The City of Tampa is only a bridge (Howard Frankland, I-275) away from where I reside. My family and I pay frequent visits to Downtown Tampa for there’s plenty to explore and splurge on.
Downtown Tampa is fun-filled, full of life, and equipped with Art all around. What makes Downtown worth a visit are the major attractions & interestingly, most of them are located at Hop-Skip distance.
The ease of arriving at the destinations via public transport or Pirate taxi makes it worth the visit. Feels like I’m living here since ages although it’s hardly been a few months. Downtown Area renders-
-One of The Finest restaurants to dine-in.
-Best Local Cruises to experience.
-Free Public Places to access.
This article will let you know everything about Downtown Tampa, & I hope by the end of this article, you’ll probably end up planning a Trip to Tampa Bay Area. So, here we go. Let us start with the major attractions. I’m gonna list them in random order, however, I have my favorites. (Secretly!)
- Tampa River Walk- is where you’ll find all locals as well as tourists, walking, jogging, bicycling basically just Relaxing by the river. Walk along the Hillsborough River appreciating the lovely weather. To my notion, anytime is a good time to be here!
- Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park- Some things in life must be free like this Waterfront Park where one can spend quality time in a pet-friendly and family-friendly setting without having to worry about anything else. Also, you can see locals/tourists kayaking in the River beside, the park offers Kids Play Area too. Let the kids be kids. Whether you’re on a Solo Trip or with family, you wouldn’t wanna miss out on this neighborhood.
- FMoPA- Love Photography? Love Exhibitions? Florida Museum of Photographic Arts is an Iconic Cube shape building exhibiting alluring Photographic arts from national/international Artists. You can check out their calendar for upcoming exhibitions. Most importantly, this facility is entirely Wheelchair Accessible.
- Public Transport- So, in order to explore Downtown Tampa, you can either-
- Be Environment-friendly and Rent a City Bike. (Here)
- Be Penny-wise, ditch the traffic and avail the Electronic Street Car (absolutely free). A great choice for people who live, work or visit Downtown. Each streetcar is wheelchair-accessible.
- Be Smart and take the Pirate Water Taxi (hop on hop off). With an all-day pass, you can arrive at major restaurants, historical buildings, Hotels. Need I say more?
Fun Fact- TECO Streetcar connects D**owntown Tampa to Channelside, Amalie Arena, and further to Ybor City.
- Accommodation- If you wish to splurge and pamper yourself with the utmost luxury or you wanna be budget-friendly, you won’t be disappointed. During your visit, you can choose to stay in hotels based on your preferences around downtown like the Embassy Suites or Courtyard. Mostly kitchenettes, these hotels provide complimentary services like a free shuttle. Budget accommodations available too, depending on which time of the year you’re visiting the Bay Area.
I know what you’ve been thinking now! Thinking about food?
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Where to eat? - Should you love International Cuisines, looking for comfort food, or something healthy but delicious like a protein bowl during your trip, you wouldn’t be any happier being here. Downtown Tampa has tons of amazing Restaurants, Bakeries, Cafeteria, Local Bar, New York Style Pizzeria, Gastrobar, Riverside Dining with exceptional views.
Google maps can help you further tracking down your favorite international cuisines. More attractions in Downtown Tampa/Tampa Bay Area are- -
Amelia Arena (Indoor setting hosting pro hockey, concert & more)
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Glazer Children’s Museum (Autism Friendly)
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Florida Aquarium (Accessible & AutismFriendly)
P.S- You might be surprised to know Tampa is an Autism Friendly City, accommodating individuals touched by Autism & their families.
Check this handy list for your future Vacation. Hope it helps!
Also, do not hesitate to let me know if you have any questions/suggestions/recommendations.
• All images have been captured using iPhone XR.
. We are going to Disney World to celebrate my grandson’s 4th birthday 
