The place to Keep in Tampa (Finest Areas and Locations)

For those who’re searching for enjoyable within the solar, a lot to see and do, and a few of the most scrumptious meals your tastebuds have ever skilled, Tampa ought to undoubtedly be in your go to listing. However, earlier than you begin planning your time and developing with an thrilling itinerary, it’s essential know the place to remain in Tampa and the realm greatest for you.

For me, Tampa is up there on my listing of the very best locations to go to in Florida. Nevertheless, Tampa is an enormous metropolis. That can assist you determine on the very best spot so that you can lay your head, I’ve lined the very best areas to base your self (relying in your preferences), inside this submit.

The primary time I visited Florida, I went to Orlando, like most individuals do. However after some time, I needed to see one thing extra genuine.

The primary time I visited Tampa was in 2014 and I’ve returned many instances since. For me, town is the proper mix of tourist-friendly enjoyable within the solar, native life, and genuine experiences. From the beautiful Tampa Bay seashores and theme parks to the historical past, nature, and enjoyable bars, there’s a lot to like about this metropolis.

When selecting the very best space to remain in Tampa, it’s essential do your homework. There are a number of Tampa neighborhoods, however general, I’d say there are 5 primary ones to contemplate.

Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa

Fast Look: Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa (click on to leap down the web page to be taught extra)

Channelside: Finest Place To Keep in Tampa for Your First Time

For those who do a fast search on-line, you may assume that Downtown Tampa is the very best space to remain in Tampa for a first-timer, however I’ve a distinct take. You see, Downtown Tampa is tremendous busy and may be overwhelming in the event you don’t know the place you’re going. Nevertheless, Channelside, or Channel District, is the proper center floor.

For those who’re an outdoorsy sort, you’ll love Channelside, however the magnificence is you could simply stroll to Downtown alongside the scenic Hillsborough River. Breathe in some recent air and take a look at the view whereas realizing that you just’re actually a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle.

Professionals of Staying in Channelside

• Downtown may be reached on foot
• Stunning views and Insta-worthy picture alternatives
• A relaxing-out base
• Decrease value lodging in comparison with Downtown

Cons of Staying in Channelside

• Riverwalk can get very busy
• When it rains, there isn’t a complete lot of shelter
• Very touristic; if you need authenticity, you is likely to be higher off staying elsewhere

Finest Locations to Keep in Channelside

For those who really feel Channelside is the very best place to remain in Tampa, I like to recommend these lodges:

1. The Tampa EDITION: A glossy, fashionable, five-star alternative with a shocking outside pool and terrace to absorb the solar. The onsite restaurant is especially spectacular, providing a complete host of Mediterranean decisions. Click on right here for particulars.

2. J W Marriott Tampa Water Avenue: If you wish to be within the coronary heart of the motion, this lodge is the best alternative. It additionally has an enormous outside pool for chilling and a unbelievable restaurant with all method of scrumptious dishes. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District: This lodge has a tremendous rooftop pool with the proper view. This can be a nice alternative for households as there are many issues to do on web site for little ones. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Channelside

I get pleasure from Channelside’s chilled-out vibe, however that doesn’t imply there isn’t a complete lot to see and do on this waterside neighborhood. As among the finest locations to remain in Tampa Middle, you wouldn’t anticipate the rest.

1. Water Works Park: It doesn’t must be the most well liked day to spend a while splashing round and having enjoyable, and Water Works Park is the very best place to do exactly that. This can be a enormous water park with slides, actions, and loads of house to relax out. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Sparkman Wharf: Buying, meals, drinks, and occasions; Sparkman Wharf is a vibrant spot that particularly comes alive through the early night hours. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Tampa Riverwalk: No doubt, the very best factor to do in Channelside is to wander down the Riverwalk and take a look at its many outlets, eating places, museums, and occasions. It’s my favourite spot for a selfie. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Channelside

Channelside’s eating scene is fairly eclectic and also you received’t battle to seek out one thing for even the pickiest eater:

1. The Pearl: I beloved the calm vibe on this restaurant and it’s a fantastic spot for beer lovers too. The menu is absolutely attention-grabbing and the presentation is particularly Insta-worthy. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Lilac: Particular occasions ought to all the time be held at Lilac, in my view. This can be a top-class Mediterranean restaurant that gives a four-course fastened menu that includes the very best produce round. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Firestick Grill: Positioned at Amalie Area, Firestick Grill is a very talked-about spot for the best-grilled meats and sushi, and in addition makes a speciality of delicacies native to the realm. Click on right here for instructions.

