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Planning a trip to Tampa, Florida? You’ve come to the right place!
We’ve spent plenty of time exploring Tampa, from its historic streets to its waterfront adventures, and we’re here to help you make the most of your visit. This city is packed with things to do, whether you’re into history, wildlife, outdoor activities, or just soaking up the Florida sunshine.
From cruising the Riverwalk in a golf cart to spotting dolphins in Tampa Bay, we’ve rounded up the best experiences that showcase what makes this city so special. And the best part? These aren’t just generic attractions—we’re sharing the tours and activities that made our time in Tampa unforgettable. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Tampa!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Tampa was this Ybor City food tour! We tried everything from a proper Cuban sandwich to empanadas and devil crabs. All the tastings add up to a full meal, so come hungry! Plus, it’s a history and walking tour, so it’s like a 3-in-1 deal!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Tampa, Florida
- 1. Cruise around Tampa on a sightseeing golf cart tour
- 2. Taste your way around the city
- 3. Discover Tampa’s harbors on a history cruise
- 4. Spot dolphins on a sightseeing cruise
- 5. Spend an afternoon at the Florida Aquarium
- 6. Learn about the Historic Ybor City on a walking tour
- 7. Explore Tampa by Segway
- 8. Learn about Tampa’s haunted history on a ghost tour
- 9. Go on a private fishing charter in Tampa Bay
- 10. Enjoy a Tiki Boat cruise
- Where to Stay in Tampa, Florida
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Tampa, Florida
1. Cruise around Tampa on a sightseeing golf cart tour
- Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Time: 10 am, 1 pm, and 4 pm
- Highlights: Cruise around Tampa in a street-legal golf cart and discover local secrets, history, and culture, pass by the city’s most expensive neighborhoods, historic Ybor City, restaurants, and shops, stop for photo ops at the Tampa postcard mural
- Inclusions: Licensed driver/trained local tour guide, photographer, headsets, Bluetooth stereo, custom lighting, seats, tires, and rims, unlimited water
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Tampa has plenty to see, but covering it on foot is a rookie mistake that we learned the hard way after hours of walking and barely scratching the surface. The second time, we did it right—with this small-group golf cart tour led by our amazing guide, James.
Instead of aimlessly wandering, we cruised through the city in a comfortable, street-legal golf cart, covering way more than we ever could on foot.
We stopped for photos at the vibrant Tampa Postcard Mural, got a front-row seat to the city skyline along the Riverwalk, and even rolled through the historic streets of Ybor City, where the scent of Cuban cigars and fresh-baked bread filled the air. Seeing Tampa’s diverse neighborhoods up close made us appreciate just how much culture is packed into this city.
Our favorite stop was Ybor City. This historic neighborhood is the perfect mix of local culture, vibrant art, and all of the best bars and restaurants. Our guide even gave us some recommendations that we checked out later! We could have easily spent the whole afternoon here, soaking in the city’s energy.
James didn’t just show us around—he gave us insider recommendations on where to eat, drink, and explore later, too. Between the custom lighting, Bluetooth speakers, and comfy seats, this was sightseeing done right. And we aren’t the only ones who think so—check out over one thousand 5-star reviews here to see why this tour is likely to sell out!
Secure your spot on this popular golf cart tour here!
2. Taste your way around the city
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 12:30 pm (not available Sunday)
- Highlights: Explore the Ybor City area of Tampa on foot during this food tour, up to six food and drink tastings that add up to a meal, hear about Ybor City history as you walk Tampa
- Inclusions: Guide, food tastings, drink tastings
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Attention foodies! Dining in Ybor City is a gamble—some spots serve authentic Cuban sandwiches and hand-rolled cigars, while others cater more to the late-night crowd than foodies. That’s why we opted for this historic Ybor City food tour instead.
Our guide, Surch, led us through the heart of Tampa’s most famous neighborhood, making sure we tasted the best bites while learning about the city’s unique past.
