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 the town and on the outskirts. It’s certainly one of my favourite locations to go to within the US.
Tampa is large, filled with historical past, nature, tradition, and improbable gastronomy in abundance. There’s nothing extra you can probably want. Sightseeing in Tampa is a blast, however it pays to do your analysis beforehand and know the very best spots to go to.
The primary time I visited Tampa, I wasn’t actually certain what to anticipate; in any case, I went on a whim after a good friend prompt I would prefer it. They have been proper, and I’ve revisited numerous occasions since.
On this submit, I’ll share my experiences in Tampa. By the top of this learn, you’ll have a curated listing of issues to do, and also you’ll be raring to get began.
Finest Issues To Do in Tampa
The very first thing you want to know is that Tampa is a really giant metropolis so prior data of the very best spots to go to is all the time helpful. Fortunately, I had a Tampa-native good friend to assist me on my first journey, and the excellent news is that I can share all of these hidden gems with you.
For those who don’t know the place you’re going, you can end up wandering round aimlessly and losing time. By having a plan, you may 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 listing of locations to go to in Tampa will make it easier to out.
1. Tampa Riverwalk
One of many prime issues to do in Tampa is to wander down the Riverwalk. Overlaying 2.6 miles, this pedestrianized pathway takes you thru a few of Channelside’s greatest sights and alongside the Hillsborough River.
It can 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. For those who can time your go to for sundown, you’ll catch the very best picture alternatives round. The very best information is that it’s free, so that you’ll have more money for the opposite sights on this listing.
Handle: Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tampa Bay Historical past Heart
For those who’re in search of Tampa sights that let you be taught whereas additionally exploring, the Tampa Bay Historical past Heart is for you.
This museum is super-interactive and has three flooring filled with displays and tales from the earliest beginnings of the complete Florida space, together with the primary recognized pirates.
It’s additionally fairly low-cost which is good if you happen to’re touring with youngsters and also you’re eager for them to be taught one thing from their journey. You may see this museum inside 2-3 hours most, which frees up lots extra time to discover the remainder of Downtown. It’s additionally a good selection for an exceptionally sizzling or wet day.
Handle: 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click 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 among the best locations to go to in Tampa just because by heading there, you’re serving to out and giving one thing again.
The corporate rescues and rehabilitates lions, tigers, and different species with the hope of nursing them again to well being and releasing them into the wild. 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 Straightforward St, Tampa, FL 33625, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Tampa Theater
From outdated motion pictures to new exhibits, no journey to Tampa can be full with out visiting the attractive Tampa Theater.
Positioned 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. Nevertheless, that’s not all this enviornment is known 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 night time in Tampa, however if you wish to do one thing memorable and out of the peculiar, that is the spot for you. You’ll must ebook tickets forward of time for ice hockey matches and main concert events, however the web site gives up-to-date details about its occasions. Click on right here for particulars of upcoming exhibits.
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 kids however a couple of hours within the top-class Glazer Youngsters’s Museum is an ideal concept. The on-site cafe is an efficient spot for folks to loosen up whereas their kids blow off some steam and provides a big menu of refreshments and snacks.
All the pieces right here is interactive, which means youngsters 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 very talked-about Camp Think about program, which provides completely different camps all year long and may 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 gorgeous Sacred Coronary heart Catholic Church is among the metropolis’s oldest, courting again to 1905. You don’t must be spiritual to get pleasure from a go to to this serene and picturesque church, however if you happen to do want to attend mass, providers run each day and are open to everybody.
The constructing itself is among 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 you need to undoubtedly take a look at.
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 arduous 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 house of time.
Ybor Metropolis is the middle of the 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 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 elevate some eyebrows; in any case, it sounds Thai, however you’re in Florida, not Bangkok. Nevertheless, the great thing about this Buddhist temple is that it lets you find out about a Tampa group that won’t instantly bounce 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 attempt all forms of Thai meals. Consider me, I discovered a brand new appreciation for this type of delicacies. You may attempt distinctive dishes and likewise purchase components to take dwelling to create your personal.
Handle: 5306 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
10. Busch Gardens
With out a shadow of a doubt, Busch Gardens is among the most enjoyable issues to do in Tampa. Overlaying an enormous 335 acres of house, Busch Gardens is an African-themed park with rides, exhibits, meals, and every part else you’ll be able to think about. You may must spend greater than in the future right here to essentially admire all it has to supply.
For those who’re frightened 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 right now, I’d. Ebook your tickets forward of time to keep away from the massive queues and to offer your self extra time to discover this huge 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 certain to be tempted towards the water at the least 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.
