Ruth Haines
If you're looking for places to hang out near Tampa Airport, there are plenty of options to choose from. The airport itself offers various dining options, ranging from local cafes to international cuisine. You can also find convenience shops, bookstores, and souvenir stores. A short distance away, you'll discover the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk, providing picturesque views and a peaceful escape. For those seeking thrills, Busch Gardens combines a theme park with botanical gardens. If you're interested in exploring downtown Tampa, a taxi ride will take you there in about 20 minutes, where you can visit the Henry B. Plant Museum, stroll through Ybor City, or check out the Tampa Bay History Center. With so many attractions, Tampa Airport serves as a gateway to unforgettable experiences for all types of travellers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | A few miles west of downtown Tampa |
| Transportation | Taxi, HART public bus route 30, tram, shuttle, bike |
| Attractions | Tampa Riverwalk, Henry B. Plant Museum, Ybor City, Tampa Bay History Center, Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens |
| Amenities | Seating, carpeted floor, airport lounges, food and drinks, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, airport hotels, convenience shops, bookstores, art gallery, spa, massage services, free water bottle refill stations, free charging stations, power outlets, information kiosk, information boards |
| Accommodation | Marriott Tampa Airport, Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Airport Avion Park Westshore, Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Airport Westshore |
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What You'll Learn
- Dining options: From local cafes to international cuisine, Tampa Airport offers a variety of culinary delights
- Leisurely strolls: Explore the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, a pathway offering picturesque views and parks
- Theme parks: Busch Gardens combines thrilling rides with fascinating wildlife exhibits for family fun
- Museums: Discover the Tampa Bay History Center, Museum of Science, and Henry B. Plant Museum for educational insights
- Downtown Tampa: A short taxi or bus ride away, downtown offers historic neighbourhoods, coffee shops, and the Florida Aquarium
Dining options: From local cafes to international cuisine, Tampa Airport offers a variety of culinary delights
Tampa International Airport offers a wide variety of dining options, from local cafes to international cuisine. With over 40 top-notch restaurants and eateries, you can find something to suit your taste buds and preferences.
If you're in the mood for a quick bite, Potbelly, a counter-style sandwich shop, is a popular choice for travellers in a hurry. They offer made-to-order subs, salads, soups, shakes, and desserts. For those craving American Chinese food, Panda Express, located next to Potbelly, is a favourite among travellers.
For a sit-down dining experience, The Cafe by Mise en Place offers a leisurely atmosphere. If you're looking for a taste of local Cuban and Spanish cuisine, the iconic Columbia Restaurant is a must-try. They serve classic dishes such as the Cuban sandwich, the 1905 salad, and key lime pie. You can also enjoy a hearty breakfast with their 'Morning Libations' such as Tea Bramble and Mexican Coffee.
Cigar City Brewing, the airport outpost of a popular local brewery, is perfect for craft beer enthusiasts. They serve handcrafted ales and lagers, along with Latin-inspired tapas. If you're an economy class traveller on American Airlines, purchasing a day pass to access their lounges can be a great option. You can enjoy unlimited food and drinks, comfortable seating, and entertainment during your layover.
Additionally, Tampa International Airport has introduced a convenient programme called 'TPA To Go', which allows you to order food from over 20 restaurants and have it delivered anywhere within the airport.
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Leisurely strolls: Explore the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, a pathway offering picturesque views and parks
If you're looking for a leisurely stroll and some picturesque views near Tampa Airport, the Tampa Riverwalk is a great option. This 2.4-mile to 2.6-mile pathway runs along the Hillsborough River, offering beautiful waterfront views and a range of attractions.
Start your journey at the bustling Heights Market at Armature Works, and make your way along the river, taking in the vibrant Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, with its museums, shops, restaurants, and dog park. You can walk, bike, or even take a scooter, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way.
As you continue, you'll find the Florida Aquarium, with its wave-shaped aqua-hued glass building, where you can interact with tens of thousands of fish, stingrays, and even snorkel with sand tiger sharks and green sea turtles. You can also explore the Tampa Bay History Center, a museum that offers insights into the local heritage and culture.
For a bite to eat, try the Riverwalk Café, with its modern menu and vegetarian options, or Ulele, a restaurant named after a legendary Florida Indian princess, located in the historic Tampa Heights Water Works building. Enjoy craft beer and a unique setting by the river.
As the sun sets, the Tampa Riverwalk comes alive with colourful lights, music, and a romantic atmosphere. With its parks, attractions, and entertainment, the Tampa Riverwalk offers a leisurely and scenic experience, just a short distance from Tampa Airport.
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Theme parks: Busch Gardens combines thrilling rides with fascinating wildlife exhibits for family fun
If you're looking for somewhere to hang out near Tampa Airport, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a great option. This family-oriented theme park combines thrilling rides with incredible wildlife exhibits, making it a popular choice for those seeking fun and excitement.
