If you’re searching for sunshine, plenty of activities, and some of the tastiest food you’ll ever experience, Tampa should definitely be on your list. However, before you start planning your adventure, it’s important to figure out where to stay in Tampa that suits you best.
Tampa tops my list of must-visit places in Florida. It’s a large city with diverse neighborhoods, so choosing the right area to stay in is key. From my multiple visits since 2014, I’ve found Tampa to be the perfect blend of tourist attractions, local life, and authentic experiences. There’s something for everyone, from the beautiful Tampa Bay beaches and theme parks to historic sites, natural attractions, and lively bars.
To help you decide, here are five main neighborhoods to consider:
Channelside (also known as Channel District):
Contrary to what many online searches might suggest, Downtown Tampa can be overwhelming for first-timers. Channelside offers a perfect middle ground. If you love the outdoors, you can easily walk to Downtown along the Hillsborough River while enjoying the scenery and fresh air.
Some top hotel options in Channelside include:
1. The Tampa EDITION: A luxurious five-star hotel with a stunning outdoor pool and a Mediterranean restaurant.
2. J W Marriott Tampa Water Street: Located in the heart of the action, featuring a large outdoor pool and a fantastic restaurant.
3. Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District: Ideal for families with a rooftop pool and plenty of on-site activities.
Channelside has a laid-back vibe with plenty to do, including:
1. Water Works Park: A fun spot for all ages with slides and activities.
2. Sparkman Wharf: A great place for shopping, food, drinks, and events.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: A scenic walk with shops, restaurants, museums, and great spots for selfies.
The dining scene in Channelside offers something for everyone:
1. The Pearl: A calm spot with an interesting menu, perfect for beer lovers.
2. Lilac: A top-class Mediterranean restaurant, great for special events.
3. Firestick Grill: Known for its grilled meats, sushi, and local cuisine.
Downtown Tampa:
Ideal for nightlife enthusiasts, Downtown Tampa is vibrant and busy, with lots to see and do. Overlooking the Hillsborough River, it’s perfect for those wanting to pack a lot in a short time. Some great hotel options here are:
1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: Centrally located with an excellent swimming pool.
2. ROOST Tampa: Features a rooftop pool, hot tub, and a relaxing garden.
3. Le Meridien Tampa, The Courthouse: Offers numerous amenities for a home-like experience.
Top activities in Downtown Tampa include:
1. Tampa Tiki Bar Boat Cruise: A chilled and scenic tour down the Hillsborough River.
2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: A nice spot to relax with impressive interactive fountains.
3. Tampa Theater: A historical venue for some great performances.
Dining options in Downtown Tampa feature:
1. Oxford Exchange: A unique spot combining a restaurant, bookstore, and champagne bar.
2. Mise en Place: A modern twist on traditional French cuisine.
3. Oak And Ola: Known for its rooftop terrace, cocktails, and seasonal dishes.
Seminole Heights:
A great mix of things to do and a relaxed residential vibe. It’s known for street art, coffee shops, and craft beer. Though accommodation options are mostly holiday homes, there are some top picks:
1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: A homey spot with shared lounge and kitchen.
2. Beautiful Neighborhood Seminole Heights: Features a garden and all the necessities for a longer stay.
3. Seminole Heights Original Bungalow: Perfect for families with a large living room and modern amenities.
Activities nearby include:
1. Amalie Arena: Easily accessible for shows and sports.
2. Seminole Heights Street Art Trail: A walkable trail showcasing local street art.
3. Seminole Heights Farmer’s Market: A food lover’s haven, especially for organic produce.
For dining:
1. American Social: A great waterfront spot for craft beers and gastropub fare.
2. Rooster & The Till: Michelin-nominated restaurant with locally sourced dishes.
3. The Independent: Known for its craft beers and relaxed atmosphere with movie nights.
North Tampa:
Perfect for families and groups, this neighborhood is close to major attractions like Busch Gardens and offers reasonably priced accommodations:
1. The Urban Nest: Ideal for groups or families with everything you need for a relaxing stay.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton: Close to theme parks with an outdoor pool.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton: Features a hot tub, outdoor pool, and a shuttle to major parks.
Top things to do:
1. Adventure Island: A waterpark with wave pools and cabanas.
2. Museum of Science & Industry: An interactive museum perfect for a break from the rollercoasters.
Dining is laid-back:
1. Gino’s Restaurant & Bar: Offers relaxed Italian dining.
2. Skipper’s Smokehouse: Combines Caribbean and Floridian cuisine with live music.
3. Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill: Fresh Mediterranean dishes that transport you to Greece.
Ybor City:
Known for its historical significance and vibrant nightlife, Ybor City is budget-friendly and offers a glimpse into Tampa’s history:
1. Hotel Haya: A comfortable and reasonably priced hotel with an on-site restaurant and cocktail bar.
2. Cozy AF Jungle-House Hideaway: A two-bedroom home with a private pool and unique decor.
3. Hampton Inn & Suites, Ybor City: Offers a free shuttle to the local port and rooms with microwaves and refrigerators.
Must-see attractions:
1. Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour: Combines eating and exploring with a knowledgeable guide.
2. Ybor City Museum State Park: Learn about Tampa’s history and visit the beautiful gardens.
3. TECOLine Street Car: An old-world streetcar experience taking you from Ybor City to Downtown Tampa.
Diverse dining:
1. Columbia Restaurant: Famous for its Cuban sandwich.
2. Charley’s Steakhouse: Known for lobster mac & cheese.
3. Acropolis Greek Taverna: Offers a mixed platter and fresh cocktails.
Conclusion:
Downtown Tampa, North Tampa, and Channelside are top neighborhoods for tourists, offering plenty of attractions. With a low crime rate and a mix of vibrant and relaxing areas, Tampa is an excellent destination for everyone. Families, couples, and groups will find plenty to do, making Tampa an ideal place to visit.
