50 Free Things to do in Tampa Bay

While the containers provide the Sparkman Wharf with a unique atmosphere, it will be the delectable food that keeps you around. Since Plant was such a, well fan of plants, the grounds are as eye catching as the palace and museum. An avid gardener, Plant hired a prominent landscape architect to design the grounds, which are known for their lovely tropical gardens. For all the theme parks and outdoor adventures, Tampa is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the state. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the city’s top family attraction featuring fascinating creatures, extreme rollercoasters and world class entertainment. This will provide you with awesome photos of your experience, such that you will remember it. Housed in the renovated historic Ferlita Bakery, the museum features both temporary and permanent exhibits that illustrate how the immigrant cigar workers and their families lived and worked, creating a new society with unique community institutions. Here you can enjoy performances from the Florida Orchestra and Opera Tampa, as well as popular music greats, dance troupes, and comedy acts. Ybor City’s 7th Avenue is designated one of the American Planning Association’s APA Great Streets in America for its history, character and strong community involvement. The Courtyard by Marriott provides guests with proximity to both the city, Clearwater Beach and Busch Gardens. After the show, head up to the rooftop observatory to gaze at the night sky through the 20 inch reflecting telescope. The Sant’Yago is a night parade through the streets of Ybor city, where parade floats toss out treats and beads. Due to its year round warm and sunny weather, many of Tampa’s attractions involve playing outside. With a retro bar, cocktails, and décor, they offer skit skat, boom pat. Besides seeing bobcats, jaguars and ocelots up close, visitors can take tours where you can feed or photograph them, with nighttime safaris also offered. TM and CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Used under license. If you’re looking for some adventure, then a day at Busch Gardens might be just the ticket. Richard Cummins / Getty Images. While the Serengeti Plain is home to hundreds of free roaming animals such as giraffes, rhinos and zebras, the Egypt and Congo zones both boast thrill rides and rollercoasters. Armature Works’ weekly outdoor yoga classes are free and open to the public, and led by local and certified instructors. Housed in a wonderfully restored tram car warehouse here, you’ll find restaurants and a variety of eclectic shops. Plus lazy rivers and a relaxing beach round out all the Tampa activities. The city is a cultural melting pot, and this is reflected in the cuisine.

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Future Leaders in Travel Retreat: Helping Develop the Travel Industry’s Next Stars. Back in the good old days, the theater was known by all as the movie palace. By Emily NippsLooking for fun things to do in Tampa. We mentioned that Tampa has a growing food scene. Better still, Busch Gardens is not just a theme park it’s a safari too. Free activities include monthly outdoor concerts, sightseeing, a self guided public art walking tour and the spacious Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park which is the perfect place to set up an afternoon picnic. In the center of the Waterfront Arts District, the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts provides a raw journey through contemporary history. BoatingDowntown Tampa. The Best Spring Break Destinations for Families. Address: 801 Old Water Street, Tampa, Florida. Here, you’ll uncover a delightful concentration of delicious restaurants and pub grub all set within a collection of repurposed shipping containers. This serene getaway town even inspired Jimmy Buffet. When the sun is heating up the park, wander over to the revitalizing freshwater pool before embarking on some more adventures. Very peaceful and picturesque, it takes you from downtown Tampa and the Arts District to the arena and aquarium in the Channelside District. By Orlando Weekly Staff. Also, if you’re looking for very special date ideas in Tampa, you have many options too. There are some boutique shops selling locally made shell jewelry and artwork and also the Bailey Matthews Shell Museum to learn more about seashells. Spanish, Cuban, Italian, and other cultural influences, brought to Tampa through the immigrants that shaped the city’s history, have created a dining experience that you won’t find in other parts of the state. There are very popular and beautiful botanical gardens.