Slightly than strolling across the metropolis, you’ll pedal your approach round on the water, testing the cityscape from a completely completely different viewpoint. Your legs will burn by the top, however that’s when you already know 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 Seaside
There aren’t that many free issues to do in Tampa however a day on the seashore gained’t value you a dime. Ben T Davis Seaside is a spot straight from trip brochures, with clear, blue sea, and white sand. It’s the one greatest option to sit back and loosen up, clearing your thoughts of the hustle and bustle of the town. It’s additionally solely half an hour away from Downtown by automobile.
What I like about this seashore is that it’s a hidden gem in some ways. Most individuals head to Clearwater, however a day right here will probably be quieter and much more stress-free. Take your personal picnic and blanket, as there are only a few facilities, however from there, simply get pleasure from what Mom Nature has to supply.
Handle: 7740 W Courtney Campbell Cswy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Lettuce Lake Park
Positioned simply outdoors of the 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 recent air throughout you. The park is a large 240-acre in measurement, with biking and strolling actions to get pleasure from.
The lake does comprise alligators, so that you’re in all probability greatest to only take 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 incorrect; the town is improbable, however generally 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 on right here for instructions.
14. Sundown Cruise With Sunshine Skyway Bridge
One cool factor to do in Tampa is to go off on the Sundown Cruise, by way of 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 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 to your jaw to drop once you see the sundown. Meals and drinks aren’t included on this tour, so remember to gas 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 unusual issues to do in Tampa, however it’s not for the faint of coronary heart. I booked this as a result of I’ve a ugly fascination with all issues spooky, and it didn’t disappoint.
It seems that Tampa is much extra haunted than I ever may have imagined.
This can be a one-hour-long strolling tour that takes you thru a few 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 concerning 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 greatest issues to do in Tampa for {couples} and makes for a terrific night time out for foodies. I cherished the chilled-out vibe and the friendliness of everybody; I had a improbable night right here and bought to attempt many forms of beers I didn’t even know existed.
The beer menu is sort of in depth, and there are numerous occasions held all year long. I visited throughout the Badass Beer Pageant, and I’m planning on heading again once more. For those who’re visiting throughout this time, I’d suggest you go; it’s a extremely enjoyable night time 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, if you happen to’re in search of distinctive stuff to do in Tampa, it needs to be the Tiki Boat. I went on this tour with a good friend 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 must take your personal drinks, nonetheless, 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 luxuriate in a chilled-out but extraordinarily enjoyable 90 minutes. It’s fairly seemingly you gained’t need 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 arms down among the best issues to do in Tampa if you happen to’re a historical past buff. There’s solely a lot you’ll be able to expertise on land, however this cruise will make it easier to be taught concerning the area’s maritime historical past, together with its bloodthirsty pirates. The tour lasts for 1.5 hours and manages to pack 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 will provide you with loads of info and make it easier to to essentially admire the wealthy historical past of Tampa. Click on right here for extra particulars.
Handle: Historical past Heart/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
19. Tampa Museum of Artwork
Artwork and tradition followers may surprise what to do in Tampa to fulfill their creative cravings, properly, the Tampa Museum of Artwork is the very best spot.
Full of displays courting again to Historic Greek and Roman occasions, this museum will depart you greater than fulfilled.
You may as well seize a scrumptious snack on the on-site cafe and decide up some souvenirs to take again dwelling to your family members. The museum has a number of rotating displays all year long and occasions are held every so often. Remember to take a look at 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 prime issues to do in Tampa for households is an exciting day trip at Journey Island. When the solar is thrashing down, the very best factor to do is bounce within the water, and this enormous water park is good for simply that. Surprisingly, it’s additionally a terrific place to sit back out, which isn’t one thing you’ll be able to usually say about theme parks.
Young children will love the most recent 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 on right here for extra info.
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. For those who’re something like me, any likelihood to identify these lovable creatures is a must-do.
I discovered this dolphin sightseeing cruise to be among the best issues to do in Tampa and it was a particular spotlight of my whole time within the metropolis. It’s one thing I’ve completed 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 upset. Click on right here for particulars.
Handle: Historical past Heart/Amalie Area, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. Click on right here for instructions.
22. Zip Line Journey
For those who’re seeking to scream on the prime of your lungs, Zip Line Adventures is simply the ticket.
I’ve to confess that I used to be a little bit nervous about making an attempt this out, however I’m so glad I did. It’s one of many prime vacationer sights 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 one of the marketed sights, you gained’t must queue or combat for house.
Positioned within the lovely Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Protect, the course has 5 zip strains, an enormous suspension bridge, and loads of different adrenaline pastimes to attempt. It’s the proper half-day journey to get out of the town limits, and also you’ll be capable of say “I did that” for a very long time afterward. Click on right here for extra info.
