Tampa is buzzing with energy this week! The weather is gorgeous, making it the perfect time to explore the city's vibrant outdoor scene and cultural attractions. From exciting festivals to stunning waterfront views, Tampa offers something for everyone this week.
Take a scenic walk along the 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk, a beautiful path connecting many of downtown's attractions. Enjoy the waterfront views, hip bars, and innovative restaurants along the way. Consider renting a scooter or bike for a fun way to explore.
Tip: Catch the sunrise or sunset over the water for a truly magical experience.
Explore the natural beauty of Tampa by kayaking or canoeing at Lettuce Lake Park. This park offers a scenic escape with nature trails, a boardwalk, and a tower for spotting wildlife. Keep an eye out for alligators and turtles sunbathing in the Hillsborough River.
Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have the best chance of seeing wildlife.
Enjoy a bike ride along Bayshore Boulevard, the longest continuous sidewalk in the United States. This 10-foot-wide path is ideal for walking, biking, or blading. Take in stunning views of the bay and admire the impressive real estate along the way.
Tip: Bring water and sunscreen, as there's limited shade along the boulevard.
From November through April, Florida manatees love to hang out at the TECO Energy Plant, taking advantage of the warm waters. View these gentle giants at the Manatee Viewing Center, a featured part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. It's a great opportunity to see these amazing creatures up close.
Tip: Check the TECO Viewing Center's website for the best viewing times, as manatee sightings vary depending on the water temperature.
Experience a taste of Cuban tradition at the Columbia Restaurant, the oldest Cuban restaurant in the world and the oldest restaurant in Florida. Opened in 1905, this institution serves up big flavors and big tradition. Don't miss the Pollo al Ajillo or the original Cuban sandwich.
Tip: Make a reservation in advance, especially for dinner, as this place is very popular.
Dine at Ulele, a native-inspired restaurant and brewery located on Tampa's Riverwalk. Serving unique foods and spirits from a rich variety of Native American and multicultural influences, this restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients to create intricately flavored dishes. Try dishes prepared on the 10' diameter barbacoa grill.
Tip: Sample their craft beers brewed on-site at the Ulele Spring Brewery.
Indulge in a classic steakhouse experience at Bern's Steak House, serving top-tier steaks since 1956. Known for its in-house dry-aged beef and one of the largest wine collections in the world, Bern's offers a memorable dining experience. Plus, unlike most steakhouses where everything is a la carte, Bern's hooks you up with sides.
Tip: Be sure to book a tour of the wine cellar and enjoy a dessert in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room upstairs.
Enjoy chef-inspired cuisine at The Pearl, a restaurant, tavern, and oyster room. With made-from-scratch entrees, shareable plates, and seasonal oysters, there's something for everyone. Complement your meal with handcrafted cocktails and a curated wine list.
Tip: Visit during lunch to experience the lunch menu available Monday through Friday.
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Ybor City, known for its historic brick streets and lively atmosphere. This neighborhood offers a mix of nightclubs, live music venues, and themed bars. Be sure to check out The Ritz Ybor, a premier venue for live music events.
Tip: Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, especially during late hours.
Catch a Broadway show, classical concert, or other world-class performance at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Located on the Tampa Riverwalk, this multi-theater complex is a cultural cornerstone of the city. Check their calendar for upcoming events.
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy a pre-show dinner or drinks at one of the nearby restaurants along the Riverwalk.
Party like a pirate at Gaspar's Grotto, a lively pirate-themed bar and restaurant in Ybor City. Enjoy killer cocktails, live music, and decent bar grub. With three large bar areas, there's always something going on.
Tip: Don't miss the Sunday brunch buffet with unlimited mimosas and a Bloody Mary bar.
Try your luck at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino, offering award-winning restaurants, live music, and a massive casino with a full selection of slots and table games. It's a complete night out in one location.
Tip: Check the Hard Rock Cafe's event schedule for live music performances.
Visit the Tampa Museum of Art, featuring a world-class collection spanning classical antiquities, modern and contemporary art, sculpture, and photography. Located on the scenic downtown Tampa Riverwalk, this museum is a cultural hub for residents and visitors.
Tip: Visit on a Saturday afternoon for free, drop-in art making for kids in the museum's studio classroom.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Ybor City, one of only three Historic Landmark Districts in Florida. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit cigar shops, and learn about the area's Cuban heritage. Consider taking a ghost tour for a spooky experience.
Tip: Enjoy a cafecito and a pastelito at one of the local Cuban bakeries for an authentic taste of Ybor City.
Take a day trip to St. Petersburg and visit The Dali Museum, home to the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's works in the U.S. outside of Spain. This museum is a global destination for surrealist art.
Tip: Every Saturday is Dali Family Fun Day, with free art activities for families.
Journey back in time at the opulent Henry B. Plant Museum, a Gilded Age mansion showcasing stunning architecture and captivating exhibits. Located at the University of Tampa, this museum provides a glimpse into Tampa's past.
Tip: Check the museum's website for guided tour schedules and special events.
Enjoy a free stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic 2.6-mile path connecting parks, restaurants, and cultural centers. Take in the views of the Hillsborough River and the city skyline.
Tip: Visit Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park along the Riverwalk for free entertainment and events.
Relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. This downtown park offers green spaces, a playground, and a splash pad. It's a great spot for a picnic or to simply unwind.
Tip: Check the park's schedule for free events, concerts, and movie screenings.
Explore the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, offering miles of paved paths for biking and walking. This free trail system provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying nature.
Tip: Bring your own bike or rent one from a local shop to explore the trail.
Experience the unique architecture and cultural heritage of the Hindu Temple of Florida. This stunning place of worship offers an opportunity to appreciate intricate design and learn about Indian traditions.
Tip: Dress respectfully when visiting the temple.
Experience thrilling rides and animal encounters at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Florida's top theme park. This African-themed park offers world-class roller coasters, a zoo with over 200 species, and live shows. It's a day of adventure for the whole family.
Tip: Download the Busch Gardens app to navigate the park, view ride wait times, and purchase add-on experiences.
Discover amazing animals at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, voted the #1 Family Friendly Zoo in the country. Enjoy giraffe-feeding stations, behind-the-scenes safaris, and the Gator Falls Flume ride.
Tip: Check out the Wallaroo Station, where kids can enter and stroll along a pathway while looking for wallabies.
Engage in interactive learning experiences at the Glazer Children's Museum. Kids can explore a kid-sized grocery store, airplane, and cruise ship for imaginative play. With exhibits for various ages, it's perfect for families with young children.
Tip: Visit on the free third Thursday of the month.
Explore underwater worlds at The Florida Aquarium. Get up close with marine life, learn about conservation efforts, and enjoy interactive exhibits. It's an educational and fun experience for all ages.
Tip: Check the aquarium's website for daily presentation and activity schedules.
See what's happening in Tampa today