Tampa, Florida Travel Guide

Welcome to my Tampa, Florida Travel Guide! As a longtime resident and real estate agent of this sunny and friendly city, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing all that Tampa has to offer. From exploring the beautiful beaches to enjoying the many cultural and recreational activities, I am passionate about this wonderful place I call home.

In this guide, I will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Tampa or to help you decide if this is the perfect place for you to call home. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s many attractions, sample its delicious cuisine, or just relax on one of its beautiful beaches, Tampa has something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover all that this amazing city has to offer! I also include some secret beaches known only to the locals!

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Tampa History & Demographics

Tampa has a rich history dating back to the 1500s when Spanish explorers first arrived in the area. In the mid-1800s, the city was officially founded by a group of pioneers who named it after the nearby Tampa Bay. Over the years, Tampa has been shaped by various cultures, including Native American tribes, Spanish and Cuban immigrants, and African Americans. Today, it is a melting pot of diverse cultures and people, making it a vibrant and exciting place to visit or call home.

The population of Tampa is around 400,000 and is known for its mix of ages, with a median age of 35.6 years old. The city has a thriving business community, as well as a strong arts and cultural scene. It’s a popular destination for families, retirees, and young professionals, and is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Things to do in Tampa, Florida

I highly recommend the Tampa Bay CityPASS if you plan on attending multiple theme parks and museums on your trip. You’ll get 9 days of access to 3 parks: Busch Gardens, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and The Florida Aquarium, and 2 additional choices from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a Dolphin Boat Tour, Sunset Boat Cruise, the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), or Glazer Children’s Museum. That’s a 54% savings and it starts at $150 USD.

Theme parks, Waterparks, and Adventure Activities

1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
   I highly recommend taking the Serengeti Sarari Tour upgrade.
2. Adventure Island
3. iFly Indoor Skydiving (East Tampa: Try the “First-Time Flyer” Experience)
4. Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour
5. Tampa Riverwalk Audio Walking Tour
6. Escape Room (downtown Tampa)
7. Golf Cart Guided Tour of Downtown
8. Tampa Bay Speed Boat Tour
9. Top Golf indoor golf (East Tampa)
10. Indoor shuffleboard (Seminole Heights)

Zoos & Aquariums

1. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
2. Big Cat Rescue
3. The Florida Aquarium (I recommend the “Skip the Line” pass)

Museums

1. Tampa Museum of Art
2. Glazer Children’s Museum
3. Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
4. Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)

Sporting events

If you’re a sports fan, then Tampa Bay is home to three professional teams, and is the off-season (spring) home of the New York Yankees and summer home to the Yankees class A division team, Tampa Tarpons.

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers football (NFL) (Tampa)
• Tampa Bay Lightning hockey (NHL) (Tampa)
• Tampa Bay Rays baseball (MLB) (St. Petersburg)
• New York Yankees (MLB) (Spring Season in Tampa)

Malls

• International Plaza and Bay Street
• Westfield Brandon

Food Courts

• Armature Works (Editor’s Pick)
  This has to be a personal favorite of mine! There is so much to see, do, and taste inside (all air-conditioned!). Outside, there is space for the kids to play. On some evenings, they have a night market outside along the Tampa Riverwalk. They also host special events like the Tampa Bay Bake Off.
• Sparkman Wharf

Popular Public Parks

• Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park (downtown)
  This riverfront park in the heart of downtown Tampa is home to many popular activities like Yoga in The Park, Cinco de Mayo, and St. Patrick’s Day (the river is painted green!), is is next to Glazer Children’s museum. It features a large lawn and several splash pads.
• Al Lopez Park (West Tampa)
• Tampa Riverwalk (downtown)
• Water Works Park (downtown)
• Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park

Beaches

Locals-Only Tampa Beaches

These are the beaches you won’t find listed as major destinations in Tampa; however, the locals know where to find them. They are pretty small; however, a chill, relatively private spot can be really nice to have when the other beaches are packed.