Downtown Tampa: Finest Space in Tampa for Nightlife

For those who’re searching for locations to remain in Tampa for nightlife, don’t suppose twice about staying in Downtown Tampa. Because the identify suggests, that is the central a part of town, the place all the intense lights shine and evenings by no means appear to finish.

Downtown is within the south of Tampa and it has a picturesque spot overlooking the Hillsborough River. I actually benefit from the vibrant really feel in Downtown and in the event you’re after a spot of luxurious, you’ll actually discover it right here.

The one actual draw back of Downtown is simply how frenetic it may be. This isn’t a spot for leisurely walks, however it’s the ultimate place to do lots in a brief period of time, together with taking some epic images at Tampa Bay Harbor.

Professionals of Staying in Downtown Tampa

• All the things is inside straightforward attain
• Incredible nightlife
• Loads of procuring alternatives
• Many sights are situated in Downtown

Cons of Staying in Downtown Tampa

• An especially busy space
• Costly foods and drinks
• Lodging is costly
• A loud space

Finest Locations to Keep in Downtown Tampa

The great thing about Downtown Tampa is that you just received’t must stroll very far to something. For those who’re searching for the very best Tampa lodges close to nightlife, listed below are some solutions:

1. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: You may’t get any extra central than this lodge, which is what makes it stand out, notably in the event you’re eager to discover Downtown. The opposite plus level is the superior swimming pool, which provides a metropolis view as you swim. Click on right here for particulars.

2. ROOST Tampa: Not solely is that this lodge extraordinarily central and ultimate for sightseeing, but it surely’s among the finest lodges with a rooftop pool. There’s additionally a scorching tub you may sit back in, or just relax within the backyard after a day of exploring. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Le Meridien Tampa, The Courthouse: The beauty of this lodge is the sheer variety of facilities in your room, making it an actual home-from-home expertise. From iPod docking stations to espresso machines, you’ll be in need of nothing. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Downtown Tampa

Downtown Tampa actually saved me occupied; there’s a lot to see and do right here. Let’s check out some issues so as to add to your to-do listing:

1. Tampa Tiki Bar Boat Cruise: Floating down the Hillsborough River with a drink in hand, what could possibly be higher? This chilled-out and super-scenic tour is a top-seller for a purpose. The factor I preferred most about this tour is that you just convey your individual drinks, that means you don’t must spend a small fortune on the bar. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide.

2. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: Just a few hours chilling out at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the best method to chill out on the finish of an extended day, whereas additionally testing the relatively spectacular interactive fountains. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Tampa Theater: Because it opened its doorways in 1926, Tampa Theater has showcased a few of the greatest performances round. The inside is as particular because the present you’ve chosen to see, and I actually love the old-world vibes. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Downtown Tampa

Personally, I don’t really feel that Downtown is the very best neighborhood in Tampa for meals, however there are nonetheless some fairly epic choices:

1. Oxford Change: Some eating places are simply particular, and for me, that’s Oxford Change. Not solely is that this a restaurant, but it surely’s additionally a bookstore and champagne spot all rolled into one. It has such a chilled-out vibe, but a few of the most scrumptious meals obtainable. Try the paella – it’s my favourite. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Mise en Place: For those who fancy some French meals whereas in Tampa, this spot has you lined. Taking conventional French dishes and giving them a contemporary twist, you’ll discover dishes on this menu to make your mouth water. My go-to is the crusted rack of lamb. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Oak And Ola: Let’s be sincere, everybody loves a restaurant with an enormous roof terrace and a view. That’s what Ola and Ola has to supply, alongside severely spectacular cocktails, scrumptious pizzas, and seasonal dishes that change with the climate. Click on right here for instructions.

