Dive straight into this cosmopolitan city and you’ll find Tampa takes things a little easier than the likes of Miami. It doesn’t have the raucous nightlife of its Floridian counterpart but, instead, has subtler charms. Life here revolves around the sparkling waters, with a bay, marinas, dramatic bridges and beaches all nearby. Arrive in Tampa and you can really make a splash.
Wet and wild
Whether you want to go on the water or just skirt it, there’s isn’t much of Tampa that doesn’t take inspiration from the wet stuff. Florida Aquarium is here, a state-of-the-art facility that captures wildlife both local and far-flung. Kids will fall for the Madagascar area with its lovable lemurs, while you’ll get a feel for the state’s wetlands with the alligators and snakes on show here.
When temperatures peak on a hot summer’s day, cool down at family-friendly Adventure Island water park. Plunge down the vertiginous waterslides, have fun in the wave pool or simply drift along the lazy river.
For a change of pace, head to Tampa’s revamped Riverwalk area. Locals and visitors both flock to this buzzing waterfront, with places to sit and stroll, waterfront restaurants, museums and even ships that saw duty in World War Two.
Busch league
You don’t have to travel far for a good time in Tampa. Busch Gardens’ unique appeal is that it delivers family fun, daredevil coasters and amazing animal experiences.
You can admire the lions, giraffes and more with a standard ticket, but there are numerous upgrades that let you have up-close animal encounters, whether with a giant tortoise or a penguin. You can even be a keeper for a day and help feed and care for them.
The rides vary from gentle family spins to some of the most extreme coasters in the state – much edgier than you’ll find in Orlando. Sheikra, Montu and Kumba will send your adrenaline surging, while there are freefalls and river rapids where you don’t have a chance of staying dry.
Tampa’s historic district
Part of Tampa that can give Miami a run for its money when it comes to nightlife is Ybor City. It’s a vibrant area with Hispanic, Cuban and European influences, and has been boosted by investment and sensitive regeneration. The whole area, once known for cigar manufacturing, is now a US National Historic Landmark.
Get a glimpse into Tampa’s past at Ybor City Museum, with its preserved cigar worker houses, or park up and stroll the sunny, colourful streets. There are bustling restaurants and cafes everywhere, especially along 7th Avenue.
Must-stop places include the superb La Segunda bakery, which has been making superlative Cuban bread since 1915, and Spanish-influenced Columbia Restaurant. The oldest eatery in Florida, here you can graze on tapas – feast on lobster-stuffed croquettes, bacon-wrapped shrimp and tender pork ribs.
Rent a car in Tampa and you can explore the theme parks, beaches, the city itself and much more in this wonderful corner of Florida – all at your own pace.
