15 Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay, Florida: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Looking for the best things to do in Tampa Bay? Before this trip, I knew very little about the Tampa Bay area and had always thought of it as somewhere you might pass through between Orlando and Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Instead, I found historic neighbourhoods, excellent food, waterfront adventures and wildlife right in the city. One morning we were learning to hand roll cigars inside America’s last traditional cigar factory. By lunchtime, we were eating at the world’s largest Spanish restaurant, before ending the day beside the water.

This Tampa Bay travel guide covers 15 of my favourite things to do in Tampa Bay, along with where to eat, where to stay and the practical information you need to plan your trip.

Just a little note: this post contains affiliate links. If you use them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It really helps support my content and keeps everything free for you. Thank you for supporting my work.

Amy in a long pink dress standing on a path in front of an ornate building with details porch and minarets in the distance. It's a sunny day with blue sky in Tampa Bay, Florida — University of Tampa

Amy in a pale pink dress on an outdoor sofa on a terrace overlooking the Tampa Bay river on a sunny day — University of Tampa

Plan Your Tampa Bay Trip

What to know before visiting Tampa Bay

Best time to visit
November–April for warm, sunny weather and lower humidity.
May–October is hotter, with afternoon showers but fewer crowds.
How long to stay
3–4 days
Perfect for exploring Downtown, Ybor City, Hyde Park and nearby attractions.
Getting to Tampa Bay
Fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA) (15 minutes from Downtown) or drive 1.5 hours from Orlando. 9–10 hour flight from London or 2–3 hours flight from the US East Coast.
Getting around
The TECO Line Streetcar is free between Downtown and Ybor City.
Uber is widely available.
Hire a car if you plan to explore beyond the city.

Top things to do in Tampa Bay
Explore Historic Ybor City
Visit America’s last traditional cigar factory
Eat at Columbia Restaurant
Walk the Tampa Riverwalk
Browse Hyde Park Village
Visit the Manatee Critical Care Center
Catch a Tampa Bay Rays game
Best places to eat in Tampa Bay
Columbia Restaurant
Predalina
Psomi
Supernatural Food & Wine
Boulon Brasserie
Rocca
Where to stay in Tampa Bay
Hotel Haya (Ybor City)
Tampa EDITION
JW Marriott Water Street

Why visit Tampa Bay?

Tampa Bay is a brilliant choice for anyone looking for a Florida trip combining culture, food, history and outdoor experiences.

You can explore the Cuban, Spanish and Italian heritage of Ybor City, walk beside the Hillsborough River, spot wildlife while kayaking through Downtown Tampa and enjoy rooftop restaurants overlooking the city.

It is also relatively easy to explore. The free TECO Line Streetcar connects Downtown Tampa, Water Street and Ybor City, while areas such as Hyde Park Village and the Tampa Riverwalk are ideal for exploring at a slower pace.

The 15 Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Whether you’re planning a weekend city break or adding Tampa Bay to a longer Florida itinerary, these are the places and experiences that stood out during our trip and that I would recommend to anyone visiting Tampa Bay for the first time.

1. Explore Historic Ybor City

Looking down steps and across a road with a street car passing by, beyond the street car is a large shopping complex with "Centro Ybor" sign above it — Ybor City

Free roaming chickens in Tampa City streets — Ybor City

Historic Ybor City is one of the most interesting things to do in Tampa Bay. Once known as the Cigar Capital of the World, its colourful streets are shaped by Cuban, Spanish and Italian heritage.

We stayed at Hotel Haya, which was perfectly placed for exploring Ybor City and the wider Tampa Bay area. I loved picking up a matcha from Café Quiquiriqui each morning and sitting on our terrace in the evening, while Luke enjoyed cooling off in the pool between activities.

One of the most memorable experiences was visiting J.C. Newman, America’s last traditional cigar factory. We watched skilled rollers at work before learning how to hand roll our own cigars.

