Known for its lively neighborhoods, fun annual events, and waterfront location, Tampa has something for everyone. No matter what you want to do or where you want to stay in the area, Tampa condo rentals make for the perfect home away from home during your trip.
Climate
Tampa’s climate is borderline tropical, with hot, humid summers and cool, dry winters. Temperatures climb to over 90 degrees in the summer months, while winter temperatures top out around 70 degrees. June, July, and August see the most rain, but they’re also the sunniest months.
Transit
Most visitors fly into the Tampa International Airport and rent a car to explore the city. Depending on the location of the Tampa vacation rentals you’re considering, taking a taxi or streetcar might be a convenient option, as might chartering a water taxi along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa.
Things to Do
Learn about Tampa’s fascinating history at the Ybor City Museum State Park, which features exhibits highlighting the city’s thriving cigar business in a historic neighborhood bakery building. Also worth a visit is the Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in what was once the majestic Tampa Bay Hotel, a large resort that welcomed guests like Teddy Roosevelt. The museum now hosts beautiful gardens and exhibits on Gilded Age tourism in Tampa.
If you have kids in tow, be sure to visit the Florida Aquarium, home to over 20,000 species like stingrays and sea turtles, and the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center, where you’ll get up close and personal with the adorable marine mammals. Be sure to visit the latter between early November and mid-April for the best chances of viewing a manatee. Busch Gardens is also a popular place to spend a day in Tampa with the family. This African-themed amusement park is home to more than 2,000 wild animals and is also known for its amazing roller coasters. Other outdoor attractions that visitors can enjoy include Hillsborough River State Park, the Tampa Riverwalk, and Bayshore Boulevard.
Food & Dining
To get your day started, don’t miss local favorite Pinky’s, which serves creative dishes like breakfast-style Cuban sandwiches, pancake sandwiches, and stuffed French toast. For lunch or dinner, try Columbia Restaurant, a popular spot in Ybor City that specializes in Cuban sandwiches, chicken and yellow rice, and tapas like Spanish omelets or shrimp with garlic. At night, catch a flamenco show at the Columbia Restaurant or head over to Cigar City Brewing Company for your choice of locally brewed craft beers.
Events
If you’re lucky enough to visit Tampa in February, you won’t want to miss the Florida State Fair. This annual event takes place on the Florida State Fairgrounds, where you’ll find hundreds of games and rides for kids and adults, deep-fried fair food, and performances by musical greats.
The Gasparilla Pirate Fest nearby includes parades, games, rides and lots of people dressed in pirate garb. The event is held at the beginning of the year and is a great time to search for Tampa vacation rentals in the area.
The annual Cigar Heritage Party in November highlights a significant industry that’s been a part of Tampa’s Ybor City for decades. At the festival, you’ll find everything from a cigar rolling contest to numerous cigar vendors.
Whether you’re looking for great food, unique history, local wildlife, or festive annual events, Tampa is the place. Stay at Tampa vacation homes in Ybor City or on the waterfront, and enjoy your stay in this historic and vibrant Gulf Coast city.
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