Tampa: A Thrilling Family Adventure on a Budget

Discover family fun in Tampa, where adventure meets sunshine!

19 July 2023

Tampa, located on the west coast of Florida, is a vibrant destination for a family friendly trip. Explore the thrilling rides and marine life at Busch Gardens, home to exhilarating roller coasters and a renowned zoo. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, where kids can build sandcastles and parents can unwind under the warm Florida sun. Additionally, visit the Florida Aquarium to discover fascinating sea creatures and learn about marine conservation.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Tampa Treasures

  • Rise and shine at the delightful Le Meridien Tampa hotel, housed in a century-old courthouse, where elegance meets history.
  • Start your day with a visit to the Florida Aquarium, where you can marvel at colorful fish, playful otters, and even touch a stingray!
  • Chow down on fresh seafood at the charming Columbia Restaurant, the oldest restaurant in Florida, where their famous 1905 Salad will transport your taste buds to culinary heaven.
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant Ybor City, Tampa's historic Latin quarter, where the streets come alive with art, music, and the aroma of hand-rolled cigars.
  • Spend the afternoon at Busch Gardens, a thrill-seekers paradise, where you can conquer roller coasters, mingle with exotic animals, and even endure a simulated space shuttle launch!
  • Wrap up the day with dinner at Ulele, a trendy riverside restaurant serving up Native-inspired dishes like alligator hush puppies and gulf coast bouillabaisse.
Day 2

Sunshine and Surprises

  • Wake up to the tropical vibes of The Godfrey Hotel and Cabanas, a waterfront haven complete with a private beach and a stellar pool area.
  • Begin your morning with an awe-inspiring visit to the famous Salvador Dali Museum, where you'll be whisked away into the surrealist master's mind.
  • For lunch, head to Armature Works, a converted warehouse filled with food stalls offering diverse cuisines, from poke bowls to gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
  • Explore the beautiful Bayshore Boulevard, where you can stroll along the longest continuous sidewalk in the world, soak in stunning bay views, and watch locals zoom by on roller skates and bicycles.
  • Indulge your sweet tooth at the charming Dough Bakery, serving up delectable vegan treats that will make you forget all about dairy.
  • End your Tampa adventure with a sunset dinner cruise, sailing along the serene Hillsborough River while enjoying a delicious meal and the magical colors of the setting sun.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tampa by plane is to fly into Tampa International Airport, located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Tampa. Major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United all offer multiple flights to Tampa from major cities across the United States.

Car

The best way to get to Tampa by car is to take either I-75 or I-4, both of which connect Tampa to other major cities across the United States. Tampa is located about an hour and a half southeast of Orlando on I-4, and about four hours southwest of Jacksonville on I-75.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Tampa. However, if you are traveling from other cities in Florida, Amtrak offers several routes that go through nearby cities such as Orlando and Miami, with connecting bus service to Tampa.

Boat

While there is no direct way to get to Tampa by boat, there are several nearby ports such as the Port of Tampa and the Port of St. Petersburg that offer cruise ship service to destinations throughout the Caribbean and Mexico. Tampa is located just a short drive from both ports, making it a popular pre- and post-cruise destination for many travelers.

Bus

The best way to get to Tampa by bus is to take Greyhound, which offers multiple daily buses to Tampa from cities across the United States. The Tampa Greyhound Station is located in downtown Tampa, just a few blocks from popular attractions such as the Tampa Riverwalk and Amalie Arena.

More travel plans

A Romantic Weekend in Tampa, Florida

Tampa, United States is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. You can explore Busch Garden or take a sunset stroll along Bayshore Boulevard with your loved one. The city also offers plenty of options for fine dining and luxurious accommodations for a truly memorable trip.

4 Days to Tampa Bay Bliss on a Budget!

Tampa offers ample opportunities for budget-conscious travelers, from strolling along the scenic riverwalk to exploring the city's many art galleries and museums. With affordable options for lodging and dining, visitors can enjoy everything the Florida city has to offer without breaking the bank. Don't miss the chance to soak up some sun on the area's world-famous beaches and take advantage of free outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing.

Romantic Island Escape in Tampa Bay

. Tampa, situated on the west coast of Florida, offers an ideal spot for a romantic getaway. With its azure waters, white-sand beaches, and picturesque sunsets, it's the perfect place to create lifelong memories. Other highlights include world-class cuisine, cultural attractions, and a range of outdoor activities for couples to enjoy together.

Tampa in a Day: Thrills, History, and Culture

Experience the ultimate thrill at Busch Gardens, with over 300 acres of thrilling rides, shows and games, and get up close with some of the world's most exotic animals. Head on down to the Ybor City, historic and cultural district which is replete with cigar-making shops, restaurants, galleries and nightclubs. Don't forget to catch a glimpse of Tampa's renowned sports scene, whether it's attending a Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL game, Tampa Bay Rays baseball game, or Tampa Bay Lightning NHL game.