• Ben T Davis Beach: 7740 W Courtney Campbell Causeway
• Davis Islands Beach: South side of Davis Island.33602
• East Tampa Beach: Tampa, FL 33607

Well-known Tampa Bay Beaches

• Clearwater Beach
  • Our friends at Wander Era can attest to the fact that Clearwater Beach, which consistently ranks among the top clear water beaches in the USA, is a great place to spot dolphins.
• St. Pete Beach
• Honeymoon Island State Park

Breweries and Distilleries

1. Cigar City Brewing
2. Tampa Bay Brewing Company
3. Coppertail Brewing Co. (Ybor)
4. 7venth Sun Brewery
5. Angry Chair Brewing (Seminole Heights)
6. Hidden Springs Ale Works
7. Green Bench Brewing Co.
8. Tampa Bay Rum Company (Seminole Heights)
9. Florida Cane Distillery
10. Dark Door Spirits

Bars & Nightclubs

The bars listed below are located in specific neighborhoods in Tampa. The beauty of being in a densely populated neighborhood is that you can easily get to these places on foot for an evening bar crawl or with a quick Uber call. 

This is definitely not an exhaustive list. If you’ve got a favorite place that you think deserves to be on this list, leave a comment below!

South Tampa and SoHo

1. MacDinton’s SoHo
2. The Dubliner Irish Pub
3. The Patio Tampa
4. World of Beer
5. Cask Social Kitchen
6. The Wine Exchange Bistro & Wine Bar
7. Copperfish Books & Brews
8. The Press Box
9. The Bricks of Ybor
10. The Lure Tampa

Ybor

1. The Ritz Ybor
2. The Bricks of Ybor
3. The Honey Pot Gay Bar (Editor’s pick)

This gay bar has fantastic music, great overall vibe, and strong drinks.

4. Gaspar’s Grotto
5. The Dirty Shame
6. The Boneyard
7. The Bad Monkey (Editor’s pick)
8. Tequilas Ybor
9. The Castle

The Castle is a pillar in Ybor within the goth and alternative crowds. Different nights have different themes, and it’s a place to experience at least once!

10. Coppertail Brewing Co.

Channelside

1. American Social
2. Sparkman Wharf
3. Anchor and Brine
4. Maloney’s Local Irish Pub
5. The Sail Plaza
6. Yeoman’s Cask & Lion
7. Flock and Stock
8. District Tavern
9. Cry Baby Cafe
10. Florida Cane Distillery

Seminole Heights

1. Independent Bar & Cafe
2. The Mermaid Tavern
3. The Brew Bus Terminal & Brewery
4. The Rooster & the Till
5. The Independent Distillery
6. Angry Chair Brewing
7. The Front Porch Grill & Bar
8. 3 Dot Dash Vegan Kitchen (The Chickn Sandwich is out-of-this-world!)
9. The C House
   Everything on the menu starts with the letter “C.”
10. Spaddy’s Coffee Co.
11. Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
    Arrive early for Soul Food Sunday! Get the Ella’s Bloody Mary – it comes with a BBQ rib!

Downtown

1. Hooch and Hive
2. Franklin Manor
3. Yeoman’s Cask & Lion (close to the Amelie Arena)
4. Fly Bar & Restaurant
5. The Hub
6. GenX Tavern
7. The Gin Joint
8. The Patio Tampa
9. Hotel Bar

Coffee, Kombucha, and Kava Bars

1. Spaddy’s Coffee Co. (Seminole Heights)
2. Jet City Espresso (South Tampa – Editor’s Pick)
   The owner, Jess, is a ball of energy and that translates directly into her cafe. The set-up is fun too since it’s actually a converted portion of her home that also functions as an AirBnB in the heart of South Tampa.
3. Cafe Hey (downtown Tampa)
4. Buddy Brew Coffee
5. Foundation Coffee Co.
6. Blind Tiger Cafe (Ybor)
7. Kahwa Coffee Roasting
8. Caffeine Roasters
9. Flower Crown Kombucha
10. Bula Kavananda Kava Bar & Coffee House (Seminole Heights)
    This kava bar is within walking distance of my home, so it’s a popular spot for me. Kava, tea, and coffee is a whole culture here and the talented baristas are well-educated on the topic.

Dessert Parlors

1. Bo’s Ice Cream
   A Seminole Heights secret serving soft-serve icecream. Get the thick-n-chunky blended shake with snickers!
   Address: 7101 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. 
2. Henry Waugh Dessert Room at Bern’s Steakhouse (Editor’s Pick)
3. The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops
4. Dough
5. The Dessert Spot at Toffee to Go 
6. The Revolution Ice Cream Co.
   You’ve got to get a scoop of Porky’s, a vanilla ice cream with bacon pieces, and another of Euro Trash with biscoff cookie bits!. 
7. Snobachi Handcrafted Ice Cream
8. Chill Bros. Scoop Shop
9. The Baked Bear
10. iLov305 Cafe and Ice Cream Shop

