In case you’re on the lookout for enjoyable in the solar, loads 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 record. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and arising with an thrilling itinerary, you want to know the place to keep in Tampa and the realm greatest for you.
For me, Tampa is up there on my record of the very best locations to go to in Florida. Nonetheless, Tampa is an enormous metropolis. That can assist you determine on the very best spot for you to lay your head, I’ve coated the very best 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 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, town is the right mix of tourist-friendly enjoyable in 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 love about this metropolis.
When selecting the very best space to keep in Tampa, you want to do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however total, I’d say there are 5 foremost ones to take into account.
Finest Areas to Stay in Tampa
Fast Look: Finest Areas to Stay in Tampa (click on to leap down the web page to be taught extra)
Channelside: Finest Place To Stay in Tampa for Your First Time
In case you do a fast search on-line, you would possibly assume that Downtown Tampa is the very best space to keep in Tampa for a first-timer, however I’ve a distinct take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and might be overwhelming in the event you don’t know the place you’re going. Nonetheless, Channelside, or Channel District, is the right center floor.
In case you’re an outdoorsy sort, you’ll love Channelside, however the magnificence is that you could simply stroll to Downtown alongside the scenic Hillsborough River. Breathe in some contemporary air and try the view whereas realizing 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 photograph alternatives
- A relaxing-out base
- Decrease value lodging in contrast to Downtown
Cons of Staying in Channelside
- Riverwalk can get very busy
- When it rains, there isn’t a complete lot of shelter
- Very touristic; if you’d like authenticity, you could be higher off staying elsewhere
Finest Locations to Stay in Channelside
In case you really feel Channelside is the very best place to keep in Tampa, I like to recommend these lodges:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A modern, trendy, five-star selection with a shocking outside pool and terrace to take in 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 would like to be in the guts of the motion, this resort is the best selection. It additionally has an enormous outside pool for chilling and a incredible 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 right 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 in this waterside neighborhood. As among the finest locations to keep in Tampa Middle, you wouldn’t count on the rest.
1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t have to be the most popular day to spend a while splashing round and having enjoyable, and Water Works Park is the very best place to just do that. It is a enormous water park with slides, actions, and loads of area to sit back. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Sparkman Wharf: Purchasing, 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: No doubt, the very best factor to do in Channelside is to wander down the Riverwalk and try its many outlets, eating places, museums, and occasions. It’s my favourite spot for a selfie. Click on right here for instructions.
Where to Eat and Drink in Channelside
Channelside’s eating scene is fairly eclectic and you received’t battle to discover one thing for even the pickiest eater:
1. The Pearl: I liked the calm vibe in this restaurant and it’s an important spot for beer lovers too. The menu is basically fascinating 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, in my opinion. It is a top-class Mediterranean restaurant that gives a four-course fastened menu that includes the very best 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 additionally specializes in 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 keep in Tampa for nightlife, don’t suppose twice about staying in Downtown Tampa. Because the title 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 in 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 superb place to do quite a bit in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic images at Tampa Bay Harbor.
Execs of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- Every little thing is inside simple attain
- Improbable nightlife
- Loads of buying alternatives
- Many sights are situated in Downtown
Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa
- A particularly busy space
- Costly meals and drink
- Lodging is costly
- A loud space
Finest Locations to Stay in Downtown Tampa
The great thing about Downtown Tampa is that you simply received’t have to stroll very far to something. In case you’re on the lookout for the very best Tampa lodges close to nightlife, listed here are some solutions:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You may’t get any extra central than this resort, 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 gives a metropolis view as you swim. Click on right here for particulars.
2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this resort extraordinarily central and superb for sightseeing, however it’s among the finest lodges with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a scorching tub you possibly can sit back in, or just sit back in 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 in need of nothing. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa actually stored me occupied; there’s loads to see and do right here. Let’s check out some issues to add to your to-do record:
1. Tampa Tiki Bar Boat Cruise: Floating down the Hillsborough River with a drink in hand, what could possibly be higher? This chilled-out and super-scenic tour is a top-seller for a purpose. The factor I favored most about this tour is that you simply deliver your individual drinks, that means you don’t have to spend a small fortune on the bar. Click on right here to be taught extra and ebook.
2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: A number of hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the best means to chill out on the finish of a protracted day, whereas additionally testing the somewhat 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.
Where to Eat and Drink in Downtown Tampa
Personally, I don’t really feel that Downtown is the very best 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 a few of the most scrumptious meals accessible. 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 significantly spectacular cocktails, scrumptious pizzas, and seasonal dishes that change with the climate. Click on right here for instructions.
Seminole Heights: Coolest Place to Stay 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 very best of each worlds; loads 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 actually obtained a fairly modern really feel. You’ll discover a lot of road artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as among the finest neighborhoods in Tampa.
Execs of Staying in Seminole Heights
- Numerous road artwork
- A relaxing-out pavement cafe vibe
- Perfect 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 use a automobile or public transport to get round
- Nightlife right here is kind of low-key
Finest Locations to Stay in Seminole Heights
Whereas it’s not as simple to discover lodging in Seminole Heights as different areas, there are nonetheless some nice choices; you’ll discover that almost all are vacation properties. Both means, I nonetheless suppose it’s among the finest locations to keep in Tampa. Listed below are my prime picks:
1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: The great thing about staying in this explicit spot is that it’s a house away from residence; precisely how you’d 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 in this vacation residence and it actually did really feel like my very own place. The backyard is the best area to chill out, and inside options every part you want to 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 Unique Bungalow: This vacation residence is right for households because it has two bedrooms, an out of doors 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 if you select to base your self in Seminole Heights. Nonetheless, 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 take pleasure 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 kinds of road artwork, together with some enormous murals. Merely take a stroll round and you’re positive to discover 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.
