Should you’re on the lookout for enjoyable within the solar, a lot to see and do, and a few of the most scrumptious meals your tastebuds have ever skilled, Tampa ought to undoubtedly be in your go to checklist. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and arising with an thrilling itinerary, it is advisable know the place to remain in Tampa and the world greatest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my checklist of the perfect locations to go to in Florida. Nonetheless, Tampa is a giant metropolis. That will help 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 publish.
The primary time I visited Florida, I went to Orlando, like most individuals do. However after some time, I wished to see one thing extra genuine.
The primary time I visited Tampa was in 2014 and I’ve returned many instances since. For me, the town is the proper 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, it is advisable do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however total, I’d say there are 5 essential ones to think about.
Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa
Fast Look: Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa (click on to leap down the web page to be taught extra)
Channelside: Finest Place To Keep in Tampa for Your First Time
Should you do a fast search on-line, you may assume that Downtown Tampa is the perfect space to remain in Tampa for a first-timer, however I’ve a special take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and might be overwhelming if you happen to don’t know the place you’re going. Nonetheless, Channelside, or Channel District, is the proper center floor.
Should you’re an outdoorsy kind, you’ll love Channelside, however the magnificence is you can simply stroll to Downtown alongside the scenic Hillsborough River. Breathe in some recent air and take a look at the view whereas figuring out that you simply’re actually a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle.
Execs of Staying in Channelside
- Downtown might be reached on foot
- Stunning views and Insta-worthy picture alternatives
- A calming-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’d like authenticity, you may be higher off staying elsewhere
Finest Locations to Keep in Channelside
Should you really feel Channelside is the perfect place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these inns:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A smooth, trendy, five-star selection with a surprising outside pool and terrace to take in 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 Road: If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, this lodge is the perfect selection. It additionally has an enormous outside pool for chilling and a improbable restaurant with all method of scrumptious dishes. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District: This lodge has a tremendous 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.
High Issues To Do in Channelside
I take pleasure in 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 the most effective locations to remain in Tampa Middle, you wouldn’t anticipate anything.
1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t need to be the most well liked day to spend a while splashing round and having enjoyable, and Water Works Park is the perfect place to do exactly that. It is a large water park with slides, actions, and loads of area to sit back 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 through the early night hours. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: Undoubtedly, the perfect factor to do in Channelside is to wander down the Riverwalk and take a look at its many retailers, eating places, museums, and occasions. It’s my favourite spot for a selfie. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Channelside
Channelside’s eating scene is fairly eclectic and also you received’t wrestle to search out one thing for even the pickiest eater:
1. The Pearl: I liked the calm vibe on this restaurant and it’s a terrific spot for beer lovers too. The menu is de facto attention-grabbing 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, for my part. 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 Enviornment, Firestick Grill is a very talked-about 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: Finest Space in Tampa for Nightlife
Should you’re on the lookout for locations to remain in Tampa for nightlife, don’t assume 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 if you happen to’re after a spot of luxurious, you’ll definitely discover it right here.
The one actual draw back of Downtown is simply how frenetic it may be. This isn’t a spot for leisurely walks, however it’s the splendid place to do quite a bit in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic pictures at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Execs of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- All the things is inside simple attain
- Incredible nightlife
- Loads of buying 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 expensive
- A loud space
Finest Locations to Keep in Downtown Tampa
The great thing about Downtown Tampa is that you simply received’t need to stroll very far to something. Should you’re on the lookout for the perfect Tampa inns close to nightlife, listed here are some options:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You’ll be able to’t get any extra central than this lodge, which is what makes it stand out, significantly if you happen to’re eager to discover Downtown. The opposite plus level is the superior swimming pool, which provides a metropolis view as you swim. Click on right here for particulars.
2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this lodge extraordinarily central and splendid for sightseeing, however it’s the most effective inns with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a scorching tub you’ll be able to sit back in, or just chill 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.
High Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa definitely stored me occupied; there’s a lot to see and do right here. Let’s check out some issues so as to add to your to-do checklist:
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 cause. The factor I favored most about this tour is that you simply convey your individual 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 couple of hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the perfect option to chill out on the finish of a protracted day, whereas additionally testing the relatively spectacular interactive fountains. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Theater: Because it opened its doorways in 1926, Tampa Theater has showcased a few of the greatest performances round. The inside is as particular because the present you’ve chosen to see, and I actually love the old-world vibes. Click 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 Trade: Some eating places are simply particular, and for me, that’s Oxford Trade. Not solely is that this a restaurant, however it’s additionally a bookstore and champagne spot all rolled into one. It has such a chilled-out vibe, but a few of the most scrumptious meals accessible. Try the paella – it’s my favourite. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Mise en Place: Should 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 at all times chosen to return to. It has the perfect of each worlds; a lot 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 definitely obtained a fairly trendy really feel. You’ll discover a number of avenue artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as the most effective neighborhoods in Tampa.
Execs of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Plenty of avenue artwork
- A calming-out pavement cafe vibe
- Supreme for craft beer followers
- Decrease value eating
- A residential really feel
Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Not as many lodging choices accessible
- You have to to make use of a automotive or public transport to get round
- Nightlife right here is kind of low-key
Finest 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 almost all are vacation houses. Both method, I nonetheless assume it’s the most effective locations to remain in Tampa. Listed here are my high picks:
1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: The great 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 provides 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 every part you want in 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 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.
High 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 Enviornment: It’s very easy to get to Amalie Enviornment 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 Road Artwork Path: Strolling round central Seminole Heights will present you numerous kinds of avenue artwork, together with some large 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 large farmer’s market, full of scrumptious fare to attempt. 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 subtle eating places and high-class eating, however as a substitute, encourages you to attempt 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: Try the view over the waterfront and revel in a chilled-out meal with household and pals at this restaurant. The most effective locations for craft beers, this gastropub provides 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 elements remodeled into essentially the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you simply’ll must guide effectively forward to get a desk, however it’s definitely worth the ahead planning. Click on right here for instructions.
