5 Days in Tampa: Culture, Nature, and Fun!

Explore the Sunshine City with a trip to Tampa.

22 April 2023

A trip to Tampa, United States offers a unique mix of culture, outdoor activities, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy exploring historic neighborhoods, visiting world-class museums, and strolling along the scenic Riverwalk. From amusement parks to nature preserves, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this diverse city on the Gulf Coast.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Charm City

  • Check into The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa and unpack your bags
  • Head to Armature Works, a reimagined mixed-use space with local eateries and stunning riverfront views
  • Stroll through historic Ybor City, a once-booming cigar community turned hip nightlife district
Day 2

Urban Escapes

  • Start the day with a cup of joe from Foundation Coffee Co., a popular local roaster
  • Admire the street art murals in the city's hipster haven of Seminole Heights
  • Visit the sparkling waters and chic boutiques of Hyde Park Village
Day 3

Parks and Recreation

  • Head to the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic path along the Hillsborough River that passes by museums, parks and restaurants
  • Explore beloved Busch Gardens, a sprawling amusement park and zoo
  • Stroll through the lush gardens at the stunning Tampa Bay Hotel, a National Historic Landmark
Day 4

Sights and Sounds

  • Take a tour of the Tampa Theatre, a gorgeous 1920s movie palace with a storied past
  • Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, with exhibits that explore technology, space and marine life
  • Dine in style at Bern's Steak House, a James Beard award-winning eatery with a vast wine collection
Day 5

Farewell Tampa

  • Spend the morning at the beautiful Clearwater Beach, with sugar-white sand and turquoise waters
  • Treat your taste buds to a flight of beers at Cigar City Brewing, an award-winning local brewery
  • End your trip with a sunset dinner at Ulele, a stunning restaurant with a unique menu inspired by Florida's indigenous people.

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

Tampa Thrills and Family Delights

A family-friendly trip to Tampa, United States offers an array of exciting activities for all ages. Explore the captivating wonders of the Florida Aquarium, where kids can get up close with marine life and even swim with gentle sharks. Visit the famous Busch Gardens theme park, known for its thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live shows, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family.

Tampa Tango: A Thrilling 4-Day Family Adventure

Tampa, located on the scenic Gulf Coast of Florida, offers an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip. With its beautiful sandy beaches, exciting theme parks like Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, and a range of family-oriented attractions such as the Florida Aquarium and Lowry Park Zoo, there's no shortage of fun-filled activities for everyone. Explore the vibrant downtown area, indulge in delicious seafood, and create lasting memories in Tampa's warm and welcoming atmosphere

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.

Tampa: A Thrilling Family Adventure on a Budget

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.