Things to see and do in Tampa

We are cruising out of Tampa in January on the carnival paradise and would love to hear some suggestions on things to do in Tampa! We love exploring new cities and walking around downtown, trying local food, visiting parks, urban neighborhoods, etc.

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Riverwalk https://thetampariverwalk.com/

Bern's Steakhouse (reservation highly recommended) https://bernssteakhouse.com/

For me this is a must do anytime in Tampa. More than dinner it can be a night of entertainment. Tour the kitchen and the wine cellar and enjoy dessert in the sep' dining room for just that course. Arguably the largest wine list of any rest' in the world.

Columbia Restaurant (reservation highly recommended) Main facility is in YBOR city BUT there is a 'cafe' spinoff in the Tampa Bay History Center which is on Riverwalk …. they don't have the full menu but the highlights are here and much easier to get in and a better view!)

http://www.columbiarestaurant.com/

try the Sangria mixed tableside

Ybor City (at night) … not much here during the day but comes alive at night … mostly bars and such. Don't venture too far off the one street of entertainment. You can get here via the trolley system ….

Beaches of Clearwater - Tampa is 'inland' .. if you have a car and want the beach travel west to the Gulf.

Do not be enticed by 'Channelside' - this waterside venue next to the cruise port died several years ago and is on the verge of being torn down. Don't waste your time unless looking for Hooter's

HINT: There is a FREE ride service in the downtown area. Works like UBER 'cept it is FREE.

https://www.tampasdowntown.com/getting-around/free-ride-service/

(last I checked did NOT go to YBOR)

p.s. Jan can be cold ……. plan accordingly. Also OCCASIONALLY Tampa Bay sees heavy fog which can delay a cruise ship arrival departure DAYS ….. yes DAYS …...

^^ Good list, but wanted to correct statement that Channelside is being torn down. It's actually going through a complete overhaul/modernization.

https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/local-news/new-plans-revealed-for-channelside-bay-plaza-in-tampa

The Tampa Aquarium is also nice, but look to see if Groupon has any offers as it's a bit pricey.

Busch Gardens is also great to visit in January as temps are much cooler and typically dry.

Great place to eat out by the gulf/beach is Whiskey Joe's, check their website and they may have entertainment at their beach bar.

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In January go see the manatees! Tampa power has walkways set up for viewing because they hang out in the warm waters from the plant. Really a nice area

Fun and free.

https://www.tampaelectric.com/company/mvc/

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^^ Good list, but wanted to correct statement that Channelside is being torn down. It's actually going through a complete overhaul/modernization.

 

https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/local-news/new-plans-revealed-for-channelside-bay-plaza-in-tampa

 

The Tampa Aquarium is also nice, but look to see if Groupon has any offers as it's a bit pricey.

 

Busch Gardens is also great to visit in January as temps are much cooler and typically dry.

 

Great place to eat out by the gulf/beach is Whiskey Joe's, check their website and they may have entertainment at their beach bar.

 

 

 

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The video shows major portions being demolished

and highlights HOOTER'S

I missed something???????

Henry B. Plant Museum!

The video shows major portions being demolished

 

and highlights HOOTER'S

 

I missed something???????

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Well, you might read the text in the link to start.

 

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I did

Thanks for the suggestions guys! It has been very helpful! I’m excited to see the manatees and do the river walk.

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While browsing I ran into the Tampa Bay Fun Boats Website:

https://tampabayfunboat.com/,

highlighting dolphins and occasional manatees. We will be in Tampa in September doing a B2B (Trans-Atlantic to a 5 night Caribbean). Has anyone had any experience with this tour operator? I was thinking this might be a nice diversion to get off the ship for a few hours on our turnaround day.