Seminole Heights: Coolest Place to Keep in Tampa 

The second time I visited Tampa, I stayed in Seminole Heights, and from then on, it’s the place I’ve all the time chosen to return to. It has the very best of each worlds; a lot to see and do, but it surely additionally has a relaxed residential vibe happening.

Most locals will let you know that Seminole Heights is fairly up-and-coming, and it’s actually received a reasonably trendy really feel. You’ll discover a lot of avenue artwork round, and the espresso and craft beer focus helps it stand out as among the finest neighborhoods in Tampa.

Professionals of Staying in Seminole Heights

• Numerous avenue artwork
• A relaxing-out pavement cafe vibe
• Best for craft beer followers
• Decrease value eating
• A residential really feel

Cons of Staying in Seminole Heights

• Not as many lodging choices obtainable
• You will have to make use of a automotive or public transport to get round
• Nightlife right here is kind of low-key

Finest Locations to Keep in Seminole Heights

Whereas it’s not as straightforward to seek out lodging in Seminole Heights as different areas, there are nonetheless some nice choices; you’ll discover that the majority are vacation properties. Both approach, I nonetheless suppose it’s among the finest locations to remain in Tampa. Listed here are my prime picks:

1. Riverside Riviera at Seminole Heights: The great thing about staying on this explicit spot is that it’s a house away from dwelling; precisely how you’ll describe this lodging. This explicit vacation dwelling provides a shared lounge and kitchen. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Stunning Neighborhood Seminole Heights: I loved the nights I spent on this vacation dwelling and it actually did really feel like my very own place. The backyard is the best house to chill out, and inside options the whole lot you want in your journey, together with a washer, which makes life a lot simpler – particularly if you’re staying for longer intervals. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Seminole Heights Unique Bungalow: This vacation dwelling is good for households because it has two bedrooms, an outdoor terrace, a big lounge, and all of the mod-cons. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Seminole Heights

Combining a chilled-out lifestyle with close by sights is the order of the day if you select to base your self in Seminole Heights. Nevertheless, there are many high-quality decisions close by:

1. Amalie Area: It’s very easy to get to Amalie Area from Seminole Heights. Try exhibits and sports activities, and revel in some actually good meals throughout your go to. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Seminole Heights Avenue Artwork Path: Strolling round central Seminole Heights will present you numerous varieties of avenue artwork, together with some enormous murals. Merely take a stroll round and also you’re certain to seek out much more.

3. Seminole Heights Farmer’s Market: Foodies will love wandering round this enormous farmer’s market, filled with scrumptious fare to attempt. Vegans, and those that are notably eager on natural produce, will certainly discover this market to their style. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in Seminole Heights

Seminole Heights doesn’t focus its consideration on refined eating places and high-class eating, however as an alternative, encourages you to attempt extra laid-back gastronomy. I personally loved a number of eating places on this neighborhood. Listed here are a few of my favorites:

1. American Social: Try the view over the waterfront and revel in a chilled-out meal with household and buddies at this restaurant. Top-of-the-line locations for craft beers, this gastropub provides stay sports activities and a pleasant vibe. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Rooster & The Until: Nominated for a Michelin award, you’ll discover domestically sourced elements remodeled into essentially the most scrumptious dishes. The one draw back is that you just’ll have to guide nicely forward to get a desk, but it surely’s well worth the ahead planning. Click on right here for instructions.

3. The Impartial: I beloved the vibe on this restaurant and I used to be fortunate sufficient to go to after they had a film evening. Craft beer lovers will probably be of their aspect right here, because the menu is large, and eating is relaxed, with burgers, tacos, and pizzas. Click on right here for instructions.

North Tampa: Finest for Households 

No doubt, households or buddies who love adrenaline thrills will discover North Tampa their neighborhood of alternative. It’s among the finest locations to remain in Tampa for teams. Right here, you’re proper subsequent door to some recognizable sights, together with one in every of my private favorites – Busch Gardens.

