When you’re in search of enjoyable within the solar, loads to see and do, and among the most scrumptious meals your tastebuds have ever skilled, Tampa ought to positively be in your go to record. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and developing with an thrilling itinerary, that you must know the place to remain in Tampa and the world finest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my record of the perfect locations to go to in Florida. Nonetheless, Tampa is a giant metropolis. That will help you determine on the perfect spot so that you can lay your head, I’ve lined the perfect areas to base your self (relying in your preferences), inside this put up.
The primary time I visited Florida, I went to Orlando, like most individuals do. However after some time, I needed to see one thing extra genuine.
The primary time I visited Tampa was in 2014 and I’ve returned many instances since. For me, the town is the right mix of tourist-friendly enjoyable within the solar, native life, and genuine experiences. From the attractive Tampa Bay seashores and theme parks to the historical past, nature, and enjoyable bars, there’s a lot to like about this metropolis.
When selecting the perfect space to remain in Tampa, that you must do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however general, I’d say there are 5 essential ones to contemplate.
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
When you do a fast search on-line, you may assume that Downtown Tampa is the perfect space to remain in Tampa for a first-timer, however I’ve a unique take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and could be overwhelming in the event you don’t know the place you’re going. Nonetheless, Channelside, or Channel District, is the right center floor.
When you’re an outdoorsy sort, you’ll love Channelside, however the magnificence is that you could 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 could be reached on foot
- Lovely views and Insta-worthy picture alternatives
- A relaxing-out base
- Decrease value lodging in comparison with Downtown
Cons of Staying in Channelside
- Riverwalk can get very busy
- When it rains, there isn’t an entire lot of shelter
- Very touristic; if you would like authenticity, you could be higher off staying elsewhere
Greatest Locations to Keep in Channelside
When you really feel Channelside is the perfect place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these inns:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A modern, trendy, five-star alternative with a surprising outside pool and terrace to absorb the solar. The onsite restaurant is especially spectacular, providing an entire host of Mediterranean selections. Click on right here for particulars.
2. J W Marriott Tampa Water Avenue: If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, this lodge is the best alternative. It additionally has an enormous outside pool for chilling and a incredible restaurant with all method of scrumptious dishes. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District: This lodge has an incredible rooftop pool with the right view. It is a nice alternative for households as there are many issues to do on website for little ones. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Channelside
I get pleasure from Channelside’s chilled-out vibe, however that doesn’t imply there isn’t an entire lot to see and do on this waterside neighborhood. As among the best locations to remain in Tampa Heart, you wouldn’t anticipate the rest.
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 perfect place to do exactly that. It is a enormous water park with slides, actions, and loads of house to relax out. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Sparkman Wharf: Procuring, meals, drinks, and occasions; Sparkman Wharf is a vibrant spot that particularly comes alive through the early night hours. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: Certainly, the perfect factor to do in Channelside is to wander down the Riverwalk and take a look at its many outlets, eating places, museums, and occasions. It’s my favourite spot for a selfie. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Channelside
Channelside’s eating scene is fairly eclectic and also you gained’t battle to search out one thing for even the pickiest eater:
1. The Pearl: I beloved the calm vibe on this restaurant and it’s an awesome spot for beer lovers too. The menu is admittedly fascinating and the presentation is very Insta-worthy. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Lilac: Particular occasions ought to at all times be held at Lilac, in my view. It is a top-class Mediterranean restaurant that provides a four-course mounted menu that includes the perfect produce round. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Firestick Grill: Situated at Amalie Area, Firestick Grill is a extremely popular spot for the best-grilled meats and sushi, and likewise makes a speciality of delicacies native to the world. Click on right here for instructions.
Downtown Tampa: Greatest Space in Tampa for Nightlife
When you’re in search of locations to remain in Tampa for nightlife, don’t suppose twice about staying in Downtown Tampa. Because the title suggests, that is the central a part of the town, the place all the intense lights shine and evenings by no means appear to finish.
Downtown is within the south of Tampa and it has a picturesque spot overlooking the Hillsborough River. I actually benefit from the vibrant really feel in Downtown and in the event you’re after a spot of luxurious, you’ll actually 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 preferrred place to do lots in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic photographs at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Execs of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- All the things is inside simple attain
- Incredible nightlife
- Loads of purchasing alternatives
- Many points of interest are situated in Downtown
Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- A particularly busy space
- Costly foods and drinks
- Lodging is costly
- A loud space
Greatest Locations to Keep in Downtown Tampa
The great thing about Downtown Tampa is that you just gained’t need to stroll very far to something. When you’re in search of the perfect Tampa inns close to nightlife, listed below are some solutions:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You possibly can’t get any extra central than this lodge, which is what makes it stand out, significantly 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 on right here for particulars.