Where 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 in this neighborhood. Listed below are a few of my favorites:
1. American Social: Take a look at the view over the waterfront and take pleasure in a chilled-out meal with household and buddies 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 regionally sourced components reworked into essentially the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you simply’ll want to ebook properly forward to get a desk, however it’s definitely worth the ahead planning. Click on right here for instructions.
3. The Unbiased: I liked the vibe in this restaurant and I used to be fortunate sufficient to go to once they had a film evening. Craft beer lovers might be in 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: Finest for Households
No doubt, households or buddies who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of selection. It’s among the finest locations to keep 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 shut to 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
- Perfect for households
- Cheaper lodging
- Laid-back, reasonably priced eating choices
Cons of Staying in North Tampa
- You have to a automobile to get round (click on right here to seek for the very best value on rental vehicles)
- Very touristy
- Decrease high quality eating
Finest Locations to Stay in North Tampa
North Tampa is understood for its low-cost lodging which is right when you have a gaggle of individuals wanting to keep 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 keep in Tampa with parking. Take a look at these listings under:
1. The City Nest: In case you’re touring as a gaggle or with kids, this collection of vacation bungalows is the right selection. Every little thing you could possibly probably want for a soothing time is inside, and you’re shut to all native facilities. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton: That is one other resort that’s actually shut to all of North Tampa’s main parks, which makes it superb for thrill seekers. With snug environment, this resort is primary but supplies 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 in the recent tub or the large outside 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 kids occupied. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime 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 may be to do right here. Listed below are the very best issues to do in North Tampa:
1. Journey Island: One other of North Tampa’s prime sights is Journey Island. It is a enormous waterpark that’s superb for cooling down in the summer time warmth. I significantly loved the wave pool and chilling in a non-public cabana. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Museum of Science & Trade: If you would like to take a break from screaming on rollercoasters, this museum is a good 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.
Where 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 have 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 elegant. My good friend ordered the seafood pasta and she stated it was the very 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 a very good purpose. Not solely is the meals superb however it’s additionally a dwell music venue. I had an important 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 packing 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 Finances
Tampa is commonly known 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 town however it’s additionally a prime spot for individuals who desire not to splash the money once they don’t have 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. The truth is, you’ll find a few of the greatest Colombian meals right here too.
seventh Avenue is Ybor’s nightlife spot and is a good space to head to if you’d like to have just a few drinks, strive some scrumptious meals, celebration a bit, and then head residence. In case you’re extra of a historical past buff than a bar crawler and you’re questioning the place to keep in Tampa, then this is also the neighborhood for you.
Execs of Staying in Ybor Metropolis
- Loads of historical past and tradition
- Improbable 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 Stay in Ybor Metropolis
Ybor Metropolis has some nice decisions of locations to keep, and fortunately they’re fairly fairly priced. Listed below are some suggestions of locations to keep in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:
1. Lodge Haya: This resort gives a really snug place to keep proper in the guts 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 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 snug base when sightseeing in the Ybor space, and it additionally gives a free shuttle to the native port. Rooms additionally function a microwave and fridge, which is right 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? Lots. In case you’re a historical past fan, you’re going to love 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 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 ebook. 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 in this a part of Tampa, it is a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing unit opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and 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 Avenue Automobile: I stumbled upon this hidden gem as a result of a) it was scorching, and b) my ft had been hurting, and I’m so glad I did. This old-world road automobile takes you from Ybor Metropolis down to Downtown Tampa, and you should buy a limiteless day ticket. Click on right here for instructions. One other tremendous enjoyable means to get round is by golf cart! Take a look at this highly-rated journey.
Where to Eat and Drink in Ybor Metropolis
The eating scene in Ybor Metropolis is basically eclectic and gives one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll battle to select. 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 had 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: You probably have the urge for a steak, that is the very best place to go. Open since 1974, many comfortable 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 skin, 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 Stay 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 filled with town’s largest sights.
Tampa has a comparatively low crime charge in contrast to the remainder of the nation and is taken into account quantity 4 on the record of the very best locations to retire. As such, you don’t want to fear unnecessarily about security. As when touring wherever, nonetheless, maintain your belongings and don’t go away costly objects unattended.
I personally felt very secure in Downtown Tampa and in Channelside. Crowds? Sure. Numerous safety personnel? In fact.
You probably have a automobile, it’s simple to get round, however in the event 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 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 keep.
To get round you want a automobile, nonetheless, it’s potential to stroll between Downtown and Channelside.
There are main sights in all of Tampa’s neighborhoods, however if you’d like to be closest to the most important spots, Downtown Tampa is the very best. Nonetheless, be aware that Busch Gardens continues to be distant.
In case you can rent a automobile and you’re snug driving, you’ll doubtless see far more throughout your keep. Click on right here to seek for the very best 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 fairly sweeping assertion, however from private expertise, this metropolis has every part you could possibly probably need, and extra.
Households will discover Tampa incredible due to the theme parks, wonderful meals, and vibrant lights. {Couples} will benefit from the gastronomy, the good nightlife, and the attractive surroundings. And teams will discover Tampa the best spot thanks to its diverse vary of issues to do. Put merely, no person might be bored.