Why Go to Tampa
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Tampa has stepped out of the shadow of Florida's other big cities and is having its moment. With great attractions, a thriving sports scene, a growing food culture and beaches close by, it's an easy and fun getaway for families, friends and business travelers alike.
Ride the roller coasters and see the animals at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, explore the Florida Aquarium and walk or bike the Tampa Riverwalk past museums, parks and restaurants. Visit historic Ybor City, the old cigar-making district, for Cuban sandwiches, cigars and lively nightlife, and learn about the area's past at the Tampa Bay History Center; Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders even camped here on their way to Cuba in 1898. Sports fans can catch the Buccaneers, the Lightning, the Rays and the women's soccer team, Tampa Bay Sun FC, and several MLB teams hold spring training nearby.
Tampa is also a busy cruise port, with sailings to Mexico and the Caribbean. St. Petersburg's arts scene and Clearwater's beaches are just a short drive away. I'll plan your stay, theme park tickets and pre-cruise night.
BEST FOR
Families, foodies, sports fans and culture seekers
BEST MONTHS
November–April for milder weather
EXPLORE
Downtown and Water Street connect to the Riverwalk; Ybor City is a historic cigar-making district; Hyde Park has leafy streets and shopping; Channelside has attractions.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Tampa
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Waterfront neighborhoods, Cuban heritage and Florida sunshine
Coastal & Harbor
Sports
Business
Theme Parks
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Tampa offers a historic Latin quarter, a riverfront dining scene and family attractions, with Gulf beaches reachable on a separate day trip.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Walk a shorter section between Curtis Hixon Park and Water Street if time is limited.
Tampa Riverwalk
Follow the waterfront promenade linking downtown parks, cultural venues and dining along the Hillsborough River.
Visit in daylight for architecture, then return for an evening meal if desired.
Ybor City
Explore the historic cigar-making district, known for brick streets, Cuban influences and lively dining.
Check admission options and allow ample time for the galleries.
The Florida Aquarium
Discover marine ecosystems, conservation exhibits and aquatic life at the downtown aquarium.
Plan a full day and confirm ride and animal-experience schedules.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Enjoy rides, roller coasters, animal habitats and themed experiences at this large Tampa theme park.
Pair this historic museum with a stroll through the adjacent university grounds.
Henry B. Plant Museum
See Gilded Age architecture and exhibits inside the former Tampa Bay Hotel.
A luxury hotel in Water Street Tampa, convenient for downtown dining, waterfront walks and event venues. Confirm any amenities or dining reservations separately.
The Tampa EDITION
Water Street / Channelside
Hotel Tags
An upscale hotel in the Water Street district near Tampa Convention Center and the Riverwalk, practical for conferences and city-focused vacations. Check parking and pool arrangements.
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
Water Street / Downtown
Hotel Tags
A waterfront hotel offering access to downtown, the Tampa Riverwalk and convention facilities. Travelers should compare waterfront-view room categories and parking charges.
Tampa Marriott Water Street
Water Street / Waterfront
Hotel Tags
A hotel on Harbour Island close to the convention district, useful for waterfront views and central attractions. Walking routes across the water should be checked when planning events.
The Westin Tampa Waterside
Harbour Island / Waterfront
Hotel Tags
A suite-oriented hotel near the convention center, appropriate for families or guests seeking additional room space. Confirm breakfast arrangements, parking and current property policies.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Convention Center
Downtown / Convention Center
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Tampa
High 79°F · Low 61°F · Rain 1.4 in
Pleasant weather returns, perfect for outdoor dining.
November–April for milder weather. Verify conditions, local schedules and reservation policies when arranging your trip.
Best Times to Visit Tampa
WHEN TO GO
06
Airport and Cruise Transfers
Tampa International Airport and Port Tampa Bay have different pickup locations. Arrange the appropriate transfer and allow a boarding buffer.
05
Waterfront Walking
The Riverwalk connects several downtown sites on foot, but summer heat and storms may affect plans.
04
Rental Cars
A car is practical for beaches and dispersed metro attractions. Allow time for bridge and interstate traffic.
03
HART Bus and Streetcar
HART buses cover selected corridors and the TECO Line Streetcar serves parts of downtown and Ybor City. Check current stops.
02
Local Transportation
The downtown streetcar connects key downtown/Ybor areas; use a car or rideshare for farther neighborhoods and beaches.
01
Arrival and Regional Access
Tampa International Airport serves the metro area.
The downtown streetcar connects key downtown/Ybor areas; use a car or rideshare for farther neighborhoods and beaches.
Getting Around Tampa
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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