Lori Sereikis [email protected] www.cruiseplannerlori.com 352-701-0085

TAMPA, FL

OVERVIEW

Introduction

Tampa Bay, Florida, has much to recommend it: Busch Gardens (which predates Disney World), impressive museums, winning sports teams (Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Rays and Tampa Bay Lightning), fishing charters and one of the country's largest ports, rocking nightlife and a wealth of tourist attractions.

Tampa has sharks and rays at the Florida Aquarium and the more lovable manatees at the zoo. At Busch Gardens, you can ride across re-created African plains in a safari truck, stopping to hand-feed roaming giraffes. Or you can go to sea on a fishing charter and try to catch your own wildlife.

In Ybor City, the historic Cuban neighborhood, you can amble down brick streets, following your nose to bakeries to buy fragrant loaves of Cuban bread or to shops where tabaqueros hand-roll fine cigars. Lively Spanish conversation might lead you to an old- fashioned domino parlor where grandfathers with gnarled hands gather to play in friendly neighborhood matches. Antiques shops, boutiques and art galleries beckon. After dark, the nightclubs throw open their doors, and Ybor City metamorphoses into a hip nightlife spot.

St. Pete (the local name for St. Petersburg, Florida) is only a 30-minute drive away, and the gorgeous Gulf Coast beaches are about a 45-minute drive. The theme parks of Orlando, Florida, are about 90 minutes to the east.

Sights—Check out the architecture, shopping and nightlife in Ybor City; spend a day (at least) at Busch Gardens; take in a Broadway musical at the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts.

Museums—The Tampa Museum of Art; the Museum of Science and Industry; the Alhambra-inspired Henry B. Plant Museum at the University of Tampa; the Salvador Dali and Dale Chihuly museums in nearby St. Petersburg.

Memorable Meals—Authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine (complete with flamenco dancers) at the Columbia Restaurant; a slab of beef at Bern's Steak House; farm-to-table fare with a new menu weekly at James Beard-nominated The Refinery.

Late Night—A comedy act at The Improv; drinks at The Hub, a Tampa institution; a warm evening of conversation and top microbrews at Ybor City's New World Brewery.

Walks—The Tampa Riverwalk through the heart of downtown; Bayshore Boulevard, especially on weekends; nearby Clearwater Beach at sunset; walking along the piers at Channelside; an early-morning stroll through Flatwoods Wilderness Park to watch for wild boar, deer, egrets and sandhill cranes.

Especially for Kids—The Florida Aquarium, featuring the Penguin Meet and Greet and the No Bone Zone, a hands-on attraction of spineless, boneless and squiggly creatures; Adventure Island's Wahoo Run, a spiral waterslide; the Lowry Park Zoo, with its more than 1,000 animals and safari rides. Greater Tampa, a major port city, sprawls around the northern end of Tampa Bay. The beaches of the Gulf of Mexico are west across Old Tampa Bay, and the city of St. Petersburg is south across the bay. Bridges and long causeways (with signs warning you to check your gas gauge) link the city to St. Petersburg and the popular beachfront communities of Clearwater, St. Pete Beach and other smaller resort towns.

North of downtown are Busch Gardens and the University of South Florida.

The Hillsborough River, the main source of Tampa's drinking water, weaves through the city from the northeast.

Tampa's streets are basically laid out in a grid. The east-west divider is Florida Avenue. Kennedy Boulevard divides north from south. Interstate 75, just east of town, and Interstate 275, running through town, are major north-south routes. Interstate 4 runs from Tampa to Daytona Beach and is the preferred route to Walt Disney World and the other Orlando-area attractions. I-275 continues west across the water to connect with St. Petersburg.

The Calusan and Timucuan people were the original inhabitants of the area. Centuries later, around 1500, the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto arrived. Staking claim to the Native Americans' real estate, the Spanish also attempted to convert them to Christianity. The ensuing bloodshed lasted for more than 300 years. By then Tampa and the rest of Florida were becoming settled, and in 1824, Fort Brooke was built nearby to subdue the remaining resistant Seminoles, another of the fierce Floridian groups.

For several decades, Tampa remained a quiet little village surrounded by orange groves. Then, in 1884, transportation baron Henry B. Plant linked the city to Jacksonville by rail. Plant also established a steamship line that connected Tampa to Havana, and he opened the Tampa Bay Hotel in 1891, establishing the city's profile as a winter resort for the rich and famous.

The city got another boost in 1886, when Vicente Martinez Ybor, attracted by lower taxes, moved his cigar factory to Tampa from Key West. He brought thousands of cigar makers with him, swelling Tampa's Latin population and intensifying its Latin flavor. Ybor City supplied money and men for the 1898 Cuban Revolution, and it was a staging ground for U.S. troops during the Spanish-American War.

Tampa became a shipbuilding center during World War I, and the city boomed again in the 1920s, when millionaire developer David P. Davis created Davis Islands by dredging the mud flats in Hillsborough Bay. World War II saw the opening of MacDill Air Force Base.

Today, Tampa is Florida's third-largest city. The Tampa Bay area, including St. Pete, has approximately 2.8 million people, making it the business center of west-central Florida. It's also an air and sea gateway to the western Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.

Location

Cruise ships dock in the Port of Tampa, a busy shipping center for citrus products, cattle and phosphates. Tampa is Florida's largest cargo port by land and tonnage, handling nearly one-third of cargo moving in and out of the state. The port has greatly increased the efficiency and speed for shipping and created a large number of jobs for the Bay area.

But Tampa is also a busy cruise port offering a large variety of resplendent cruise vessels going to such places as the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.

Tampa's cruise-ship terminals have state-of-the-art boarding bridges and a waving deck from which family members can wish passengers bon voyage. Secured parking lots are adjacent to each terminal, and driving directions are available on the Tampa Port Authority website. You can also take a shuttle or taxi from the Tampa airport, which is about 5 mi/8 km from the terminals.

Staff from the convention and visitors bureau meet all the ships and provide tourists with brochures. The Florida Aquarium and several shops and restaurants at the Channelside entertainment complex are located within walking distance of the cruise terminal. And you can access complimentary Wi-Fi in the Plaza or at one of the restaurants within the center. The electric trolley connects the cruise terminals with downtown and Ybor City. For more information, visit http://www.tampaport.com/Cruise.aspx.

Most cruise lines offer guided tours for passengers who arrive in advance of the cruise or elect to spend time after they disembark. Though not the least expensive way to see the sights, these excursions free you from having to make arrangements yourself, and the tour operator will be certain to get you to the ship—or to your flight home—on time.

Excursions and their prices vary from cruise line to cruise line. Typical offerings are a sightseeing tour of the historic areas of Ybor City, downtown Tampa, the University of Tampa, and a dolphin ecotour that departs from the aquarium. Other excursions may include an afternoon at the beach or nearby Busch Gardens theme park. Check with your ship's shore-excursion staff or your travel agent for additional information.

Potpourri Ybor City, Tampa's historic district, is often referred to as the Cigar Capital of the World because of the millions of cigars produced there. You can still watch a master tabaquero hand-roll a cigar there, but Ybor City is also known as a mecca for nightlife and dining.

As a young journalist, Winston Churchill reported from Tampa on the Spanish-American War in Cuba.

Tampa retains its strong ethnic heritage: Spanish, Cuban and Italian. Not surprisingly, Tampa is home to La Gaceta, the nation's only trilingual newspaper (Italian, Spanish and English).

Tampa is the source of about 90% of the tropical fish swimming in U.S. aquariums. Some 12,000 to 15,000 boxes of fish are shipped each week via Tampa International Airport.

El Parque Amigos de Marti in Ybor City contains soil from all of the provinces of Cuba and honors Cuban hero Jose Marti, who created the Cuban Revolutionary Party.

Native Americans from the Calusa tribe called the area Tanpa, which means "sticks of fire." Some believe this name stems from the high concentration of lightning strikes that Tampa Bay receives every year during the hot and humid summer. In fact, Tampa is known in the weather community as the "lightning capital of North America," as measured by the average number of days per year with thunderstorm activity.

The manatees that frequent the Gulf Coast are an endangered species: An estimated 3,500 are believed to live in Florida. The main reason they're endangered is the large number of pleasure boats that ply the waters. The manatees find it difficult to avoid the propellers of the boats—even those that have managed to survive often have visible scars from the blades.

European sailors were known to mistake manatees for mermaids. That they could imagine the homely creatures as alluring maidens of the deep suggests that they had been at sea for a very long time.

Tampa's nickname is the "Big Guava" after its failed attempt to grow guavas and in response to New York's popular "Big Apple" moniker. Every October, the city celebrates with a night parade and festival called Guavaween.

Tampa's biggest annual festival celebrates legendary pirate Jose Gaspar, "last of the Buccaneers," who terrorized the coastal waters of west Florida during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Gasparilla gets under way each January when 1,000 ersatz pirates sail into downtown on a fully rigged pirate ship, a replica of an 18th-century craft that is 165 ft/50 m long by 35 ft/10 m across the beam, with three masts standing 100 ft/30 m tall. The ship is met by a flotilla of hundreds of pleasure crafts intent on "defending the city."

SEE & DO

Sightseeing

Visitors to Tampa have a wide range of entertainment options, including art and science museums, amusement parks, dinner and gambling cruises, major-league sporting events, nature preserves and, of course, nearby beaches. Downtown is the business center, but it also hosts art festivals, boating races and is the home of the picturesque campus of the University of Tampa.

We suggest heading for the waterfront, where you'll find the fascinating Florida Aquarium and a promenade where cargo and cruise ships dock. Next door is Channelside with its shops, restaurants and upscale bowling. The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic pedestrian walkway that runs from Channelside through downtown, to the east side of the Hillsborough River at Tampa Heights.

Ybor City is not to be missed—its shops and cafes still carry the Latin flavors brought there by the Spanish and Cubans who first made the district home.

Electric streetcars have returned to Tampa, connecting downtown to Channelside and Ybor City. This is an easy and pleasant way to get around these areas without worrying about parking. Streetcars arrive about every 15-20 minutes and every 30 minutes during Friday and Saturday late-night hours.

The rest of Tampa's sights are a bit spread out, so you will probably need a car. North Tampa has Busch Gardens, one of the area's main attractions. The amusement/safari park has activities for children of all ages and offers an opportunity to view many critters rarely found outside of their native Africa. Roller coasters and other rides add to the appeal, and nearby Adventure Island offers aquatic activities to help visitors cool off. Also near the parks is Tampa's Museum of Science and Industry. The Florida Fairgrounds, MidFlorida Credit Union Amphtheater and Seminole Hard Rock Casino are just outside of downtown on Interstate 4 East.

For help planning your trip and for discount coupons, be sure to stop at the Tampa Bay Visitor Information Center, in Channelside near the cruise port. If you plan to be in Tampa during spring break or during the Gasparilla festival in January, make your reservations well in advance. It's also worthwhile to arrive at attractions early enough to beat most of the crowds. Casinos

The Seminoles, who own seven casinos throughout Florida, signed a compact with the state to provide traditional Class III gaming machines at their casinos. As part of their compact, they can now offer blackjack, baccarat, mini-baccarat, three-card poker, let it ride and pai gow poker games.

You must be 18 years of age to play poker, and 21 years of age to play slots and other table games. Children younger than age 18 are not allowed on the casino floor.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino 5223 N. Orient Road Popular with snowbirds, gamblers and tour groups, this Native American-owned and -operated casino has 50 tables of live poker Tampa, Florida 33610 (Seven-Card Stud, Texas Hold'em and Omaha Hi-Lo) and 3,200 game Phone: 813-627-7625 machines. Daily 24 hours. Entry is free. 5223 N. Orient Road (25-30 http://www.seminolehardrocktampa.com minutes from downtown), Tampa. Phone 813-627-7625. Toll-free 866- 388-4263. http://www.seminolehardrocktampa.com.

