In case you’re on the lookout for 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 checklist. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and developing with an thrilling itinerary, you have to know the place to remain in Tampa and the realm finest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my checklist of the perfect locations to go to in Florida. Nevertheless, Tampa is an enormous 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 submit.
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 occasions 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, you have to do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however general, I’d say there are 5 primary ones to contemplate.
Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa
Fast Look: Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa (click on to leap down the web page to study extra)
Channelside: Finest 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 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. 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 you could 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.
Professionals of Staying in Channelside
- Downtown could be reached on foot
- Stunning views and Insta-worthy photograph alternatives
- A calming-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 an entire lot of shelter
- Very touristic; in order for you authenticity, you is perhaps higher off staying elsewhere
Finest Locations to Keep in Channelside
In case you really feel Channelside is the perfect place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these inns:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A modern, fashionable, 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 decisions. 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 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. This can be 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 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 top-of-the-line locations to remain in Tampa Heart, you wouldn’t count on anything.
1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t should 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. This can be a enormous water park with slides, actions, and loads of house 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 in the course of the early night hours. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: Indubitably, 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 received’t wrestle to search out one thing for even the pickiest eater:
1. The Pearl: I beloved the calm vibe on this restaurant and it’s a terrific spot for beer lovers too. The menu is basically 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. This can be 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 highly regarded spot for the best-grilled meats and sushi, and in addition focuses on delicacies native to the realm. Click on right here for instructions.
Downtown Tampa: Finest Space in Tampa for Nightlife
In case you’re on the lookout for 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 brilliant 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 perfect place to do loads in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic images at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Professionals of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- Every thing is inside straightforward attain
- Unbelievable nightlife
- Loads of buying alternatives
- Many sights are positioned in Downtown
Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- An especially busy space
- Costly foods and drinks
- Lodging is expensive
- A loud space
Finest Locations to Keep in Downtown Tampa
The fantastic thing about Downtown Tampa is that you just received’t should stroll very far to something. In case you’re on the lookout for the perfect Tampa inns close to nightlife, listed below are some strategies:
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 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 perfect for sightseeing, but it surely’s top-of-the-line inns with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a sizzling tub you possibly can sit back in, or just relax 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 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 appreciated most about this tour is that you just deliver your personal drinks, that means you don’t should 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 loosen up on the finish of an extended day, whereas additionally trying out 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 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, but it surely’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 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; lots to see and do, but it surely additionally has a relaxed residential vibe happening.
Most locals will inform you that Seminole Heights is fairly up-and-coming, and it’s actually bought a reasonably trendy really feel. You’ll discover plenty of road artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as top-of-the-line neighborhoods in Tampa.
Professionals of Staying in Seminole Heights
- A lot of road artwork
- A calming-out pavement cafe vibe
- Supreme for craft beer followers
- Decrease price eating
- A residential really feel
Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Not as many lodging choices obtainable
- You have to to make use of a automobile or public transport to get round
- Nightlife right here is sort of low-key
Finest Locations to Keep in Seminole Heights
Whereas it’s not as straightforward 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 manner, I nonetheless suppose it’s top-of-the-line locations to remain in Tampa. Listed below are my prime picks:
1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: The fantastic thing about staying on this specific spot is that it’s a house away from house; precisely how you’d describe this lodging. This specific vacation house affords 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 house and it actually did really feel like my very own place. The backyard is the perfect house to loosen up, and inside options every part you want on your journey, together with a washer, which makes life a lot simpler – particularly once you’re staying for longer intervals. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Seminole Heights Authentic Bungalow: This vacation house 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 sights is the order of the day once you select to base your self in Seminole Heights. Nevertheless, there are many high-quality decisions close by:
1. Amalie Area: It’s very easy to get to Amalie Area from Seminole Heights. Take a look at exhibits 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 sorts of road 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, filled with scrumptious fare to strive. Vegans, and those that 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: Take a look at the view over the waterfront and revel in a chilled-out meal with household and pals at this restaurant. Among the best locations for craft beers, this gastropub affords stay 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 substances reworked into essentially the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you just’ll must e book properly forward to get a desk, but it surely’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 shall 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: Finest for Households
Indubitably, households or pals who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of selection. It’s top-of-the-line locations to remain in Tampa for teams. Right here, you’re proper subsequent door to some recognizable sights, together with one in all 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.
