In case you’re in search of enjoyable within the solar, lots to see and do, and among the most scrumptious meals your tastebuds have ever skilled, Tampa ought to undoubtedly be in your go to listing. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and arising with an thrilling itinerary, you’ll want to know the place to remain in Tampa and the realm greatest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my listing of the perfect locations to go to in Florida. Nevertheless, Tampa is a giant metropolis. That can assist you resolve on the perfect spot so that you can lay your head, I’ve coated 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 proper mix of tourist-friendly enjoyable within the solar, native life, and genuine experiences. From the beautiful 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, you’ll want to do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however general, I’d say there are 5 foremost 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 study extra)
Channelside: Greatest Place To Keep in Tampa for Your First Time
In case 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 special take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and will be overwhelming when you don’t know the place you’re going. Nevertheless, Channelside, or Channel District, is the proper center floor.
In case 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 contemporary air and take a look at the view whereas figuring out that you just’re actually a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle.
Execs of Staying in Channelside
- Downtown will be reached on foot
- Stunning 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; in order for you authenticity, you could be higher off staying elsewhere
Greatest Locations to Keep in Channelside
In case you really feel Channelside is the perfect place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these lodges:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A smooth, trendy, five-star selection with a surprising out of doors pool and terrace to absorb the solar. The onsite restaurant is especially spectacular, providing a complete 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 perfect selection. It additionally has an enormous out of doors pool for chilling and a unbelievable 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 proper view. It is a nice selection for households as there are many issues to do on web site for little ones. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime 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 among the best locations to remain in Tampa Middle, you wouldn’t count on the rest.
1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t must be the most well liked day to spend a while splashing round and having enjoyable, and Water Works Park is the perfect place to just do that. It is a large water park with slides, actions, and loads of area to relax out. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Sparkman Wharf: Buying, meals, drinks, and occasions; Sparkman Wharf is a vibrant spot that particularly comes alive in the course of the early night hours. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: Unquestionably, 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 seek out one thing for even the pickiest eater:
1. The Pearl: I beloved the calm vibe on this restaurant and it’s an amazing spot for beer lovers too. The menu is de facto fascinating and the presentation is very Insta-worthy. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Lilac: Particular occasions ought to all the time be held at Lilac, in my view. It is a top-class Mediterranean restaurant that provides a four-course fastened 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 in addition makes a speciality of delicacies native to the realm. Click on right here for instructions.
Downtown Tampa: Greatest Space in Tampa for Nightlife
In case 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 when 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 supreme place to do rather a lot in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic images at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Execs of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- All the things is inside simple attain
- Implausible nightlife
- Loads of buying alternatives
- Many points of interest are situated in Downtown
Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- An especially busy space
- Costly foods 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 gained’t must stroll very far to something. In case you’re in search of the perfect Tampa lodges close to nightlife, listed here are some ideas:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You possibly can’t get any extra central than this lodge, which is what makes it stand out, notably when you’re eager to discover Downtown. The opposite plus level is the superior swimming pool, which gives a metropolis view as you swim. Click on right here for particulars.
2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this lodge extraordinarily central and supreme for sightseeing, however it’s among the best lodges with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a sizzling tub you may relax 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 in need of nothing. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa actually saved me occupied; there’s lots to see and do right here. Let’s check out some issues so as to add to your to-do listing:
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 purpose. The factor I appreciated most about this tour is that you just convey your individual drinks, which means you don’t must spend a small fortune on the bar. Click on right here to study extra and e-book.
2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: A couple of hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the perfect approach to chill out on the finish of an extended day, whereas additionally trying out the moderately 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 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 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 Change: Some eating places are simply particular, and for me, that’s Oxford Change. 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. Take a look at the paella – it’s my favourite. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Mise en Place: In case you fancy some French meals 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 on right here for instructions.
3. Oak And Ola: Let’s be trustworthy, everybody loves a restaurant with an enormous roof terrace and a view. That’s what Ola and Ola has to supply, alongside critically 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 all the time chosen to return to. It has the perfect of each worlds; lots to see and do, however it additionally has a relaxed residential vibe happening.
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 lot of avenue artwork
- A relaxing-out pavement cafe vibe
- Excellent for craft beer followers
- Decrease price eating
- A residential really feel
Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Not as many lodging choices obtainable
- You will have 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 seek out lodging in Seminole Heights as different areas, there are nonetheless some nice choices; you’ll discover that almost all are vacation houses. Both approach, I nonetheless suppose it’s among the best locations to remain in Tampa. Listed here 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 residence; precisely how you’ll describe this lodging. This explicit vacation residence gives a shared lounge and kitchen. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Stunning Neighborhood Seminole Heights: I loved the nights I spent on this vacation residence and it actually did really feel like my very own place. The backyard is the perfect area to chill out, and inside options all the pieces you want in your journey, together with a washer, which makes life a lot simpler – particularly if you’re staying for longer intervals. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Seminole Heights Authentic Bungalow: This vacation residence is good for households because it has two bedrooms, an outdoor terrace, a big front room, 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 if you select to base your self in Seminole Heights. Nevertheless, there are many high-quality selections close by:
1. Amalie Area: It’s very easy to get to Amalie Area from Seminole Heights. Take a look at reveals and sports activities, and luxuriate 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 forms of avenue artwork, together with some large murals. Merely take a stroll round and also you’re positive to seek out much more.