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts 400 N. Ashley Dr. Housed in an iconic Tampa building, The Cube, the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts features traveling exhibits by local, national and Tampa, Florida 33602 international photographers, as well as historical collections, and Phone: 813-221-2222 members' and kids' exhibits. Monday-Thursday 11 am-6 pm, Friday 11 http://www.fmopa.org am-7 pm, Saturday and Sunday noon-5 pm. US$10 adults. 400 N. Ashley Dr., Tampa. Phone 813-221-2222. http://www.fmopa.org.

Glazer Children's Museum 110 Gasparilla Plaza More than 170 exhibits are at the ready for big and little hands to play Tampa, Florida 33602 —"interactivities" are found throughout two levels of multiple-themed areas. Just outside the museum's doors is Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Phone: 813-443-3861 8 acres/3 hectares of urban greenspace to burn off any excess energy. http://www.glazermuseum.org Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm, Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Sunday 1-6 pm. US$15 adults. 110 Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. Phone 813-443-3861. http://www.glazermuseum.org.

Henry B. Plant Museum 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. This museum will allow you to take a walk back in time to Florida at the turn of the 20th century. It commemorates the railroad and steamship Tampa, Florida 33606 baron who had a role in Tampa's early history. Housed in what was Phone: 813-254-1891 once the Tampa Bay Hotel (built by Plant in 1891), it's one of the finest http://www.plantmuseum.com examples of Moorish architecture in the Western Hemisphere. Now part of the University of Tampa, the building—with opulent domes, arches and minarets—houses Victorian art, original furnishings and a permanent exhibit about the Spanish-American War, in which the hotel played a large part. The Christmas Stroll is an especially exciting time to visit—the rooms are bedecked for the season with elaborately trimmed trees, lush greenery, antique toys and Victorian-era ornaments. Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. US$10 adults. 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. (on the University of Tampa campus), downtown, Tampa. Phone 813-254-1891. http://www.plantmuseum.com.

Museum of Science and Industry 4801 E. Fowler Ave. The South's largest educational playground, with 450 hands-on exhibits Tampa, Florida 33617 and interactive attractions, including the Gulf Coast hurricane display, which lets you feel the force of high-speed winds in a safe setting. Be Phone: 813-987-6000 sure to experience the IMAX Dome Theater and the Sky Trail Ropes http://www.mosi.org Course. At 40,000 sq ft/3,700 sq m, Kids in Charge claims to be the largest children's science center in the nation. There are also outdoor trails and a picnic area. Daily 10 am-5 pm. US$12.95 adults. 4801 E. Fowler Ave. (near the University of South Florida), Tampa. Phone 813- 987-6000. Toll-free 800-995-6674. http://www.mosi.org.

Tampa Museum of Art 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza Known for its collection of classical as well as contemporary painting and sculpture exhibits, this innovative institution is located in Curtis Hixon Tampa, Florida 33602 Park on the Hillsborough River. The museum has a renowned collection Phone: 813-421-8380 of Greek and Roman antiquities and features a Florida Gallery http://www.tampamuseum.org showcasing the state's acclaimed and emerging artists. The museum's Sono Cafe offers lunch and happy hour fare, with a stunning terrace overlooking the river. Monday-Wednesday, Friday 10 am-5 pm, Thursday 10 am-8 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-5 pm. US$15 adults. 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, downtown, Tampa. Phone 813-421- 8380. http://www.tampamuseum.org.

The Tampa Bay History Center 801 Old Water St. The center's permanent exhibits explore 500 years of recorded history Tampa, Florida 33602 and 12,000 years of human habitation in the region, putting Tampa Bay's history into a larger context. Native Americans and Spanish Phone: 813-228-0097 conquistadors, pioneer settlers and cigar workers, immigrants and http://www.tampabayhistorycenter.org cowboys, and military and sports heroes are all showcased in the two floors of exhibit space and the lobby-level gallery and theater. The critically acclaimed Columbia Restaurant operates the cafe on the first floor. Daily 10 am-5 pm. US$14.95 adults. 801 Old Water St. (formerly St. Pete Times Forum Drive), Tampa. Phone 813-228-0097. http://www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

Ybor City State Museum 1818 E. Ninth Ave. The displays found in the century-old Ferlita Bakery building examine Tampa, Florida 33601 the political, social and cultural influences that shaped early Tampa. Watch a cigar-rolling demonstration (Friday-Sunday 11 am-1 pm), the Phone: 813-247-6323 skill that epitomizes Ybor City's early years. The cigar workers' casitas http://www.ybormuseum.org (also called shotgun houses because of their long, straight-through architecture) and the spectacular gardens surrounding the museum round out impressions of the district's history. Wednesday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm. US$4. 1818 E. Ninth Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-247-6323. http://www.ybormuseum.org.

Bayshore Boulevard Tampa, Florida This 4.5-mi/7-km stretch of road and its attendant sidewalk begin downtown and curve around Hillsborough Bay, offering a breathtaking, up-close and personal view of the bay. Touted as the world's longest continuous sidewalk, the boulevard is lined by stately old houses, many of which are historic landmarks. Strolling, bicycling and in-line skating are popular activities along this route. Anchored in the bay is the Jose Gaspar, a fully rigged pirate ship that stars in the Gasparilla extravaganza each winter.

Hyde Park Bordered by Kennedy and Bayshore Tampa's first suburb stretches south from the Hillsborough River. Elegant Victorian-style houses and trendy shops line its streets. It's also boulevards home to the hip SoHo District of upscale gourmet restaurants on South Tampa, Florida Howard Avenue and the Old Hyde Park Village on Swann Avenue with its upscale shopping and restaurants. Bordered by Kennedy and Bayshore boulevards, Tampa.

Ybor City South of Interstate 4, exit 1 By far the most intriguing part of Tampa is Ybor (pronounced EE-bore) City, northeast of downtown. Some 12,000 cigar makers once labored in Tampa, Florida 200 factories there. This lively Latin quarter, with its distinctive architecture, is recognized as a National Historic Landmark District. The neighborhood's pre-Depression style includes brick-paved streets, old- fashioned globe streetlights and wrought-iron balconies. Be sure to stop at a local shop to see cigars being rolled by hand, and don't miss the Ybor City State Museum. Displays examine the political and cultural influences that shaped this neighborhood. At night, partygoers fill the bars and clubs along Seventh Avenue, which is closed to automotive traffic on the weekends. Metered parking is enforced 24 hours; two parking garages are nearby. Most of the area is in easy walking distance. South of Interstate 4, exit 1, Tampa.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park 600 N. Ashley Dr In the heart of downtown Tampa is Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, overlooking the Hillsborough River and adjacent to the Glazer Children's Tampa, Florida 33602 Museum and the Tampa Museum of Art. The park features a great https://www.tampagov.net/parks-and- lawn, two splash-zones, a high-tech children's playground, a dog park recreation/featured-parks/curtis-hixon and plenty of room to run and play, or simply sit and rest for a while. Daily 7 am-10 pm. 600 N. Ashley Dr, Tampa. https://www.tampagov.net/parks-and-recreation/featured-parks/curtis- hixon.

Adventure Island 10001 N. McKinley Drive This water park offers a spectacular array of opportunities to cool off Tampa, Florida 33612 with its 30 acres/12 hectares of waterslides, corkscrews, waterfalls and other water attractions. Riptide, Florida's first four-lane mat slide, allows Phone: 813-884-4386 four riders to race each other to the bottom. Wahoo Run, another http://www.adventureisland.com favorite attraction, features partially enclosed corkscrew slides and plunges you 15 ft/5 m per second into a splash pool. Four waterfall curtains descend at strategic intervals to provide a thorough soaking. Daily mid-March to early September, weekends only through October. Hours vary. Adult $69.99. 10001 N. McKinley Drive (near the University of South Florida, adjacent to Busch Gardens), Tampa. Phone 813-884- 4386. Toll-free 888-800-5447. http://www.adventureisland.com.

Busch Gardens 10165 N. McKinley Drive Despite heavy competition from the parks in Orlando, Tampa's Africa- themed amusement park remains one of Florida's leading attractions. Tampa, Florida 33612 Located on the grounds of a former brewery, it has nearly 2,000 Phone: 813-884-4386 animals, including giraffes, gorillas, zebras and buffalo. There also are http://www.buschgardens.com an aviary and a few continental anomalies—koalas, for instance. Stage entertainment ranges from ice shows to musical theater. Regardless of the show you see, you can be assured it will be performed by outstanding talent and will be an unforgettable experience. In addition, the park has arcades and amusement-park rides, including raft rides and roller coaster. Daily year-round. US$109.99 adults. 10165 N. McKinley Drive (about 8 mi/13 km northeast of downtown; from Interstate 275, exit east on Busch Boulevard), Tampa. Phone 813-884- 4386. Toll-free 888-800-5447. http://www.buschgardens.com.

Cigar City Brewing 3924 W. Spruce St. One of the best breweries in the Southeast, but it doesn't take that distinction lightly. The staff is super knowledgeable and goes out of its Tampa, Florida 33607 way to make you feel at home. Be sure to take a brewery tour—for Phone: 813-348-6363 US$8, you get a tour and fresh-made (as in, straight from the barrel) http://www.cigarcitybrewing.com beer, and the souvenir pint glass is yours to keep. Try the Florida Cracker, a Belgian-style white ale brewed with orange peel and coriander. Sunday-Thursday 11 am-11 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-1 am. 3924 W. Spruce St., Tampa. Phone 813-348-6363. http://www.cigarcitybrewing.com.

Cigar City Cider & Mead Building upon its success, Cigar City has opened a cider and mead 1812 N. 15th St. tasting room in Ybor City. The diverse selection of ciders and meads are brewed with Florida-grown ingredients; guest taps are also on offer. Tampa, Florida 33605 Wednesday 3-9 pm, Thursday 3-11 pm, Friday and Saturday noon- Phone: 813-242-6600 midnight, Sunday noon-8 pm. 1812 N. 15th St. (Ybor City), Tampa. http://www.cigarcitycider.com Phone 813-242-6600. http://www.cigarcitycider.com.

Florida Cane Vodka 501 S. Falkenburh Road, Suite C-5 The craft scene went outside the box in the Tampa Bay area when Florida Cane Vodka opened its doors, distilling vodka made entirely of Tampa, Florida ingredients found within the Sunshine State. Flavored vodkas include Phone: 813-347-6565 Orlando Orange, Plant City Strawberry, Key West Lemon and Lime, and Miami Mango, to name a few. Distillery tours are available on weekends. 501 S. Falkenburh Road, Suite C-5, Tampa. Phone 813-347-6565.

Tampa Bay Brewing Company 1600 E. 8th Ave. Eight core beers are always on tap, and 38 seasonal beers take their Tampa, Florida 33605 place on the tap throughout the year. When you're there, try the tried and true Old Elephant Foot IPA. Monday-Thursday 11 am-11 pm, Phone: 813-247-1422 Friday and Saturday 11 am-midnight. 1600 E. 8th Ave. (Ybor City), Tampa. Phone 813-247-1422.

Big Cat Rescue 12802 Easy St. The world's largest accredited sanctuary is home to around 80 felines— lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars and other species—that were abandoned Tampa, Florida 33625 or abused. Its mission is to care for these cats, educate the public and Phone: 813-920-4130 end animal abuse. Visitors can see the sanctuary only by guided tours. http://bigcatrescue.org You must be at least 10 years old to tour the sanctuary, although there is a special children's tour on Saturday and Sunday at noon for children younger than 10. Take water and wear comfortable shoes. Tours Friday-Wednesday; advance reservations required. US$39 adults. 12802 Easy St., Tampa. Phone 813-920-4130. http://bigcatrescue.org.

