Tampa: Best Hotels, Restaurants, Attractions

Tampa is a dynamic and vibrant city, brimming with unique Floridian culture, great summery vibes, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place to visit if you're looking for a fun-filled getaway with family, friends, or a loved one.

From exploring the vibrant multicultural food scene at the many great restaurants to spending quality time with the family at some of the city's best attractions, Tampa is a great destination for everyone looking for a sunshine-filled break.

Best Hotels in Tampa

If you're looking for the best hotels in Tampa you'll be glad to find an incredibly diverse range of accommodation visitors can enjoy no matter their travel style. For those looking for a luxurious getaway in an upscale hotel with rooftop pools and gourmet dining options, there's plenty of choice. Should you be looking for a business-centric spot with 24-hour fitness centers and meeting facilities, there are plenty of those too, and if you're just looking for a simple budget option for a weekend away, then you're also in luck!

There is a great range of accommodation options no matter why you're in town; from family vacations to romantic weekends away, you can find the best hotel in Tampa right here.

JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, Downtown Tampa

Situated in the downtown area of Tampa, Florida, JW Marriott Tampa Water Street is a great hotel choice for those looking to be right in the heart of the city. Close to both Amalie Arena and Raymond James Stadium, the hotel's convenient location truly sets set apart.

The accommodation offers a great range of facilities including free bike rental, private parking, an on-site fitness center, and even a beautiful long outdoor swimming pool. Guests can also enjoy grubbing drinks and food at a variety of on-site locations including Beacon, the highest public rooftop cocktail bar and dining destination in the city on the 27th floor; Six Tampa, an eclectic modern American restaurant overlooking the pool; Driftlight Lounge, an innovative lobby bar serving up small plates with local ingredients and handcrafted cocktails; Turntable, a grab-and-go spot for American cuisine; Driftlight Steakhouse, their signature upscale dining experience; and JW Market, a small on-site coffee shop.

The rooms at this hotel are wonderfully modern and come fully equipped with a great range of amenities to make your stay as convenient and comfortable as possible.

Red Roof PLUS+ & Suites, University Square, Tampa

Situated in University Square just a five-minute drive from Busch Gardens theme park, Red Roof PLUS+ & Suites is a great hotel for anyone looking for a truly Floridian vibe during their stay.

With great amenities including free Wi-fi and an outdoor pool, as well as a full service business center for guests to use, this hotel is an affordable choice for anyone staying in Tampa, and thanks to it's great location, makes an excellent option for families looking to explore the city.

Pets are also welcome at this hotel, and guests can enjoy a great range of in-room facilities to ensure their stay is convenient and comfortable, including a microwave, small refrigerator, coffee making facilities, and cable TV.

Hilton Tampa Downtown, Downtown Tampa

Located in the downtown area of Tampa, this outstanding Hilton Hotel is a short distance away from the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens and Adventure Island Water Park, the Tampa Convention Center, and the Tampa Museum of Art, making it a great place to stay for exploring the city.

One of the hotel's best features is its heated outdoor pool, located right on the rooftop, where guests can relax in the warm water, soak up the rays on a sun lounger. or even take a dip in the hot tub. There is also a great range of amenities on site including a 24-hour fitness center, a restaurant where guests can enjoy contemporary American cuisine, and a lounge serving light bites and cocktails.

The guest rooms all include free Wi-Fi access, an iPod docking station, and a 32-inch flat-screen cable TV. Should you wish to upgrade to a suite, you can also enjoy the use of a separate living area and bedroom.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Westshore, Tampa

Conveniently located near Tampa International Airport in the Westshore business district, SpringHill Suites by Marriot is a great place to stay, especially for visitors who plan on renting a car.

This all-suite hotel has a great range of amenities, including free airport shuttle services, a complimentary hot breakfast buffet, an onsite fitness center, and both an outdoor pool and hot tub.

All of the suites at this hotel are incredibly comfortable, and boast a great range of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay, including coffee-making equipment, microwaves, refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs. 

Ramada by Wyndham Tampa Airport, Westshore, Tampa

Another excellent hotel located just one mile from the airport for anyone choosing to rent a car during their stay in Tampa (or who plans to drive here), Is the outstanding Ramada by Wyndham Tampa Airport.