Restaurants

Editor’s Picks

1. Bern’s Steak House (fine dining steakhouse) (South Tampa)
2. The Columbia Restaurant (Spanish/Cuban cuisine) (Ybor)
3. Ulele (seafood and Florida-inspired cuisine) (Downtown)
4. Rusty Pelican (waterfront dining with seafood and steaks)
5. Oystercatchers (seafood with waterfront views)
6. Jackson’s Bistro (New American cuisine with waterfront dining) (Downtown)
7. The Lobster Pot (seafood with outdoor dining on the beach)

Casinos

1. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
2. Tampa Bay Downs

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Explore These Tampa Neighborhoods

Ybor City

Ybor City is a historic neighborhood northeast of downtown Tampa known for its vibrant and diverse culture. The area has a rich history reflected in its architecture, restaurants, bars, and entertainment.

One defining characteristic of Ybor City is its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood is known for its inclusivity and acceptance, making it a popular destination for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.

Ybor City is famous for its bar scene, with a wide variety of bars ranging from upscale cocktail lounges to laid-back dive bars. Many of the bars in Ybor City have a Latin flair and serve unique cocktails and drinks.

The neighborhood is also a hub for culture, with a number of theaters and cultural centers. The historic Ybor City district features unique architecture that reflects the area’s history as a center of the cigar-making industry.

Ybor City is easily accessible and well-connected to the rest of the city, located just a few miles from downtown Tampa. Its vibrant culture and eclectic atmosphere make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Seminole Heights

Seminole Heights is a vibrant neighborhood located just northeast of downtown Tampa, known for its unique atmosphere and eclectic mix of locally owned restaurants and bars. The area has experienced a recent urban revival, attracting young professionals and families to its tree-lined streets and historic bungalows.

One of the defining characteristics of Seminole Heights is its welcoming atmosphere to the LGBTQ+ community. The neighborhood is known for its inclusivity and acceptance, with a number of LGBTQ+ friendly businesses and events.

Seminole Heights is also a hub for local businesses and artisans, with many of the restaurants and bars featuring locally sourced ingredients and homemade specialties. This creates a strong sense of community and a distinctive local flavor.

Located just a few miles from downtown Tampa, Seminole Heights is easily accessible and well-connected to the rest of the city. Its proximity to the urban core also adds to the neighborhood’s energy and vibrancy.

Check out this Guidebook to Old Seminole Heights for local tips.

Downtown Tampa

Downtown Tampa is a bustling neighborhood located at the heart of the city, and it has undergone a recent revival. The area is a vibrant mix of business and pleasure, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

One of the highlights of the neighborhood is the thriving bar scene. Downtown Tampa is home to numerous bars and restaurants offering outdoor seating and stunning views of the city skyline. Whether you’re looking for a craft cocktail or a cold beer, there’s something for everyone in Downtown Tampa.

Culture is also an important aspect of Downtown Tampa. The neighborhood boasts a variety of cultural institutions and events, including theaters, art galleries, and museums. It’s also a cultural hub for sports and music, with major events and concerts taking place in the area.

Downtown Tampa is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and it serves as the heart of the city. The neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of the city’s neighborhoods, making it a convenient location for those looking to explore Tampa’s many attractions.

South Tampa

South Tampa or SoHo is a trendy and upscale neighborhood located just south of downtown Tampa. SoHo is an area within South Tampa, located off South of Howard Ave, hence the name “SoHo.” The area is known for its vibrant bar scene, with many popular bars and nightclubs located along Howard Avenue. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out with friends or a lively dance floor, SoHo South Tampa has a bar for every taste and preference.

In addition to its bustling bar scene, SoHo South Tampa offers easy access to Tampa Bay’s beautiful waterfront. Bayshore Boulevard, one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the world, runs along the edge of the neighborhood, offering stunning views of the bay and plenty of opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Despite its lively atmosphere, South Tampa is also a convenient and practical location. The neighborhood is located close to downtown Tampa and the University of Tampa (a historic and private university) and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Residents of SoHo South Tampa can enjoy the best of both worlds: the energy and excitement of city life, combined with the tranquility and natural beauty of the bay shore.

SoHo South Tampa is also a popular destination for shopping. The neighborhood boasts a variety of boutique shops and high-end retailers, offering everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and furnishings. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or unique souvenirs, SoHo South Tampa has something for everyone.