3. The Impartial: I liked the vibe on this restaurant and I used to be fortunate sufficient to go to after they had a film night time. Craft beer lovers might be of their component right here, because the menu is big, and eating is relaxed, with burgers, tacos, and pizzas. Click on right here for instructions.
North Tampa: Finest for Households
Undoubtedly, households or pals who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of selection. It’s the most effective locations to remain in Tampa for teams. Right here, you’re proper subsequent door to some recognizable points of interest, together with one among my private favorites – Busch Gardens.
Being so near theme parks ought to point out that North Tampa is fairly touristy, but when that’s what you’re after, you received’t thoughts the crowds. It by no means felt ‘excessive,’ and I discovered lodging was cheaper. Plus, it at all times felt like a secure neighborhood in Tampa to me.
Execs of Staying in North Tampa
- Supreme for households
- Cheaper lodging
- Laid-back, inexpensive eating choices
Cons of Staying in North Tampa
- You have to a automotive to get round (click on right here to look for the perfect worth on rental vehicles)
- Very touristy
- Decrease high quality eating
Finest Locations to Keep in North Tampa
North Tampa is understood for its low-cost lodging which is good if in case you have a gaggle of individuals wanting to remain collectively or if you happen to’re a household. It’s additionally nice if you happen to’re on the lookout for the place to remain in Tampa with parking. Try these listings under:
1. The City Nest: Should you’re touring as a gaggle or with youngsters, this collection of vacation bungalows is the proper selection. All the things you might probably 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 splendid for thrill seekers. With snug environment, this lodge is primary but gives every part 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 large 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.
High Issues To Do in North Tampa
Adrenaline junkies rejoice! North Tampa’s rollercoasters will definitely take a look at your nerves, however that’s not all there’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 splendid 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 attention-grabbing 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 pal ordered the seafood pasta and he or she 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 a very good cause. Not solely is the meals wonderful however it’s additionally a dwell music venue. I had a terrific 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 recent Mediterranean meals is your desire, this restaurant will tick all packing containers. The flavors transport you to Greece, with an enormous vary of various dishes on provide. Click on right here for instructions.
Ybor Metropolis: Finest Place in Tampa on a Funds
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 high spot for individuals who choose to not splash the money after they don’t need to.
Ybor Metropolis takes you on a journey again in time, as you be taught extra about how Tampa grew and its roots with different nations, together with Cuba and Colombia. In reality, you will discover a few of the greatest 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 just a few drinks, attempt some scrumptious meals, occasion just a little, after which head residence. Should you’re extra of a historical past buff than a bar crawler and also you’re questioning the place to remain in Tampa, then this 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
Finest Locations to Keep in Ybor Metropolis
Ybor Metropolis has some nice selections of locations to remain, and fortunately they’re fairly fairly priced. Listed here are some suggestions of locations to remain in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:
1. Resort Haya: This lodge provides 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 fairly 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’ll be able to’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 extremely snug base when sightseeing within the Ybor space, and it additionally provides 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.
High Issues To Do in Ybor Metropolis
What’s there to see and do in Ybor Metropolis? Lots. Should 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 simply get to eat and discover your environment concurrently. A educated information is readily available to let you know extra concerning the space and imagine me, you’ll be full by the top. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide. Should you’re not likely into meals, this strolling tour is a superb possibility.
2. Ybor Metropolis Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on provide on this a part of Tampa, it is a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing facility opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and also you’ll be taught all about this and extra inside this museum. I significantly favored the large gardens. Click on right here for instructions.
3. TECOLine Road Automotive: I stumbled upon this hidden gem as a result of a) it was scorching, and b) my ft 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 a limiteless day ticket. Click on right here for instructions. One other tremendous enjoyable option 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 provides one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll wrestle to decide on. Listed here are some spots to look out for:
1. Columbia Restaurant: This is likely one of the most well-known eating places in all of Tampa, and it’s been open since 1905. I needed to wait some time for a desk, however the iconic Cuban sandwich was greater than price it. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Charley’s Steakhouse: In case you have 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 assume a lot of it from the skin, however once I went inside I used to be transported to Athens. The Acropolis blended platter and recent cocktails are main hits. Click on right here for instructions.
Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa: FAQ’s
Downtown Tampa, North Tampa, and Channelside are the three greatest spots for vacationers in Tampa. That is principally 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 checklist of the perfect locations to retire. As such, you don’t want to fret unnecessarily about security. As when touring anyplace, nonetheless, maintain your belongings and don’t depart costly objects unattended.
I personally felt very secure in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. Plenty of safety personnel? In fact.
In case you have a automotive, it’s simple to get round, however if you happen to don’t need the trouble 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 need to be someplace central, it’s a very good place to remain.
To get round you want a automotive, nonetheless, 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 largest spots, Downtown Tampa is the perfect. Nonetheless, word that Busch Gardens continues to be distant.
Should you can rent a automotive and also you’re snug driving, you’ll seemingly see rather more throughout your keep. Click on right here to seek for the perfect offers on rental vehicles in Tampa.
In Conclusion
Tampa is likely one of the greatest locations in Florida, if not the entire of the USA. For positive, that’s a fairly sweeping assertion, however from private expertise, this metropolis has every part you might probably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa improbable due to the theme parks, wonderful meals, and brilliant lights. {Couples} will benefit from the gastronomy, the nice nightlife, and the attractive surroundings. And teams will discover Tampa the perfect spot due to its diversified vary of issues to do. Put merely, no person might be bored.