Hillsborough River State Park

This means that you experience even more romance, as doing this is very romantic as well. The rides are very thrilling, some of them challenging you to hold on tightly to your seat and pray for the worst. Gasparilla is the celebration of legendary pirate José Gaspar and his mythical invasion of Tampa Bay. As one of the most beloved and gorgeous landmarks in Tampa, the carefully preserved “TAMPA” sign and old time marquis out front reels you in, but it’s the inside that takes your breath away. The Florida State Fair takes place every February in Tampa. Tampa is known for being a great city for all ages and tastes, offering places to stay that fit any budget and catering to everyone, including families, outdoor adventure seekers, and foodies and wine connoisseurs. Address: 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa, Florida. Live entertainment includes flamenco and jazz in the café. Nighttime kayaking is the best as you get to use LED lights to paddle along the way. They offer a walk in tea room inside their gift shop, no reservation necessary, and even a Happy Hour menu with cucumber sandwiches, homemade chicken salad, and fresh scones. Petersburg and Clearwater, click here. Museum and Factory is one of the most fascinating attractions in Ybor City. Free activities include monthly outdoor concerts, sightseeing, a self guided public art walking tour and the spacious Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park which is the perfect place to set up an afternoon picnic. Petersburg and visit tampa florida Clearwater, is one of the most densely populated regions of the state,. The Tampa Museum of Art is a boldly designed riverfront museum housing six temporary exhibits and an extensive permanent collection of Greek and Roman antiquities and 20th century sculpture. For a mile you two can take a walk and talk on this beautiful lake. Dining in Tampa is a different experience than dining in other parts of Florida, and it’s worth spending the time to find a few interesting places. There are very popular and beautiful botanical gardens. Eleven prominent sculptors gather at the beach to create some powerful artistic impressions. For those developing a flair for the arts, the Art Smart area is the perfect place to hone their craft. Address: 401 West Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, Florida. The Upper Tampa Bay Trail offers 7 beautiful miles of smooth riding for bikers it’s great for walking, too. Next to the entrance to Sparkman Wharf is the dock where the Yacht StarShip dinner cruises depart from. If you’re traveling with young ones, then this kid friendly museum should be an obligatory stop during your Tampa vacation. You’ll find niche candles, local Florida Goods, coffee table books, home decor, beauty and more. There’s not much in the way of sights – the beach and the laid back small town atmosphere is the main allure here. Skye’s expert tip: Make sure the kids bring their swimsuits so they can cool off in the rainforest themed splash pad.

Under 2 Hours Away

You will immediately witness the river wall, a beautiful collage of 550 photographs by Bruce Marsh. Feature image credit: Tampa Riverwalk. Other ways to enjoy sports while in Tampa include heading just out of the city to Raymond James Stadium Tampa Bay Buccaneers or to St. Enjoy watching the wine making process and sampling the wares. Notable for its Latin culture and historic architecture, there are also eclectic boutiques, nightclubs and restaurants lining the streets. It guides you along the banks of the scenic Hillsborough River, taking you between two of the best Tampa attractions with many sites in between. You can find do this activity while you are at the Busch Gardens. The Courtyard by Marriott provides guests with proximity to both the city, Clearwater Beach and Busch Gardens. Sign up for their two hour ziplining adventure, and you’ll be doing things at heights you could have never imagined. The gardens contain over 10,000 native and exotic plant species and serve as an ideal destination for appreciating Mother Nature’s beauty. The Sant’Yago is a night parade through the streets of Ybor city, where parade floats toss out treats and beads. You can have food at this place and there are all kinds of vendors selling various items. The best day to go is on Sunday for the weekly Sunday market, which features an assortment of Thai food plus Thai tea and coffee. Home to several aquaria and animal exhibits, it certainly makes a fun day out for all the family. This is a placeholder. Donning a jacket and going to an ice rink is perhaps not what you had in mind for a visit to Florida, but in a beautifully ironic twist of fate, NHL hockey is probably Tampa’s most popular sport the home team won the Stanley Cup in 2020, and Tampa still hasn’t stopped celebrating.

