In case you’re on the lookout for enjoyable within the solar, loads to see and do, and a number of the most scrumptious meals your tastebuds have ever skilled, Tampa ought to positively be in your go to record. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and developing with an thrilling itinerary, you’ll want to know the place to remain in Tampa and the world finest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my record of one of the best locations to go to in Florida. Nevertheless, Tampa is an enormous metropolis. That can assist you resolve on one of the best spot so that you can lay your head, I’ve coated one of the best 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 instances since. For me, 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 one of the best space to remain in Tampa, you’ll want to do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however total, I’d say there are 5 foremost 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 be taught 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 one of the best space to remain in Tampa for a first-timer, however I’ve a distinct take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and may 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 sort, you’ll love Channelside, however the magnificence is that you would be able to 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 simply’re actually a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle.
Professionals of Staying in Channelside
- Downtown may be reached on foot
- Lovely views and Insta-worthy picture alternatives
- A relaxing-out base
- Decrease value lodging in comparison with Downtown
Cons of Staying in Channelside
- Riverwalk can get very busy
- When it rains, there isn’t a complete lot of shelter
- Very touristic; in order for you authenticity, you may be higher off staying elsewhere
Finest Locations to Keep in Channelside
In case you really feel Channelside is one of the best place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these motels:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A glossy, fashionable, five-star selection with a shocking out of doors pool and terrace to absorb the solar. The onsite restaurant is especially spectacular, providing a complete host of Mediterranean decisions. 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 resort is the best selection. It additionally has an enormous out of doors 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 resort has an incredible rooftop pool with the proper view. It is a nice selection for households as there are many issues to do on website for little ones. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Channelside
I get pleasure from 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 anticipate the rest.
1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t need to be the most well liked day to spend a while splashing round and having enjoyable, and Water Works Park is one of the best 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 in the course of the early night hours. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: Undoubtedly, one of the best 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 cherished the calm vibe on this restaurant and it’s an ideal spot for beer lovers too. The menu is admittedly fascinating and the presentation is particularly 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 one of the best produce round. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Firestick Grill: Situated at Amalie Area, Firestick Grill is a very fashionable spot for the best-grilled meats and sushi, and in addition makes a speciality of delicacies native to the world. 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 identify suggests, that is the central a part of 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 splendid place to do so much in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic photographs at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Professionals of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- All the pieces is inside simple attain
- Unbelievable nightlife
- Loads of procuring alternatives
- Many sights are situated in Downtown
Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- A particularly busy space
- Costly food and drinks
- Lodging is expensive
- A loud space
Finest Locations to Keep in Downtown Tampa
The fantastic thing about Downtown Tampa is that you simply gained’t need to stroll very far to something. In case you’re on the lookout for one of the best Tampa motels close to nightlife, listed below are some options:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You may’t get any extra central than this resort, which is what makes it stand out, significantly when you’re eager to discover Downtown. The opposite plus level is the superior swimming pool, which presents a metropolis view as you swim. Click on right here for particulars.
2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this resort extraordinarily central and splendid for sightseeing, however it’s among the best motels 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 wonderful thing about this resort is the sheer variety of facilities in your room, making it an actual home-from-home expertise. From iPod docking stations to espresso machines, you’ll be wanting nothing. Click on right here for particulars.
High Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa actually saved me occupied; there’s loads to see and do right here. Let’s check out some issues so as to add to your to-do record:
1. Tampa Tiki Bar Boat Cruise: Floating down the Hillsborough River with a drink in hand, what might be higher? This chilled-out and super-scenic tour is a top-seller for a purpose. The factor I preferred most about this tour is that you simply deliver your personal drinks, that means you don’t need to spend a small fortune on the bar. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book.
2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: Just a few hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the best technique to loosen up on the finish of a protracted day, whereas additionally trying out the fairly spectacular interactive fountains. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Tampa Theater: Because it opened its doorways in 1926, Tampa Theater has showcased a number of 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 one of the best neighborhood in Tampa for meals, however there are nonetheless some fairly epic choices:
1. Oxford Alternate: Some eating places are simply particular, and for me, that’s Oxford Alternate. Not solely is that this a restaurant, however it’s additionally a bookstore and champagne spot all rolled into one. It has such a chilled-out vibe, but a number of the most scrumptious meals obtainable. Try 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 one of the best of each worlds; loads to see and do, however it additionally has a relaxed residential vibe happening.
Most locals will inform you that Seminole Heights is fairly up-and-coming, and it’s actually received a fairly modern really feel. You’ll discover a number of road artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as among the best neighborhoods in Tampa.
Professionals of Staying in Seminole Heights
- A number of road artwork
- A relaxing-out pavement cafe vibe
- Superb for craft beer followers
- Decrease value eating
- A residential really feel
Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Not as many lodging choices obtainable
- You’ll need to make use of a automobile 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 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 manner, I nonetheless suppose it’s among the best locations to remain in Tampa. Listed below are my prime picks:
1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: The fantastic thing about staying on this specific spot is that it’s a house away from residence; precisely how you’ll describe this lodging. This specific vacation residence presents a shared lounge and kitchen. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Lovely Neighborhood Seminole Heights: I loved the nights I spent on this vacation residence and it actually did really feel like my very own place. The backyard is the best area to loosen up, and inside options the whole lot you want on your journey, together with a washer, which makes life a lot simpler – particularly if you’re staying for longer durations. 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 lounge, 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 sights is the order of the day if 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. Try exhibits and sports activities, and revel in some actually good meals throughout your go to. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Seminole Heights Avenue Artwork Path: Strolling round central Seminole Heights will present you numerous sorts of road artwork, together with some large murals. Merely take a stroll round and also you’re certain 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 attempt. 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 an alternative, encourages you to attempt extra laid-back gastronomy. I personally loved a number of eating places on this neighborhood. Listed below are a few of my favorites:
1. American Social: Try the view over the waterfront and revel in a chilled-out meal with household and buddies at this restaurant. Among the finest locations for craft beers, this gastropub presents 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 substances reworked into probably the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you simply’ll have to e book nicely forward to get a desk, however it’s definitely worth the ahead planning. Click on right here for instructions.
