4 Days to Tampa Bay Bliss on a Budget!

Tampa: Discover Sunshine State Charm Without Breaking the Bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Tampa!

  • Check-in at the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Tampa Airport/Stadium, the perfect budget accommodation for your stay.
  • Take a stroll along the iconic Tampa Riverwalk, being sure to snap some pictures of the stunning Tampa Bay skyline.
  • Grab a refreshing craft beer at the hip Hidden Springs Ale Works, with plenty of unique brews to choose from.
  • Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at Shrimp & Co., with their famous Cajun-style shrimp boil offering a spicy twist on the classic.
  • Head to the ever-lively Ybor City for a nightcap, with bars and clubs like The Ritz and The Bricks catering to any taste.
Day 2

A Day of Adventure!

  • Start off with some adrenaline at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, where you can ride thrilling coasters and get up close with exotic animals.
  • Take a break from the theme park and cool off at Adventure Island, Busch Garden's sister water park with plenty of slides and wave pools.
  • Get a taste of Florida's nature with a visit to Lettuce Lake Park, offering hiking trails and kayaking for any skill level.
  • Grab a bite to eat at the quirky Taco Dirty, with their fusion-style tacos and margaritas bound to impress.
  • End the night with a relaxing stroll along Clearwater Beach, watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Day 3

Art and History in Tampa

  • Step into the past with a visit to the Tampa Bay History Center, with interactive exhibits showcasing Florida's rich history.
  • Take in some world-class art at the Tampa Museum of Art, with exhibitions ranging from contemporary to classical styles.
  • Head over to the unique Dinosaur World, with life-sized models of prehistoric creatures and a special exhibit on Florida fossils.
  • Grab a quick bite at the iconic Columbia Restaurant, serving up some of the best Cuban and Spanish cuisine in town.
  • Spend the evening at The Orpheum, a quirky music venue hosting a range of genres from local artists to famous headliners.
Day 4

Goodbye Tampa!

  • Start the day off with a sweet treat at the Doughnut Plant, with their unique flavors like hibiscus and roasted chestnut.
  • Get some last minute souvenirs at the bustling Tampa Bay Farmers Market, with fresh produce and handmade crafts.
  • Take a relaxing walk through the lush Florida Botanical Gardens, with plenty of native flora and fauna to admire.
  • Grab a quick lunch at Datz, with their gourmet sandwiches and cheeky decor adding some fun to your meal.
  • End your trip on a high note with a scenic sunset cruise along the Hillsborough River, seeing Tampa's beauty from a different perspective.

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.

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