Florida Aquarium 701 Channelside Drive, Channelside More than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals—some native to Florida, others from all over the world—can be found at this 200,000-sq- Tampa, Florida 33602 ft/62,000-sq-m waterfront institution. Focusing on the aquatic habitats Phone: 813-273-4000 and ecosystems of Florida, the aquarium features animal http://www.flaquarium.org demonstrations, shark feeding, a huge coral reef exhibit (see 200-lb/90- kg goliath grouper) and lots of Florida's alligators on display. The interactive No Bone Zone, an exhibit of animals without backbones, has low tanks so young visitors can touch crabs, urchins and other wiggly invertebrates. Another display follows a drop of Florida water from freshwater springs and limestone caves to the rivers and then into the open ocean. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. US$31.95 adults. 701 Channelside Drive, Channelside, Tampa. Phone 813-273-4000. http://www.flaquarium.org.

Lowry Park Zoo 1101 W. Sligh Ave., North Tampa Just west of downtown, this popular zoo has 56 acres/23 hectares of natural habitat. It's home to the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Hospital, the Tampa, Florida 33604 only permitted non-profit critical care facility of its kind in the state. More Phone: 813-935-8552 than 1,200 animals can be found at the zoo, with its free-flight lorikeet https://zootampa.org aviary, children's petting zoo and educational center. Stingray Bay is an interactive exhibit that allows you to reach into the water and touch the stingrays. Another popular attraction is Wallaroo Station, an Australian- themed children's zoo with a mini water park. Daily 9:30 am-5 pm. US$39.95 adults. 1101 W. Sligh Ave., North Tampa (west of Interstate 275), Tampa. Phone 813-935-8552. https://zootampa.org. Recreation

In addition to the beaches and opportunities for hiking at state parks not far from Tampa, the city's famous Bayshore Boulevard is popular with in-line skaters, joggers and bicyclists. The 4.5-mi/7-km promenade follows a seawall along the edge of Hillsborough Bay.

The water beckons boaters and anglers, and year-round warm weather is an open invitation to golfers from all over the world—the Tampa area boasts more than 90 golf courses.

Beaches

Tampa's own beaches don't compare with those in St. Pete—residents use them mostly for tailgate parties and quick fishing—but if you are short on time, or just curious, check out one of the three public beaches. Ben T. Davis is west of downtown on Highway 60 West, Picnic Island is in South Tampa, and E.G. Simmons Park is off Interstate 75 South on the east side of Tampa Bay.

The best beaches are on the barrier islands that stretch along the Gulf Coast in Pinellas County. Most Pinellas County beaches are open during daylight hours year-round, with free admission (although many have metered parking). Clearwater Beach, one of Florida's best-known sunning spots, is the only one with year-round lifeguards; most have amenities such as changing rooms and picnic shelters.

To get to these beaches from Tampa, take one of three causeways that cross Tampa Bay to St. Petersburg and then head west. At the northern end of the barrier islands is Clearwater Beach, where large hotels line the waterfront, and people frolic in the water or lounge on the white sand.

North of Clearwater Beach is Honeymoon Island Beach (which has a lovely dog beach), from which you can catch a ferry to Caladesi Island State Park and follow the boardwalk to the sand. Caladesi has been recognized as among the nation's top beaches. It offers soft, white sand, tall pine trees, sea oats, abundant wildlife and beautiful blue-green water. There's also a 3-mi/5-km nature trail.

Treasure Island (west of St. Petersburg) and Tiki Gardens Beach at Indian Shores are two other options. Both feature metered parking, restroom facilities and showers.

Pass-A-Grille Beach near the southern end of the barrier islands is another of our favorites. It was one of the first public beaches on Florida's west coast, and it's still one of the loveliest. Small shops and restaurants are located along the coast, making this a pleasant place to catch some rays, as well as to have a refreshing drink in the shade when the sun gets too hot.

If you prefer a less commercial, more secluded place, try Fort DeSoto Park at the southern tip of the barrier islands. It has two fishing piers, picnic grills, pavilions and an 8-mi/13-km recreational trail. Fort DeSoto also has the best dog park in the Tampa area, with doggie water fountains and shower stations, as well as a private beach where you can swim with your pooch.

For something more than sun and sand, try Madeira Beach. At John's Pass Village and Boardwalk, you can take a dolphin-watching cruise or a sunset sail, enjoy a seafood dinner and charter a fishing boat. There are several shops and restaurants in the complex, but don't walk along the boardwalk with food in your hand, as the many sea birds on the pier are aggressive. Parking is metered.

Splitsville 615 Channelside Drive This upscale center features 12 bowling lanes, seven billiard tables, a restaurant and several bars. Not a bowler? Watch the game on the nine Tampa, Florida 33602 plasma screens and 20 TVs. The menu is upscale as well, offering Phone: 813-514-2695 sushi, rice bowls and gourmet burgers, in addition to classic bowling- http://www.splitsvillelanes.com alley fare such as nachos and pizza. Popular with couples, but also family-oriented. Monday from 4 pm, Tuesday-Thursday from noon, Friday-Sunday from 11:30 am. Rates from US$4 per game. 615 Channelside Drive (located near downtown and the aquarium), Tampa. Phone 813-514-2695. http://www.splitsvillelanes.com.

Take a half- or full-day charter on Tampa Bay. Inshore trips may yield snook, tarpon, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, sheepshead, red snapper and others. Offshore you're more likely to catch gag or black grouper, amberjack, sea bass, triggerfish, red snapper and gray snapper.

The price of a private charter averages US$150-$165 per hour or more, depending on gas prices. Many boats only accommodate up to six people.

Capt. Matt Ercoli 526 69th St Expert fishing guide Matt Ercoli takes anglers on half- and full-day Tampa, Florida 34217 inshore and offshore expeditions in the Tampa Bay area. He specializes Phone: 941-447-9888 in light tackle and fly-fishing for giant tarpon April-July. 526 69th St, http://www.captainmatt.com Tampa. Phone 941-447-9888. http://www.captainmatt.com.

Mad Snooker Tampa, Florida Capt. Dave guarantees that you'll hook a snook on one of his inshore night charters or you get your money back. Phone 727-570-9711. Phone: 727-570-9711 http://www.madsnooker.com. http://www.madsnooker.com

Tampa has a number of public and semiprivate courses for the visitor to play. Many of them are open to the public but located in Tampa's swankier northeast residential developments. Most courses open early in the morning. Greens fees vary depending on the day of the week and course.

Babe Zaharias Golf Club 11412 Forest Hills Drive Located 20 minutes from downtown Tampa in the Forest Hills neighborhood, this 18-hole course is par 70. 11412 Forest Hills Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612 Tampa. Phone 813-631-4374. http://www.babezahariasgolf.net. Phone: 813-631-4374 http://www.babezahariasgolf.net

Heritage Isles Golf & Country Club 10630 Plantation Bay Drive Enjoy Florida's natural wetlands at this 18-hole, par-72 course. 10630 Plantation Bay Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-907-7447. Tampa, Florida 33647 http://www.heritageislesgolf.com. Phone: 813-907-7447 http://www.heritageislesgolf.com

Rocky Point Golf Course 4151 Dana Shores Drive This 18-hole, par-71 public course is about 15 minutes from the Tampa airport. 4151 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-673-4316. Tampa, Florida 33634 http://www.rockypointgolf.net. Phone: 813-673-4316 http://www.rockypointgolf.net

Saddlebrook Golf Academy 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel If you are looking to improve your golf game, this academy at the Saddlebrook Resort teaches golfers of all skill levels. Classes combine Tampa, Florida 33543 classroom and practice time with course play. Packages include Phone: 813-907-4566 accommodations, 18 holes of golf a day, instruction, meals and use of http://www.saddlebrook.com/golf.html resort facilities. There are two 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed championship courses on the property. You can also enroll in a multiday program. 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel, Tampa. Phone 813- 907-4566. http://www.saddlebrook.com/golf.html.

University of South Florida Golf Course 13801 N. 46th St. Known as The Claw because of its dogleg fairways and the famous 14th hole, this course has a wooded area and lots of water. Long tight Tampa, Florida 33613 fairways are lined with oak, pine and cypress, and you'll see deer, Phone: 813-632-6893 alligators, spoonbills and other local wildlife. 13801 N. 46th St., Tampa. http://www.theclawatusfgolf.com Phone 813-632-6893. http://www.theclawatusfgolf.com.

Westchase Golf Club 11602 Westchase Golf Drive A pastoral setting and well-manicured fairways set this course apart. Pro lessons are available. Opens daily at 6:30 am. 11602 Westchase Golf Tampa, Florida 33626 Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-854-2331. http://www.westchasegc.com. Phone: 813-854-2331 http://www.westchasegc.com

Bayshore Boulevard Tampa, Florida This 4.5-mi/7-km stretch of road and its attendant sidewalk begins downtown and curves around Hillsborough Bay, offering a breathtaking, up-close view of the bay. Touted as the world's longest continuous sidewalk, the boulevard is lined by stately old houses, many of which are historic landmarks. Strolling, bicycling and in-line skating are popular activities along this route. Anchored in the bay is the Jose Gaspar, a fully rigged pirate ship that stars in the Gasparilla extravaganza each winter.

Lettuce Lake Park 6920 E. Fletcher Ave. For a bit of unmediated nature that's close to civilization, head to Lettuce Lake Park, just east of the University of South Tampa. It's a Tampa, Florida 33637 stone's throw from urban sprawl, but don't hold that against it. The Phone: 813-987-6204 dense wilderness shelters a 3,500-ft-/1,085-m-long raised boardwalk http://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/locations/lettuce- and a tower overlooking the Hillsborough River, a perfect place from lake-park which to spy on tall wading birds, gators lurking amongst cypress knees in the swamp, or even delicate orchids and other epiphytes nestled in the trees' crooks. Rent a canoe for a closer look at the creatures that call this tannin-tinged water home, hike the fully accessible boardwalk or dirt trails (no dogs on the boardwalks), then settle in for a picnic at one of the waterfront shelters, equipped with barbecue grills. A kids' playground, restrooms and water fountains make this swath of nature very civilized indeed. Daily 8 am-7 pm in summer, 8 am-6 pm in winter. US$2 per vehicle for up to eight people. 6920 E. Fletcher Ave. (near the Interstate 75 exit), Tampa. Phone 813-987-6204. http://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/locations/lettuce-lake-park.

The Tampa Riverwalk Tampa, Florida This scenic pedestrian walkway begins in Channelside and winds http://www.thetampariverwalk.com through downtown Tampa, passing major attractions including Curtis Hixon Park, the Tampa Museum of Art, the Straz Performing Arts Center and the Tampa Convention Center. http://www.thetampariverwalk.com.

If you like to snorkel, consider a day trip to Egmont Key, south of Tampa and west of Bradenton, where you can snorkel above the ruins of a sunken fort. Other fort ruins, as well as nature trails, are on Egmont Key. You'll need a boat to get there.

If you prefer to scuba dive, several dive shops in the St. Petersburg area offer trips to sunken ships in the Gulf of Mexico—don't expect to see a lot of coral, but the fish are numerous and large.

Calypso Divers 401 E. Bearss Ave. Calypso Divers has been around for years and offers dive trips, snorkeling, instruction, youth programs, and equipment rental and Tampa, Florida 33613 repair. Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm. 401 E. Bearss Ave., Tampa. Phone: 813-969-3483 Phone 813-969-3483. https://www.calypsotampa.com. https://www.calypsotampa.com

Nightlife

Dozens of bars—jazz, blues, country, reggae, punk, gay, Goth, strip, you name it—line the streets around Seventh Avenue in Ybor City. The bar scene doesn't really start until 10 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and the action often lasts until the clubs close around 3 am. Ybor is also a good bet during the early evening hours—before 9 or 10 pm is a more family-friendly time.

