Best Things To Do in Tampa

This longtime Tampa staple first opened its doors in 1905 and has been owned and operated by the Hernandez/Gonzmart family the whole time. It’s considered the home of the original Cuban sandwich and a must-try when you’re here. 

Opened since 1915 (!), they employ the authentic Cuban bread baking tradition of using palmetto leaves to top each loaf and noted for their stalwart sandwich.

With its pillowy sand, crystal waters and nearby nightlife, Clearwater is internationally -renowned as one of America’s must-visit beaches. It’s typically calm waters are perfect for swimming, wading and water sports.

Just south of Tampa Bay is Siesta Key Beach which is another of our country’s great powdery, white-sand gems. 

Explore the Latin Quarter, grab a Cuban sandwich, see a cigar factory, visit an art gallery or just kick back, stogie in hand, and soak it all in. 

Don’t let Florida’s sunshine go to waste by eating indoors. Jimmy’s is the largest rooftop bar in Clearwater and features great panoramic views. And it’s perhaps the best place in town to watch a sunset. Do you want to sip your mojito while overlooking the beach, the bay, or the city? You’ll get views of each here.

Long known as the Channelside Bay Plaza, this entertainment complex rebranded recently. But it’s still one of Tampa’s go-to spots for tourists and locals alike. It boasts top-notch street food, craft beer, live music, and waterfront dining so close to the port you can (but shouldn’t) dip your feet in the water. Catch a live show on the weekend or a family movie during the week

Four regulation-sized courts, six rotating taps, bar food, and happy hours – amateurs and shuffleboard experts can push the pucks around at this Tampa Heights bar. 

This 4.5-mile walkway is the longest continuous sidewalk in the United States. But that’s not the only reason to visit. Bayshore is lined with parks and scenic views of both the city and the bay, ideal for walking, biking, running, unicycling, leapfrogging, whatever you want. If you’re trying to get in a sunrise jog or afternoon stroll during your stay, don’t miss it.

Meandering along the Hillsborough River, this path offers glittering waters on one side and city lights on the other. With plenty of stop-offs along the way — like Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Tampa Museum of Art, the Glazer Children’s Museum and waterfront eateries — you can easily turn the Riverwalk into a full-day excursion. If you get lucky, you might even spot a manatee or two in the water.

If you love sea creatures but Jaws gave you a healthy fear of the ocean, hit the Florida Aquarium. Here you’ll find over 9,000 animals in 250,000 square feet of exhibits that recreate coral reefs, wetlands, beaches, and oceans. 

This African-themed amusement park is a three-in-one adventure. In a state loaded with parks, Busch Gardens is perhaps the roller coaster capital. And after you’ve taken one too many loop-de-loops, take a calming ride on the Serengeti Express and cool off at the Adventure Island water park.

Here’s where Gaspar’s salty crew moor their ships and seize the key to the city from Tampa’s mayor, then begin their parade downtown.  

They might be nationally-renowned, but that doesn’t mean they’ve forfeited their Tampa Bay roots. Make sure you try whatever special release is on tap when you visit. 

An popular choice among Tampa residents that specializes in Belgian-style beers and barrel-aged sours. 

That music coming from the heart of Ybor City is Crowbar, an independent music venue and nightclub where you can catch up-and-comers in a variety of genres. Or take the stage yourself for hip-hop open mic or karaoke.

Heights Public Market is a 22,000 square-foot, food hall which is billed as a “food-lover’s dream” and labeled a “game changer” for the local food scene by the Tampa Bay Times. They also hold events like cooking classes, wine tastings and pop-up dinners.