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The Tampa Bay History Center highlights include early inhabitants such as the Seminoles and the multicultural influences of the past five centuries. Read more about Ybor City Museum State Park →. It’s the layout of the Florida Aquarium that will most impress those who visit. The Idea Zone has hands on projects, and the Connectus exhibit gives visitors the chance to use cutting edge technology before it is revealed to the general public. Besides seeing bobcats, jaguars and ocelots up close, visitors can take tours where you can feed or photograph them, with nighttime safaris also offered. The recently restored factory, which includes a three floor museum, is free and open to the public. SecurityAssessmentSummary. Six dining and drinking venues from Miami’s uber popular Coyo Taco Group include Marisquería Como Como, a seafood restaurant and raw bar, open air rooftop. Sail the Florida Coastline StarLite Cruises offers everything from dolphin watching to cruising on a yacht. These events are a great way to experience the culture of Tampa and the local restaurants. Sunshine Skyway is a toll bridge located on I 275/US 19.

See for Yourself

The 8 Best Florida Family Vacation Destinations of 2022. Stretching from Tarpon Springs to St. The Idea Zone has hands on projects, and the Connectus exhibit gives visitors the chance to use cutting edge technology before it is revealed to the general public. This huge pink Mediterranean style hotel was built during the jazz age and has been the standard of luxury ever since. Get a Weekly List of the Tampa Bay Area’s Hottest Date Spots by Email or Text. For an even more hands on experience, the aquarium offers Swim and Dive tours where visitors can actually suit up in scuba gear and swim with the fish and sharks. You may want to stay closer to Busch Gardens if this is the primary reason for your visit or near the stadium if you are coming to see a football game. The Treasure Collection brings together a dozen modern downtown hotels. Beyond the Serengeti Safari, you’ll have roller coasters, water rides to cool off along with vast arcades to challenge your friends and family. There is something for kids of all ages at this world class park. It celebrates human achievement in technology and culture. Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: The Henry B. Full protective gear is provided. 13 Day Guided Tour of Scenic Ireland. Published by Associated Newspapers Ltd. After the show, head up to the rooftop observatory to gaze at the night sky through the 20 inch reflecting telescope. In February and March, the city comes alive with parades, music festivals, a film festival, a marathon, and a festival of the arts. It remains much the same, inclusive of the splendid Garden Room and the gorgeous Grand Hall. Your email address will not be published. Visit Cuba without leaving Ybor at Jose Marti Park. It is great to choose a few of them and then go to these places with your partner. Located along the city’s waterfront in the Channelside District is the fabulous Florida Aquarium, which boasts a massive collection of marine life. The gardens are pet friendly and are open daily from 7am 5pm. The very essence of Tampa can be felt in the famous Clearwater Beach, a hot spot for romantic couples. The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic exploration of the downtown waterfront and connects many of the city’s most popular attractions, parks, and restaurants. Com leave out spaces if you have any questions or when you happen upon any great deals. If you’re making summer plans, here are some exciting places to visit this summer near Tampa, Florida. All the ingredients are made from locally grown fruits and veggies in the market or in the Tampa community. These tiny homes are perfect for a weekend with your lover on the beach. The tour includes 16 stops highlighting various works of art including sculptures, murals, mosaic and more.

41 Catch a sunset

Thankfully, the Manatee Viewing Center is a unique place to see these majestic sea cows without paying a dime. There is classical music, which is awesome. Imagine having a place where you and your date can hang out and drink a wide variety of bears and get a badge for it. Join the adventures on our YouTube channel. Additionally, the Tampa Riverwalk passes enticing attractions such as the Tampa Museum of Art and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, among many others. Several ticketing options for Busch Gardens including multi park passes and packages that include in park dining. Pete Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Fort De Soto $5 beach parking, and Clearwater Beach. Tampa is a wonderful city to visit in the state of Florida in the United States. News flash: Tampa—not Miami—invented the Cubano, that iconic amalgam of roast pork, smoked ham, swiss cheese, and mustard pressed between bread. You can see here a variety of live theater shows. In addition to exploring its bank, boat, and fire station sections, there is also an excellent Engineers’ Exhibit where children can design and build to their heart’s content. This spot is a great day trip destination near Tampa for the whole family. De stress amidst spacious themed gardens and natural areas at Florida Botanical Gardens. 20 Top Things to Do With Kids in Miami, Florida. You agree to Hulafrog’s terms and conditions and privacy policy. And to make going here, even more, one of the most romantic things to do in Tampa is by going here during sunset. With its mix of historic architecture and modern landmarks, a culture infused with Cuban and Spanish flavors, vibrant business districts and beautiful waterways, Tampa is a wonderful place to work, play, and unwind. After Tampa, be sure to slide a few hours east and check out Orlando with The Perfect 3 Days in Orlando Itinerary.