Those looking for something a bit different in Ybor City should check out the classical flamenco dancing at Columbia Restaurant.

Another nighttime hot spot is SoHo, or South Howard Avenue in South Tampa, where bars line the avenue and offshoots and stay busy late into the night.

Bars, Taverns & Pubs

Bahama Breeze 3045 N. Rocky Point Drive E. Located out on the Courtney Campbell Causeway (in the Rocky Point area), this is a froufrou tropical-drink singles hangout with a huge Tampa, Florida 33607 waterside deck where you will occasionally see Rays players, Phone: 813-289-7922. Buccaneers, and large men who could have been contenders. As an http://www.bahamabreeze.com island-theme playground with more than 20 locations across the country, Bahama Breeze gets top honors for those froufrou tropical drinks. The frozen pina colada comes with swirls of strawberry ice and a float of Myers dark rum. Sunday-Thursday 11 am-midnight, Friday and Saturday 11 am-2 am. 3045 N. Rocky Point Drive E., Tampa. Phone 813-289-7922. http://www.bahamabreeze.com.

Four Green Fields 205 W. Platt St., Hyde Park Ireland goes native in this authentic thatch-roofed pub. Run by Irish immigrants, it offers a variety of brews and authentic Irish dishes such Tampa, Florida 33606 as corned beef and cabbage, and stews. There's an outdoor deck set Phone: 813-254-4444 amid palm trees, live Irish folk music most nights, and what some say is http://www.tampa.fourgreenfields.com the best pint of Guinness in Tampa. Monday-Saturday from 11 am, Sunday from noon. Rarely a cover. Live traditional and contemporary Irish music Thursday-Saturday. 205 W. Platt St., Hyde Park, Tampa. Phone 813-254-4444. http://www.tampa.fourgreenfields.com.

Green Iguana 4029 S. West Shore Blvd. One of Ybor's most popular nightspots, with burgers, wings, beer and booze till 3 am. Live entertainment most nights. The Green Iguana also Tampa, Florida 33611 has other locations in Tampa and at the airport. Daily 11 am-3 am. No Phone: 813-837-1234 cover. 4029 S. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. Phone 813-837-1234. http://www.greeniguana.com http://www.greeniguana.com.

Hyde Park Cafe 1806 W. Platt St. Three bars in one, this high-energy hot spot packs them in. Offers drink specials nightly. Tuesday and Saturday 9 pm-3 am, Friday 8 pm-3 am. Tampa, Florida 33606 US$10 cover charge. 1806 W. Platt St., Tampa. Phone 813-254-2233. Phone: 813-254-2233 http://www.thehydeparkcafe.com. http://www.thehydeparkcafe.com

Jackson's Bistro 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd. Feeling lucky? Tempt fate with a Death by Chocolate martini at Jackson's downtown. This concoction of chocolate-infused vodka and Tampa, Florida 33602 white and dark Godiva liqueurs is worth the risk. You can sample it Phone: 813-277-0112 along with a little live music on the weekends at Backjacks. During the http://www.jacksonsbistro.com week, the sleek, vast restaurant embraces the throngs with a laudably broad wine list and a something-for-everyone culinary approach that includes macadamia nut-crusted swordfish, huge bone-in ribeye steaks and a nice array of familiar nigiri and makimono sushi rolls. Monday- Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday 11 am-11 pm, Saturday 11 am-3 am, Sunday 10:30 am-10 pm. 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd., Tampa. Phone 813-277-0112. http://www.jacksonsbistro.com.

MacDinton's Irish Pub & Restaurant 405 S. Howard Ave. Another Irish eatery, with a killer black and tan, a warming Irish coffee Tampa, Florida 33606 and a fair representation of Irish staples, from rib-sticking, mashed- potatoey shepherd's pie to bangers and mash and fish-and-chips. This Phone: 813-251-8999 is absolutely the biggest scene in Tampa, with lines down and around http://www.macdintons.com the block on weekend nights. Why? Who can say? The beer tastes just the same as it does at other places. Free Wi-Fi. Monday-Friday 4 pm-3 am, Saturday 10 am-3 am; Sunday 11 am-3 am. 405 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-251-8999. http://www.macdintons.com.

New World Brewery 1313 E. Eighth Ave. One of Ybor City's oldest and most beloved venues, with a lush tropical courtyard and a range of musical tastes from alt-rock to cool fusion jazz. Tampa, Florida 33604 There are more than 30 microbrews on tap—it doesn't brew its own Phone: 813-248-4969 anymore, but the owners are connoisseurs of other suds' excellence. http://newworldbrewery.net Enjoy your favorite import or craft brew along with a stone-seared pizza. Everyone there seems to be a regular. Daily from 11 am. Most evenings, there's no cover although some bands are US$3-$5. 1313 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-248-4969. http://newworldbrewery.net.

Peabody's Billiards 15333 Amberly Drive This premier pool hall offers 14 billiard tables, 18 dart boards and 60 Tampa, Florida 33647 televisions, not to mention 110 varieties of beer. Weekly entertainment and events. It's really a sports bar in sheep's clothing, but one where the Phone: 813-972-1725 whole family won't mind sharing lively conversation over burgers (but https://www.peabodystampa.com after 9 pm it's only for ages 21 and up). Monday-Saturday 11 am-3 pm, Sunday noon-3 am. No cover. 15333 Amberly Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-972-1725. https://www.peabodystampa.com.

The Hub 719 N. Franklin St. Lawyers, bankers and college students have hung out in this bar for Tampa, Florida 33602 more than 60 years. Locals have voted the Hub as having the best jukebox and the strongest drinks in Tampa. The drink of choice is the Phone: 813-229-1553 kamikaze, but frankly they aren't particularly good until you've had your https://www.facebook.com/the-hub-bar- third. Monday-Saturday 10 am-3 am, Sunday 1 pm-3 am. No cover. 719 154230671254064 N. Franklin St. (next to the Tampa Theatre), Tampa. Phone 813-229- 1553. https://www.facebook.com/the-hub-bar-154230671254064.

The Refinery 5137 N. Florida Ave. A two-story house with a great patio on the upper floor, this is the Tampa, Florida 33603 perfect "take a break" place in Tampa. The menu is creative and changes weekly. Beer selection ranges from Pabst Blue Ribbon to Phone: 813-237-2000 Florida craft brews (such as Cigar City IPAs). Tuesday-Thursday 5-10 http://www.thetamparefinery.com pm, Friday and Saturday 5-11 pm, Sunday 11 am-3 pm. 5137 N. Florida Ave. (Seminole Heights), Tampa. Phone 813-237-2000. http://www.thetamparefinery.com.

The Sail 333 S. Franklin St. Officially part of the Tampa Convention Center, this outdoor bar and Tampa, Florida 33602 pavilion is a local favorite for happy hour (and Yappy Hour since it's pet friendly) and for watching sunsets. It's on the waterfront so some folks Phone: 813-274-7317 arrive by boat. Live entertainment on weekends. Monday-Friday from 2 https://www.tampagov.net/tcc/the-sail pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11 am. No cover. 333 S. Franklin St., Tampa. Phone 813-274-7317. https://www.tampagov.net/tcc/the-sail.

Side Splitters 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway Features comedians with varied routines and a long list of credits to their names. Mixed drinks, a good wine selection and snacks are Tampa, Florida 33618 available. Wednesday-Sunday 7 pm-1 am. Show times vary. Tickets Phone: 813-960-1197 range US$8-$16. Two-item minimum during shows. Must be 18 or older http://www.sidesplitterscomedy.com to get in. Most major credit cards. 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa. Phone 813-960-1197. http://www.sidesplitterscomedy.com.

The Improv 1600 E. Eighth Ave., C112 A longtime favorite in Ybor City, The Improv is housed in a refurbished old theater complete with balcony seating. Dinner (optional) is served Tampa, Florida 33605 during the show, and the menu is pretty impressive for a place that Phone: 813-864-4000 doesn't specialize in food. Tickets range US$10-$35. Some special http://www.improvtampa.com engagements cost more. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., C112, Tampa. Phone 813-864-4000. http://www.improvtampa.com.

Castle Bar 2004 N. 16th St., Ybor City Ybor's premier Goth club is surprisingly friendly. Shows are varied but Tampa, Florida 33605 always entertaining. Young people ages 18-20 are welcome. Thursday- Saturday 10:30 pm-3 am. Cover varies. 2004 N. 16th St., Ybor City, Phone: 813-247-7547 Tampa. Phone 813-247-7547. http://www.castleybor.com. http://www.castleybor.com

Club Prana 1619 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City Featuring five levels, Club Prana is the velvet-roped crown jewel on the Ybor scene. From the main floor and mezzanine to the exclusive third- Tampa, Florida 33605 floor lounge, fourth-floor "club level" and fifth-floor rooftop "sky bar," the Phone: 813-241-4139 space is attractive with brushed stainless steel and hardwood floors. Each floor has its own style and type of music. Patrons tend to be young https://clubprana.com and trendy. Wednesday noon-4 pm, Thursday-Saturday 9 pm-3 am. No flip-flops, hats, shorts or jerseys. US$10. 1619 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City, Tampa. Phone 813-241-4139. https://clubprana.com.

Performing Arts

Tampa's downtown Performing Arts Center, plus the presence of the University of South Florida and the city of St. Petersburg across the bay, make this medium-sized city a popular stop for many touring events—including plenty of pop, rock and jazz music.

The city's symphony, the Florida Orchestra, focuses largely on standards, both classical and popular.

Theater offerings range from Broadway musicals to performances by Gorilla Theatre, a local troupe that mixes original and repertory work each season.

One of our favorite venues is the Tampa Theatre. A downtown landmark since 1926, the elaborate movie palace is on the National Register of Historic Places. Its original Mighty Wurlitzer is still played before most screenings. More than 150,000 people visit the theater each year to admire the architecture and antique furnishings (and, of course, the art-house films).

Music

Florida Orchestra 1010 N. MacInnes Place The Florida Orchestra gives more than 150 concerts each season at Tampa, Florida 33602 Carol Morsani Hall, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, and other venues in the Tampa Bay area. 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Phone: 727-892-3337 Phone 727-892-3337. http://www.floridaorchestra.org. http://www.floridaorchestra.org

Opera Tampa 1010 N. MacInnes Place The resident opera company of the Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents a season of opera classics. 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Tampa, Florida 33602 Phone 813-229-7827. https://www.strazcenter.org/operatampa. Phone: 813-229-7827 https://www.strazcenter.org/operatampa

American Stage Theatre Company 163 Third St. N. A favorite in the Tampa Bay area is the American Stage—requiring a Tampa, Florida 33701 drive over the bridge to St. Petersburg. It is Tampa Bay's oldest professional theater, with a six-play main-stage season, children's Phone: 727-823-7529 theater, educational outreach and the annual Shakespeare in the Park http://www.americanstage.org festival. 163 Third St. N., Tampa. Phone 727-823-7529. http://www.americanstage.org.

Broadway in Tampa Bay 1010 N. MacInnes Place The Straz Center for the Performing Arts and its resident Center Theater Company present the series October-May. 1010 N. MacInnes Tampa, Florida 33602 Place, Tampa. Phone 813-229-7827. http://www.strazcenter.org. Phone: 813-229-7827 http://www.strazcenter.org

David Falk Theatre 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. University of Tampa student theatrical productions take place in a Tampa, Florida 33606 1,000-seat theater built in 1928. Hours vary by performance. Tickets US$17-$30. 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Phone 813-253-3333. Phone: 813-253-3333 https://www.ut.edu/music/performancevenues. https://www.ut.edu/music/performancevenues

Tampa Theatre 711 N. Franklin St. Built in 1926, this theater has been designated a historic landmark. Its architecture is a spectacular blend of Mediterranean, Renaissance, Tampa, Florida 33602 baroque and other influences. Theatrical offerings include classics, art Phone: 813-274-8981 films, live entertainment and much more. Regardless of the show, it's http://www.tampatheatre.org worth a trip just to see the theater's design elements. Backstage tours are available, including demonstrations of the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Showtimes vary; call for details. Box office open Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm. Tickets US$9-$11 adults. US$10 adults for tours. 711 N. Franklin St. (downtown), Tampa. Phone 813-274-8981. http://www.tampatheatre.org.