We started at the statue of Vincente Martinez-Ybor—the man who built Ybor City’s cigar empire—before heading off to sample everything from freshly baked Cuban bread to the kind of devil crabs you’ll be dreaming about long after the tour ends.
The empanadas were another highlight, packed with rich, savory fillings and wrapped in a perfectly flaky crust. And, of course, no Ybor City food experience would be complete without a proper Cuban sandwich—crispy, melty, and so good we considered ordering another!
One of the most unexpected stops was Jose Marti Park. It’s a small, unassuming slice of land, but it’s technically owned by Cuba, making it one of the few places in the U.S. where you can set foot on Cuban soil without a passport!
Between the history, the food, and Surch’s effortless way of keeping our group engaged, this tour was a win. Just make sure to come hungry because it’s a lot of food!
Book our favorite Tampa tour here and eat your way through Ybor City!
3. Discover Tampa’s harbors on a history cruise
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 12:30 pm and 4 pm
- Highlights: Learn about Tampa’s history on a cruise, see the real-life pirate ship known as Gabriella up close, take in views of million-dollar homes, popular museums, and the famous ‘Plant Hotel’ as you listen to expert commentary about the city’s rich past
- Inclusions: History cruise, bottled water, soda/pop
- Rating: 4.3 stars (check 700+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Tampa’s waterfront is beautiful from the land, but seeing it from the water while uncovering the city’s fascinating history was next level. Instead of reading plaques or wandering through museums, we let the stories come to life on this relaxing history cruise—where pirate lore, millionaire mansions, and Tampa’s evolution all unfolded right before our eyes.
From the moment we stepped aboard, our guide, Mark, made the experience unforgettable. His knowledge of Tampa’s past went far beyond the basics, and even locals on board were learning things they’d never heard before.
As we sailed past the historic Plant Hotel, popular museums, and stunning harborside estates, Mark wove together tales of Spanish explorers, booming industries, and the rise of this once-small outpost into the fastest-growing city in Florida. We even got up close and personal with some pretty big Pelicans.
One of our favorite sights was the pirate ship “Gabriella,” floating right there in the harbor. Between that and the surprising pirate history of Tampa, we got more than just a scenic cruise—it was a story-filled journey through time. Plus, with light refreshments included and plenty of time for photos, this was as relaxing as it was informative.
If you want to see a different side of Tampa while enjoying a breezy ride on the water, this history cruise is a must. Just be sure to ask your guide, “What’s a pirate beard in Tampa?” The answer might surprise you!
Reserve this private history cruise, and don’t pay until 24 hours before you go!
4. Spot dolphins on a sightseeing cruise
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 11 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: See dolphins and other marine wildlife on a guided cruise along Tampa Bay and learn how they thrive in one of the nation’s most diverse seaports
- Inclusions: Sightseeing cruise, professional guide, live commentary on board, bottled water/soda
- Rating: 4 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s nothing like seeing dolphins in the wild, but trying to spot them on your own? That’s hit or miss. Instead of hoping for a lucky glimpse, we joined this dolphin cruise along Tampa Bay, where the captain knew exactly where to find them—and got us closer than we ever expected.
From the moment we left the dock, the views were incredible. We cruised past Tampa’s waterfront mansions and into one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the country. It was the perfect mix of city skyline and untouched nature.
We kept our eyes on the water, scanning for movement, and before long, we saw them—a pod of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, surfacing and playing just feet from the boat! Some even swam alongside us, riding the wake like they were putting on a show. It felt like something straight out of a nature documentary
The experience didn’t stop there. As we made our way back, we spotted birds, fish, and even a manatee, all while learning more about Tampa’s history, thriving port, and unique marine ecosystem.
And thanks to Captain Marc’s sharp eye and endless knowledge, we didn’t miss a thing. He knew exactly where to look, spotting wildlife before we even had a chance, and kept us entertained with fascinating facts and stories that made the bay come alive.