Professionals 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 automobile to get round (click on right here to go looking for the perfect value 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 when you 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 on the lookout for 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 bunch or with youngsters, this collection of vacation bungalows is the proper selection. Every thing you would 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 perfect for thrill seekers. With comfy environment, this lodge is fundamental but offers every part you want, together with an outside swimming pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton: Sit back on the finish of the day within the sizzling 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.
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 sights is Journey Island. This can be a enormous waterpark that’s perfect 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 & 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 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 an extended day exploring and I didn’t should 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 elegant. 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 an excellent cause. Not solely is the meals wonderful but it surely’s additionally a stay 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 contemporary Mediterranean meals is your choice, this restaurant will tick all containers. The flavors transport you to Greece, with an enormous vary of various dishes on supply. Click on right here for instructions.
Ybor Metropolis: Finest Place in Tampa on a Price range
Tampa is commonly referred to as the ‘Cigar Capital of The World’ and Ybor Metropolis can inform you an entire lot extra about that declare. That is the historic a part of the town but it surely’s additionally a prime spot for individuals who want to not splash the money once they don’t should.
Ybor Metropolis takes you on a journey again in time, as you study extra about how Tampa grew and its roots with different nations, together with Cuba and Colombia. Actually, yow will discover among the finest 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 just a few drinks, strive some scrumptious meals, occasion a bit, after which head house. 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.
Professionals of Staying in Ybor Metropolis
- Loads of historical past and tradition
- Unbelievable 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 decisions of locations to remain, and fortunately they’re fairly fairly priced. Listed below are some suggestions of locations to remain in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:
1. Resort Haya: This lodge affords a really comfy 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 specific favorites. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Cozy AF Jungle-Home Hideaway: Not solely is that this place extremely rated but it surely’s so cute you possibly can’t assist however fall in love. This can be a two-bedroom vacation house 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 comfy 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 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 inform you extra concerning the space and imagine me, you’ll be full by the tip. Click on right here to study extra and e book. In case you’re not likely into meals, this strolling tour is a good possibility.
2. Ybor Metropolis Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on supply 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 study all about this and extra inside this museum. I significantly appreciated the large gardens. Click on right here for instructions.
3. TECOLine Road Automobile: 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 road automobile 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 basically eclectic and affords one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll wrestle to decide on. Listed below 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: In case you have the urge for a steak, that is the perfect place to go. Open since 1974, many glad clients have left its doorways, together with me, with its scrumptious lobster Mac & cheese. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Acropolis Greek Taverna: I have to admit, once I first noticed this restaurant, I didn’t suppose a lot of it from the skin, 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.
Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa: FAQ’s
Downtown Tampa, North Tampa, and Channelside are the three finest spots for vacationers in Tampa. That is largely as a result of they’re filled with the town’s greatest sights.
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 wherever, nevertheless, deal with your belongings and don’t depart costly objects unattended.
I personally felt very secure in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. A lot of safety personnel? In fact.
In case you have a automobile, it’s straightforward 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 enticing a part of the town.
It’s loud and brash at occasions, but it surely’s additionally nice for nightlife. If that’s what you’re after, otherwise you need to be someplace central, it’s an excellent place to remain.
To get round you want a automobile, nevertheless, it’s attainable to stroll between Downtown and Channelside.
There are main sights in all of Tampa’s neighborhoods, however if you wish to be closest to the largest spots, Downtown Tampa is the perfect. Nevertheless, word that Busch Gardens continues to be far-off.
In case you can rent a automobile and also you’re comfy driving, you’ll doubtless 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 among 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 every part you would probably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa unbelievable 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 perfect spot because of its assorted vary of issues to do. Put merely, no one shall be bored.