Amalie Arena 401 Channelside Drive Home to the NHL Tampa Bay Lightning, this venue also hosts concerts, Tampa, Florida 33602 family events such as ice skating and the circus, and other indoor sporting events. 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-301-6500 Phone: 813-301-6500 or box office 813-301-2500. http://www.amaliearena.com. http://www.amaliearena.com

David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place The Straz Center offers five separate theaters to accommodate a large Tampa, Florida 33602 variety of entertainment. The 45,000-sq-ft/14,000-sq-m Patel Conservatory features 20 studios. Live concerts, stage plays and Phone: 813-229-7827 performances by the Florida Orchestra are just a few of the many http://www.strazcenter.org offerings available. The upscale Maestro's restaurant is upstairs. Reservations recommended. The less formal Maestro's Cafe is located in the lobby. 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Phone 813-229- 7827. http://www.strazcenter.org.

MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre 4802 U.S. Highway 301 N. The name is unwieldly, but this is the largest amphitheater in Tampa Tampa, Florida 33610 Bay. The state-of-the-art venue hosts 30-40 big-league concerts a year. The theater has huge video screens, 9,900 reserved seats and room for Phone: 813-740-2446 10,500 more on the lawn. It's gorgeous, like a huge circus tent mated http://www.fairgroundsamphitheatre.com with the Millennium Falcon. There are plenty of restrooms and lots of fairly tasty food options. Hours and prices vary by performance. 4802 U.S. Highway 301 N., Tampa. Phone 813-740-2446. http://www.fairgroundsamphitheatre.com.

USF Sun Dome 4202 E. Fowler Ave. This multipurpose entertainment and sports facility on the campus of the Tampa, Florida 33620 University of South Florida hosts 300 events each year, many of them basketball and volleyball games, but also lectures and political rallies, Phone: 813-974-3111 rock concerts, taekwondo tournaments, garden shows, wrestling and http://www.sundomearena.com the like. Tickets and hours vary by performance. Ticket office is located at Entry 3. 4202 E. Fowler Ave. (on the USF campus), Tampa. Phone 813-974-3111. http://www.sundomearena.com.

Spectator Sports

Professional sports get serious play in Tampa. The NFL's Buccaneers and the NHL's Tampa Bay Lightning attract sizable crowds.

In March, major-league baseball teams from across the country go to central Florida for spring training. Tampa hosts the New York Yankees.

Baseball

In addition to the Yankees' spring training in Tampa, other nearby venues require only a short drive from the city.

Across the bay in St. Petersburg, the Tampa Bay Rays play their preseason games in Port Charlotte and regular-season home games at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. The Philadelphia Phillies play at Bright House Networks Field in Clearwater; the Detroit Tigers play at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland; the Baltimore Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota; the Boston Red Sox play in JetBlue Park, and the Minnesota Twins play at the CenturyLink Sports Complex, both in Fort Myers.

The Toronto Blue Jays play at the Florida Auto Exchange in Dunedin, and the Pittsburgh Pirates play at McKechnie Field in Bradenton.

Tampa Bay Rays 1 Tropicana Drive The Tampa Bay Devil Rays play regular-season home games in St. Petersburg at Tropicana Field. The Devil Rays are also the only MLB Tampa, Florida team to hold spring training in their hometown, practicing at Al Lang http://www.raysbaseball.com Field, Progress Energy Park, 180 Second Ave. S.E., St. Petersburg. 1 Tropicana Drive, Tampa. Toll-free 888-326-7297. http://www.raysbaseball.com.

Tampa Yankees 1 Steinbrenner Drive This Class A affiliate of the New York Yankees plays home games at Tampa, Florida 33614 George M. Steinbrenner Field. 1 Steinbrenner Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-875-7753. http://www.steinbrennerfield.com. Phone: 813-875-7753 http://www.steinbrennerfield.com

Tampa Greyhound Track 8300 N. Nebraska Ave. One of the country's oldest greyhound racetracks hosts more than 3,000 races each season. 8300 N Nebraska. For information, call 813- Tampa, Florida 33604 932-4313. 8300 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-933-5582. Phone: 813-933-5582 https://tgtpoker.com. https://tgtpoker.com

Tampa Bay Buccaneers One Buccaneer Place The Bucs play in the US$168.5 million Raymond James Stadium, which Tampa, Florida 33607 features "Buccaneer Cove," a replica of an early 1800s seaport village, complete with a 103-ft-/32-m-long, 43-ton pirate ship that blasts its Phone: 813-879-2827 cannons (confetti and foam footballs) every time the team scores. http://www.buccaneers.com Purchase tickets on the website, at the box office, or through Ticketmaster. Prices vary. Box office located between Gates C & D. One Buccaneer Place (on the corner of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Dale Mabry Highway), Tampa. Phone 813-879-2827. http://www.buccaneers.com.

Tampa Bay Lightning 401 Channelside Drive The Tampa Bay Lightning take the ice October-April at the 21,000-seat, Tampa, Florida 33602 US$153-million Amalie Arena on Tampa's downtown waterfront. Home games often sell out early. Ticket prices range US$15-$349. 401 Phone: 800-745-3000 Channelside Drive, Tampa. Phone 800-745-3000 for Ticketmaster, 813- https://www.nhl.com/lightning 301-6600 for the Forum. https://www.nhl.com/lightning.

Tampa Bay Downs 11225 Racetrack Road The only Thoroughbred track on the state's Gulf Coast, Tampa Bay Tampa, Florida 33626 Downs offers live racing action with some big-purse events, such as the US$300,000 Tampa Bay Derby. Races, live and simulcast, run Phone: 813-855-4401 December-May. The Silks Poker Room, featuring Texas Hold'em, No- http://www.tampabaydowns.com Limit Hold'em, Omaha and Stud games, and the Downs Golf Practice Facility are open daily. Free Wi-Fi. Grandstand admission US$2; US$3 clubhouse weekends, free weekdays. 11225 Racetrack Road, Tampa. Phone 813-855-4401. http://www.tampabaydowns.com.

Shopping

Although Tampa's retail offerings have gone upscale in recent years, there are still a variety of shopping experiences regardless of your budget. International Plaza and Westshore Plaza offer high-end stores most often found in shopping meccas such as New York and London. Old Hyde Park Village offers quaint and chic boutiques in Tampa's picturesque historic district, and flea markets and specialty shops are found throughout the city.

The Tampa International Airport, meanwhile, has some of the best airport shopping in the U.S. or Canada—a collection of small stores, many with objects of high quality and surprisingly reasonable prices.

Tampa is also the place for cigars, and there are several good shops in Ybor City.

Shopping Hours: The large malls are generally open Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm and Sunday noon-6 pm. The hours of specialty shops may vary by the season, and in tourist areas, many are open seven days a week.

Antique Stores

Gaslight Antiques 3616 Henderson Blvd. This three-building marketplace offers antiques, artwork, collectibles and furniture. One building contains Georgian furniture exclusively. Will ship Tampa, Florida 33609 anywhere. Monday-Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm. 3616 Henderson Blvd., Phone: 813-870-0934 Tampa. Phone 813-870-0934. http://www.gaslightantiques.com. http://www.gaslightantiques.com

Inkwood Books 216 S. Armenia Ave. Located in a 1920s bungalow, this charming spot is Tampa's only Tampa, Florida 33609 independent bookstore. The hands-on owners are dedicated to preserving small independent booksellers. They are a wealth of Phone: 813-253-2638 information on fiction, children's books, biography, poetry, cookbooks http://www.inkwoodbooks.com and Floridian books; whiling away an afternoon or evening in this little bungalow is a real treat. Inkwood also hosts local events and supports local authors with book signings. Monday-Saturday 10 am-7 pm (till 9 pm Thursday), Sunday 1-5 pm. 216 S. Armenia Ave. (northeast corner of Armenia and Platt), Tampa. Phone 813-253-2638. http://www.inkwoodbooks.com.

Baisden Gallery 442 W. Grand Central Ave., Suite 100 Located next to Mise en Place, one of the area's long-established Tampa, Florida 33606 restaurants, this space features three galleries of rotating exhibits, focusing mostly on influential contemporary art glass, as well as Phone: 813-250-1511 contemporary paintings and photography. Tuesday-Thursday noon-4 http://www.baisdengallery.com pm, Friday 11 am-3 pm, Saturday noon-4 pm. 442 W. Grand Central Ave., Suite 100, Tampa. Phone 813-250-1511. http://www.baisdengallery.com.

Bleu Acier 109 W. Columbus Drive Although Bleu Acier exhibits works in all media, it specializes in Tampa, Florida 33602 midcareer European and American artists. Owner Erika Schneider has a special interest in intaglio, lithography, photolithography, relief and Phone: 813-215-0622 monotype, acting as a publisher to produce limited editions and http://www.bleuacier.com multiples of artists' work. Saturday 1-5 pm and by appointment. 109 W. Columbus Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-215-0622. http://www.bleuacier.com.

Ybor City Saturday Market 1901 19th St., Ybor City The longest continuously operated outdoor market in the Tampa Bay Tampa, Florida 33605 area rolls out the welcome mat every Saturday in Ybor City. There you'll find fresh produce, fine cigars, unique gifts, photography, artwork, Phone: 813-241-2442 jewelry, candles and much more. Saturday 9 am-1 pm. 1901 19th St., http://www.ybormarket.com Ybor City, Tampa. Phone 813-241-2442. http://www.ybormarket.com.

Centro Ybor 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Ybor City This lively mall area is packed with shopping, dining and entertainment Tampa, Florida 33605 options. It has an eclectic mix of boutiques such as District 7 Avenue shopping, Gametime and several restaurants. A 16-theater Muvico and Phone: 813-242-4660 The Improv comedy club offer plenty of other distractions, and local http://www.centroybor.com bands regularly perform in the center of the plaza. Valet parking. Monday-Wednesday 10 am-8 pm, Thursday-Saturday 10 am-10 pm, Sunday 11 am-7 pm. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Ybor City, Tampa. Phone 813-242-4660. http://www.centroybor.com.

Channelside 615 Channelside Drive This retail-entertainment complex features stores such as a chocolatier, wine shop, cigar lounge and surf apparel. Enjoy a concert at the St. Pete Tampa, Florida 33602 Times Forum, dine in one of Channelside's many restaurants, stop by a Phone: 813-223-4250 dance club, shop in one of the many boutiques and specialty stores, https://sparkmanwharf.com take a catamaran cruise or simply stroll the waterfront. There's also a nine-screen cinema that includes an IMAX 3-D theater (http://www.channelsideimax.com). 615 Channelside Drive (next to the Florida Aquarium), Tampa. Phone 813-223-4250. https://sparkmanwharf.com.

International Plaza 2223 N. Westshore Blvd., Westshore This upscale mall features more than 200 shops and dining areas, such as an Apple Store, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Urban Outfitters. It's Tampa, Florida 33607 adjacent to the Tampa International Airport and is conveniently located Phone: 813-342-3790 for travelers. It also features an open-air village of restaurants called http://www.shopinternationalplaza.com Bay Street. Daily 10 am-9 pm. 2223 N. Westshore Blvd., Westshore, Tampa. Phone 813-342-3790. http://www.shopinternationalplaza.com.

