Tampa Bay Area Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and food scene of Tampa Bay Area with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover where to stay, how to get around, and what to buy in the city.


Introduction to Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay Area is a bustling metropolis on the West Coast of Florida and is known for its beaches, beautiful weather, and vibrant nightlife. The area encompasses three major cities – Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater – and is the perfect vacation spot for anyone looking for a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.

List of Places to Visit in Tampa Bay Area

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tampa Bay Area has a rich history, and visitors can explore this through its museums and historical places. Some of the top attractions include:

  • The Museum of Fine Arts: Located in St. Petersburg, this museum features an extensive collection of European, American, and pre-Columbian art.
  • The Salvador Dali Museum: Dedicated to the world-famous surrealist artist, the museum in St. Petersburg houses the largest collection of his works outside of Spain.
  • The Tampa Bay History Center: A museum and research center that showcases the history and culture of the Tampa Bay region.

Natural Attractions of Tampa Bay Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tampa Bay Area is home to a variety of outdoor adventure activities and scenic views. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Clearwater Beach: This beach is known for its white sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Visitors can enjoy parasailing, jet-skiing, and dolphin-watching tours.
  • Busch Gardens: This theme park in Tampa features thrilling rides, exotic animals, and live entertainment.
  • The Hillsborough River State Park: This natural wonder is perfect for camping, hiking, and kayaking. Visitors can explore the trails, go fishing, or swim in the river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay Area boasts some of the best hiking and biking trails in the state. Here are a few routes to explore:

  • The Pinellas Trail: A 40-mile trail that runs from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs and offers scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
  • The Upper Tampa Bay Trail: A 7.25-mile trail through a wetland preserve that is perfect for biking or hiking.
  • The Suncoast Trail: A 42-mile trail that connects Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties and offers a mix of natural and urban scenery.

Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay Area: Activities and Tours

Tampa Bay Area offers a host of activities and tours suitable for all ages and interests. Here are some of the best:

  • Sunset Sailing Tours: Sail along Tampa Bay and enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset.
  • Dolphin Watching Tours: If you’re lucky, you might spot a pod of dolphins while cruising along the Gulf of Mexico.
  • Segway Tours: Explore the Tampa Riverwalk and the Ybor City Historic District on a Segway tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tampa Bay Area

Day 1 – Visit the Salvador Dali Museum and explore downtown St. Petersburg

Day 2 – Spend the day at Clearwater Beach

Day 3 – Explore Busch Gardens

Day 4 – Visit the Tampa Bay History Center and the Tampa Museum of Art

Day 5 – Hike or bike the Pinellas Trail

Day 6 – Take a sunset sailing tour

Day 7 – Enjoy a leisurely day in Ybor City, Tampa’s historic district, and take a Segway tour of the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Tampa Bay Area

Must-Try Dishes

Tampa Bay Area has a diverse food scene, and there are plenty of dishes to try. Here are some favorites:

  • Cuban Sandwich: Made with ham, pork, cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, the Cuban sandwich is a Tampa Bay Area favorite.
  • Grouper Sandwich: Fresh grouper, lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a toasted bun – this sandwich is a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Stone Crab: These succulent crabs are only available from October to May, making them a seasonal delicacy.

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, Tampa Bay Area is known for its craft beer scene, but there are also other local favorites to try:

  • Cigar City Jai Alai IPA: A hoppy, citrusy IPA that is a favorite among locals.
  • Key Lime Pie Martini: A dessert-inspired cocktail made with vanilla vodka, lime juice, and cream – a tasty treat after dinner.
  • Cuban Coffee: A strong espresso shot with sugar, served with steamed milk.

Where to Stay in Tampa Bay Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tampa Bay Area has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every budget and taste. Some popular places to stay include:

  • The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club: A luxury resort in downtown St. Petersburg that overlooks Tampa Bay.
  • The Don CeSar: A pink-hued beachfront hotel in St. Pete Beach that has hosted celebrities and politicians.
  • HI Tampa Bay: A budget-friendly hostel in Tampa that offers private and shared rooms.

What to Buy in Tampa Bay Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Tampa Bay Area with these souvenirs:

  • Guava Jelly: Made from the fruit that grows abundantly in Florida, guava jelly is a popular local product.
  • Fine Art Prints: Buy prints from local artists at the St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market.
  • Cigar Boxes: Tampa has a rich cigar-making history, and cigar boxes make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay Area is a melting pot of cultures, with a strong Latin and Cuban influence. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and the area has a relaxed, laid-back vibe.

Best Time to Visit Tampa Bay Area

The best time to visit Tampa Bay Area is from September to December when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. Summers can be hot and humid, and hurricane season runs from June to November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tampa Bay Area

Do:

  • Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated when visiting the beaches.
  • Take advantage of the local cuisine, especially the Cuban sandwiches.
  • Be prepared for sudden thunderstorms in the summer months.

Don’t:

  • Leave any valuables in your car while visiting popular tourist destinations.
  • Litter on the beaches or in public areas.
  • Ignore local traffic laws or speed limits.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay Area is a relatively safe place to visit, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially when visiting tourist areas. It’s also a good idea to avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Tampa Bay Area

Tampa Bay Area has world-class medical facilities, and visitors can find quality medical care if needed. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance before traveling to the area.

Getting to Tampa Bay Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tampa Bay Area

  • Tampa International Airport (TPA)
  • St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
  • Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)

Bus Stations Near Tampa Bay Area

  • Greyhound Tampa Bus Station
  • Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

Other Options

  • Renting a car: A popular option, as Tampa Bay Area is large and spread out.
  • Taking an Uber or Lyft: Ride-sharing services are available in the area.
  • Public transportation: The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) and the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) provide public transportation in the area.

How to Get Around in Tampa Bay Area

The best way to get around Tampa Bay Area is by car, but visitors can also use public transportation or ride-sharing services. Biking and walking are also popular options in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Tampa Bay Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Orlando: Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other theme parks, Orlando is a must-visit for families.
  • Sarasota: A charming town known for its cultural attractions, including the Ringling Museum of Art.
  • Boca Grande: A small island town located south of Tampa that features beautiful beaches, golfing, and pier fishing.

Conclusion

Tampa Bay Area is a fantastic vacation destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re into history and culture or outdoor adventures and scenic views, you’ll find plenty to do and see in this beautiful part of Florida.

Downtown Tampa Downtown Tampa


    Hillsborough County
    Manatee County
    Pinellas County