Tampa

There’s more than meets the eye in Tampa. This lively Florida city may be best known for Busch Gardens, its sports teams and its proximity to powdery beaches, but stray off the beaten path for a deeply rewarding experience. Partake in world-class art museums, burgeoning live music and culinary scenes, and the revitalized Riverwalk pathway — lined with cafés, landscaped parks and public art — while here.

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QUICK GUIDE

WHEN TO GO


Tampa Bay is home to two international airports: Tampa International Airport and (much smaller) St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. Aside from renting a car or using a rideshare app, SuperShuttle is one of the easiest ways to get to and from the airport. Travelers arriving from certain cities in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and the Northeast U.S. can opt to do so via Amtrak.

NEED TO KNOW

Visas: Travelers from outside the United States will need a valid passport, as well as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) eligibility or a full visa.
Money: Currency is in U.S. dollars. ATMs are widely available.
Travel Health: Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should check for vaccination, proof of negative COVID-19 test and face mask requirements, as well as any travel restrictions, before planning their trip. The Florida Department of Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are the best resources for up-to-date information and guidance. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

GETTING AROUND

Getting Here: Tampa Bay is home to two international airports: Tampa International Airport and (much smaller) St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. Aside from renting a car or using a rideshare app, SuperShuttle is one of the easiest ways to get to and from the airport. Travelers arriving from certain cities in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and the Northeast U.S. can opt to do so via Amtrak.
Getting Around: The most convenient way to get around is via rental car or rideshare. Or, for a charming, only-in-Tampa adventure, hop aboard the TECO Line Streetcar, which connects downtown to Ybor City and the Channel District.

LOCAL INTEL

Local Lingo: English is the primary language spoken in Tampa, followed by Spanish. Note that people say “SoHo” for South Howard Avenue and “Ybor” for Ybor City, two of the most buzzworthy areas of the city.
Must-Have Apps: UberLyftHopr (Coast Bike Share)
Insider Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, check out Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center, where you’ll see the gentle giants basking in the warm waters of, yes, the local power plant.