3. Seminole Heights Farmer’s Market: Foodies will love wandering round this large farmer’s market, full of scrumptious fare to strive. Vegans, and people who are notably 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 an alternative, encourages you to strive extra laid-back gastronomy. I personally loved a number of eating places on this neighborhood. Listed here are a few of my favorites:
1. American Social: Take a look at the view over the waterfront and luxuriate in a chilled-out meal with household and mates at this restaurant. Top-of-the-line locations for craft beers, this gastropub gives 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 domestically sourced components reworked into probably the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you just’ll have to e-book properly forward to get a desk, however it’s well worth the ahead planning. Click on right here for instructions.
3. The Impartial: 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 can be of their ingredient 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
Unquestionably, households or mates who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of selection. 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 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 gained’t thoughts the crowds. It by no means felt ‘excessive,’ and I discovered lodging was cheaper. Plus, it all the time felt like a protected neighborhood in Tampa to me.
Execs of Staying in North Tampa
- Excellent for households
- Cheaper lodging
- Laid-back, reasonably priced eating choices
Cons of Staying in North Tampa
- You will have a automotive to get round (click on right here to go looking for the perfect value 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 good when you have a gaggle of individuals wanting to remain collectively or when you’re a household. It’s additionally nice when you’re in search of the place to remain in Tampa with parking. Take a look at these listings beneath:
1. The City Nest: In case you’re touring as a gaggle or with youngsters, this collection of vacation bungalows is the proper selection. All the things you can presumably want for a calming 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 supreme for thrill seekers. With snug environment, this lodge is fundamental but offers 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 sizzling tub or the massive out of doors 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’s to do right here. Listed here are the perfect issues to do in North Tampa:
1. Journey Island: One other of North Tampa’s high points of interest is Journey Island. It is a large waterpark that’s supreme for cooling down in the summertime warmth. I notably loved the wave pool and chilling in a personal cabana. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Museum of Science & Trade: If you wish to take a break from screaming on rollercoasters, this museum is a good spot to study. 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 an extended day exploring and I didn’t must 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 chic. My pal ordered the seafood pasta and she or he stated 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 purpose. Not solely is the meals wonderful however it’s additionally a dwell music venue. I had an amazing night right here and would undoubtedly advocate you test it out. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill: If scrumptious and contemporary Mediterranean meals is your desire, this restaurant will tick all bins. The flavors transport you to Greece, with an enormous vary of various dishes on supply. Click on right here for instructions.
Ybor Metropolis: Greatest Place in Tampa on a Funds
Tampa is usually referred to as the ‘Cigar Capital of The World’ and Ybor Metropolis can let you know a complete lot extra about that declare. That is the historic a part of the town however it’s additionally a high spot for individuals who choose to not splash the money once they don’t must.
Ybor Metropolis takes you on a journey again in time, as you study extra about how Tampa grew and its roots with different international locations, together with Cuba and Colombia. In actual fact, you could find among the greatest Colombian meals 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, strive some scrumptious meals, social gathering a bit of, after which head residence. In case 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
- Implausible 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 here are some suggestions of locations to remain in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:
1. Lodge Haya: This lodge gives 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 may’t assist however fall in love. It is a two-bedroom vacation residence 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 very snug base when sightseeing within the Ybor space, and it additionally gives a free shuttle to the native port. Rooms additionally characteristic a microwave and fridge, which is good 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? Loads. In case 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 available to let you know extra concerning the space and consider me, you’ll be full by the top. Click on right here to study extra and e-book. In case you’re not likely into meals, this strolling tour is a good choice.
2. Ybor Metropolis Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on supply on this a part of Tampa, this can be a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing unit opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and also you’ll study all about this and extra inside this museum. I notably appreciated 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 sizzling, and b) my toes had been hurting, and I’m so glad I did. This old-world avenue automotive takes you from Ybor Metropolis all the way down to Downtown Tampa, and you should purchase a vast day ticket. Click on right here for instructions. One other tremendous enjoyable approach 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 de facto eclectic and gives one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll battle to decide on. Listed here are some spots to look out for:
1. Columbia Restaurant: This is among 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 value 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 blissful 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, once I first noticed this restaurant, I didn’t suppose a lot of it from the surface, however once I went inside I used to be transported to Athens. The Acropolis combined platter and contemporary 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 greatest spots for vacationers in Tampa. That is largely as a result of they’re full of the town’s greatest 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 listing of the perfect locations to retire. As such, you don’t want to fret unnecessarily about security. As when touring wherever, nevertheless, maintain your belongings and don’t go away costly objects unattended.
I personally felt very protected in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. A lot of safety personnel? In fact.
When you’ve got a automotive, it’s simple to get round, however when 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 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 wish to be someplace central, it’s place to remain.
To get round you want a automotive, nevertheless, 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 perfect. Nevertheless, word that Busch Gardens remains to be far-off.
In case you can rent a automotive and also you’re snug driving, you’ll probably 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 among the greatest 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 can presumably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa unbelievable due to the theme parks, wonderful meals, and vibrant lights. {Couples} will benefit from the gastronomy, the nice nightlife, and the gorgeous surroundings. And teams will discover Tampa the perfect spot due to its assorted vary of issues to do. Put merely, no person can be bored.
