Top 10 Things to Do in Tampa
Hello there, my fellow travelers! My name is Emily Johnson and I am excited to share with you my personal experiences and opinions about the top things to do in Tampa. I have visited this beautiful city several times and every time I discover new and exciting things to do. Tampa is a wonderful destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. So, let’s dive into the top 10 things to do in Tampa!
Curiosities and Interesting Facts About Tampa
- Tampa is known as the Cigar City due to its history in the cigar-making industry.
- The city is home to the largest port in Florida, Port Tampa Bay.
- Tampa has over 165 parks and beaches.
- The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Rays, and Tampa Bay Lightning.
- Tampa has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several museums and theaters.
- The city has a rich history, including the Spanish-American War and the cigar-making industry.
1. Visit Busch Gardens
If you are a thrill-seeker, then Busch Gardens is a must-visit attraction in Tampa. This theme park has some of the best roller coasters in the country, including the world-famous SheiKra. I personally love the animal exhibits at Busch Gardens, where you can see lions, tigers, and other exotic animals up close. I highly recommend getting the Quick Queue pass to skip the long lines.
2. Explore the Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic walkway that stretches 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River. This is a great place to go for a jog, bike ride, or leisurely stroll. Along the way, you will find several restaurants, bars, and shops. I recommend visiting during sunset to see the beautiful colors in the sky.
3. Visit the Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium is a great place to learn about marine life and conservation. The aquarium has several exhibits, including a coral reef exhibit and a shark exhibit. You can even go on a behind-the-scenes tour to see how the aquarium operates. I did this and it led to a whole new appreciation for the work that goes on behind the scenes.
4. Take a Cruise
Tampa is home to several cruise lines that offer trips to the Caribbean and other destinations. Taking a cruise is a great way to relax and see new places. I prefer the Royal Caribbean cruise line, which has several ships departing from Tampa throughout the year.
5. Visit the Tampa Bay History Center
The Tampa Bay History Center is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Tampa Bay area. The museum has several exhibits, including a cigar-making exhibit and a Spanish-American War exhibit. I found the museum to be very informative and well-done.
6. Go to the Beach
Tampa has several beautiful beaches, including Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Honeymoon Island State Park. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. I prefer Clearwater Beach, which has soft white sand and clear blue water.
7. Visit the Tampa Museum of Art
The Tampa Museum of Art is a great place to see contemporary and modern art. The museum has several exhibits and often hosts special events. I love the rooftop sculpture garden, which has great views of downtown Tampa.
8. Watch a Game
Tampa is home to several professional sports teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Rays, and Tampa Bay Lightning. Watching a game is a great way to experience the local culture and cheer on your favorite team. I recommend going to a Tampa Bay Lightning game, which has a great atmosphere.
9. Visit the Henry B. Plant Museum
The Henry B. Plant Museum is a historic hotel that has been converted into a museum. The museum has several exhibits about the history of the hotel and the Tampa Bay area. I found the museum to be very interesting and informative.
10. Go to the Ybor City Historic District
The Ybor City Historic District is a historic neighborhood that was once the center of the cigar-making industry. The neighborhood has several shops, restaurants, and bars. I recommend visiting during the day to see the historic buildings and at night to experience the nightlife.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Tampa?
The best time to visit Tampa is during the winter months, from December to February, when the weather is mild and dry. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds.
What is the cost of visiting Busch Gardens?
The cost of visiting Busch Gardens varies depending on the time of year and whether you purchase tickets in advance. However, expect to pay around $80-$100 for a single-day admission ticket. I recommend getting the Quick Queue pass to skip the long lines.
Which beach is the best in Tampa?
This is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, Clearwater Beach is often considered the best beach in Tampa due to its soft white sand and clear blue water.
Is it safe to visit Tampa?
Yes, Tampa is generally a safe city to visit. However, like any city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
What is the Tampa Riverwalk?
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile walkway that stretches along the Hillsborough River. It is a great place to go for a walk, jog, or bike ride, and has several restaurants, bars, and shops along the way.