For the thrill-seekers, Busch Gardens boasts some of Florida's best roller coasters and thrill rides. From the Dive Coaster, SheiKra, to the family-style thrill coaster, Cheetah Hunt, there's something for everyone. The park is also known for its intense, steep, and tall roller coasters, including Iron Gwazi, Falcon's Fury, and Montu. These rides offer unique experiences, such as high speeds, steep drops, and tilting mechanisms, providing an exhilarating experience for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
For animal lovers, Busch Gardens presents a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with exotic creatures. The park is home to nearly 3,000 animals, representing over 300 species, offering a diverse range of zoological attractions. The animal habitats are independently accredited, reviewed, audited, and certified by leading zoological and animal welfare organizations, ensuring the highest standards of animal care. From endangered species to fascinating creatures like primates, cheetahs, and birds of prey, Busch Gardens provides a platform for conservation education and species research.
In addition to rides and animal encounters, Busch Gardens offers world-class entertainment with exciting live shows suitable for all ages. From award-winning productions to interactive, kid-friendly performances, the park delivers a well-rounded experience for families. Seasonal events, such as Halloween scares and holiday celebrations, provide a reason to visit throughout the year. The park also offers exclusive vacation packages, including accommodations at top-notch hotels, free shuttles, park admission, and dining discounts, making it a convenient and attractive option for visitors.
With its combination of thrilling rides, exotic animal encounters, and entertaining shows, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a fantastic choice for those seeking a fun-filled hangout spot near Tampa Airport. The park's commitment to conservation and education adds to its appeal, making it a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
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Museums: Discover the Tampa Bay History Center, Museum of Science, and Henry B. Plant Museum for educational insights
If you're looking for museums near Tampa Airport, there are a few great options to choose from. Each museum offers unique insights into the history, culture, and scientific advancements of the Tampa Bay area.
The Tampa Bay History Center is a great place to start. Located in the heart of the city, this museum celebrates the rich history and culture of Tampa Bay. With exhibits that showcase the region's diverse heritage, it's a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Every year, more than 12,000 students visit the Tampa Bay History Center, making it a vibrant and educational hub.
For those interested in science, the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) provides an immersive experience. Located in North Tampa, across from the University of South Florida, MOSI offers over 40,000 square feet of hands-on activities and exhibits. From interactive displays to special events, MOSI brings science to life for visitors of all ages. The museum is typically open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas, making it an accessible destination throughout the year.
Another notable museum in the area is the Henry B. Plant Museum. Housed within the historic Tampa Bay Hotel, this museum showcases the grandeur of the region's past. Built in 1891, the museum features original furnishings and artefacts that provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Whether you're interested in history, science, or cultural artefacts, these museums offer a wealth of educational insights. By exploring their exhibits and programmes, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the Tampa Bay area's rich heritage and ongoing contributions to science and industry.
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Downtown Tampa: A short taxi or bus ride away, downtown offers historic neighbourhoods, coffee shops, and the Florida Aquarium
Downtown Tampa is a short taxi or bus ride away from Tampa Airport. The taxi will cost a flat fare of $25 and will get you downtown in about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the HART public bus route 30, which is the more affordable option. Once you're in downtown Tampa, there are plenty of attractions to visit and activities to do.
For those interested in history, the Tampa Bay History Center showcases over 12,000 years of local and regional history. You can also head to Ybor City, a historically Cuban neighbourhood, where you can stroll past historic bungalows, coffee shops, and former cigar factories. Another museum option is the Henry B. Plant Museum.
If you're looking for a more outdoor experience, you can rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak from Urban Kai and explore downtown Tampa from the water. Sunset and full moon paddle tours are also offered. The Tampa Riverwalk is another popular attraction, connecting to all of downtown Tampa and offering a pedestrian-friendly design.
For animal lovers, ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a great option, just 5 miles from downtown Tampa. The zoo spans nearly 60 acres and features natural habitats, educational shows, interactive animal encounters, water play areas, and rides. You can also spot Florida's beloved manatees at Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center.
If you're looking for a place to relax and unwind, the Florida Aquarium is a great option to take a break from the hot Florida sun. Busch Gardens is another popular attraction, combining a theme park with botanical gardens.
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Frequently asked questions
The Tampa Airport is located just a few miles west of downtown Tampa, so if you’ve got a long layover, you can head downtown. Check out the Tampa Riverwalk, Ybor City, the Tampa Bay History Center, or the Florida Aquarium.
There are about 40 eateries at the Tampa Airport, serving a range of dining options, including Italian, Spanish, Greek, seafood, and classic American burgers. If you want to venture out, downtown Tampa has plenty of waterfront restaurants, trendy bars, and cozy cafes.
Yes, the Henry B. Plant Museum is located downtown, and the Tampa Museum of Art showcases modern and contemporary works.
Yes, there are several parks near the Tampa Airport, including Epps Park, Ballast Point Pier, Julian B. Lane Park, and Rivercrest Park.
Bayshore Boulevard, known as the world's longest continuous sidewalk, offers stunning views of Tampa Bay and is perfect for a leisurely walk. You can also visit the Tampa Theatre, a beautifully preserved movie palace with grand architecture and a starlit ceiling.