Old Hyde Park Village 744 South Village Circle Serious shoppers will want to browse through the quality shops, art galleries and restaurants at this center. The mix is eclectic, from well- Tampa, Florida 33606 known chain stores such as Pottery Barn, Brooks Brothers and Phone: 813-251-3500 Anthropologie to unique locally owned boutiques. It's in one of Tampa's http://www.hydeparkvillage.com oldest and most stately neighborhoods, with tree-lined streets, outdoor shopping and dining close to the bay. Even if you're only window shopping, it's worth going for the scenery itself. Monday-Saturday 10 am-7 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 744 South Village Circle (near Bayshore Boulevard in South Tampa), Tampa. Phone 813-251-3500. http://www.hydeparkvillage.com.

Tampa Premium Outlets 2300 Grand Cypress Drive, Lutz This outlet mall features the brand name labels you covet at discount Tampa, Florida 33559 prices, including Michael Kors, J. Crew, Coach, Tommy Hilfiger and many more. Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-7 pm. 2300 Phone: 813-938-6272 Grand Cypress Drive, Lutz, Tampa. Phone 813-938-6272. http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/tampa http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/tampa.

Westfield Shoppingtown Citrus Park 8021 Citrus Park Town Center, North This mall has a Main Street USA theme with stone walks and old- fashioned streetlights to give it a homey feel. Stores include typical Tampa favorites such as Dillards, Abercrombie & Fitch and The Gap. It also has Tampa, Florida 33625 a movie theater, a food court and several restaurants. 8021 Citrus Park Phone: 813-926-4644 Town Center, North Tampa, Tampa. Phone 813-926-4644. http://www.westfield.com/citruspark http://www.westfield.com/citruspark.

Westshore Plaza 250 Westshore Plaza About a mile from International Plaza, Westshore features specialty shops and four major department stores, including Macy's. It also Tampa, Florida 33609 contains a 14-screen AMC Theater and upscale chain restaurants such Phone: 813-286-0790 as Maggiano's Little Italy, PF Chang's and Mitchell's Fish Market. http://www.westshoreplaza.com Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday noon-6 pm. 250 Westshore Plaza, Tampa. Phone 813-286-0790. http://www.westshoreplaza.com.

King Corona Cigar Factory Owned by a fifth-generation cigar-making family, this outlet features 1523 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City handmade cigars and cigar accessories, along with Cuban and Latin American music. Monday-Thursday 8 am-midnight, Friday 8 am-2 am, Tampa, Florida 33605 Saturday 10 am-2 am, Sunday 11 am-11 pm. 1523 E. Seventh Ave., Phone: 813-241-9109 Ybor City, Tampa. Phone 813-241-9109. Toll-free 888-248-3812. http://www.kingcoronacigars.com http://www.kingcoronacigars.com.

Tampa Sweethearts Cigar Co. 1603 E. Sixth Ave. Sells handmade Dominican cigars, along with Arturo Fuente Gran Tampa, Florida 33605 Reserva and Montesino cigars. Monday 10 am-4 pm, Tuesday-Friday 9 am-6 pm, Saturday 9 am-2:30 pm. 1603 E. Sixth Ave., Tampa. Phone Phone: 813-247-3880 813-247-3880. http://www.tampasweethearts.com. http://www.tampasweethearts.com

The Columbia Shop 2025 E. 7th Avenue This shop sells everything from cigars by Gonzalez y Martinez to Columbia-branded apparel, cookbooks, music and gift baskets. Tampa, Florida 33605 Monday-Saturday from 10 am, Sunday from noon. 2025 E. 7th Avenue, Phone: 813-248-4961 Tampa. Phone 813-248-4961. https://columbiarestaurant.myshopify.com https://columbiarestaurant.myshopify.com.

Itinerary

Day Trips

To Orlando. The mother lode of theme parks and tourist attractions is 75 mi/120 km east of Tampa. Home of Walt Disney World Resort, Sea World Orlando, Universal Orlando Resort and more, Orlando can be reached by taking Interstate 4 East out of Tampa. http://www.orlandoinfo.com.

To St. Petersburg. Retirees have been visiting the balmy shores of St. Pete since the 1880s, but expanding businesses and a university branch are lowering the average age of residents. As a result, this city has a younger, hipper feel. On Saturday, there's a huge farmers market in the Progress Energy parking lot next to Al Lang Field. Be sure to visit the Salvador Dali Museum—it has the largest collection of his work outside of his native Spain, and there's a wonderful gift shop and cafe. The Chihuly Collection and its shop feature pieces by the glass master in 10,000 square feet of space. St. Pete also has an excellent Museum of Fine Arts, which has an addition to house its superior French impressionist paintings and a splendid collection of Asian art. If you're driving to St. Pete from Tampa, take Interstate 275 or Highway 92 (Gandy Bridge). But avoid the rush-hour commute, or this 30-minute journey could take more than an hour. http://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com.

To Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park. Get a close-up look at the natural wonders of Florida and the state's beloved manatee by heading north along the coast. Take Highway 19 North to Homosassa Springs, or Interstate 75 North to Highway 44, which you follow west to Highway 19. Depending on traffic, the 75-mi/120-km trip can take up to two hours each way. Phone 352-628-5343. http://www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings.

To Sarasota. This town and its barrier islands—Lido, Longboat and Siesta Keys—are among our favorite places in Florida. John Ringling liked the area so well he chose it to be the winter quarters for his circus in 1927. Today you can visit the John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art, which has an impressive collection of Renaissance and baroque art, with an especially fine selection of works by Rubens. The complex also houses the Museum of the Circus, a peek into circus history, and John Ringling's home on the bay, Ca d'Zan (House of John), a magnificent Venetian Renaissance-style mansion evocative of Ringling's two favorite Venetian hotels—the Danieli and the Bauer-Grunwald.

You might also investigate the Sarasota Jungle Gardens—10 acres/4 hectares of unusual plants, flowering shrubs and palms, as well as animals and water fowl. The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens specializes in epiphytic plants (plants nourished only by air and rain). If you just want to stroll and shop, head to St. Armand's Circle on Lido Key, a cluster of upscale shops, galleries and eateries. Of Sarasota's four barrier islands, our favorite is Longboat Key. One of the best resort areas on the Gulf Coast, this pretty strip of beach has grown increasingly popular but has maintained its relaxed atmosphere. It also offers numerous manicured golf courses. Follow Highway 41 South from Tampa for 52 mi/84 km. http://www.sarasotafl.org.

To Tarpon Springs. This Greek-influenced town north of St. Petersburg is a delightful place to visit. A few sponge boats still operate from the harbor, but giving visitors a look at the spongers' way of life is more lucrative these days. Afterward, visit the small shops along the harbor that sell sponges. Many of the restaurants there feature authentic Greek dishes. Once you pass the tourist emporiums, you'll find some good antiques shops, particularly on East Tarpon Avenue.

Ghost Tours of Tampa Bay 720 N. Franklin St. Take this 90-minute walking tour and learn why, during Prohibition, Tampa was called the "damnedest town this side of hell." Places Tampa, Florida 33602 covered include the old Tampa Bay Hotel, the phantom ships seen on Phone: 727-398-5200 Tampa Bay, the haunted Tampa Theatre and more. Daily from 8 pm. https://www.ghosttour.com/tampa.html Reservations required. US$15 adults. 720 N. Franklin St. (tours depart from The Franklin), Tampa. Phone 727-398-5200. https://www.ghosttour.com/tampa.html.

History Bike Tampa Tampa, Florida Set out on two wheels and see Tampa from a bike with History Bike Tampa. Tour themes vary monthly, so check the website or call for Phone: 813-263-7678 information, as well as tour dates, times and meeting locations. Phone http://www.historybiketampa.com 813-263-7678. http://www.historybiketampa.com.

Wild Dolphin Cruise 701 Channelside Drive The Florida Aquarium hosts a 75-minute wild dolphin tour aboard its Bay Tampa, Florida 33602 Spirit II, a 72-foot covered catamaran. The cruise goes into Tampa Bay and affords the opportunity to see dolphins in the wild, and maybe even Phone: 813-273-4000 sea turtles and manatees. The cruise is an additional experience http://www.flaquarium.org/explore-the- available at the aquarium. Departs from the Florida Aquarium. Daily aquarium/wild-dolphin-cruise.aspx departures at 1 and 2:30 pm. 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-273-4000. http://www.flaquarium.org/explore-the-aquarium/wild- dolphin-cruise.aspx.

Ybor City Historic Walking Tours Tampa, Florida These walking excursions take in the history and architecture of Ybor 813-505-6779 City. The tours last about two hours. Tours leave daily at 11 am and 2 Phone: pm, and by appointment. US$20 adults. Phone 813-505-6779. http://yborwalkingtours.com http://yborwalkingtours.com.

Day 1—Spend the morning strolling through Tampa's Ybor City. Have a Cuban sandwich for lunch. From there, head west and take a leisurely tour of Bayshore Boulevard and historic Hyde Park, with a stop for shopping at Old Hyde Park Village. Eat dinner and then take in a cultural performance at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.

Day 2—In the morning, pay a visit to Lowry Park Zoo. Afterward, try an upside-down banana split at local favorite Bo's Ice Cream. In the afternoon, set aside some time for Hillsborough River State Park. After freshening up and having dinner, return to Ybor City to sample its nightlife offerings.

Day 3—Choose between a visit to Busch Gardens/Adventure Island and a day trip to one of the beaches west of St. Petersburg or to the coastal town of Tarpon Springs.

To help you make the most of your time in Tampa, we've designed three different itineraries. PLAN A

Sharks, Cigars and Spanish Supper

Make a dinner reservation at Columbia Restaurant, then start your tour of Tampa at the Florida Aquarium, east of downtown—you can see stingrays, sharks and seahorses cavorting in huge saltwater tanks. As aquariums go, this is one of the finest in the U.S. You could easily spend half a day or more there.

Get to Ybor City in time for lunch (using the trolley, if you prefer), and you can feast on a Cuban sandwich and wash it down with a cup of cafe con leche. (It will keep you going the rest of the day.) Take time to stroll the brick-paved streets and to explore the shops and galleries that line Seventh Avenue. At the Ybor City State Museum, you can visit the cigar workers' cottages to see what life was like for the immigrants who rolled the cigars that made Tampa famous. If you prefer the smell of bread, you can watch Cuban bread being made by hand at La Segunda Bakery.

Finally, dine on a sumptuous Cuban dinner at Columbia Restaurant and watch the sizzling flamenco floor show. Then take in a show at a local venue in Ybor City.

PLAN B Architecture Aficionados: Craftsman Bungalows and a Moorish Palace

After breakfast, call the Tampa Theatre to find out what time the evening show starts. Then pick up your rental car and head to the Henry B. Plant Museum (the old Tampa Bay Hotel) downtown at the University of Tampa—you'll recognize it by the silver minarets on top. Plant was the 1800s railroad baron who connected Tampa to the rest of the world. Built in 1891 for US$3 million, the opulent structure contains the original hotel furnishings, as well as displays relating to Plant's rail and steamship lines. But what's really impressive is that it's an extraordinary re-creation of a Moorish palace. (The building is a National Historic Landmark.)

Then drive to another historic building—this time for a Spanish lunch at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City. This restaurant opened in 1905, and it's said to be Florida's oldest. The tiled exterior and balconied interior are both lovely. Take a leisurely drive along Bayshore Boulevard and lose yourself in the quiet streets of Hyde Park, where the Craftsman bungalows look as new—and as beautiful—as when they were first built. It's a good place for strolling. Nearby is Old Hyde Park Village, where you can browse the upscale shops—Sur La Table, Anthropologie, Brooks Brothers and many more.

Have an early dinner at the ultrahip Fly Bar a few blocks from the Tampa Theatre, a restored 1926 movie palace. The Moorish interior is so beautiful, it makes any movie enjoyable, but be advised that the theater is said to be haunted by a long-dead projectionist.