2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this lodge extraordinarily central and preferrred for sightseeing, however it’s among the best inns with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a scorching tub you possibly can sit back in, or just sit back within the backyard after a day of exploring. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Le Meridien Tampa, The Courthouse: The beauty of this lodge is the sheer variety of facilities in your room, making it an actual home-from-home expertise. From iPod docking stations to espresso machines, you’ll be wanting nothing. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa actually saved me occupied; there’s loads 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 may very well be higher? This chilled-out and super-scenic tour is a top-seller for a motive. The factor I preferred most about this tour is that you just deliver your personal drinks, which means you don’t need to spend a small fortune on the bar. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide.
2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: A number of hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the best solution to loosen up on the finish of a protracted day, whereas additionally trying out the fairly spectacular interactive fountains. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Theater: Because it opened its doorways in 1926, Tampa Theater has showcased among the finest performances round. The inside is as particular because the present you’ve chosen to see, and I actually love the old-world vibes. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Downtown Tampa
Personally, I don’t really feel that Downtown is the perfect neighborhood in Tampa for meals, however there are nonetheless some fairly epic choices:
1. Oxford Alternate: 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 among the most scrumptious meals obtainable. Try the paella – it’s my favourite. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Mise en Place: When you fancy some French meals whereas in Tampa, this spot has you lined. Taking conventional French dishes and giving them a contemporary twist, you’ll discover dishes on this menu to make your mouth water. My go-to is the crusted rack of lamb. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Oak And Ola: Let’s be sincere, everybody loves a restaurant with an enormous roof terrace and a view. That’s what Ola and Ola has to supply, alongside severely spectacular cocktails, scrumptious pizzas, and seasonal dishes that change with the climate. Click on right here for instructions.
Seminole Heights: Coolest Place to Keep in Tampa
The second time I visited Tampa, I stayed in Seminole Heights, and from then on, it’s the place I’ve at all times chosen to return to. It has the perfect of each worlds; loads to see and do, however it additionally has a relaxed residential vibe occurring.
Most locals will let you know that Seminole Heights is fairly up-and-coming, and it’s actually received a reasonably trendy really feel. You’ll discover numerous avenue artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as among the best neighborhoods in Tampa.
Execs of Staying in Seminole Heights
- A number of avenue artwork
- A relaxing-out pavement cafe vibe
- Very best for craft beer followers
- Decrease value eating
- A residential really feel
Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Not as many lodging choices obtainable
- You’ll need to make use of a automotive 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 suppose it’s among the best locations to remain in Tampa. Listed below are my prime picks:
1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: The great thing about staying on this explicit spot is that it’s a house away from dwelling; precisely how you’d describe this lodging. This explicit vacation dwelling affords a shared lounge and kitchen. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Lovely Neighborhood Seminole Heights: I loved the nights I spent on this vacation dwelling and it actually did really feel like my very own place. The backyard is the best house to loosen up, and inside options all the pieces you want on your journey, together with a washer, which makes life a lot simpler – particularly while you’re staying for longer intervals. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Seminole Heights Authentic Bungalow: This vacation dwelling is right for households because it has two bedrooms, an outdoor terrace, a big lounge, and all of the mod-cons. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Seminole Heights
Combining a chilled-out lifestyle with close by points of interest is the order of the day while you select to base your self in Seminole Heights. Nonetheless, there are many high-quality selections close by:
1. Amalie Area: It’s very easy to get to Amalie Area from Seminole Heights. Try reveals and sports activities, and revel in some actually good meals throughout your go to. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Seminole Heights Avenue Artwork Path: Strolling round central Seminole Heights will present you numerous sorts of avenue artwork, together with some enormous murals. Merely take a stroll round and also you’re positive to search out much more.