If you’re looking for a relaxing, family-friendly adventure with guaranteed dolphin sightings, this cruise was worth every minute!
Learn more and secure this Tampa Bay dolphin cruise here!
5. Spend an afternoon at the Florida Aquarium
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
- Highlights: Learn about more than 15,000 sea creatures at the Florida Aquarium in downtown Tampa, enjoy live animal encounters and a complete program schedule daily, hands-on experience with rays in a 5,000-gallon touch pool, and much more
- Inclusions: Aquarium entry ticket, infants 0-2 are free
- Rating: 4.3 stars (check 600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Some aquariums feel like a series of fish tanks lined up in a row—interesting for a few minutes, but not exactly thrilling. This Florida Aquarium experience is nothing like that. Instead of just looking at sea life through glass, we walked through lush wetlands, touched stingrays, and stood face-to-face with sharks in a massive coral reef habitat.
We started by walking the Wetlands Trail, where we passed gator-filled waters and watched otters play along the riverbanks. Then came Stingray Beach, a hands-on touch pool where we reached in to feel the smooth, gliding stingrays and even spotted white-spotted bamboo sharks. Seeing these creatures up close rather than through the glass was a completely unique experience!
One of the most mesmerizing exhibits was the Coral Reef Gallery, a 500,000-gallon habitat teeming with sea turtles, Goliath groupers, and graceful sharks. Watching the reef ecosystem in motion felt like stepping into a different world!
We also loved Waves of Wonder, where jellyfish pulsed like tiny alien spacecraft, and a Pacific octopus showed off its intelligence as it changed colors and moved through its exhibit.
Beyond just a fun visit, the Florida Aquarium is a nonprofit dedicated to marine conservation. Admission helps support animal care, rescue efforts, and coral restoration—so every visit makes a difference. If you want to experience an aquarium that feels like diving into the ocean, this is one stop you won’t want to miss!
Secure your visit here and dive into an unforgettable marine adventure!
6. Learn about the Historic Ybor City on a walking tour
- Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Time: 11 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Walking tour in Ybor City (origin of the classic Cuban sandwich), dive into the history of the classic sandwich, the cigars, and the Cuban culture still thriving in the community today, great tour for foodies to discover popular Cuban restaurants
- Inclusions: Award-winning guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 580+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Ybor City is a time capsule of Cuban culture, cigar-making, and the Cuban sandwich, but without the backstory, you’d miss half the magic. That’s why we took this Ybor City walking tour with Charlie, a fifth-generation resident who seems to know every street, every story, and probably everyone in the neighborhood!
We started at The Cuban Club, stepping onto the only Cuban-owned land in America, before wandering through the historic streets as Charlie painted a picture of Ybor’s past. From the cigar factories that once made this the “Cigar Capital of the World” to the immigrant communities that shaped its culture, the history here runs deep.
Of course, food played a huge role, too, and we got the full scoop on the heated debate over where the Cuban sandwich really originated. Charlie also pointed out the best Cuban restaurants in town, so we knew exactly where to come back later for the real deal.
With plenty of stops at local landmarks, this tour was a deep dive into the soul of Ybor City. Just make sure you wear comfortable shoes—it packs a ton of history into every stop, and you won’t want to miss a thing. And if you think you know where the Cuban sandwich was really invented, this tour just might change your mind!
Grab a spot on this Ybor City walking tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Explore Tampa by Segway
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore Tampa on a Segway during this guided tour, see the Amalie Arena, ride on the Tampa Riverwalk, follow the Hillsborough River to Curtis Hixon Park, and learn about the city from your tour guide
- Inclusions: Two-hour guided Segway Tour of Tampa, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 370+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Tampa has plenty to see, but exploring under the blazing Florida sun can turn any adventure into a sweaty struggle. We’ve done the long walks before—soaking in the sights while also soaking through our shirts. This time, we skipped the heat exhaustion and hopped on this Segway tour instead, cruising through the city with the breeze in our faces.