You will also spot Ybor City’s famous free-roaming chickens wandering through the streets. They are protected and are believed to descend from chickens brought here by Cuban and Spanish immigrants in the late 1800s.

For lunch, we ate at Columbia Restaurant, the world’s largest Spanish restaurant. Luke chose the Cuban sandwich recommended by locals, while I had the paella, which was finished and served at our table. A glass of sangria made the experience feel even more special.

Ybor City is relaxed during the day but much livelier in the evening, so it is worth experiencing both sides of the neighbourhood.

Amy’s Tip: Take the free TECO Line Streetcar from Downtown Tampa and reserve a table at Columbia in advance.

2. Ride the Free TECO Line Streetcar

A old fashioned style yellow street car on tracks, underneath a domed glass roof — TECO Streetcar

Amy in pink sitting on a wooden seat inside the old-fashioned wooden exterior of a street car in Tampa Bay — TECO Streetcar

One of the easiest ways to explore Tampa Bay is on the free TECO Line Streetcar. It connects Historic Ybor City, Water Street and Downtown Tampa, allowing you to visit several popular areas without needing a car.

We loved using the historic streetcars during our trip and it’s one of the best free activities in Tampa Bay. They run frequently, the stops are easy to find and riding them felt like part of the Tampa experience rather than simply a way of getting around.

Amy’s Tip: This was our favourite way to travel between Ybor City and the Tampa Riverwalk.

3. Walk the Tampa Riverwalk

Amy in pink, sitting on a swing bench underneath a while awning and surrounded by palm trees, beyond her is the river — Tampa Riverwalk

An aerial view of Tampa Riverwalk, a paved trail along the side of the river - one of the best things to do in Tampa Bay — Tampa Riverwalk

Stretching for 2.6 miles beside the Hillsborough River, the Tampa Riverwalk connects many of the city’s attractions, restaurants and parks.

We loved walking this route and even spotted wild dolphins in the water. Take your time and keep looking towards the river, as you never know what might appear.

There are plenty of places to stop for food or drinks along the way, although I would recommend carrying water if you are visiting during the warmer months.

Amy’s Tip: Combine the Riverwalk with Water Street and the Tampa Museum of Art.

4. Visit the Tampa Museum of Art

Amy in a long pink dress inside a corridor that's pink on one side and glass on the other. Colourful artwork hangs from the ceiling above her — Tampa Museum of Art

A room with walls painted purple with many small art pictures and displays inside the Tampa Museum of Art — Tampa Museum of Art

Located directly beside the Riverwalk, the Tampa Museum of Art features a mixture of contemporary and classical exhibitions.

We spent a few hours exploring the galleries and also picked up some unusual Tampa souvenirs from the gift shop. Even if you are not a huge art lover, the striking building and riverside location make it worth adding to your Tampa Bay itinerary.

Amy’s Tip: The museum is only a short walk from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

5. Explore the Tampa Bay History Center

Amy in pink sitting on a bench outside a recreation of a historic Tampa Gold shop in the Tampa Bay History Center - one of the best things to do in Tampa Bay — Tampa Bay History Center

A wooden ship bow on display in the Tampa Bay History Center — Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center is one of the best places to learn about the people, industries and cultures that shaped the area.

We watched the introductory film before exploring exhibitions covering everything from Florida’s early history to Tampa Bay’s cigar industry.

There is also a Columbia Restaurant café inside, which is useful if you cannot visit the original Ybor City location. Do not miss the outdoor terrace either, which has excellent views across the Riverwalk and towards the cruise ships.

Amy’s Tip: Its Riverwalk location makes it easy to combine with other Downtown Tampa attractions.

6. Visit the David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center

A Manatee floating in water, seen through the glass wall of the tank with food and debris floating around it — Manatee at the Manatee Critical Care Center

A manatee floating in water, seen through the glass wall of the tank with food in it's mouth — Manatee at the Manatee Critical Care Center

One of our most memorable experiences in Tampa Bay was visiting the Manatee Critical Care Center at ZooTampa, where rescued manatees are cared for and rehabilitated before returning to the wild.

