Families, groups, or couples can all find their vacation niche in Tampa, Florida. Whether you’re looking for ocean-going entertainment or landlubber amusement, you’ll find a vacation diversion in this city by the bay that suits your style.
Airlines offer frequent flights at the Tampa International Airport (TPA) and once you’re there, car rental is reasonable and a great way to get around. There many fine hotels, motels, and suites with rates for any budget.
Tampa, Florida is a fascinating city with fantastic weather, exciting theme parks, exceptional pro sports events, beautiful beaches, and vigorous culture. The atmosphere in Tampa is laid back, unlike the hustle and bustle of Florida’s eastern coastal cities.
As an unforgettable family destination, this Gulf Coast city can occupy the whole crowd, from the testiest toddlers to the most restless teenagers. A great place to start is the Busch Gardens theme park. Situated on over 300 acres, this attraction offers numerous thrill rides, and a wide array of animal exhibits to explore. The rides include legendary roller coasters and the park features the tallest dive coaster in the world. The African-themed wildlife habitats rival those of many world-class zoos.
Another popular Tampa attraction, the Florida aquarium showcases native marine life. Thousands of creatures abound in the aquarium, with numerous interactive exhibits that get everyone involved. The wetlands gallery and the coral reefs gallery have everything from river otters and sharks to the alligators Florida is famous for. Education and entertainment blend seamlessly in the colorful shows presented there on a daily basis.
The Lowry Zoo is just a few minutes away if you need a little more animal adventure. With over 2000 animals, rides, interactive exhibits, on-site dining, shows, and shopping, this is a full-day trip for many people.
Just a short distance away, the Tampa Bay performing arts center offers five venues for theatre and concerts. You can go play golf at one of the many well-known courses or try your hand at fishing offshore in the bay.
Experience beautiful beaches, entertainment, and literally hundreds of fantastic restaurants every day of the year. Nearby St. Petersburg Beach is another spot that’s perfect for almost everyone because it has the best of every type of attraction. You’ll find every variety of water sports including the infamous sky screamers for the daredevils in the crowd. Or, just simply go swimming in the Gulf of Mexico.
Maybe taking a stroll is more your thing. Tampa has plenty of places to stretch your legs as well, with over 165 parks and beaches sprawling over nearly 2,300 acres within the city limits itself.
If you have the time, head on down to Ybor City, the Cuban district of Tampa, which used to be the center of hand-rolled cigar production. It’s a national historic landmark district, known as Tampa’s Latin Quarter, with globed street lights, antique wrought-iron balconies, quaint brick-lined walkways, and the classic architecture of the old historical cigar factories.
Tampa is ideal for marvelous events that take place throughout the year and are ideal for the entire family. The Tampa special events are numerous and include the Medieval Days Fair, the Annual Fish Fry, ACC FanFest, the Annual Charlie Daniels Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Golf Classic and Charliepalooza, and the huge Holiday Parade downtown to name a few. One of the most popular events around is the Gasparilla Pirate Festival.
Tampa is not only a great city to tour, but it is also a great departure point for a gulf cruise. Carnival legend offers 7-night Western Caribbean cruises that depart from Tampa to such popular ports as Roatan, Grand Cayman, Belize City, and Cozumel.
So, if you’re looking for a spot that has near everything, or is near to it, try Tampa on for size!