This gorgeous hotel provides free parking for all its guests, a 24-hour front desk, a free transfer service for those not bringing their car, a heated outdoor pool, and excellent international dining at the Royal Orchid Restaurant. Guests looking to stay active during their time away can also take advantage of the on-site fitness center.

Not only does that hotel have a great range of on-site facilities, but the guest rooms come fully equipped with all the amenities one could wish for too. From coffee-making equipment to cable TV, refrigerators, ironing facilities, and even alarm clocks, guests can truly feel like they're stepping into a home away from home at the Ramada by Wyndham.

Best Restaurants in Tampa

If you're looking for a vibrant dining scene, then Tampa has you covered. With a selection of innovative flavors from a variety of different cuisines, there's a culinary experience here to suit everyone.

Whether you're looking to spend the evening dining at an upscale restaurant for a special occasion, or simply hoping to grab a tasty bite during a day out exploring, this city has plenty to offer.

Rooster & The Till, Old Seminole Heights, Tampa

Situated in the northern area of Tampa, in Old Seminole Heights, Rooster & The Till is an award-winning tapas-style restaurant, renown for modern casual dining. As a recipient of the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand Award, this exciting restaurant is at the top of the list for many, so it's well worth booking in advance of your trip if you're hoping to secure a table.

With a rotating menu, this significant spot is famous for its creative small plates, including fan favorites such as the crispy Brussels Sprouts and roasted cauliflower, or more unique options such as the scallop crudo and ginger tofu dumplings. The great range of options at this restaurant is also something to be marvelled at, and those with dietary restrictions (gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, etc.) are also well cared to.

Oxford Exchange, University of Tampa, Tampa

Situated near the University of Tampa, somewhere between downtown and Hyde Park, is the outstanding experience that is Oxford Exchange. 

Whether this should be listed under this restaurant section, or down below with the attractions is up for debate, as Oxford Exchange is truly in a league of its own! Part shop,  part bookstore, and part restaurant, this magical, British spot is truly remarkable. 

If you're looking to enjoy an outstanding experience reminiscent of England, then be sure to book the Sunday Bruch ahead of your trip. This experience includes a traditional 'British Tea' style lunch, complete with sandwiches, scones, desserts, and, of course, tea! If you're happy to choose from the menu though, you'll be pleased to know that breakfast is served all day on weekends!

Zukku Sushi, Tampa Heights, Tampa

If you're looking for a central spot in Tampa serving up fish so fresh it's raw, look no further than this outstanding sushi spot. Famous amongst locals for having some of the best Sushi in the Tampa area, Zukku Sushi in Tampa is a small counter located inside the Heights Public Market at Armature Works, making it a great choice if you're looking for a handy grab-and-go spot.

Fans recommend trying the lobster volcano roll - a spicy combination of asparagus, crab mix, avocado, and tuna with a whole tempura fried lobster tail! Should you not fancy something spicy, there's even the option to customize your orders, with a make-your-own poke bowl or sushi burrito with your choice of toppings!

Ulele, Tampa Heights, Tampa

Situated along the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele is an outstanding spot famous for its Native American and Floridian fusion food. So if you're looking for a truly unique way to experience the Sunshine State using your tastebuds, this is the spot for you.

The interior of the restaurant is almost as jaw-dropping as the food itself, with a stunning barbacoa grill as the centerpiece, grilling up everything from oysters to burgers.

If you're looking for a true taste of Florida during your visit to Ulele, we recommend sampling the alligator hush puppies; a dish combining fresh alligator meat, jalapeños, country ham, and corn into one mouthwatering bite!

On Swann, Hyde Park, Tampa

If you're looking for some special occasion dining during your visit to Tampa, then be sure to visit the upscale On Swann, in Hyde Park. Serving up a seasonally rotating menu of delicious American cuisine, it's a great place to revisit time and time again to discover new and exciting specials and dishes.

There are plenty of long-standing favorites that remain on the menu though, from the pimento cheeseburger to the steak frites, so worry not about your favorite dish disappearing for good! Should you be visiting with friends, they offer a great selection of sharing boards (cheese, cured meats, and snacks) that go down a treat alongside On Swann's selection of craft cocktails.