Luke has loved manatees since visiting Florida as a child, so this was particularly special for him. We could view them from above and below the water, and one even swam up to the glass and appeared to blow us a kiss.

ZooTampa has plenty more to explore beyond the manatee centre, so allow at least half a day for your visit.

Amy’s Tip: Visit earlier in the day so you have plenty of time to explore the rest of the zoo.

7. Kayak Through Tampa Bay

Two people in two kayaks in the river in downtown Tampa, one of the fun things to do in Tampa Bay — Tampa Bay Kayaking

Amy in a kayak in the river with buildings and a large silver domed building behind her — Tampa Bay Kayaking

Kayaking through Downtown Tampa gave us a completely different perspective of the city.

During our tour with Urban Kai, we spotted manatees, dolphins, a heron and even a bull shark while paddling past bridges and some of Tampa’s most recognisable buildings.

I had not expected to see so much wildlife in the middle of a city. That connection to the water is one of the things that makes Tampa Bay feel so different from a typical city break.

Amy’s Tip: Morning tours often have calmer water and can be better for spotting wildlife.

Book tampa water activities

8. Browse Hyde Park Village

Amy sitting on the edge of a fountain in an outdoor terrace area with a large palm treet behind her — Hyde Park Village

Amy eating sushi at a restaurant table — Hyde Park Village

Hyde Park Village is a stylish outdoor shopping district filled with boutiques, cafés and restaurants.

We stopped for sushi at RO Hyde Park before browsing the shops, with Luke picking up a few things from Lululemon while I visited Sephora.

It has a relaxed atmosphere and is a lovely place to spend a few hours away from the busier Downtown attractions.

Amy’s Tip: Hyde Park Village is a short drive or Uber journey from Downtown Tampa.

9. Relax at The Tampa EDITION

Amy in a pink swimsuit in a rooftop pool with several cabanas behind her — The pool at Tampa EDITION

Amy in a white robe sitting on a white sofa in Tampa EDITION spa — The pool at Tampa EDITION

Booking a spa treatment at The Tampa EDITION was the perfect way to slow down after several busy days of sightseeing.

We enjoyed massages, matcha tea and time in the steam room before heading up to the rooftop pool for a swim and some time on the sunbeds.

We had also eaten at Market earlier in the trip and were so impressed by the hotel that we would love to stay overnight on our next visit.

Amy’s Tip: Leave time for lunch or drinks after your treatment so you can enjoy more of the hotel.

Book the Tampa EDITION

10. Explore Water Street Tampa

An empty bar in a dimly lit room with a dozen chairs lined up along the bar. Behind the bar is glass shelving full of bottles — Water Street

Amy on an ornate sofa inside a dimly lit restaurant with Spanish style tiles on the wall and a patterned rug on the floor — Water Street

Water Street Tampa is a modern, walkable neighbourhood filled with restaurants, hotels, public art and green spaces.

This is where you will find The Tampa EDITION, along with two restaurants we particularly enjoyed and I would highly recommend if you’re looking for places to eat in Tampa Bay. Predalina was a lovely choice for dinner, while Boulon Brasserie was one of our favourite lunch stops.

Boulon is known for Le Burger and its steak frites, but its bakery is also worth visiting for iced coffee and croissants.

Amy’s Tip: Visit later in the day when the restaurants and bars begin to feel livelier.

11. Visit Armature Works

an outdoor eating and seating area in front of an old brick building with palm trees obscuring the front — Armature Works

The interior of an industrial-style restaurant with 4 seats at the bar and a wall of bottles behind the bar. The wall is exposed brick — Armature Works

Set inside a restored streetcar warehouse, Armature Works is one of Tampa Bay’s most popular food halls.

There is a huge choice of food and drink, with indoor seating and outdoor tables overlooking the Hillsborough River.