3. Seminole Heights Farmer’s Market: Foodies will love wandering round this enormous farmer’s market, full of scrumptious fare to strive. Vegans, and people who are significantly eager on natural produce, will certainly discover this market to their style. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Seminole Heights
Seminole Heights doesn’t focus its consideration on refined eating places and high-class eating, however as a substitute, encourages you to strive 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: Try the view over the waterfront and revel in a chilled-out meal with household and buddies at this restaurant. The most effective locations for craft beers, this gastropub affords dwell sports activities and a pleasant vibe. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Rooster & The Until: Nominated for a Michelin award, you’ll discover regionally sourced substances remodeled into essentially the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you just’ll must guide nicely forward to get a desk, however it’s well worth the ahead planning. Click on right here for instructions.
3. The Unbiased: I beloved the vibe on this restaurant and I used to be fortunate sufficient to go to once they had a film evening. Craft beer lovers will likely be of their aspect right here, because the menu is large, and eating is relaxed, with burgers, tacos, and pizzas. Click on right here for instructions.
North Tampa: Greatest for Households
Certainly, households or buddies who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of alternative. It’s among the best locations to remain in Tampa for teams. Right here, you’re proper subsequent door to some recognizable points of interest, together with one in every 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 gained’t thoughts the crowds. It by no means felt ‘excessive,’ and I discovered lodging was cheaper. Plus, it at all times felt like a protected neighborhood in Tampa to me.
Execs of Staying in North Tampa
- Very best for households
- Cheaper lodging
- Laid-back, reasonably priced eating choices
Cons of Staying in North Tampa
- You’ll need a automotive to get round (click on right here to go looking for the perfect worth on rental vehicles)
- Very touristy
- Decrease high quality eating
Greatest Locations to Keep in North Tampa
North Tampa is understood for its low-cost lodging which is right you probably have a bunch of individuals wanting to remain collectively or in the event you’re a household. It’s additionally nice in the event you’re in search of the place to remain in Tampa with parking. Try these listings under:
1. The City Nest: When you’re touring as a bunch or with youngsters, this collection of vacation bungalows is the right alternative. All the things you may presumably want for a soothing time is inside, and also you’re near all native facilities. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton: That is one other lodge that’s actually near all of North Tampa’s main parks, which makes it preferrred for thrill seekers. With snug environment, this lodge is fundamental but supplies all the pieces you want, together with an out of doors swimming pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton: Relax on the finish of the day within the scorching tub or the massive outside swimming pool, and make use of the shuttle to all main parks close by. There may be additionally an on-site video games room to maintain youngsters occupied. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in North Tampa
Adrenaline junkies rejoice! North Tampa’s rollercoasters will definitely check your nerves, however that’s not all there may be to do right here. Listed below are the perfect issues to do in North Tampa:
1. Journey Island: One other of North Tampa’s prime points of interest is Journey Island. It is a enormous waterpark that’s preferrred for cooling down in the summertime warmth. I significantly loved the wave pool and chilling in a personal cabana. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Museum of Science & Business: If you wish to take a break from screaming on rollercoasters, this museum is a superb spot to be taught. It’s an interactive place to go to, with loads of fascinating occasions held all year long. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in North Tampa
What I actually loved about North Tampa is that I may exit for dinner after a protracted day exploring and I didn’t need to get significantly dressed up. The entire eating scene is fairly laid-back.
1. Gino’s Restaurant & Bar: For relaxed Italian eating, it doesn’t get higher than Gino’s. I had Mama Mary’s Meatloaf and it was chic. My buddy ordered the seafood pasta and he or she mentioned it was the perfect she ever had. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Skipper’s Smokehouse: Serving a Caribbean and Floridian combination of meals, this spot is super-popular for a superb motive. Not solely is the meals wonderful however it’s additionally a dwell music venue. I had an awesome night right here and would positively advocate you test it out. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill: If scrumptious and recent Mediterranean meals is your choice, this restaurant will tick all bins. The flavors transport you to Greece, with an enormous vary of various dishes on provide. Click on right here for instructions.
Ybor Metropolis: Greatest Place in Tampa on a Price range
Tampa is commonly known as the ‘Cigar Capital of The World’ and Ybor Metropolis can let you know an entire lot extra about that declare. That is the historic a part of the town however it’s additionally a prime spot for individuals who choose to not splash the money once they don’t need to.
Ybor Metropolis takes you on a journey again in time, as you be taught extra about how Tampa grew and its roots with different nations, together with Cuba and Colombia. In truth, yow will discover among the finest Colombian meals right here too.
seventh Avenue is Ybor’s nightlife spot and is a superb space to move to if you wish to have a couple of drinks, strive some scrumptious meals, social gathering a bit, after which head dwelling. When 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 may be the neighborhood for you.