Channelside District

Channelside is a bustling neighborhood located in the southeastern part of downtown Tampa, Florida. Historically, the area was an industrial hub for the cigar-making industry, but it has undergone a revival in recent years. Today, Channelside is known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shopping, as well as being home to several luxury high-rise condos and apartments.

One of Channelside’s biggest draws is its proximity to some of Tampa’s most popular sporting venues, including Amalie Arena, the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning NHL team, and Raymond James Stadium, where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL team play. Fans can easily walk or take a short ride to these events from their residences in Channelside.

The waterfront location of Channelside is another one of its main attractions. With a picturesque view of Tampa Bay, Channelside is home to several restaurants and bars that offer waterfront dining, drinks, and entertainment. The area also has a public park and a large marina, making it a popular destination for boaters and water sports enthusiasts.

Channelside is also a convenient location for those who work in downtown Tampa. With its close proximity to the central business district, many professionals choose to live in Channelside and commute to work on foot or by bike. The area is also served by several public transportation options, including a trolley that runs between Channelside and Ybor City, another historic neighborhood in Tampa.

How to get to Tampa

Plane

Tampa International Airport (TPA) is located in Tampa and is the closest airport to the city. It is served by numerous airlines with flights to and from destinations across the United States and internationally.

Additionally, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) are both located within a reasonable driving distance from Tampa, and offer additional options for travelers.

Vehicle

Here are some general directions you’ll travel by vehicle to Tampa from other major cities in the state of Florida.

• Orlando to Tampa: Take I-4 West towards Tampa.
• Miami to Tampa: Take I-75 North or Alligator Alley (I-75 North) to Tampa.
• St. Petersburg to Tampa: Take I-275 North towards Tampa.
• Jacksonville to Tampa: Take I-75 South towards Tampa.

Train or Public Bus

You can get to Tampa by train or bus. The Amtrak Silver Star line and the Amtrak Silver Meteor line both stop at the Tampa Union Station, located in downtown Tampa.

As for bus travel, there are several bus companies that operate in Tampa, including Greyhound, Megabus, and RedCoach. The main bus station in Tampa is the Tampa Greyhound Station, located in the Ybor City neighborhood.

Additionally, the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) operates a comprehensive public transportation system in the Tampa Bay area, including bus routes that connect to neighboring cities like St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

Where to stay in Tampa

Hotels

Below are three highly rated hotels in Tampa, Florida.

1. Tampa Airport Marriott
   This hotel is located just a few minutes away from the Tampa International Airport and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. It features spacious and comfortable rooms, on-site dining options, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
2. The Westin Tampa Waterside
   Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, this hotel offers stunning views of the bay and easy access to popular attractions like the Tampa Riverwalk, Amalie Arena, and the Florida Aquarium. It boasts stylish and modern rooms, an outdoor pool, on-site dining options, and a fitness center.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa USF Near Busch Gardens
   This hotel is located near the University of South Florida and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. It features spacious and comfortable suites with separate living areas, a complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. It’s a great option for families and those looking to explore the area around the university.

AirBnb

If you’re looking to escape a hotel room for a more personal stay, then check out these Tampa, Florida AirBnBs.

1. Skoolie Cottage in Old Seminole Heights

When is the best time of year to visit Tampa?

I recommend visiting Tampa between November to February, since the warm climate tends to be milder compared to the summer. The summer months (May-September) come with brutal humidity and temperatures, and nearly daily rainfall showers. The winter months tend to have less crowds as well, which is a nice respite from the heaps of traffic on our beaches and motorways in the summer months.

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FAQ

Does Tampa, Florida have alligators?

Yes, alligators are common in Florida, including in and around Tampa. It’s important to be cautious around bodies of water and to follow safety guidelines when encountering wildlife.

Does Tampa, Florida have an airport?

Yes, Tampa has an airport called Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is located just a few miles west of downtown Tampa. It is a major hub for airlines such as Southwest, Delta, and United. Its unique design was created by architect Jim Meehan, and is one of the most efficient design for busy tourists and professionals.

Does Tampa, Florida have a beach?

Yes, Tampa is located on the west coast of Florida, and there are several beaches nearby, including Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. These beaches are popular tourist destinations and offer a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Does Tampa, Florida have casinos?

Yes, there are several casinos in the Tampa area, including the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa and the Tampa Bay Downs racetrack and casino.

Does Tampa, Florida have hurricanes?

Yes, Tampa is located in an area that is vulnerable to hurricanes. Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, and it’s important to stay informed and prepared during this time.

Is Tampa, Florida a good place to live?