We followed a local recommendation and ate empanadas from Flan Factory. It is also known for its Cuban sandwiches, which are already on our list for our next visit.

Amy’s Tip: Combine Armature Works with a walk along the nearby Tampa Riverwalk.

12. Catch a Tampa Bay Rays Game

Amy standing on the stairs of a baseball stadium with crowds all around her and players on the green baseball pitch beyond her — At a Tampa Bay Rays Baseball Game

Even if you don’t follow baseball, watching a Tampa Bay Rays game is an iconic American experience. The atmosphere, entertainment and stadium food make it a fun evening out.

Luke and I went to a game ten years ago when we stayed at St Petes Beach and when we saw there was a game on during our most recent visit, we jumped at the chance to get tickets.

It’s so much fun and easy to pick up the rules. Great food, lots of entertainment and the Tampa Bay Rays won the game.

They also have a large tank with real sting rays swimming around which you can visit during the game.

Amy’s Tip: Check the schedule before you travel, as home fixtures vary throughout the season.

13. Take a Sunset Dinner Cruise

Amy sitting on a seat at the bow of a sunset boat cruise with the Tampa Bay skyline in the distance — Craft Tampa Sunset Cruise

A pink cocktail glass on a table with a brown menu next to it that reads "craft Tampa" — Craft Tampa Sunset Cruise

One of the best ways to end the day is out on the water. A sunset dinner cruise offers beautiful views across Tampa Bay while the skyline lights up for the evening.

The name of our cruise was Craft Tampa, and you are served a delicious set meal as you cruise along the water, taking in the views and sunsets.

This is something special to add to your Tampa itinerary for a date night or celebration.

Amy’s Tip: Book a sunset sailing if you can—golden hour is the best time to be on the water.

14. Visit the University of Tampa

The silver minarets of the Tampa Bay University, one of the most recognised places to visit in Tampa Bay — University of Tampa

With its striking Moorish Revival architecture and iconic minarets, the University of Tampa is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. It’s worth stopping for photos while exploring Downtown Tampa.

Take some time to take in the outside of the building and if you have time there is a museum on-site called the Henry B Plant Museum. We walked here after breakfast at The Oxford Exchange before we went kayaking.

Amy’s Tip: The best views are from the Riverwalk across the Hillsborough River.

15. Take a Street Art Tour

One of the best ways to explore Tampa Bay is by discovering its colourful street art. From the murals of Historic Ybor City to the public art around Water Street and Downtown, the city’s artwork tells the story of its culture, history and creative community while adding plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

We did our own self tour and saved key locations to our google maps and explored on foot and got some really memorable photos.

Amy’s Tip: Many of the best murals are tucked away on side streets, so leave time to wander beyond the main attractions.

Best Restaurants in Tampa Bay

From historic institutions to Michelin-recognised restaurants and stylish waterfront dining, Tampa Bay has one of the best food scenes in Florida. These are the Tampa Bay restaurants I’d recommend adding to your itinerary.

Columbia Restaurant

Amy in a pin dress standing in front of a spanish-style restaurant with ornate and colourful tiling around the door and windows — Columbia Restaurant in Tampa Bay

The world’s largest Spanish restaurant and one of Tampa Bay’s most iconic dining experiences. Don’t leave without trying the famous 1905 Salad.

Predalina

A beautiful Mediterranean restaurant serving fresh seafood, handmade pasta and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of Water Street.

Psomi

Amy in a pink dress outside a white wooden board building that's Spanish style — Psomi restaurant in Tampa

One of the city’s best brunch spots, known for its Greek-inspired menu, freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee.

Boulon Brasserie

Amy in a pink dress sitting at a restaurant table holding the menu and smiling at the camera — Boulon Brasserie in Tampa Bay

A modern French-inspired brasserie serving elegant dishes, cocktails and one of the most stylish dining rooms in Tampa Bay.

