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Things to Do in Tampa

Things to Do in Tampa

Tampa Florida, USA Travel Guide

Cultural Immersion

Tampa’s diverse heritage has many ways to immerse yourself in its unique cultural fabric.

Workshops & Classes

Ybor City Museum State Park

Occasionally offers workshops related to cigar rolling, a historic craft of the area, or other local artisan skills.

Tampa Bay History Center

Educational programs and workshops explore various aspects of Florida's history and culture.

The Epicurean Hotel

Offers various culinary classes and wine tastings, learning about food and beverage in an engaging setting.

Cultural Performances & Events

  • Straz Center for the Performing Arts: A robust schedule of Broadway shows, classical concerts, opera, and dance.
  • Tampa Theatre: This historic movie palace hosts classic films, independent cinema, and live performances.
  • Live music and dance performances are frequent in Ybor City's various venues, ranging from flamenco to Latin jazz.
  • Spanish is widely spoken in Tampa, notably in Ybor City and areas with large Hispanic populations.

Gasparilla Pirate Fest

  • Tampa's largest and most famous festival.
  • A pirate-themed celebration with a large parade.
  • Includes a flotilla and various related events.
  • Held in late January/early February.

Sant' Yago Illuminated Knight Parade

  • A dazzling night parade in historic Ybor City.
  • Features illuminated floats and marching krewes.
  • Held annually in February.
  • A evening spectacle.

Florida State Fair

  • A traditional state fair.
  • Offers agricultural exhibits and carnival rides.
  • Includes live entertainment and fair food.
  • Typically held in February.

Local Engagement Tip

Seek out locally owned shops, cafes, and art galleries for a more authentic cultural experience.

Relaxation & Wellness

Tampa has a variety of options for rest and rejuvenation.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Spa Evangeline (Epicurean Hotel): Known for its unique wine-themed spa treatments and relaxing atmosphere.
  • The Spa by JW (JW Marriott Tampa Water Street): Offers a luxury spa experience with a range of treatments in a sophisticated setting.
  • Numerous independent day spas and wellness centers exist throughout the city, offering massages, facials, and other treatments.
  • Yoga and meditation studios across Tampa offer daily classes, workshops, and occasional short retreats.

Additional Wellness Considerations

Natural Hot Springs

Natural hot springs are not present in Tampa. The region focuses more on coastal and urban wellness.

Traditional Healing Practices

Traditional healing practices specific to the region are limited. Most wellness options align with modern spa and fitness trends.

Beach and Pool Clubs

Many hotels, especially luxury properties, feature beautiful pools for relaxation. The nearby Gulf Coast beaches offer miles of white sand for sunbathing and swimming.

Rest & Recharge

Plan for ample rest between activities to make the most of your trip. Consider a leisurely morning by the pool or a quiet stroll along the Riverwalk.

Stay Hydrated

Florida's warm climate means staying hydrated is very important. Carry water, especially during outdoor activities, and consider electrolyte drinks.

Sun Protection

Protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).

Entertainment & Nightlife

Tampa has a lively scene for evening activities and entertainment.

Live Music Venues

  • Amalie Arena: Hosts major concerts by internationally renowned artists.
  • MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre: An outdoor concert venue that attracts major touring acts.
  • Jannus Live (St. Petersburg): While in St. Pete, this outdoor concert venue is a popular choice for various bands.
  • The Orpheum (Ybor City): A smaller, intimate venue in Ybor City that hosts local and national bands.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Ybor City Nightlife

7th Avenue pulsates with numerous nightclubs, dance clubs, and bars catering to various tastes, from EDM to Latin music.

The Ritz Ybor

A concert venue that doubles as a club.

SoHo South Howard Avenue

Another popular street for nightlife, with a concentration of bars and restaurants that attract a lively crowd.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Ybor City Bar Scene

Offers an extensive bar scene, with options ranging from historic pubs to modern lounges. Pub crawls are often organized.

SoHo District

A popular bar district with many options for cocktails, craft beers, and socializing.

Downtown/Water Street

Newer, upscale bars and rooftop lounges offer sophisticated options with city views.

Shopping & Markets

Tampa has a diverse shopping experience, from traditional markets to luxury boutiques.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Ybor City Saturday Market: Held weekly, this market features local produce, artisan crafts, prepared foods, and live entertainment.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: Various small boutiques and art galleries throughout Tampa, notably in areas like the Heights District, feature local artisan work.
  • You find unique handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, and other crafts.
  • Look for local boutiques for unique finds.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

International Plaza and Bay Street

A high-end mall near Tampa International Airport, featuring luxury brands, department stores, and upscale restaurants.

Hyde Park Village

An outdoor shopping district with a charming atmosphere. It hosts a mix of national brands, local boutiques, and popular restaurants, offering a more curated shopping experience.

Shipping & Customs Information

Major shipping carriers (UPS, FedEx, USPS) are available for sending purchases home. Consult your home country's customs regulations for limits on imported goods and any duties or taxes that may apply. Keep receipts for high-value purchases.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Cigar-related items from Ybor City.
  • Tampa Bay Sports Merchandise.
  • Local Craft Beer from thriving breweries.
  • Shells or beach-themed items from Gulf Coast shops.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Look for "Made in Florida" or "Locally Made" labels.
  • Patronize small, independent businesses.
  • Directly support local artisans and the economy.

Customs & Shipping

  • Consult your home country's customs regulations.
  • Be aware of limits on imported goods.
  • Duties or taxes may apply.
  • Keep receipts for high-value purchases.

Nightlife & Entertainment Tips

Late-Night Options
  • Restaurants and bars in Ybor City and SoHo often stay open late.
  • Especially on weekends, catering to the late-night crowd.
  • Plan transportation in advance for late nights.
Safety Awareness
  • Maintain awareness of your surroundings in nightlife areas.
  • Consider group travel, especially late at night.
  • Use reliable ride-sharing services or pre-booked taxis.

Shopping Tip

Consider visiting during local market days, like the Ybor City Saturday Market, for a shopping atmosphere and unique local finds.

Activity Planning Summary

Activity Areas

  • Outdoor Adventures: Parks, waterways, theme park thrills.
  • Cultural Immersion: Museums, historic sites, performing arts.
  • Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, pools, nearby beaches.
  • Entertainment: Live music, nightlife districts, unique bars.

Planning Considerations

  • Time Allocation: Allocate sufficient time for each activity to fully experience it.
  • Location Grouping: Group activities by geographic proximity for efficiency and less travel time.
  • Advance Booking: Reserve tickets for popular attractions or tours well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Weather: Plan for Tampa's climate; hydrate and protect from the sun during outdoor activities.