Your guide to Tampa

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Long overshadowed by Miami and Orlando, this growing metropolis on Florida’s Gulf Coast has skyscrapers, sports arenas and some of the top family attractions in the US. Tampa at its best mixes thrilling theme park rides with strolls along the Riverwalk. From Busch Gardens to the Victorian-style shops of Hyde Park Village to the white-sand beaches just outside of town, our Tampa travel guide covers it all.

KEIR MAGOULAS

Tampa highlights

Bay adventures

Tampa is renowned for its bay, and for good reason. Sheltered from the Gulf of Mexico, this natural harbour has been the heart and soul of the region since the city's founding. Head to Sparkman Wharf downtown and take an evening yacht cruise out onto the water. Once you're back on dry land, enjoy a craft beer and some street food along the glittering waterfront.

Theme parks and resorts

One of the top reasons when visiting Tampa is to visit its theme parks and resorts. Busch Gardens is renowned for its thrill rides, like Phoenix Rising and Tigris. Across the road, Adventure Island has your summer days covered with water slides, a lazy river and a wave pool. If golf is your game, the nearby Emerald Greens Resort has a top-class course.

Where to stay

Tampa is in the midst of a development boom, which is great news for hotel hunters. You’ll find a dependable lineup of family-friendly chains around major draws like Busch Gardens and Adventure Island. For more upscale options, set your sights on Water Street and Hyde Park Village, where you’ll find boutique hotels with everything from rooftop pool decks to five-star spas.

Tampa: Know before you go

Language	English
Currency	United States dollar ($)
Time zone	UTC-5 (EST) and UTC-4 (EDT)
High season	March - July
Low season	August - September

KEIR MAGOULAS

Things to do in Tampa

Beaches

The appropriately named Clearwater Beach offers an escape to sugar-fine sand and gorgeous Gulf of Mexico waters just 45 minutes from Downtown Tampa. A little further south is Fort De Soto, with two fishing piers, paved trails and plenty of shore birds to observe. Alternatively, take a day trip to Crystal River, home to one of Florida's most beloved animals: the manatee.

Take in the culture

Tampa Bay's History Center looks at the heritage of Florida's west coast, with exhibits about pirates and early explorers. For contemporary art, stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk to the Tampa Art Museum. Sports fanatics shouldn't miss the Tampa Baseball Museum, housed in the childhood home of Al Lopez, the first Tampanian to earn a spot in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Places to eat

Tampa's cuisine draws on a variety of influences, from Cuban and Italian to Spanish and Colombian. The restaurant scene reflects that multiculturalism, with a bevy of options in the Water Street area. Tampa is also the birthplace of the hearty Cuban sandwich, so be sure to give this a try. Other local delights include key lime pie, Spanish bean soup, Cuban bread and empanadas.

FAQs about visiting Tampa

What is the coldest month in Tampa?

January delivers the coolest conditions when visiting Tampa. Go then and you can expect lows of 9°C (48°F).

What is the hottest month in Tampa?

With temperatures reaching a high of 33ºC (91ºF), August is the hottest month in Tampa.

What language is spoken in Tampa?

English is widely spoken here. Familiarise yourself with a few local expressions or greetings during your city break in Tampa and you'll blend right in.

Is it safe to visit Tampa?

You can generally count on your stay in Tampa to be an exciting and safe experience, especially if you're sticking to the popular tourist spots. Even so, it's always a good idea to exercise some precautions to ensure your trip goes smoothly. For example, keep your valuables out of sight, stay alert to your surroundings, and stick to well-lit areas after dark.

What is the rainiest month in Tampa?

The rainiest month is July, which gets an average rainfall of 24 cm. But don't let that take the shine off your Tampa trip — there's still loads to do indoors like shopping for unique finds, visiting an art gallery, or hanging out in cosy cafes.

Is Tampa a good place to visit?

Tampa flights and hotels are regular and affordable. It’s an international destination on the Gulf of Mexico with all the appeal of a big city. Whether you're into fine dining, seeking a thrill on a roller coaster or eager to see marine wildlife, Tampa has something for you.

What currency is used in Tampa?

You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) while on your stay in Tampa. Along with your credit cards, consider having some cash on hand for things like small purchases and public transport fares.

When is the best time to visit Tampa?

With sunshine nearly every day, it’s always beach time in Tampa. Temperatures and humidity rise in the summer and you can expect more tourists during that season. In autumn, you’ll get good deals, fewer crowds and great weather, making September to December the best time to visit in Tampa.

How expensive is a trip to Tampa?

The cost of your city break in Tampa will vary based on things like where you're leaving from, when you go, and your chosen hotel. Tampa flights and hotels are typically pricier during peak periods, but you can enjoy savings by booking in quieter months.

How many days do you need for a trip to Tampa?

You’ll need at least four days for a Tampa trip to check out the Riverwalk, Ybor City and attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa. If you want more beach time, consider five to seven days total.