Rocca

A Michelin-recognised Italian restaurant famous for handmade pasta, seasonal ingredients and an unforgettable tableside mozzarella service.

Supernatural Food & Wine

A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant offering creative small plates, natural wines and an ever-changing seasonal menu.

Market at The Tampa EDITION

Perfect for breakfast, coffee or a quick bite while exploring Water Street and The Tampa EDITION.

Riverwalk Terrace

Enjoy drinks or dinner overlooking the waterfront at one of the best spots along the Tampa Riverwalk.

RO Hyde Park

A stylish restaurant in Hyde Park Village serving sushi, steaks and cocktails in a lively atmosphere.

Oxford Exchange

An orangery-style restaurant with glass ceilings and lots of light overlooking tables that are set up around an indoor water feature and lots of large potted trees — Oxford Exchange

Oxford Exchange is set within a beautifully restored historic building close to the University of Tampa. Blending an acclaimed restaurant, artisan coffee bar, independent bookstore and

The best hotels in Tampa Bay, Florida

Whether you’re looking for a luxury stay or a stylish boutique hotel, these are my top recommendations for first-time visitors to Tampa Bay.

££ Hotel Haya –
where we stayed

A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Ybor City, close to the free TECO Line Streetcar. We loved the pool, picking up a matcha from Café Quiquiriqui each morning and our terrace overlooking the historic streets below.

Book here

£££ The Tampa EDITION

One of Tampa Bay’s most luxurious hotels, featuring a rooftop pool, spa and multiple restaurants in the heart of Water Street.
Ideal for a special occasion or luxury city break.

Book here

££ Tampa Marriott Water Street

A modern waterfront hotel with spacious rooms, excellent dining and easy access to the Riverwalk and Downtown attractions.

Book here

A rectangular pool with brick hotel buildings on two sides and lined with sun loungers with red parasols on a sunny day — Haya Hotel Pool

Inside a glass room at a hotel in Tampa Bay with rust orange seating and wooden tables set for eating, beyond the glass is lots of palms — Haya Hotel Pool

FAQs About Visiting Tampa Bay

Absolutely. If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, culture, great food, waterfront views and outdoor activities, Tampa Bay offers a completely different side of Florida that’s often overlooked.

I’d recommend spending 3–4 days in Tampa Bay. This gives you enough time to explore Ybor City, the Riverwalk, Hyde Park Village and some of the city’s fantastic restaurants without feeling rushed.

Tampa Bay is known for its Cuban heritage, historic Ybor City, the world’s largest Spanish restaurant, America’s last traditional cigar factory, vibrant food scene and beautiful waterfront.

Not necessarily. Many of the main attractions are connected by the free TECO Line Streetcar or are within easy reach by Uber. If you’re planning to explore further afield or visit nearby beaches, hiring a car is recommended.

The best time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are warm, humidity is lower and the weather is ideal for sightseeing. We visited in late May which was warm and sunny and we were still able to explore easily by being sensible in the sun and taking breaks for water and aircon.

Yes. A long weekend is the perfect amount of time to experience Tampa Bay’s history, food scene and waterfront while still leaving plenty to discover on a return visit.

Final thoughts on visiting Tampa Bay

Before visiting, Tampa Bay wasn’t a destination I knew much about, but it ended up being one of the biggest surprises of my trip.

What I loved most was the variety. In just a few days I explored historic neighbourhoods, discovered an incredible food scene, watched the sunset along the waterfront and learnt about the city’s fascinating Cuban heritage. It felt completely different to what I’d expected from this part of Florida.

If you’re planning a Florida itinerary, I’d definitely recommend spending a few days in Tampa Bay. Whether you’re visiting for a city break or as part of a wider road trip, Tampa Bay offers a side of Florida that deserves far more attention and I hope this guide helps you plan what to do in Tampa.

If you’ve already visited Tampa Bay, I’d love to know your favourite spot in the comments below!

Hello! I'm Amy