The content you're trying to view is for members eyes only. Please log in or apply for membership to view more. Questions? Check out our FAQ page.
Already a member? Log In
Welcome to Tampa, the lively and sunny city that's a perfect blend of city life and beach vibes! As a rising senior at the University of Tampa, I'm thrilled to show you around my favorite spots in this vibrant city.
This stylish oasis, nestled in the heart of Downtown Tampa, boasts stunning waterfront views and is just steps away from Tampa’s best restaurants and shops. Get ready to be pampered like never before with their thoughtfully designed rooms and hotel amenities. And oh, did I mention the rooftop garden oasis? I can assure you that this is by far the most beautiful hotel in Tampa and sits on an ideal location.
Morning:
Start your day off with an amazing brunch at Oxford Exchange, one of the most popular restaurants in Tampa. Their greenhouse dining room is equally as instagrammable as their food. My favorite brunch dish is the lemon poppy seed pancakes which come with macerated strawberry, honey mascarpone & warm maple syrup. Be sure to make a reservation if you want to sit in the greenhouse. After your meal, you can even browse their bookstore, coffee shop, and treat yourself at The Champagne Bar (yes you heard that right).
Late Morning:
Directly across the street from Oxford Exchange is the University of Tampa. The campus recently went through (and still is) going through major renovations. Stop by the Henry B. Plant Museum, as this historic building used to be the Tampa Bay Hotel in 1891.
Afternoon:
Next, head to Hyde Park Village, a charming outdoor shopping and dining area. This vibrant shopping and dining destination boasts a delightful mix of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options. You will definitely want to stop by Leafy Luv Affair for the coolest Instagram photos, as the inside of this plant store looks like a boho jungle. Before you leave, stop by Buddy Brew for a caffeine fix and the Sprinkles Cupcake ATM for a quick treat.
Evening:
Prepare for an unforgettable night at the Amalie Arena, home to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Tickets are actually super cheap and the arena is in a central location. Just keep in mind that you’ll be around a lot of college students - maybe you’ll even bump into me! After the game, you can walk a few minutes to Sparkman’s Wharf to celebrate the win, as they have multiple restaurants, shops & an outdoor bar.
Morning:
Rise and shine for another scrumptious brunch, this time at Cask Social. Try to reserve dining for the outdoor area, as you will be able to sit on the water and see the Bay with a mimosa in hand. From their famous Cask Burger featuring juicy beef topped with bacon jam and pimento cheese to their crave-worthy Cauliflower Tacos, every dish is truly amazing.
Early Afternoon:
Once home to the famous dolphin, Winter, this aquarium offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. You can get up close to rescued sea turtles, playful otters, and other fascinating sea creatures in their interactive exhibits. Every visit to the Clearwater Aquarium helps support Florida’s conservation efforts to protect our beautiful marine life.
Afternoon:
Whether you're into beach volleyball, jet skiing, or simply want to chill with a good book and tan, this beach is one of the best ways to experience the Florida sunshine. Oh, and did I mention dolphins? Yes, you heard it right! Clearwater Beach is known for its playful dolphin pods, and you can catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures on a thrilling sightseeing cruise.
Evening:
Nothing beats a nice dinner and ice cream after hanging out at the beach all day. There are tons of restaurants to choose from that are along Clearwater Beach. Most of the restaurants offer outdoor seating, and if you time it right, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset during your meal. Some of my favorite restaurants in this are are: Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, “We The Pizza” & Beverly’s Ice Cream. Make sure to stop by some of the gift shops (aka SurfStyle) to get your souvenir before you head home.
Tampa has so much to offer, from its cultural scene to its delectable dining spots and thrilling activities. As a rising senior at the University of Tampa, I can confidently say that this city has stolen my heart, and I hope it will steal yours too.
Soak in the Florida sun, create lasting memories, and cherish every moment of your Tampa adventure!
Join Our Community to See More
The content you're trying to view is for members eyes only. Please log in or apply for membership to view more. Questions? Check out our FAQ page .