swimming pool, which affords a metropolis view as you swim. Click here for details.
2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this lodge extraordinarily central and very best for sightseeing, however it’s the most effective accommodations with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a scorching tub you may sit back in, or just sit back within the backyard after a day of exploring. Click here for details.
3. Le Meridien Tampa, The Courthouse: The wonderful thing about 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 here for details.
High Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa definitely stored me occupied; there’s a lot to see and do right here. Let’s check out some issues so as to add to your to-do record:
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 purpose. The factor I favored most about this tour is that you just carry your personal drinks, which means you don’t need to spend a small fortune on the bar. Click here to learn more and book.
2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: A couple of hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the best option to loosen up on the finish of an extended day, whereas additionally testing the slightly spectacular interactive fountains. Click here for directions.
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 here for directions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Downtown Tampa
Personally, I don’t really feel that Downtown is the most effective neighborhood in Tampa for meals, however there are nonetheless some fairly epic choices:
1. Oxford Exchange: Some eating places are simply particular, and for me, that’s Oxford Alternate. Not solely is that this a restaurant, however 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 accessible. Take a look at the paella – it’s my favourite. Click here for directions.
2. Mise en Place: Should you fancy some French food whereas in Tampa, this spot has you coated. 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 here for directions.
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 severely spectacular cocktails, scrumptious pizzas, and seasonal dishes that change with the climate. Click here for directions.
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 most effective of each worlds; a lot to see and do, however 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 received a reasonably trendy really feel. You’ll discover a number of avenue artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as the most effective neighborhoods in Tampa.
Execs of Staying in Seminole Heights
- A number of avenue artwork
- A relaxing-out pavement cafe vibe
- Ideally suited for craft beer followers
- Decrease price eating
- A residential really feel
Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Not as many lodging choices accessible
- You have to to make use of a automobile or public transport to get round
- Nightlife right here is sort of low-key
Greatest Locations to Keep in Seminole Heights
Whereas it’s not as simple to search out lodging in Seminole Heights as different areas, there are nonetheless some nice choices; you’ll discover that the majority are vacation properties. Both means, I nonetheless assume it’s the most effective locations to remain in Tampa. Listed below are my high 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’d describe this lodging. This explicit vacation house affords a shared lounge and kitchen. Click here for details.
2. Beautiful 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 area to loosen up, and inside options every part you want to your journey, together with a washer, which makes life a lot simpler – particularly if you’re staying for longer durations. Click here for details.
3. Seminole Heights Original Bungalow: This vacation house is right for households because it has two bedrooms, an outdoor terrace, a big front room, and all of the mod-cons. Click here for details.
High Issues To Do in Seminole Heights
Combining a chilled-out lifestyle with close by points of interest is the order of the day if you select to base your self in Seminole Heights. Nonetheless, there are many high-quality selections close by:
1. Amalie Arena: It’s very easy to get to Amalie Area from Seminole Heights. Take a look at reveals and sports activities, and revel in some actually good meals throughout your go to. Click here for directions.
2. Seminole Heights Street Art Trail: Strolling round central Seminole Heights will present you numerous sorts of avenue artwork, together with some enormous murals. Merely take a stroll round and also you’re certain 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 attempt. Vegans, and those that are notably eager on natural produce, will certainly discover this market to their style. Click here for directions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Seminole Heights
Seminole Heights doesn’t focus its consideration on refined eating places and high-class eating, however as an alternative, encourages you to attempt extra laid-back gastronomy. I personally loved a number of eating places on this neighborhood. Listed below 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. Among the finest locations for craft beers, this gastropub affords reside sports activities and a pleasant vibe. Click here for directions.
2. Rooster & The Till: Nominated for a Michelin award, you’ll discover regionally sourced elements remodeled into probably the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you just’ll have to ebook properly forward to get a desk, however it’s definitely worth the ahead planning. Click here for directions.
3. The Independent: I cherished the vibe on this restaurant and I used to be fortunate sufficient to go to after they had a film night time. Craft beer lovers will probably be of their ingredient right here, because the menu is big, and eating is relaxed, with burgers, tacos, and pizzas. Click here for directions.
North Tampa: Greatest for Households
For sure, households or mates who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of selection. It’s the most effective locations to remain in Tampa for teams. Right here, you’re proper subsequent door to some recognizable points of interest, together with considered one of 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
- Ideally suited for households
- Cheaper lodging
- Laid-back, reasonably priced eating choices
Cons of Staying in North Tampa
- You have to a automobile to get round (click here to search for the most effective value on rental automobiles)
- Very touristy
- Decrease high quality eating
Greatest Locations to Keep in North Tampa
North Tampa is thought for its low-cost lodging which is right when you have a gaggle of individuals wanting to remain collectively or in the event you’re a household. It’s additionally nice in the event you’re searching for the place to remain in Tampa with parking. Take a look at these listings beneath:
1. The Urban Nest: Should you’re touring as a gaggle or with youngsters, this sequence of vacation bungalows is the right selection. Every thing you might presumably want for a calming time is inside, and also you’re near all native facilities. Click here for directions.
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 very best for thrill seekers. With comfy environment, this lodge is fundamental but supplies every part you want, together with an out of doors swimming pool. Click here for details.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton: Sit back on the finish of the day within the scorching tub or the large out of doors swimming pool, and make use of the shuttle to all main parks close by. There’s additionally an on-site video games room to maintain youngsters occupied. Click here for details.