3. The Impartial: I cherished the vibe on this restaurant and I used to be fortunate sufficient to go to once they had a film night time. Craft beer lovers shall be of their ingredient 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 buddies 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 sights, 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.
Professionals of Staying in North Tampa
- Superb for households
- Cheaper lodging
- Laid-back, reasonably priced eating choices
Cons of Staying in North Tampa
- You’ll need a automobile to get round (click on right here to go looking for one of the best 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 if in case you have a gaggle of individuals wanting to remain collectively or when you’re a household. It’s additionally nice when you’re on the lookout for the place to remain in Tampa with parking. Try these listings under:
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 pieces you could possibly presumably want for a soothing time is inside, and also you’re near all native facilities. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton: That is one other resort that’s actually near all of North Tampa’s main parks, which makes it splendid for thrill seekers. With comfy environment, this resort is fundamental but supplies the whole lot you want, together with an outside 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 large out of doors swimming pool, and make use of the shuttle to all main parks close by. There’s 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 check your nerves, however that’s not all there’s to do right here. Listed below are one of the best issues to do in North Tampa:
1. Journey Island: One other of North Tampa’s prime sights 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 & Trade: If you wish to take a break from screaming on rollercoasters, this museum is a superb spot to be taught. It’s an interactive place to go to, with loads of fascinating occasions held all year long. Click on right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in North Tampa
What I actually loved about North Tampa is that I may exit for dinner after a protracted day exploring and I didn’t need to get significantly dressed up. The entire eating scene is fairly laid-back.
1. Gino’s Restaurant & Bar: For relaxed Italian eating, it doesn’t get higher than Gino’s. I had Mama Mary’s Meatloaf and it was chic. My buddy ordered the seafood pasta and he or she mentioned it was one of the best 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 purpose. Not solely is the meals wonderful however it’s additionally a dwell music venue. I had an ideal night right here and would positively suggest 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 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 inform you a complete lot extra about that declare. That is the historic a part of town however it’s additionally a prime spot for individuals who want to not splash the money once they don’t need to.
Ybor Metropolis takes you on a journey again in time, as you be taught extra about how Tampa grew and its roots with different international locations, together with Cuba and Colombia. In reality, you could find a number of the finest Colombian meals right here too.
seventh Avenue is Ybor’s nightlife spot and is a superb space to move to if you wish to have a number of drinks, attempt some scrumptious meals, social gathering slightly, 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 is also 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 a complete 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 moderately priced. Listed below are some suggestions of locations to remain in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:
1. Lodge Haya: This resort presents 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 moderately 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 however it’s so cute you possibly can’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 resort is a very comfy base when sightseeing within the Ybor space, and it additionally presents 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.
High Issues To Do in Ybor Metropolis
What’s there to see and do in Ybor Metropolis? Lots. In case you’re a historical past fan, you’re going to like this place.
1. Historic Ybor Metropolis Meals Strolling Tour: The wonderful thing about this strolling tour is that you simply get to eat and discover your environment concurrently. A educated information is available to inform you extra in regards to the space and imagine me, you’ll be full by the tip. Click on right here to be taught extra and e book. In case you’re not likely into meals, this strolling tour is a superb choice.
2. Ybor Metropolis Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on provide on this a part of Tampa, it is a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing unit opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and also you’ll be taught all about this and extra inside this museum. I significantly preferred the large 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 road automobile takes you from Ybor Metropolis all the way down to Downtown Tampa, and you should buy a vast day ticket. Click on right here for instructions. One other tremendous enjoyable technique to get round is by golf cart! Take a look at this highly-rated journey.
The place to Eat and Drink in Ybor Metropolis
The eating scene in Ybor Metropolis is admittedly eclectic and presents one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll battle to decide on. Listed below are some spots to look out for:
1. Columbia Restaurant: This is 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 value it. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Charley’s Steakhouse: You probably have the urge for a steak, that is one of the best 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, after I first noticed this restaurant, I didn’t suppose a lot of it from the surface, however after 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 full of town’s largest sights.
Tampa has a comparatively low crime price in comparison with the remainder of the nation and is taken into account quantity 4 on the record of one of the best locations to retire. As such, you don’t want to fret unnecessarily about security. As when touring wherever, nonetheless, handle your belongings and don’t depart costly gadgets unattended.
I personally felt very protected in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. A number of safety personnel? In fact.
You probably have a automobile, 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 engaging a part of 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 an excellent place to remain.
To get round you want a automobile, nonetheless, 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 most important spots, Downtown Tampa is one of the best. Nevertheless, be aware that Busch Gardens remains to be far-off.
In case you can rent a automobile and also you’re comfy driving, you’ll seemingly see far more throughout your keep. Click on right here to seek for one of the best offers on rental vehicles in Tampa.
In Conclusion
Tampa is likely one of the finest locations in Florida, if not the entire of the USA. For certain, that’s a fairly sweeping assertion, however from private expertise, this metropolis has the whole lot you could possibly presumably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa improbable due to the theme parks, glorious meals, and shiny lights. {Couples} will benefit from the gastronomy, the good nightlife, and the attractive surroundings. And teams will discover Tampa the best spot due to its assorted vary of issues to do. Put merely, no one shall be bored.