Execs of Staying in Ybor Metropolis
- Loads of historical past and tradition
- Incredible nightlife with out being too excessive
- An array of worldwide delicacies
- Low-cost
Cons of Staying in Ybor Metropolis
- Not an entire 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. Lodge Haya: This lodge affords a really snug place to remain proper within the coronary heart of Ybor Metropolis. For the variety of facilities you get, it’s additionally very moderately priced. The on-site restaurant and cocktail bar are explicit favorites. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Cozy AF Jungle-Home Hideaway: Not solely is that this place extremely rated however it’s so cute you possibly can’t assist however fall in love. It is a two-bedroom vacation dwelling with its personal pool and jungle theme design. It’s tremendous cool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Hampton Inn & Suites, Ybor Metropolis: This lodge is a extremely snug base when sightseeing within the Ybor space, and it additionally affords a free shuttle to the native port. Rooms additionally function a microwave and fridge, which is right for storing scrumptious snacks. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Ybor Metropolis
What’s there to see and do in Ybor Metropolis? Lots. When you’re a historical past fan, you’re going to like this place.
1. Historic Ybor Metropolis Meals Strolling Tour: The beauty of this strolling tour is that you just get to eat and discover your environment concurrently. A educated information is readily available to let you know extra concerning the space and consider me, you’ll be full by the top. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide. When you’re not likely into meals, this strolling tour is a superb choice.
2. Ybor Metropolis Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on provide on this a part of Tampa, this can be a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing facility opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and also you’ll be taught all about this and extra inside this museum. I significantly preferred the massive gardens. Click on right here for instructions.
3. TECOLine Avenue Automotive: I stumbled upon this hidden gem as a result of a) it was scorching, and b) my toes have been hurting, and I’m so glad I did. This old-world avenue automotive takes you from Ybor Metropolis right down to Downtown Tampa, and you should purchase an infinite day ticket. Click on right here for instructions. One other tremendous enjoyable solution to get round is by golf cart! Take a look at this highly-rated journey.
The place to Eat and Drink in Ybor Metropolis
The eating scene in Ybor Metropolis is admittedly 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 without doubt one of the most well-known eating places in all of Tampa, and it’s been open since 1905. I needed to wait some time for a desk, however the iconic Cuban sandwich was greater than price it. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Charley’s Steakhouse: When you’ve got the urge for a steak, that is the perfect place to go. Open since 1974, many completely satisfied prospects have left its doorways, together with me, with its scrumptious lobster Mac & cheese. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Acropolis Greek Taverna: I need to admit, after I first noticed this restaurant, I didn’t suppose a lot of it from the skin, however after I went inside I used to be transported to Athens. The Acropolis combined platter and recent cocktails are main hits. Click on right here for instructions.
Greatest Areas to Keep in Tampa: FAQ’s
Downtown Tampa, North Tampa, and Channelside are the three finest spots for vacationers in Tampa. That is principally as a result of they’re full of the town’s largest points of interest.
Tampa has a comparatively low crime charge in comparison with the remainder of the nation and is taken into account quantity 4 on the record of the perfect locations to retire. As such, you don’t want to fret unnecessarily about security. As when touring wherever, nevertheless, care for your belongings and don’t depart costly objects unattended.
I personally felt very protected in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. A number of safety personnel? In fact.
When you’ve got a automotive, it’s simple to get round, however in the event you don’t need the trouble of driving, it pays to do your analysis and keep centrally.
Channelside is a really engaging a part of the town.
It’s loud and brash at instances, however it’s additionally nice for nightlife. If that’s what you’re after, otherwise you need to be someplace central, it’s a superb place to remain.
To get round you want a automotive, nevertheless, it’s attainable 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 perfect. Nonetheless, word that Busch Gardens continues to be distant.
When you can rent a automotive and also you’re snug driving, you’ll possible see way more throughout your keep. Click on right here to seek for the perfect offers on rental vehicles in Tampa.
In Conclusion
Tampa is without doubt one of the finest locations in Florida, if not the entire of the USA. For positive, that’s a reasonably sweeping assertion, however from private expertise, this metropolis has all the pieces you may presumably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa incredible due to the theme parks, wonderful meals, and shiny 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 diversified vary of issues to do. Put merely, no person will likely be bored.