PLAN C

Busch or Beach

If you are an amusement-park addict, a nature lover or some combination of the two, spend the day at Busch Gardens. You can get your roller-coaster fix and see wild animals roaming across a re-created African veld (two delights you won't encounter on most cruises out of Tampa). Busch Gardens is a fun and exciting combination of exotic animals and thrill rides. Plan to spend a full day roaming from one end of the park to the other—be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

If Africa doesn't fit with your idea of Florida, head to the beach instead. The best ones are on the barrier islands along the Gulf Coast in Pinellas County. At John's Pass in Madeira Beach, you can catch a dolphin-watching cruise, rent a Jet Ski, or shop and eat at one of the many boutiques and restaurants. But if you prefer seclusion and an undeveloped beach, drive to Fort DeSoto Park. The sand stretches for several miles/kilometers, and there's a hiking trail if you feel the need to exert yourself. You can also fish from the pier or rent a kayak and explore the coastline.

Return to Tampa to freshen up before heading to the Sail Pavilion for the popular sunset happy hour. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants downtown, in Ybor City or trendy Seminole Heights. For a splurge, try local favorite Mise en Place.

DINING

Dining Overview

The highlight of Tampa dining tends to be restaurants specializing in Cuban and Spanish cuisine. The Latin influence is most evident in Ybor City, of course. You could just walk around and stop at any little eatery that looks good, or head straight for the venerable Columbia Restaurant. Prices vary widely.

But there's more to cosmopolitan Tampa than cafe con leche and black beans and rice. Tampa's restaurants represent virtually every ethnicity.

Fresh seafood abounds in Tampa, including clams from nearby Cedar Key, scallops from Steinhatchee, oysters from Apalachicola, Key West pink shrimp and a local delicacy, stone crabs. Eat these crabs like the locals do—chilled with mustard sauce. Stone-crab season runs mid-October to May, and for the first weeks, you'll find long lines at popular seafood restaurants.

A number of steak houses feature excellent beef, and French and Italian eateries don't disappoint. The Soho District, which includes all of elegant Hyde Park's South Howard Avenue, is home to some of the city's hippest dining.

General dining times are 7-9:30 am for breakfast, 11:30 am-2:30 pm for lunch and 5-10 pm for dinner.

Expect to pay within these guidelines for a meal for one, not including drinks, tax or tip: $ = less than US$10; $$ = US$10-$30; $$$ = US$31-$50; $$$$ = more than US$50.

Brocato's Sandwich Shop 5021 E. Columbus Drive Devilled crabs are its specialty—huge lumps of meat are mixed with Tampa, Florida 33619 tomato sauce and then deep-fried. Stuffed potatoes and oversized Cuban sandwiches are other popular choices. It has been in business Phone: 813-248-9977 since 1948, so it knows what it's doing. Be prepared to wait. Monday- http://brocatossandwich.com Friday 7:30 am-5:30 pm, Saturday 7:30 am-4 pm. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 5021 E. Columbus Drive (off Interstate 4), Tampa. Phone 813-248-9977. http://brocatossandwich.com.

La Segunda Central Bakery 2512 N. 15th St. Run by third-generation cousins, La Segunda produces 6,000 loaves of Tampa, Florida 33605 36-in-/91-cm-long Cuban bread each day. The bread, with its crispy and thin-as-an-eggshell crust, was first baked by the cousins' grandfather, Phone: 813-248-1531 who migrated from Cuba after the Spanish-American War. Try a loaf as http://www.lasegundabakery.com a Cuban sandwich: piled high with roast pork and Genoa salami (a strictly Tampa twist), Swiss cheese, sour pickles and spicy mustard—the whole thing warmed and flattened in a special hot press. The bakery also specializes in 125 different kinds of pastries. Monday-Friday 6:30 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7 am-3 pm. $-$$. 2512 N. 15th St., Tampa. Phone 813-248-1531. http://www.lasegundabakery.com.

La Tropicana Cafe 1822 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City Both locals and tourists flock to La Tropicana in Ybor City for what is arguably the best Cuban food in Tampa. Go for a typical Cuban Tampa, Florida 33605 breakfast of Cuban toast and cafe con leche, and Cuban sandwiches for Phone: 813-247-4040 lunch. There is also drive-through service. Monday-Saturday 7:30 am-3 https://la-tropicana-cuban- pm. $. No credit cards. 1822 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City, Tampa. Phone cafe.business.site 813-247-4040. https://la-tropicana-cuban-cafe.business.site.

Lee Roy Selmon's 4302 W. Boy Scout Blvd. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Lee Roy Selmon, now in the Hall of Tampa, Florida 33607 Fame, is into real down-home, southern cooking in his restaurant that relies heavily on the dishes prepared by his mother when he was a boy. Phone: 813-871-3287 Authentic southern-style fried chicken, fish, barbecue and greens the http://www.leeroyselmons.com way they have always been served in the South. Monday-Thursday from 11 am, Friday-Sunday from 11:30 am. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 4302 W. Boy Scout Blvd. (near the airport), Tampa. Phone 813-871- 3287. http://www.leeroyselmons.com.

American

Fly Bar and Restaurant 442 W. Kennedy Blvd. The brainchild of Tampa native Leslie Shirah, this bastion of hip has gained a devoted following among Tampa foodies and revelers. The Tampa, Florida 33606 concept is a share-it-with-friends approach to international small plates Phone: 813-275-5000 along with suave cocktails, a little live music and a minimalist hip decor. https://www.flybarandrestaurant.com Monday-Friday 4 pm-2 am, Saturday 11 am-2 am, Sunday 11 am- midnight. Reservations recommended. $$. 442 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Phone 813-275-5000. https://www.flybarandrestaurant.com.

Mise en Place 442 W. Kennedy Blvd. For more than two decades, Mise en Place has been a bay area Tampa, Florida 33606 favorite. Chef Marty Blitz's dinner menu of New American cuisine changes weekly. Entrees include dishes such as house smoked salmon Phone: 813-254-5373 carpaccio, five spice tea crusted scallops and beef tenderloin carpaccio. http://www.miseonline.com The rotating menu features a wide variety, including vegetarian dishes and a special five-course tasting menu as well as recommended wines. Dinner is pricey, but lunch is affordable. Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 am- 10 pm, Friday 11:30 am-11 pm, Saturday 5:30-11 pm. Reservations suggested. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 442 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Phone 813-254-5373. http://www.miseonline.com.

Rooster & the Till Modern American is the name of the game at Rooster & the Till, which 6500 N. Florida Ave., Seminole Heights sources from regional farms and gardens. The decor, like the food, is locally crafted using reclaimed materials whenever possible. The food Tampa, Florida 33604 steals the show, though, with a menu that features fresh ingredients. Phone: 813-374-8940 The oysters are always a hit and the cheese slate never disappoints. http://www.roosterandthetill.com Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. 6500 N. Florida Ave., Seminole Heights, Tampa. Phone 813-374-8940. http://www.roosterandthetill.com.

Square One Burgers 3701 Henderson Blvd. Bill Shumate opened his first burger joint in 1964 in Norman, Oklahoma. Tampa, Florida 33609 Many restaurants and concepts later (such as Bella's on South Howard), he and his partner Joanie Corneil have returned to square one with, um, Phone: 813-414-0101 Square One. It's burgers and lots of them, with 13 specialty combos, a http://square1burgers.com passel of toppers and three types of buns. The menu shows admirable focus, but these are fancy burgers: Think Angus beef topped with caramelized onion, sun-dried tomatoes and Brie. Vegetarians will find plenty of choices, too. Sunday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11 am-11 pm. $$. 3701 Henderson Blvd., Tampa. Phone 813- 414-0101. http://square1burgers.com.

Ciccio's Water 1015 S. Howard Ave. Water specializes in rice-paper rolled sushi (no nori) paired with punchy sauces and dynamic side dishes. A minimalist design aesthetic and a Tampa, Florida 33606 no-reservations policy cannot douse the enthusiasm for vibrant combos Phone: 813-251-8406 such as unagi, banana and avocado. Its sister restaurant next door, http://www.cicciowater.com Ciccio & Tony's, is also a favorite for thin-crust pizzas and California- style wraps. Another sibling, Green Lemon, down the block, is a super lively hangout for fresh Mex and good margaritas. Monday 11:30 am- 9:30 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 11:30 am-10 pm, Thursday 11:30 am-10:30 pm, Friday 11:30 am-11 pm, Saturday 11 am-11 pm, Sunday 11 am-9:30 pm. $$-$$$. 1015 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-251- 8406. http://www.cicciowater.com.

Ichicoro Ramen 5229 N. Florida Ave. Ramen has arrived in Tampa, and Ichicoro is leading the charge. Though small in size, this restaurant delivers huge flavor in steaming hot Tampa, Florida 33603 bowls of ramen goodness. The bar is a terrific place to wait for your http://www.ichicoroya.com table, especially since waits can be upwards of an hour. Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday noon-11 pm; Thursday-Saturday noon-1 am. 5229 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. http://www.ichicoroya.com.

TC Choy Asian Bistro 301 S. Howard Ave. The only place in Tampa that serves authentic Cantonese and Asian food, including Korean, Japanese, Chinese and Thai. The chefs hail Tampa, Florida 33609 from San Francisco's Chinatown. Try the vanilla walnut shrimp or the Phone: 813-251-1191 Szechuan grouper. Monday-Friday 11:30 am-10 pm, Saturday and http://www.tcchoysbistro.com Sunday 11 am-10:30 pm. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. 301 S. Howard Ave. (SoHo District/Hyde Park), Tampa. Phone 813-251-1191. http://www.tcchoysbistro.com.

BT 2507 S. MacDill Ave. BT Nguyen has been at the forefront of Tampa's gastronomic scene for some two decades. BT's motto "Eat Local. Think Global" has inspired Tampa, Florida 33629 her to create new fusion dishes in her signature style of melding classic Phone: 813-258-1916 Vietnamese and French cuisines. The restaurant is an intimate, 16-table http://www.restaurantbt.com space. Tuesday-Thursday 5-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 5-11 pm. Reservations available by phone. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 2507 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-258-1916. http://www.restaurantbt.com. Carmel Kitchen 3601 W. Swann Ave. Order your meal via a swipe of the iPad and use that same device to let the servers know when you're ready for the next course. Carmel Cafe is Tampa, Florida 33618 full of such stylish touches. The food's not bad, either. It's known for its Phone: 813-964-6889 flatbread appetizers—we liked the braised short rib and Portobello http://www.carmel-kitchen.com mushroom flatbread with Fontina cheese and Mission fig marmalade. Monday-Thursday 11:30 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am-11 pm, Sunday 11 am-9 pm. Reservations recommended. $$. 3601 W. Swann Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-964-6889. http://www.carmel- kitchen.com.

The Wine Exchange Bistro 1609 Snow Ave. This place has been around for a long time as a top dog in the Old Hyde Park Village area, beloved by Hyde Park shop-and-lunchers for its Tampa, Florida 33606 Mediterranean-inflected salads and sandwiches. The Wine Exchange Phone: 813-254-9463 has one of the most intriguing, well-priced and downright spunky lists http://www.wineexchangetampa.com around. At any given time, it boasts an array of 50 wines by the glass and a changing offering of tasting flights. Sunday and Monday 11:30 am-9 pm, Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am-11 pm. $$-$$$. Free parking in the garage. 1609 Snow Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-254-9463. http://www.wineexchangetampa.com.

