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Start your adventure by exploring the city's rich cultural heritage at the Tampa Bay History Center, where interactive exhibits and artifacts showcase the region's fascinating history. Art enthusiasts will delight in the collection at the Tampa Museum of Art, featuring an impressive array of contemporary and classical works. Nearby, the Glazer Children's Museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for young learners.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Tampa Riverwalk is a must. Stroll along the scenic waterfront path, dotted with parks, public art installations, and picturesque views of the Hillsborough River.

Indulge in culinary delights and waterfront views at Armature Works and Sparkman Wharf, popular dining and entertainment destinations in the city. Or explore the bustling streets of Downtown Tampa, home to cultural landmarks, museums, and trendy boutiques. Don't forget to visit the charming Hyde Park neighborhood for its historic appeal and upscale dining options. For a taste of Tampa's most authentic culinary scene, explore the historic Ybor City district, known for its vibrant nightlife, Cuban and Latin American dining options, and rich cigar-making history.

Sports fans can catch a game at Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, or cheer on the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena during hockey season. At Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, you can catch a baseball game, too. This stadium has been home to the Tampa Bay Rays since 1998. As the day fades, hop on a sunset cruise along the Tampa Bay waterfront or unwind with a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of the University of South Florida Botanical Gardens.

And of course, no trip to Tampa is complete without a visit to Busch Gardens, an expansive theme park and zoo since the 1950s, featuring roller coasters, live entertainment, and exotic animal encounters.

Ahoy, Matey!

The first Gasparilla festival in the city was held over a century ago in 1904. Every year since then, locals come together for a pirate-themed party in the streets that includes a parade, live music, kid-friendly activities, and a boat procession.

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With a fitness center, heated outdoor pool, and free breakfast, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa East – Ybor City is a solid choice for those looking to stay within city limits. Experience comfort and convenience here, where you’ll be close to attractions like Ybor City’s Historic District, the Florida Aquarium, Tampa Riverwalk, Glazer Children’s Museum, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, and Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park.

Enjoy easy access to Busch Gardens and the University of South Florida from the centrally located Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa-USF-Busch Gardens. If you’re planning to hit the theme parks or have friends/family nearby at college, this is the hotel for you. The pet-friendly property has a pool, parking, and free breakfast for guests. It also offers a complimentary shuttle to and from Busch Gardens and Adventure Island as well as the Moffitt Cancer Center. Ask about discounted theme park tickets at the guest services desk.

If a stay at the beach is more your speed, take the bridge from Tampa to St. Petersburg and check in to the Holiday Inn Express & Suites St. Petersburg - Madeira Beach. With an outdoor pool, hot tub, a 24-hour fitness center, free breakfast, free parking, and a complimentary shuttle to the beach, it’s no wonder this one is a favorite for Florida travelers!

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Savor the flavors of Tampa at these culinary hotspots:

Dine in style at the Euro-inspired Oxford Exchange, an iconic venue that’s a unique blend of restaurant, bookstore, coffeehouse, and gift shop. At Bern’s Steakhouse, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience. The restaurant, open to diners since 1956, is known for its exceptional steaks and extensive wine selection. Delight in authentic Spanish cuisine and flamenco performances at Florida's oldest restaurant, Columbia Restaurant, which opened as Columbia Saloon in 1903 and then became a restaurant two years later.

For more dining options, explore the diverse food scene at restaurants like Predalina, Ponte, Rocca (which has a Michelin star), and more. Quench your thirst at popular watering holes like Ciro's, Gin Joint, and Mandarin Heights.

Description: Navigating Tampa is anything but complicated with convenient transportation options. Start your journey by hopping aboard the efficient and extensive public transit system provided by Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART). With bus routes covering the city and surrounding areas, getting around Tampa has never been easier. Walking and biking are also solid options, depending on the neighborhood you’re in. For those looking to explore at their own pace, renting a car is a good choice, especially if you plan to venture beyond the city limits.

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Discover Tampa's hidden gems, from quaint neighborhoods to pristine beaches. Nearby cities worth exploring further include Clearwater, Indian Rocks, John’s Pass in Madeira Beach, and St. Petersburg, all just half an hour away by car.

In the artsy, laid-back town of St. Petersburg, you’ll want to visit the Dali Museum to explore the surreal world of Salvador Dali's art and brilliant mind. Or grab a coffee and a freshly boiled and baked bagel at Pete's Bagels and General Store before heading to the beach. If you swing by Indian Rocks Beach, visit Indian Rocks Historical Museum or Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve. Spend a sun-soaked day enjoying a less crowded, serene shoreline or try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing.

Browse quaint boutiques and souvenir shops for unique finds, book a fishing charter, or join a guided dolphin watching tour on a day trip to John’s Pass. If reptile encounters sound exciting, the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center features gators, other reptiles, amphibians, and lots of hands-on experiences. In Clearwater, learn how injured dolphins and sea turtles are rehabilitated at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Or catch a baseball game at Spectrum Field.