Our guide, Brian, was patient, knowledgeable, and great with first-timers. Before we hit the streets, he walked us through the basics and gave us time to practice turning, stopping, and picking up speed.
Once we had the hang of it, we were off, cruising past Amalie Arena, zipping onto the Tampa Riverwalk, and following the Hillsborough River to Curtis Hixon Park. The skyline and waterfront views were unbeatable, and we stopped at just the right spots to snap Insta-worthy photos and take it all in.
We also cruised by the University of Tampa, with its distinctive minarets standing out against the horizon. It was hard to believe this grand, historic building was once a luxury hotel!
What made this tour even better? The small group size meant we got VIP treatment, and Brian’s stories brought Tampa’s history to life in a way that was anything but boring—it was sightseeing leveled up. If you want a fun, fast, and unforgettable way to explore Tampa, this is the way to do it!
For an unforgettable Tampa adventure, book this Segway tour here!
8. Learn about Tampa’s haunted history on a ghost tour
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: 8 pm
- Highlights: Hear about Tampa’s haunted history at one of the spookiest times, see the Tampa Theatre, Old City Hall, and other landmarks and streets where the true stories are sure to give you chills
- Inclusions: Professional guide, intensely researched true stories of haunted history, documented accounts of historic hauntings
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 120+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Tampa’s history is fascinating—but let’s be honest, some history tours can feel too textbook. That’s why we ditched the dry facts and signed up for this haunted history tour instead. This wasn’t just a walk through the city; it was a dive into Tampa’s darkest past, and let’s just say… we won’t be walking some of these streets the same way again.
Our guide, Dalton, was a natural storyteller who didn’t just share legends but backed them up with real history. We started at the Tampa Theatre, where eerie noises and shadowy figures have been reported for decades. The Mediterranean Revival architecture was impressive, but knowing the place might be haunted made it even more intriguing!
From there, we made our way to the Floridan Palace Hotel, once the tallest building in Florida, with a past filled with war, the Great Depression, and mafia ties—not to mention the spirits still lingering inside.
The creepiest stop was a downtown intersection where the Old Florida House Hotel once stood. During a Yellow Fever outbreak, it became a quarantine zone, and while the building is long gone, some say the restless spirits never left.
Between the chilling stories, haunted landmarks, and Dalton’s deep knowledge, this tour was unforgettable. If you’re up for a mix of history and the supernatural, this is the one to book! Just don’t be surprised if you leave with a few ghost stories of your own.
Reserve this haunted history tour here and get flexible payment options!
9. Go on a private fishing charter in Tampa Bay
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 8 am – 12 pm (confirm time with provider in advance)
- Highlights: Fish near some of Tampa’s most beautiful islands, creeks, and sandbars, keep any legal species of fish for dinner
- Inclusions: Private fishing charter, all fishing equipment, fishing licenses, bottled water, cooler with ice
- Rating: 5 stars (check 50+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Don’t waste your time (or your luck) trying to fish Tampa Bay on your own. If it’s anything like our first attempt, you’ll spend hours under the sun, cast after cast, only to come home exhausted and empty-handed. That’s why we booked this private fishing charter—and let’s just say, this time, we had no trouble reeling them in.
From the moment we met at the marina, it was clear that Captain Jason was the real deal. A Florida native with a U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license, he knows these waters like the back of his hand.
We started by catching live bait before heading out to Tampa’s beautiful inshore waters, passing islands, creeks, and sandbars along the way. Once we dropped our lines, it didn’t take long before we started hooking snook, trout, redfish, and even a few sharks!
One of the best parts? This was a private charter, so it was just our group. There were no overcrowded boats or waiting for turns! Just us and a few friends having a great time.
Jason worked hard to keep us on the action, giving tips and making sure we had the best shot at landing big fish. He filleted them up right at the dock, and by the time we were done, we had enough fresh fish for weeks of incredible dinners—and memories to last even longer.