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 sights in Tampa, however the year-round gentle climate signifies that golf is certainly on the menu. The TPC Tampa Golf Course is among the most well-known, having hosted occasions on the PGA Tour for many years. For those who’re somebody who loves golf, otherwise you’ve all the time needed to attempt, TPC is a superb place to begin.
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 few 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 prime issues to do in Tampa. Having opened its doorways in 1905, the unique cigar staff in Ybor Metropolis descended right here each day to benefit from the well-known Cuban sandwich. For those who eat only one factor in Tampa, let or not it’s this.
You may surprise what’s so particular a couple of sandwich, however imagine me, it’s a must to attempt 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.
For those who ask any of the locals, they’ll inform you this sandwich is the very best outdoors of Cuba itself.
Handle: 2117 E seventh Ave, Tampa, FL 33605, US. Click on right here for instructions.
25. Hillsborough River State Park
For those who’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 facet of this enormous metropolis.
The views from listed below are additionally second to none and offer you some improbable picture alternatives to refill your digital camera reel.
There’s a small payment to enter, however from there, it’s simply whole R&R all the way in which. Nevertheless, if you happen to 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 numerous sights, however piecing collectively your time may be fairly difficult.
Sights are sometimes far aside from each other; if you happen to 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 need to see. To not point out, driving in a brand new location may be worrying.
On this part, you’ll discover itineraries for 1 day, 2-3 days, and seven days in Tampa. These pattern itineraries will provide you with an concept of the forms of sights you’ll be able to group collectively inside a day. Be happy to combine up and substitute some sights 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
For those who’re quick on time and also you solely have in the future in Tampa, the Riverwalk is the very best spot to start your journey. Spending your day right here means you get to soak up an outline of Channelside and into Downtown, plus, there are numerous improbable eating places and outlets alongside the way in which.
Watching the hustle and bustle of the town is intoxicating in itself, and naturally, a free factor to do in Tampa. The fantastic thing about spending time right here is you can 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 night time falls. It’s a good suggestion to ebook a lodge on this space (Channelside) as you gained’t have far too enterprise again on the finish of a really tiring night.
2-3 Days in Tampa Itinerary
Two to 3 days in Tampa isn’t sufficient time to see every part, however it’s period of time to whet your urge for food for extra. In fact, you’ll be able to all the time return. I believe the very best place to begin is all the time Riverwalk and if you happen to select to remain in Channelside or Downtown, you’re centrally based mostly with ease of motion.
Spend a while strolling across the space and go to the Tampa Bay Historical past Heart for an hour or two. When night falls, take a look at Tampa Theater and absorb a film or a particular occasion. On day two, head to Busch Gardens for a full and exhausting day of screaming on the prime of your lungs. In case you have a automobile, 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 bear in mind to name into the Columbia Restaurant to seize certainly one of their well-known Cuban sandwiches. Within the night, go to the Tampa Bay Brewing Firm to wind down and take in some last-minute enjoyable earlier than it’s time to depart.
1 Week in Tampa Itinerary
One full week in Tampa means you’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 the town. Within the night, take a look at the Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour. For those who’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 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 very completely different facet of this generally hectic metropolis. On day three, it’s time to go to Busch Gardens enormous African-themed park.
In your fourth day, you’ll must get better, so a full day having fun with the surprise of Ben T Davis Seaside is a superb concept. Keep in mind to take some snacks, refreshments, and a blanket. Then, spend your fifth day exploring historical past on the Ybor Metropolis Historic Strolling Tour, earlier than heading over to Amalie Area to catch a sport, 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 loads 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 photographs alongside the way in which to seize your keep.
The place to Keep in Tampa
Tampa is a large metropolis, and that’s one thing I didn’t absolutely admire earlier than I visited. One of the best 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 lodge search website may lead you to remain in part of the 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 take a look at the very best ones for a brief keep of as much as one week, and the forms of issues they’re greatest for. Inside these of those major neighborhoods, you’ll discover loads of lodge selections.
Downtown Tampa – Finest for Nightlife
Downtown Tampa options all the very best nightlife within the metropolis, whereas additionally being dwelling to a few of the prime eating places and sights too.
That is the place essentially the most upmarket eating places may be discovered, and it’s greatest to ebook a desk upfront if you happen to don’t need to be upset.
It’s additionally a terrific spot to base your self if evenings are your focus and whereas it may be busy and loud, it would imply you don’t must journey far as soon as your night time is over. Try Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown.
Channelside – Finest 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—among the best issues to do in Tampa—together with nature, outlets, eating places, and sights overlooking the Hillsborough River.
Channelside additionally runs into Downtown, so it’s perfect for strolling, and it’s a barely extra serene neighborhood for {couples} too. Try The Tampa EDITION.