Tampa is a popular destination for those looking to live in Florida. It has a diverse population, a relatively low cost of living, and a variety of job opportunities. The city also offers a range of cultural activities, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community.

Is Tampa, Florida on the eastern time zone?

No, Tampa is located in the Eastern Standard Time Zone.

Is Tampa, Florida expensive?

Compared to other major cities in the United States, Tampa has a relatively low cost of living. However, the cost of living can vary depending on factors such as housing, transportation, and lifestyle choices.

What are some of Tampa, Florida’s zip codes?

Tampa has many different zip codes, including 33602, 33603, 33604, 33605, 33606, 33607, 33609, 33610, 33611, 33612, 33613, 33614, 33615, 33616, 33617, 33618, 33619, 33620, 33621, 33624, 33625, 33626, 33629, 33634, 33635, and 33647.

What is Tampa, Florida’s population?

As of the 2020 Census, the population of Tampa, Florida is approximately 411,898.

How many cities named Tampa are in the USA?

There is only one city named Tampa in the United States, and it is located in Florida.

What cities are near Tampa, Florida?

Some cities that are near Tampa include St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Lakeland, and Sarasota.

What county is Tampa, Florida in?

Tampa is located in Hillsborough County, Florida.

What are the main industries in Tampa?

Some of the main industries in Tampa include healthcare, education, finance, and tourism. The city is also home to several major corporations, such as Raymond James Financial, Publix Super Markets, and Tech Data.

Is Tampa, Florida blue or red?

Tampa is considered a swing city, meaning that it does not consistently vote for one political party over the other. In recent years, the city has leaned slightly towards the Democratic Party.

What big companies are in Tampa?

Some of the major companies headquartered in Tampa include Publix Super Markets, Tech Data, and Raymond James Financial.

What major sporting teams are in Tampa?

Tampa has three major sporting teams: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), the Tampa Bay Rays (MLB), and the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL).

What time of year do the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play football?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers play football from September through January each year.

Where do the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play football?

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers play their home games at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

What time of year are the NY Yankees in Tampa?

The NY Yankees hold spring training in Tampa at George M. Steinbrenner Field. The season typically takes place from late February to late March each year.

Where do the NY Yankees play baseball in the off-season?

In the off-season, the NY Yankees play at the Yankee Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The NY Yankees play their regular season home games at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.

What time of year do the Tampa Bay Lightning play hockey?

The Tampa Bay Lightning play hockey from October through April each year.

Where do the Tampa Bay Lightning play hockey?

The Tampa Bay Lightning play their home games at Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa.

What universities are in Tampa, Florida?

Some universities in Tampa include the University of South Florida, University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College.

Who is the mayor of Tampa, Florida?

Jane Castor, a member of the Democratic Party, has been serving as the mayor of Tampa since May 2019. Her current term runs through 2023, and she is up for reelection in that year. Castor’s key policies include investing in transportation infrastructure, addressing affordable housing, and promoting economic development.

What hospitals are in Tampa, Florida?

Some hospitals in Tampa include Tampa General Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and AdventHealth Tampa.

Is Tampa, Florida on the beach?

The city of Tampa has several lesser known beaches such as Ben T Davis Beach and Davis Island Beach. The great Tampa Bay area has many well-known beaches, including Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Honeymoon Island.

Is Tampa, Florida on the water?

Tampa is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, with many bodies of water throughout the city, such as the Hillsborough River.

Is Tampa, Florida a city?

Yes, Tampa is a city located in the state of Florida in the United States.

Is Tampa, Florida in the south? 

Tampa is located in the southernmost state of the contiguous United States, but when compared to other cities within Florida, it is located in the middle and on the western side of the state.

What are popular neighborhoods near Tampa, Florida? 

Some popular neighborhoods near Tampa include South Tampa, New Tampa, Lutz, Seminole Heights, Downtown, Channelside, Ybor City, and near the University of South Florida.

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Concluding the Tampa, Florida Travel Guide

I hope you enjoyed reading this Tampa, Florida Travel Guide as much as I enjoyed writing it. Tampa is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich history and diverse culture, and I am proud to call it my home. 

From its beautiful beaches and waterfront areas to its bustling downtown and thriving entertainment scene, there is something for everyone in Tampa. Whether you’re a sports fan, foodie, history buff, or just looking for a fun vacation destination, Tampa is definitely worth a visit. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience in this wonderful city.

Have you been to Tampa? Let me know in the comments.

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