If you want a true Tampa fishing experience with an expert, this charter is a fantastic choice. Just check out the 5-star reviews here to see why travelers rave about this tour!
Don’t miss out—book this private fishing charter here!
10. Enjoy a Tiki Boat cruise
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 11 am to 9:45 pm
- Highlights: Cruise the Hillsborough River on a floating tiki bar, bring your own drinks with you, pass skyscrapers and downtown Tampa as you party
- Inclusions: Private tour, cooler with ice, Bluetooth radio
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Tampa’s nightlife is legendary, but packed bars, long lines, and overpriced drinks? Not exactly the party vibe we were looking for. So, we took the celebration to the water with this tiki boat cruise—no crowded clubs, no expensive tabs, just good drinks, great music, and the best views in the city.
From the moment Captain Dylan welcomed us aboard and we set off down the Hillsborough River, it felt like we’d found Tampa’s ultimate floating happy hour. We cranked up our playlist on the Bluetooth speaker, kicked back under the tiki roof, and let the breeze and city views set the perfect mood.
With our favorite drinks on ice in the provided coolers, we cruised past the Tampa Riverwalk, the Straz Center, and the shimmering downtown skyline. At one point, we even passed Amalie Arena and joked about tailgating on the water before a game. If only we could have floated straight into the stadium, drinks in hand!
But the best part was spotting a dolphin swimming alongside the tiki bar—definitely not something you’d see from a crowded bar.
Between the unbeatable views, the freedom to bring our own drinks, and Captain Bob’s laid-back energy, this was, hands down, the best way to kick back in Tampa. The best part? It’s a private tour, so it’s just your group, your music, and your perfect party on the water!
Check availability and reserve this private tiki bar tour here!
Where to Stay in Tampa, Florida
Now that you’ve got your Tampa itinerary sorted with plenty of things to do, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re after sleek luxury, something comfortable and central, or a more affordable option that still has the essentials, there’s a great hotel waiting for you.
To help you choose, we’ve pulled together top picks for every budget, so you can relax and enjoy everything this coastal gem has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
Set in the heart of Tampa’s vibrant Water Street district, The Tampa EDITION is a sleek 5-star urban resort that redefines contemporary luxury. This design-forward hotel features elegant, light-filled suites, a rooftop infinity pool, a world-class spa, and multiple destination restaurants—plus it’s just steps from Amalie Arena and downtown attractions. With lush garden terraces, exceptional service, and chic Mediterranean dining, it’s a serene escape wrapped in city energy.
Rates typically range from $600–$2,000+ USD per night, depending on your suite and season. Explore more and book your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk is a great mid-range pick in downtown Tampa, just steps from the scenic Riverwalk and the Straz Center. Rooms are spacious and come with flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and mini-fridges—plus some offer lovely city views. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center, and a convenient free shuttle service within 2 miles. There’s also an on-site restaurant open all day.
Rates typically range from $160–$300 USD per night. Check availability and prices on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay in Tampa, Hotel South Tampa & Suites is a perfect choice! Just 6 miles from the airport and minutes from downtown, this hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with handy extras like a microwave, fridge, and coffee maker. Guests love the heated outdoor pool, 24-hour gym, and free breakfast with hot options. The friendly staff and easy parking make it a convenient pick for travelers who want comfort without splurging.
Rooms start at around $115 USD per night. Head over to Booking.com to reserve your spot!
For more options, see all of Tampa’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
I hope our guide to Tampa has you excited for your time here! This is such a fun city to visit and with such a great variety of activities, there’s no way you’re going to get bored.
If you’re planning on traveling around the U.S., have a look through all our USA blogs here. Or I picked out a few related ones below, including our other favorite cities in Florida, that could come in handy!
10 Best Things to do in Orlando, Florida
How to Spend THREE Days in Savannah, Georgia: 3-Day Itinerary