Best Attractions in Tampa

Tampa is a vibrant city with plenty to do for visitors of any age. No matter your interest, there's something for everyone here, so whether you're hoping to explore its rich history, enjoy a day out on the water, or simply have a fun-filled family day out, the possibilities are endless in Tampa!

Sparkman Wharf, Channel and Downtown, Tampa

Situated across Tampa's Channel and Downtown areas, Sparkman Wharf is an outstanding multi-purpose plaza simply bustling with life. This relaxed stretch of shops and restaurants, all built within quirky, cute shipping containers, is the perfect spot to relax on an afternoon.

Whether you want to grab a snack and relax in the gardens while listening to live music, have some fun bowling, or enjoy a pop-up event or family activity, there's always something happening here, so be sure to check the website before your visit to see what's on! The area is open every day between 11 am and 9 pm and until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Sparkman Wharf is also easy to get to by walking or biking along the Tampa Riverfront, there's plenty of street parking and nearby garages available for use, and if you plan on traveling by public transport, the free TECO Line Streetcar stops just opposite.

Henry B. Plant Museum, University of Tampa, Tampa

Located near the University of Tampa, this hotel-turned-museum is home to a range of antiques, architecture, and Floridian history. This National Historic Landmark is housed in the former Victorian-era Tampa Bay Hotel, which is actually situated on the University of Tampa campus, and offers a glimpse into the world during the Victorian period, and the life of railroad magnate Henry B. Plant.

Guests can explore some of the permanent exhibits such as the original rooms which have been reconstructed with furniture and artifacts from the Victorian era and temporary exhibits. Should you be visiting around Christmas time the museum hosts a Victorian Christmas stroll during which the rooms are decorated with nineteenth-century themes and antique holiday decor.

There's also plenty to do around the museum, including the aforementioned Oxford Exchange, located just across the West Kennedy Boulevard

Boat Tours, Old Tampa Bay / Hillsborough Bay, Tampa

One of the greatest things about Tampa is its beautiful waterfront location and gorgeous weather, so why not make the most of this during your trip by heading out on an exciting boat ride across the water? There is a great selection of tour companies and types available at both Old Tampa Bay and Hillsborough Bay, so be sure to do thorough research before your trip to ensure you select the right one for you.

Some of the most popular options include dinner cruises, sunset sails, half-day trips, full-moon tours, and even exciting dolphin cruises that set sail twice a day and offer the opportunity to spot gorgeous bottle-nose dolphins, local bird species, and, if you're lucky, even sea turtles.

Should you not want to take a cruise, there are plenty of companies around both harbors offering short boat rentals, without the need for a boating license, as well as paddleboards and kayaks.

Ybor City, Tampa

Pronounced "ee-bore," this historic northeast Tampa neighborhood has also been referred to as the "Cigar Capital of the World" since the early 20th century, thanks to it being a bustling, lively hub, known best for hand-rolled cigars.

If you're looking to explore a unique aspect of Floridian culture, head down to Ybor City, to explore bustling streets with delectable South American restaurants, lively bars, and pubs and even take a tour of the last remaining cigar factory in the neighborhood. Many people enjoy visiting here during the day to indulge in some mouth-watering, authentic Cuban cuisine, and dine at Florida's oldest restaurant, Colombia Restaurant; whereas others feel the area is at its best after dark, when the vibrant nightlife and exciting culture is at its peak.

Glazer Children's Museum, Downtown Tampa

If your trip to Tampa is a family getaway, you may be wondering how best to keep the little ones entertained. Thankfully, Tampa is an extremely family-friendly city with plenty to do for all ages, and there is no shortage of options when it comes to kid-friendly days out.

One of the best options for young children is the Glazer Children's Museum, filled with interactive and educational exhibits for children to learn about the human body, math, science, and art.

Kids can explore a range of themed areas, from the Twinkle Stars Theater to the Vet Clinic, and even a mini Publix, and take on healthcare roles at the St. Joseph's Children's Hospital exhibit. Whether their dream is to meet a giant dinosaur (Big John, the world's largest triceratops!) or learn about the origin of various foods down at the Farm, the range of exhibits here provides something for every young learner.