Why Choose Tampa for Your Holiday?

In my opinion, Tampa is an excellent holiday location. It offers a vibrant mix of urban excitement, rich history, and easy access to stunning Gulf Coast beaches. Our clients who visit Tampa often tell us they enjoy world-class theme parks like Busch Gardens. They also love exploring the revitalized downtown along the scenic Tampa Riverwalk. Additionally, they can delve into the unique Cuban and Spanish heritage of historic Ybor City.

Tampa has a vast array of dining options to cater to everyone’s dietary needs. Whether you’re craving authentic Cuban sandwiches or Michelin-recommended dining, you’ll find it here. Its position on Florida's Gulf Coast means beautiful white-sand beaches, like Clearwater Beach, are just a short drive away. With family-friendly attractions, outdoor activities like kayaking, and a lively arts and sports scene, Tampa is a dynamic destination for all types of travellers seeking a quintessential Florida getaway.

So, if you’re looking for a holiday in Tampa, I say go for it! It has everything you need and serves as a great base to explore other locations.

Common Questions About Tampa Holidays

Here’s what our clients have been asking us.

Is Tampa Safe for Holidaymakers?

I reached out to some contacts in the police force to get their insights on safety. Tampa is generally considered safe for holidaymakers. However, like any city, there are good and bad parts. The good news is that crime levels are down from last year (2024).

The areas that holidaymakers tend to visit, such as Downtown Tampa, Channelside, and the Riverwalk, are well-lit, actively patrolled, and considered safe for walking, especially during the day and early evening. However, Ybor City has a reputation for higher late-night crime, so caution is advised there, especially after midnight.

While Tampa's main tourist districts are generally safe for evening strolls, it’s always best to stick to well-populated, well-lit areas. Avoid walking alone late at night, and stay aware of your surroundings, just as you would in any unfamiliar city.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Tampa?

A great question! Personally, I think the perfect holiday in Tampa would be 3 to 5 days. However, you could easily extend your stay for a week if you plan on day trips to nearby beaches like Clearwater or St. Pete. A 3-day trip allows you to hit the major attractions, while 5 days offers a more relaxed pace and time for a full-day theme park adventure.

Here are a few places I recommend visiting: enjoy nice strolls and biking along the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, which connects attractions like The Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the dining hub of Sparkman Wharf and Armature Works.

You must dedicate a full day to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and its water park, Adventure Island. If you love history and culture, spend time in the historic Latin Quarter of Ybor City—famous for its Cuban sandwiches, cigar history, and nightlife—and the Tampa Bay History Center. You could also visit ZooTampa at Lowry Park and tour the opulent Henry B. Plant Museum, formerly the Tampa Bay Hotel.

So, forget what I said earlier—spend a week in Tampa easily!

What is the Riverwalk in Tampa?

The Riverwalk in Tampa is a central, 2.6-mile-long multi-use pedestrian and bike path that runs along the Hillsborough River and Garrison Channel through downtown. The Riverwalk connects numerous popular places to visit, making it easy to stroll between major downtown districts.

Here are some popular stops and attractions along the route:

• Armature Works

• The Straz Center for the Performing Arts

• Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

• Tampa Museum of Art

• Glazer Children's Museum

• Tampa Bay History Centre

• The Florida Aquarium

• Sparkman Wharf

• Tampa Convention Center

• Amalie Arena

  
  

Beyond the attractions, the Riverwalk features a Historical Monument Trail with bronze busts honouring key figures in Tampa's history. It’s actively used for exercise, social gatherings, and waterfront dining. The Riverwalk also provides access points for water activities like the Pirate Water Taxi, eBoats, and water bike rentals.

What to Expect in Part 2

In part 2, we will explore topics like hurricane season, the best month to visit Tampa, and the overall climate in Tampa.

This post will go live over the next seven days, so don’t forget to like our Instagram and Facebook. If you want a quote for your next holiday to Tampa, drop us a message here.

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