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Exhibits also delve into the history of the hotel and its former owner. The Sant’Yago is a night parade through the streets of Ybor city, where parade floats toss out treats and beads. The Glazer Children’s Museum is packed with interactive exhibits that will help your children take part in an experience that is equally fun and insightful. A few miles west of Downtown Tampa, Westshore is a generally sleepy residential neighborhood, primarily of interest to travelers because of Tampa International Airport, a couple of major shopping malls, and a cluster of affordable hotels, restaurants, and motels. Time your ride to soak up views of the bay during sunrise or sunset. They have live bands and some artists that make appearances to give your date an extra boost. “We are not permitted to disclose certain aspects of our agreement,” Visit Florida spokeswoman Kathy Torian said. If marine life is more your speed, visit The Florida Aquarium. The river at this point is in its natural state, untouched by houses and development giving visitors a chance to experience natural Florida at its best. This is the way to drink and explore Tampa. Its most impressive feature is a 4. There’s also a native plant trail and sensory garden. Located along the city’s waterfront in the Channelside District is the fabulous Florida Aquarium, which boasts a massive collection of marine life. Read more about David A. Follow the cemetery’s self guided walking tour to visit the most notable graves, most of which include intriguing stories. This was just the beginning of one of Tampa’s most fascinating neighborhoods. Future veterinarians can check x rays and plan treatment for patients, and prospective captains can navigate a shipping vessel through a channel. If you’d prefer a more traditional restaurant, book in advance to secure a table at Ulele, one of Tampa’s most popular restaurants. Address: 801 Old Water Street, Tampa, Florida. Skye is a freelance writer that adopted Tampa as her hometown over a decade ago and never looked back. The path traverses the water’s edge for almost 2. There are animal exhibitions and animal attractions there to excite the whole family. Once known as the “Cigar Capital of the World,” the area once boasted 200 factories with 12,000 cigar makers. Warm weather, sunshine and margaritas. There’s also the quirky Gasparilla Pirate Festival that’s been invading the shores of Tampa Bay for more than a century.

Atlantic Coast

This bookstore and wine shop also serves coffee and snacks. Whether you are looking for an adventure packed date or just somewhere to go on for a rainy date this list has it all. The previous bridge was rammed by a cargo ship in 1980 and partly collapsed, and parts of the old bridge now serve as piers for anglers. Beach,” has repeatedly ranked two of the beaches—Caladesi Island and Fort DeSoto Park—on his annual top ten list and another—Clearwater Beach—as the best city beach in the Gulf region. Backed by the high rises of downtown Tampa, the park isn’t just a place to break out the cheese and crackers. It’s just a short stroll across the courtyard. The Tampa culinary experience includes three Michelin Guide recommendations. Pete is the best place to discover colorful murals and snap a few new photos with your boo. Destinations Tips About Work with me. Some particularly fun “Elixer” names include Living The Vida Loca, Umami Juice, and classic cocktails like Penicillin, El Diablo, and an Old Cuban. On land, visit Busch Gardens or our nationally recognized Zoo Tampa. Showing works from around the globe, art museums make for an excellent romantic date idea. Skye says, “Don’t leave Tampa without exploring the downtown Riverwalk, people watching in historic Ybor City, and sampling the best Cuban food you can find outside Cuba.