Being so near theme parks ought to point out that North Tampa is fairly touristy, but when that’s what you’re after, you received’t thoughts the crowds. It by no means felt ‘excessive,’ and I discovered lodging was cheaper. Plus, it all the time felt like a secure neighborhood in Tampa to me.

Professionals of Staying in North Tampa

• Best for households
• Cheaper lodging
• Laid-back, reasonably priced eating choices

Cons of Staying in North Tampa

• You will have a automotive to get round (click on right here to go looking for the very best worth on rental vehicles)
• Very touristy
• Decrease high quality eating

Finest Locations to Keep in North Tampa

North Tampa is understood for its low-cost lodging which is good if in case you have a gaggle of individuals wanting to remain collectively or in the event you’re a household. It’s additionally nice in the event you’re searching for the place to remain in Tampa with parking. Try these listings under:

1. The City Nest: For those who’re touring as a gaggle or with kids, this sequence of vacation bungalows is the proper alternative. All the things you may probably want for a soothing time is inside, and also you’re near all native facilities. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton: That is one other lodge that’s actually near all of North Tampa’s main parks, which makes it ultimate for thrill seekers. With comfy environment, this lodge is fundamental but supplies the whole lot you want, together with an outside swimming pool. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Embassy Suites by Hilton: Sit back on the finish of the day within the scorching tub or the massive outside swimming pool, and make use of the shuttle to all main parks close by. There’s additionally an on-site video games room to maintain kids occupied. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in North Tampa

Adrenaline junkies rejoice! North Tampa’s rollercoasters will definitely take a look at your nerves, however that’s not all there’s to do right here. Listed here are the very best issues to do in North Tampa:

1. Journey Island: One other of North Tampa’s prime sights is Journey Island. This can be a enormous waterpark that’s ultimate for cooling down in the summertime warmth. I notably loved the wave pool and chilling in a personal cabana. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Museum of Science & Business: If you wish to take a break from screaming on rollercoasters, this museum is a superb spot to be taught. It’s an interactive place to go to, with loads of attention-grabbing occasions held all year long. Click on right here for instructions.

The place to Eat and Drink in North Tampa

What I actually loved about North Tampa is that I may exit for dinner after an extended day exploring and I didn’t must get notably dressed up. The entire eating scene is fairly laid-back.

1. Gino’s Restaurant & Bar: For relaxed Italian eating, it doesn’t get higher than Gino’s. I had Mama Mary’s Meatloaf and it was elegant. My buddy ordered the seafood pasta and she or he mentioned it was the very best she ever had. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Skipper’s Smokehouse: Serving a Caribbean and Floridian combination of meals, this spot is super-popular for a superb purpose. Not solely is the meals superb but it surely’s additionally a stay music venue. I had a fantastic night right here and would undoubtedly suggest you test it out. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Zeko’s Mediterranean Grill: If scrumptious and recent Mediterranean meals is your choice, this restaurant will tick all containers. The flavors transport you to Greece, with an enormous vary of various dishes on supply. Click on right here for instructions.

Ybor Metropolis: Finest Place in Tampa on a Price range 

Tampa is commonly known as the ‘Cigar Capital of The World’ and Ybor Metropolis can let you know a complete lot extra about that declare. That is the historic a part of town but it surely’s additionally a prime spot for individuals who favor to not splash the money after they don’t must.

Ybor Metropolis takes you on a journey again in time, as you be taught extra about how Tampa grew and its roots with different nations, together with Cuba and Colombia. The truth is, you could find a few of the greatest Colombian meals right here too.

seventh Avenue is Ybor’s nightlife spot and is a superb space to move to if you wish to have a number of drinks, attempt some scrumptious meals, occasion a bit of, after which head dwelling. For those who’re extra of a historical past buff than a bar crawler and also you’re questioning the place to remain in Tampa, then this is also the neighborhood for you.