Ybor Metropolis – Finest for Historical past Buffs
Ybor Metropolis is the historic heart of Tampa, and that is the place the cigar manufacturing trade was based mostly again within the day.
There are numerous outdated cigar factories and museums right here, and the structure alone is dripping with old-world attraction, excellent for studying extra past the modern-day fare.
Ybor Metropolis can be cheaper than Downtown and Channelside, with a spread of eating places and bars to swimsuit all budgets. Try Hampton Inn & Suites.
Finest Eating places in Tampa
Top-of-the-line 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 arduous to know the very best spots to fill your abdomen after an extended day of sightseeing.
Many of the greatest eating places in Tampa would require you to ebook a desk forward of time, however inside Seminole Heights and North Tampa particularly, you’ll discover extra laid-back eating experiences, and you may 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. Nevertheless, the meals is firmly American with a slight Cuban twist.
The ocean scallops have been to die for and also you should take a look at their cocktail menu for one thing a little bit completely different. Click on right here for instructions.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Big, juicy steaks and supremely recent seafood on the order of the day at Bern’s Steakhouse, which has been serving comfortable company since 1956. You’ll want to decorate neatly to be allowed inside, and I’d suggest calling at the least two days forward if you wish to safe a desk.
Remember to take a look at 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 on right here for instructions.
Donatello
Donatello is taken into account among the best 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 giant. The recent seafood pasta is known 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 terrific spot to get pleasure from a scrumptious meal and sit back after an extended day.
The restaurant capabilities as an artwork gallery and music venue all on the similar time and is all the time stuffed with locals. Nevertheless, for my part, the very best 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 on right here for instructions.
Ulele
Housed within the renovated Water Works constructing, Ulele is a very talked-about spot in Tampa and one you need to undoubtedly head to for an gratifying night out. You may select to sit down outdoors and gaze on the water or inside if you happen to desire, making it the proper chilled-out eating possibility.
The menu is in depth, and my favorites have been the charbroiled oysters and the coconut ice cream. I additionally cherished the vary of selections accessible from their enormous wine listing. 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. 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 as well simply rent a automobile from the airport and drive round by yourself steam if you happen to desire.
For those who’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 potential to spend simply in the future in Tampa, however if you happen to can, ebook at the least a few days to discover the primary sights.
It’s greatest to rent a automobile once you’re in Tampa as it would permit you extra freedom and let you get round and see extra. Distances between sights may be fairly giant, and driving will provide you with the chance to go at your personal tempo. Nevertheless, Lyft and Uber are available, in addition to buses and trolleys between main neighborhoods and vacationer sights.
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, wonderful 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 seemingly go to.
To keep away from the most popular temperatures, October to December is a superb time to go to Tampa. This lets you discover extra comfortably. Nevertheless, 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 provides you all of that (minus Mickey) and a lot extra. It’s a metropolis that ticks each field.
For those who can keep for 7 days, you’ll be capable of see rather a lot in per week, however if you happen to’re pressed for time, 3 days would let you see quantity. For those who go to for lower than two days, it’s very seemingly that you simply’ll must return to expertise the opposite issues in your listing.
Sure. Tampa is taken into account a secure US metropolis. Whereas the primary touristic elements of Tampa undergo from petty crime, equivalent to pickpocketing, it’s the identical as any giant metropolis worldwide. You merely must preserve your widespread sense on the forefront of your thoughts and don’t flash your valuables whereas out and about.
Busch Gardens is certainly one of Tampa’s most well-known sights, however Riverwalk can be up there amongst the most well-liked issues to do. It actually will depend on what you’re fascinated with as to the place you need to goal your time. Nevertheless, Tampa can be a metropolis that’s filled with historical past.
Whereas there are some glorious, quieter seashores round Tampa, Clearwater is among the most well-known and most lovely seashores within the Tampa Bay Space. Nevertheless, that is additionally a really busy spot, particularly throughout 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, which means you’ll discover all method of delicacies to attempt. The recent seafood right here is one thing else.
For those who’re pushed for time, it’s potential to see quantity of Tampa in three days. Nevertheless, you gained’t see every part. For those who can, per week will provide you with extra time to see every part that pursuits you and actually take in 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 figuring out the place to begin and even the place to remain. The fantastic thing about Tampa is that each one neighborhoods appear to stream into each other. Whereas there’s a honest distance between them, you’ll be able to plan your time and be sure you don’t miss any of the main Tampa sights.
Tampa has all the time been certainly one of 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 want to learn up earlier than you go and know a little bit background info; that approach, you gained’t miss something.
A pair of comfy sneakers will definitely serve you properly on this enormous metropolis, and you could discover that when you come back dwelling, you’re pining to go again to Tampa and throw your self into the intense lights as soon as extra.