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Fresh water wetlands and a floodplain are found alongside woods, swamps, and the winding Hillsborough River. Skye says, “Don’t leave Tampa without exploring the downtown Riverwalk, people watching in historic Ybor City, and sampling the best Cuban food you can find outside Cuba. Back in the good old days, the theater was known by all as the movie palace. Try the Tigris ride that sets you off on an array of looping twists coupled with forward and backward motion to increase the fun. Tampa may put you on the doorstep of the Gulf of Mexico and some of Florida’s famous beaches, but its own attractions and local adventures will quickly fill up your itinerary. Or, join one of the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s free walking tours $5 donation suggested if you can October May on select Fridays at noon. The park features 240 acres of wooded picnic areas, a playground and a paved path for bikes and joggers complete with a fitness course. The Ale and The Witch. Read more about Hillsborough River State Park →. Pack up your bike and hit the Courtney Campbell Trail, which stretches over Old Tampa Bay for 10 miles connecting Tampa and Clearwater. Other ways to enjoy sports while in Tampa include heading just out of the city to Raymond James Stadium Tampa Bay Buccaneers or to St. For fun and casual along with a great outdoor relaxed atmosphere, try the container restaurants at Sparkman Wharf for some takeout. Tampa’s Channelside District, home to Sparkman Wharf, an outdoor entertainment area along the downtown waterfront, features craft beer in a biergarten, live music, and various dining options. The Riverwalk is an invigorating way to start your day and is a great way to do some Tampa sightseeing. Housed in a beautifully restored factory dating from 1910, this free attraction showcases the history of cigar production in the Tampa area. During an escape game, you and your partner get in a room together. The Manatee Viewing Center is also home to an educational building that features the power plant and a manta ray touch tank. Why Stay Here: West Tampa has a diverse mix of people and a wide variety of restaurants to try as you explore the city. Plant museum and other discounts and cultural exhibits that vary month to month. Currently, the fee is $3. The list of things to do here is extensive, starting with both full facility and primitive camping.

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The Riverwalk intersects with Bayshore Boulevard, the longest continuous pedestrian walkway in the world. Check the website for the latest updates. You can also visit the main Temple when the grounds are open to the public, but make sure to respect Temple etiquette as outlined here. Parking is nearby at the Channelside garage, or walk to Sparkman Wharf along the Riverfront Trail. Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is recognized as the 1 family friendly zoo in the nation by Child and Parents magazines. © 2022 Tampa Bay Date Night Guide. Keeler In the life cycle of a shopping mall, Tampa Premium Outlets is a mere toddler. The gardens contain over 10,000 native and exotic plant species and serve as an ideal destination for appreciating Mother Nature’s beauty. Please note these ratings are subject to change and reflect our last review. We love to play at 3 Daughters Brewing Monday nights at 7pm. The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic exploration of the downtown waterfront and connects many of the city’s most popular attractions, parks, and restaurants. You can also learn about the park’s animals and nature at its visitors’ center. 5 miles in total, the Tampa Riverwalk meanders its way alongside the Hillsborough River and connects many of the city’s main sights. Center for the Performing Arts →. Beginning at the foodie center of Sparkman Wharf, make your way along the Riverwalk by beautiful public art, including vast murals and intricate sculptures. Or you can rent kayaks or stand up paddleboards with a local company and explore the river that way. Patent and Trademark Office. California has surfers; Florida has fishers. Ad vertisement by LuluGraceStore Ad from shop LuluGraceStore LuluGraceStore From shop LuluGraceStore. Recommended for Free Things to Do because: The Ybor City Visitor Center offers visitors free maps and advice for exploring the neighborhood as well as a small museum. If March is the only time you can visit, there’s a fair then, too. Avoid: The heat of the mid day sun especially in summer. Just 45 minutes from downtown Tampa you’ll find Brooker Creek Preserve, another free preserve spread out across 8,700 acres. It hosts monthly Rock the Park live music concerts along with regular community events and markets. As one of the world’s leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo.

Things to Do Father’s Day Weekend in Tampa Bay in 2022

Canoeing, paddle boarding and dolphin cruises are just a few water activities conveniently accessible downtown. The celebration culminates in one final day long invasion parade and street fair that some say rival Mardi Gras. Your trip from Tampa to Sanibel Island will typically take a little under three hours by car. The path is almost 3 miles long, but there are plenty of spots to stop for a rest and grab a drink or a quick bite along the way. You’ll have the best chance of seeing the manatees when the surrounding water temperatures are cold, dipping below 68 degrees Fahrenheit. For a romantic and totally free activity, head to a local park or beach for spectacular sunset views. A must visit for those interested in learning about the city, state and bay’s history, the Tampa Bay History Center is set along the Tampa Riverwalk in the lively Channelside District. Fun Things to Do With Kids. 5 mile Bayshore Boulevard sidewalk and road provides the best view of the sparkling Hillsborough Bay while flanked on the other side by multi million dollar, historic south Tampa homes. The menu includes all your brunch favorites and you’ll dine in a trendy sunlight space. The lengthy concrete pier extends into the Gulf and is at the heart of the nightly Sunset Celebration. The art will amaze you for sure, and seeing it together is very fun for sure.