Professionals of Staying in Ybor Metropolis

• Loads of historical past and tradition
• Incredible nightlife with out being too excessive
• An array of worldwide delicacies
• Low-cost

Cons of Staying in Ybor Metropolis

• Not a complete lot of nature to be discovered right here
• Very busy
• Fairly noisy

Finest Locations to Keep in Ybor Metropolis

Ybor Metropolis has some nice decisions of locations to remain, and fortunately they’re fairly moderately priced. Listed here are some suggestions of locations to remain in Tampa, Ybor Metropolis:

1. Resort Haya: This lodge provides a really comfy place to remain proper within the coronary heart of Ybor Metropolis. For the variety of facilities you get, it’s additionally very moderately priced. The on-site restaurant and cocktail bar are explicit favorites. Click on right here for particulars.

2. Cozy AF Jungle-Home Hideaway: Not solely is that this place extremely rated but it surely’s so cute you may’t assist however fall in love. This can be a two-bedroom vacation dwelling with its personal pool and jungle theme design. It’s tremendous cool. Click on right here for particulars.

3. Hampton Inn & Suites, Ybor Metropolis: This lodge is a extremely comfy base when sightseeing within the Ybor space, and it additionally provides a free shuttle to the native port. Rooms additionally function a microwave and fridge, which is good for storing scrumptious snacks. Click on right here for particulars.

High Issues To Do in Ybor Metropolis

What’s there to see and do in Ybor Metropolis? Loads. For those who’re a historical past fan, you’re going to like this place.

1. Historic Ybor Metropolis Meals Strolling Tour: The beauty of this strolling tour is that you just get to eat and discover your environment concurrently. A educated information is readily available to let you know extra in regards to the space and consider me, you’ll be full by the tip. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide. For those who’re probably not into meals, this strolling tour is a superb choice.

2. Ybor Metropolis Museum State Park: With a lot historical past on supply on this a part of Tampa, it is a must-do. The primary cigar manufacturing unit opened in Ybor Metropolis in 1886, and also you’ll be taught all about this and extra inside this museum. I notably preferred the massive gardens. Click on right here for instructions.

3. TECOLine Avenue Automobile: I stumbled upon this hidden gem as a result of a) it was scorching, and b) my ft had been hurting, and I’m so glad I did. This old-world avenue automotive takes you from Ybor Metropolis all the way down to Downtown Tampa, and you should buy an infinite day ticket. Click on right here for instructions. One other tremendous enjoyable method to get round is by golf cart! Take a look at this highly-rated journey.

The place to Eat and Drink in Ybor Metropolis

The eating scene in Ybor Metropolis is absolutely eclectic and provides one thing for everybody. From Colombian and Cuban eating places to seafood, you’ll battle to decide on. Listed here are some spots to look out for:

1. Columbia Restaurant: This is without doubt one of the most well-known eating places in all of Tampa, and it’s been open since 1905. I needed to wait some time for a desk, however the iconic Cuban sandwich was greater than value it. Click on right here for instructions.

2. Charley’s Steakhouse: When you’ve got the urge for a steak, that is the very best place to go. Open since 1974, many glad prospects have left its doorways, together with me, with its scrumptious lobster Mac & cheese. Click on right here for instructions.

3. Acropolis Greek Taverna: I need to admit, after I first noticed this restaurant, I didn’t suppose a lot of it from the skin, however after I went inside I used to be transported to Athens. The Acropolis blended platter and recent cocktails are main hits. Click on right here for instructions.

Finest Areas to Keep in Tampa: FAQ’s

In Conclusion

Tampa is without doubt one of the greatest locations in Florida, if not the entire of the USA. For certain, that’s a reasonably sweeping assertion, however from private expertise, this metropolis has the whole lot you may probably need, and extra.

Households will discover Tampa unbelievable due to the theme parks, wonderful meals, and brilliant lights. {Couples} will benefit from the gastronomy, the nice nightlife, and the gorgeous surroundings. And teams will discover Tampa the best spot because of its assorted vary of issues to do. Put merely, no one will probably be bored.