High Issues To Do in North Tampa
Adrenaline junkies rejoice! North Tampa’s rollercoasters will definitely take a look at your nerves, however that’s not all there may be to do right here. Listed below are the most effective issues to do in North Tampa:
1. Adventure Island: One other of North Tampa’s high points of interest is Journey Island. This can be a enormous waterpark that’s very best for cooling down in the summertime warmth. I notably loved the wave pool and chilling in a personal cabana. Click here for directions.
2. Museum of Science & Industry: 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 fascinating occasions held all year long. Click here for directions.
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 notably 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 most effective she ever had. Click here for directions.
2. Skipper’s Smokehouse: Serving a Caribbean and Floridian combination of meals, this spot is super-popular for purpose. Not solely is the meals superb however it’s additionally a reside music venue. I had an incredible night right here and would undoubtedly advocate you test it out. Click here for directions.
3. Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill: If scrumptious and recent Mediterranean meals is your desire, this restaurant will tick all containers. The flavors transport you to Greece, with an enormous vary of various dishes on provide. Click here for directions.
Ybor Metropolis: Greatest Place in Tampa on a Finances
Tampa is commonly known as the ‘Cigar Capital of The World’ and Ybor City can inform you a complete lot extra about that declare. That is the historic a part of town however it’s additionally a high spot for individuals who want to not splash the money after 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, yow will discover a few of the best Colombian food right here too.
seventh Avenue is Ybor’s nightlife spot and is a good space to move to if you wish to have a couple of drinks, attempt some scrumptious meals, occasion somewhat, after which head house. Should 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
Greatest Locations to Keep in Ybor Metropolis
Ybor Metropolis has some nice selections of locations to remain, and fortunately they’re fairly moderately priced. Listed below are some suggestions of locations to remain in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:
1. Hotel Haya: This lodge affords a really comfy 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 here for details.
2. Cozy AF Jungle-House Hideaway: Not solely is that this place extremely rated however it’s so cute you may’t assist however fall in love. This can be a two-bedroom vacation house with its personal pool and jungle theme design. It’s tremendous cool. Click here for details.
3. Hampton Inn & Suites, Ybor City: This lodge is a extremely comfy base when sightseeing within the Ybor space, and it additionally affords a free shuttle to the native port. Rooms additionally function a microwave and fridge, which is right for storing scrumptious snacks. Click here for details.
High Issues To Do in Ybor Metropolis
What’s there to see and do in Ybor Metropolis? A lot. Should you’re a historical past fan, you’re going to like this place.
1. Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour: The wonderful thing about this strolling tour is that you just get to eat and discover your environment concurrently. A educated information is available to inform you extra concerning the space and imagine me, you’ll be full by the top. Click here to learn more and book. Should you’re not likely into meals, this walking tour is a great option.
2. Ybor City Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on provide on this a part of Tampa, it is a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing unit opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and also you’ll be taught all about this and extra inside this museum. I notably favored the large gardens. Click here for directions.
3. TECOLine Street Car: 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 avenue automobile takes you from Ybor Metropolis right down to Downtown Tampa, and you should purchase an infinite day ticket. Click here for directions. One other tremendous enjoyable option to get round is by golf cart! Take a look at this highly-rated trip.
The place to Eat and Drink in Ybor Metropolis
The eating scene in Ybor Metropolis is basically eclectic and affords one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll battle to decide on. Listed below are some spots to look out for:
1. Columbia Restaurant: This is likely 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 here for directions.
2. Charley’s Steakhouse: When you’ve got the urge for a steak, that is the most effective place to go. Open since 1974, many glad clients have left its doorways, together with me, with its scrumptious lobster Mac & cheese. Click here for directions.
3. Acropolis Greek Taverna: I need to admit, after I first noticed this restaurant, I didn’t assume a lot of it from the surface, however after I went inside I used to be transported to Athens. The Acropolis combined platter and recent cocktails are main hits. Click here for directions.
Greatest 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 town’s greatest points of interest.
Tampa has a relatively low crime rate in comparison with the remainder of the nation and is taken into account quantity 4 on the record of the best places to retire. As such, you don’t want to fret unnecessarily about security. As when touring anyplace, nonetheless, care for your belongings and don’t depart costly objects unattended.
I personally felt very secure in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. A number of safety personnel? In fact.
When you’ve got a automobile, it’s simple to get round, however in the event you don’t need the effort of driving, it pays to do your analysis and keep centrally.
Channelside is a really enticing a part of town.
It’s loud and brash at instances, however it’s additionally nice for nightlife. If that’s what you’re after, otherwise you need to be someplace central, it’s place to remain.
To get round you want a automobile, nonetheless, it’s doable to stroll between Downtown and Channelside.
There are main points of interest in all of Tampa’s neighborhoods, however if you wish to be closest to the most important spots, Downtown Tampa is the most effective. Nonetheless, be aware that Busch Gardens remains to be far-off.
Should you can rent a automobile and also you’re comfy driving, you’ll doubtless see far more throughout your keep. Click here to seek for the most effective offers on rental automobiles in Tampa.
In Conclusion
Tampa is likely one of the greatest locations in Florida, if not the whole of the USA. For certain, that’s a reasonably sweeping assertion, however from private expertise, this metropolis has every part you might presumably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa unbelievable due to the theme parks, glorious meals, and vivid lights. {Couples} will benefit from the gastronomy, the nice nightlife, and the gorgeous surroundings. And teams will discover Tampa the best spot because of its various vary of issues to do. Put merely, no person will probably be bored.