Ybor City

Join the adventures on our YouTube channel. New to the dining scene in late 2020, Casa Santo Stefano nods to Ybor’s lesser known Sicilian roots with family style Italian suppers even the furniture and art are imported from Sicily. Whether you prefer a smooth Lexus or speedy Jaguar, Avis has the car to meet your needs. This is a place where you can find 200 specialty stores. From upscale malls like International Plaza very convenient to the airport, to quaint shopping districts such as Hyde Park Village, there are a lot of fun ways to spend money in Tampa. The 9 Best Tampa Hotels of 2022. Beforehand, can grab a themed meal at Maestro’s Restaurant reflecting the performance you’ll be seeing, a snack at Maestro’s Cafe, or light fare with a cocktail accompanied by views of the Hillsborough River at Maestro’s On the River. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends or the whole family, there’s something for everyone in Tampa. When complemented by some fantastic temporary exhibitions, it provides guests with an experience that goes beyond just art. As you stroll along the promenade, you can also enjoy fine views over the river and stop off at its numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. De stress amidst spacious themed gardens and natural areas at Florida Botanical Gardens. After opening in the 1930s, it became one of the first state parks in Florida. Less than a block away, don’t miss a chance to see the Columbia Restaurant, a cultural institution in Tampa since 1905. Our goal is to help you love Florida as much as we do. You’ll typically find 15+ food trucks set up at each event, which takes place at the Grand Central at Kennedy. Recommended for Free Things to Do because: Bayshore Boulevard is the longest sidewalk in the U. You may want to stay closer to Busch Gardens if this is the primary reason for your visit or near the stadium if you are coming to see a football game. Let the wind and the horse take you two straight to the altar.

10 fun and free things to do in Tampa when you’re on a budget

Tampa may put you on the doorstep of the Gulf of Mexico and some of Florida’s famous beaches, but its own attractions and local adventures will quickly fill up your itinerary. A post shared by The Canopy @canopyatbirchwood. We’ve got you covered with this guide. If you’re staying nearby, try to plan to attend one of their events, such as Happy Hour Yoga or Trivia Tuesday. Ad vertisement by CollegeCropsShop Ad from shop CollegeCropsShop CollegeCropsShop From shop CollegeCropsShop. This experience is showcased by Viator and has met our quality standards. Once known as the “Cigar Capital of the World,” the area once boasted 200 factories with 12,000 cigar makers. Once owned by Circus mogul John Ringling and his wife Mabel, the estate is now beautifully kept and open to the public. They’re back and they’re life size. We love to play at 3 Daughters Brewing Monday nights at 7pm. There’s also a nice lighthouse to see here. Except instead of valleys and vineyards, it’s Gulf waters and breweries. This is a beautiful hotel in Tampa. Located in north Pinellas County, Tarpon Springs is known for its sponge diving industry and Greek population. The previous bridge was rammed by a cargo ship in 1980 and partly collapsed, and parts of the old bridge now serve as piers for anglers. There are still quite a few small cigar shops in Ybor City where you can watch a tabaquero hand roll a custom cigar. Franklin Street is the pedestrian center of downtown Tampa where you will find plenty of shopping, restaurants, and things to do. Here, you’ll have your choice of nine major waterslides. Immerse yourself in 30 acres of high speed thrills and sunny tropical surroundings. Thankfully most of the walkways are covered, so you don’t have to pay too much attention to the changeable Tampa weather. Eye on Europe: Falling Euro Great For Fall TravelScott Hartbeck. Regionally, Tampa Bay encompasses four cities—Tampa, St. For art lovers, going there is one of the most amazing date ideas in Tampa for sure.