The 10 Best and Most Epic Things to Do in Tampa

Tampa will always have a special place in my heart as it was where I went to college for a year and a half. Since then, I have visited a few times and have seriously seen such a shift in the trendy lifestyle that Tampa now embodies. It is now a fun and flirty destination for young professionals to enjoy. I would highly suggest visiting Tampa in the next few months as the weather is warm but not overwhelmingly hot. Below is a list of the most epic things to do in Tampa, Florida!

Tampa is a very active city. You will always see people biking, walking, or riding electric scooters. It doesn’t have much public transportation so your best best is either walking/biking or ubering. Unless you want to rent a car because that honestly might be worthwhile.

I have outlined in today’s post the 10 best things to do in Tampa. I personally love how everything is outside and usually within beautiful views of the bay. Enjoy~

Tampa is for the foodies, the ones who like to be outside, and the fun-goers

Go Shopping Through Hyde Park Village

Hyde Park Village is a cute stop for those who love a stylish neighborhood. You will find high-end shopping stores, trendy one-of-a-kind boutiques, and many amazing restaurants. Pro tip: got to Hyppa for a gourmet ice cream pop, they are so good!

Bike Down Bayshore BLVD

Bayshore Blvd is a waterfront road through downtown Tampa. It is a stunning spot to get a quick exercise in or enjoy the beautiful views. The road has a large concrete sidewalk that stretches 4.5 miles, so it definitely can keep you busy. Keep a lookout for dolphins as they do come by often. Pro tip: Go during Gasparilla in Tampa. It is a pirates festival that stretches along the bayshore. It is like Mardi Gras but a pirate version.

Dolphin sighting on Bayshore

Take a Walk on Tampa’s Riverwalk to Sparkman’s Wharf

Tampa’s Riverwalk is another outdoorsy activity that allows you to get outside and enjoy the beautiful water views. The entire walk is 2.6 miles and can even be biked or scootered as well. There are many hotspots to check out along the way including museums, sporting venues, hotels, cultural landmarks. I would suggest clicking here if you want more information on any of that. My Pro-tip for this location: is to end up at Sparkman’s Wharf. It is a hip spot that has a beer garden, food stalls, restaurants, and much more. And yes, it is also located right on the water.

Go to Henry B. Plant Museum

This museum actually used to be a famous hotel that drew in many famous guests. When the hotel was built it was only surrounded by swamplands. Currently, it resides a part of the University of Tampa. Yes, I had a few classes here and it was an exquisite experience. The renovation has allowed the museum to show off its unique architecture inside and out. Pro tip: take a relaxing stroll through Plant Park located right in front of Henry B. Plant Museum.

Henry B. Plant Museum in the background

Spend a Night Out in Soho

For those who want a wild night, this is the spot for you. Although, you will be seeing a lot of college kids here. Nonetheless, Soho is a street (name short for south Howard) that connects a bunch of amazing bars and restaurants, all within walking distance of each other. Even if you aren’t a night goer, Soho can even be enjoyed during the day as it has some of the best restaurants. Pro Tip: if you want a college scene bar MacDintons is for you. Otherwise, some incredible restaurants include Berns Steakhouse, Daily Eats, Green Lemon, and my personal favorite Fresh Kitchen.

Explore Historic Ybor City

Now Ybor City is another spot people enjoy going out at. It can definitely be fun but you have to fully prepare yourself ahead of time for a wild and quite entertaining night. Besides that, Ybor City is definitely a fun place to explore during the day. Pro tip: check out Ybor City Museum, Hoffman Porges Gallery, and have a traditional Cuban sandwich at The Original Columbia Restaurant.

Visit Armature Works for the best food hall ever

I love it here and any time I go to Tampa, I always try to make a stop here. It is a multi-venue space that has some of the best food outlets. You can find coffee, ramen, sushi, Cuban, and all sorts of food. You can also sit outside and enjoy the beautiful water view. Pro tip: go to M.Bird Rooftop Lounge and Bar during the sunset and enjoy cocktails, good food, and a good view.

Hit the Water and Do a Cycle Boat Tour

The best way to see Tampa’s architecture is to do it from the bay. Get your friends and sign up for a cycling boat tour. You can bring your own beers and enjoy the most amazing views of the city. Pro tip: use this company when booking.

Enjoy beers at the “Gulp Coast”

Just like Napa is known for its wines, Tampa and its surrounding towns are known for breweries! It stretches from Tarpon Springs all the way to St. Pete. The trail takes about an hour one way and there are about 30 breweries. Pro tip: you can even grab yourself a Gulp Coast Passport to get stamped at each restaurant, then you can send it in, and possibly win a prize!

Have a Beach Day at St Pete beach

If you have never been to the west coast of Florida, you are in for a treat. The sand is super soft, white, and the water is so crystal blue. This beach will definitely not disappoint and it’s only about a 45-minute drive. Pro tip: go to Spinners Rooftop bar for dinner for a revolving view of the ocean.