Armani's 2900 Bayport Drive One of the best dining experiences in Tampa can be found at this Tampa, Florida 33607 elegant Italian restaurant atop the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. Try the antipasto bar or sample anything off the northern Italian menu that Phone: 813-207-6800 catches your eye—it's all good, especially the veal classics. The staff http://hyatt.com/gallery/tparw_armanis attends to your every need. This place is expensive, but it's worth it. Soft live piano music and valet parking add nice touches to the experience. Try to time your evening with the setting of the sun for a breathtaking view. Monday-Friday 6-10 pm, Saturday 5:30-10 pm. Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. 2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-207- 6800. http://hyatt.com/gallery/tparw_armanis.

Bella's Italian Cafe 1413 S. Howard Ave. Bella's offers typical Italian fare in a pleasant setting and is a longtime South Tampa favorite for a casual lunch or dinner. Open kitchen and Tampa, Florida 33606 outdoor dining. Try the sturdy house lasagna, pizzas and calzones from Phone: 813-254-3355 the wood-fired oven or a lush veal saltimbocca. Bella's makes most of its http://www.bellasitaliancafe.com own pastas. Monday-Thursday 11:30 am-midnight, Friday 11:30 am-2 am, Saturday 4 pm-2 am, Sunday 4 pm-midnight. $$$. Most major credit cards. 1413 S. Howard Ave. (SoHo), Tampa. Phone 813-254- 3355. http://www.bellasitaliancafe.com.

Bernini 1702 E. Seventh Ave. People-watching is a robust pastime in Ybor City. For the best sidewalk seat in town, pull up a chair at Bernini. It's set in the historic Bank of Tampa, Florida 33605 Ybor City building and serves sophisticated Cal-Ital cuisine—salmon Phone: 813-242-9555 carpaccio, lemon-scented calamari, and filet mignon served with a http://www.berniniofybor.com sweet corn puree and herb roasted mashed potatoes. It attracts a more mature crowd than the bars and clubs all around it, partly because of the thoughtful wine list and partly because the mixologists know their way around the bar. Monday-Thursday 11:30 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am-11 pm, Sunday 4-9 pm. Reservations recommended. $$$. Most major credit cards. 1702 E. Seventh Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-242-9555. http://www.berniniofybor.com.

Donatello 232 N. Dale Mabry If you're in the mood for Italian, try this elegant restaurant with its Tampa, Florida 33609 tuxedoed waitstaff and classic table settings. We think the linguine with Phone: 813-875-6660 fresh crab is the best dish, but the Dover sole and osso buco are also http://www.donatellotampa.com good. All the pasta is freshly made, and the desserts are irresistible. Live entertainment nightly. Sunday-Thursday 5:30 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 5:30 am-11 pm. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$$. 232 N. Dale Mabry (west of downtown), Tampa. Phone 813-875-6660. http://www.donatellotampa.com.

La Terrazza 1727 E. Seventh Ave. There's more than Cuban food in Ybor City. This charming restaurant Tampa, Florida 33605 specializes in Northern Italian cuisine. The crab and lobster ravioli— tossed in a light cream sauce and served with shrimp and asparagus— Phone: 813-248-1326 is excellent. Tuesday-Friday from 11:30 am, Saturday from 5:30 pm. http://laterrazzayborcity.com Reservations recommended. $$. Most major credit cards. 1727 E. Seventh Ave. (Ybor City), Tampa. Phone 813-248-1326. http://laterrazzayborcity.com.

Pane Rustica 3225 S. MacDill Ave. A thin-crust pizza hot spot by day, but Pane Rustica also hosts some of Tampa, Florida 33629 the most sophisticated Cal-Ital dinners around, with full table service and a short but elegant wine list. You can still opt for one of those luscious Phone: 813-902-8828 thin-crust pizzas at dinner—maybe one with a mantle of gorgonzola http://panerusticabakery.com hiding sweet lengths of caramelized shallot? Or perhaps ricotta salata enlivened with olive tapenade and sun-dried tomatoes? But the breadth of alluring choices might sway you toward something a bit more refined. Also don't miss the exceptional cookies, cakes and other house-made confections for dessert. Tuesday 8 am-5 pm, Wednesday-Saturday 8 am-10 pm, Sunday 8 am-3 pm. $$-$$$. 3225 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-902-8828. http://panerusticabakery.com.

Byblos Cafe 2832 S. MacDill Ave. This cafe serves authentic Lebanese cuisine, and the menu includes Tampa, Florida 33629 traditional appetizers and entrees. Try the Taste of Lebanon plate featuring a fantastic sampling of appetizers and three entrees. Full bar. Phone: 813-805-7977 Belly dancing Friday and Saturday. Sunday and Monday 11:30 am-9 https://www.byblostampa.com pm, Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 am-9:30 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am-10:30 pm. Reservations recommended on weekends and for large groups. $-$$$. Most major credit cards. 2832 S. MacDill Ave. (South Tampa), Tampa. Phone 813-805-7977. https://www.byblostampa.com.

Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant 2500 W. Azeele St. Ceviche serves its namesake citrus-cured fish, sea scallops with Tampa, Florida 33609 manchego, and an array of little dishes with addictive olives and almonds, all in a sleek nightclub atmosphere. It has a special flamenco Phone: 813-250-0203 room for live music and a suave late-night hangout for Hyde Park's http://www.ceviche.com hipsters, often sporting purple teeth from drinking pitchers of delicious sangria. Sunday and Monday 5-10 pm, Tuesday-Thursday 5-11 pm, Friday and Saturday 5 pm-1 am. $$-$$$. 2500 W. Azeele St., Tampa. Phone 813-250-0203. http://www.ceviche.com.

Columbia Restaurant 2117 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City Said to be Florida's oldest restaurant, Columbia opened its doors in Tampa, Florida 33605 Ybor City in 1905. Behind the beautiful tile facade in the historic structure, you'll find Spanish and Cuban cuisine (try the sangria or a cup Phone: 813-248-4961 of the Spanish black-bean soup). The food is consistent and hearty, the http://www.columbiarestaurant.com atmosphere is stunning and the prices are affordable, especially at lunch. This is the flagship restaurant and is still family-owned. There are additional locations St. Petersburg, Clearwater Beach and Sarasota, and Columbia operates the cafe at the Tampa History Center. Monday- Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11 am-11 pm, Sunday noon-9 pm. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 2117 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City, Tampa. Phone 813-248-4961. http://www.columbiarestaurant.com.

Cafes & Tearooms

Bo's Ice Cream 7101 N. Florida Ave. Politicians, sports stars and locals have made this little soft-serve shop Tampa, Florida an institution. It has everything from regular cones to upside-down banana splits, shakes and brownie hot-fudge sundaes. You can't beat Phone: 813-234-3870 the prices. A drive-through window adds convenience. Daily 10 am-11 pm. $. Cash only. 7101 N. Florida Ave. (near downtown), Tampa. Phone 813-234-3870.

Wright's Gourmet House 1200 S. Dale Mabry Highway This little sandwich shop has been in business since 1963. In addition to sandwiches, it also has a nice selection of salads—we liked the turkey Tampa, Florida 33629 and pecan salad plate, which includes fresh tomatoes, olives and a Phone: 813-253-3838 hard-boiled egg. This is not fast food, but the deli is spotless, the staff http://www.wrightsgourmet.com/default.asp friendly and the food so tasty it's worth the wait. Monday-Friday 7 am-6 pm, Saturday 8 am-4 pm. $. Most major credit cards. 1200 S. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa. Phone 813-253-3838. http://www.wrightsgourmet.com/default.asp.

Haven 2208 W. Morrison Ave. The cuisine presents creative twists on traditional European-style dishes with a focus on charcuterie, small plates and craft cocktails. Executive Tampa, Florida 33606 chef Chad Johnson has allowed the menu to evolve toward a Phone: 813-258-2233 Mediterranean palate with an affordable lounge menu in the bar. There http://www.haventampa.com also are several themed rooms available for large parties and receptions. Monday-Thursday 5-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 5-11 pm, Sunday 11 am-3 pm. Reservations recommended. $$$. Most major credit cards. 2208 W. Morrison Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-258-2233. http://www.haventampa.com.

Oystercatchers 2900 Bayport Drive This award-winning restaurant in the Grand Hyatt is the place for Tampa, Florida 33607 seafood delicacies such as jumbo lump crab cakes and shrimp pasta. The variety of fish available on the menu is greater than at most places. Phone: 813-207-6815 Oystercatchers is located within a nature preserve—all tables have https://tampabay.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/oystercatchers- exquisite views of Old Tampa Bay. Live music most nights. Monday- restaurant.html Saturday 11:30 am-10 pm, Sunday 10:30 am-9 pm. Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-207-6815. https://tampabay.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/oystercatchers- restaurant.html.

Skipper's Smokehouse 910 Skipper Road This ramshackle restaurant serves a wonderful blackened grouper Tampa, Florida 33613 sandwich, smoked fish dip and conch chowder. Specializing in seafood and oysters on the half-shell, Skipper's offers a complete menu of Phone: 813-971-0666 steaks, hamburgers, chicken and everything in between, as well as a full http://www.skipperssmokehouse.com bar. It also has a lively 30s-and-up bar scene (with a mighty-fine mojito), and it's a beloved venue for live music. Blues or reggae bands perform most nights under a huge live-oak tree. Tuesday-Friday from 11 am, Saturday from noon, Sunday from 1 pm. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 910 Skipper Road (near Interstate 275), Tampa. Phone 813-971-0666. http://www.skipperssmokehouse.com. Bern's Steak House 1208 S. Howard Ave. This Tampa treasure may not look like much from the outside, but it has Tampa, Florida 33606 its own farm and boasts one of the largest collections of wine assembled anywhere in the world—at least half a million bottles. In a metro area Phone: 813-251-2421 increasingly crowded with steak houses where everything's a la carte, http://www.bernssteakhouse.com Bern's steadfastly offers an inclusive menu with soup, salad, side vegetables (many from Bern's own organic farm) and baked potato. Although it's labeled a steak house, Bern's does not stop with steak. The chefs offer a nightly "Kitchen within a Kitchen" single-page menu of more contemporary preparations of Gulf seafood and other meats. It is also beloved for its extensive caviar menu. Be sure to go upstairs to the Harry Waugh Room after dinner—the entire second floor is dedicated to dessert. We like the chocolate chess pie and the key lime pie. Coffee, wine and cheeses also are served there. Sunday-Thursday 5-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 5-11 pm. Reservations recommended. Business- casual to dressy attire. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 1208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. Phone 813-251-2421. http://www.bernssteakhouse.com.

Malio's Prime 400 N. Ashley Drive He knew everyone, made people feel good and kissed the ladies. Malio Tampa, Florida 33602 Iavarone was the consummate restaurateur and showman, his restaurant an iconic dining destination. It opened in 1969 and closed in Phone: 813-223-7746 2005, a long run in restaurant years. Today, a new generation of Malio's http://www.maliosprime.com is wowing Tampa foodies. Malio's son, Derek, and a buddy run Malio's Prime in downtown Tampa's 31-story Rivergate Tower (the one that looks like a beer can). It's an anchor of sorts for the Riverwalk. It's a gorgeous space, with a familiar menu of steaks and chops, but as the evening progresses in the small restaurant, the noise level swells, making lingering somewhat unattractive. Monday and Tuesday 11:30 am-9:30 pm, Wednesday and Thursday 11:30 am-10 pm, Friday 11:30 am-10:30 pm, Saturday 5-10:30 pm. $$$. 400 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-223-7746. http://www.maliosprime.com.

Shula's American Steakhouse 4860 W. Kennedy Blvd. Fans of pigskin and prime beef should hoof it over to former Miami Tampa, Florida 33609 Dolphins coach Don Shula's steak house, known for its certified Angus beef and Maine lobster. You get to select your own cut from a cart after Phone: 813-286-4366 consulting the menu printed on an official NFL football. See if you can http://www.donshula.com/shulas-steak- eat the signature 48-oz/1.3-kg steak. Monday-Friday 6:30-10:30 am, house-tampa 11:30 am-2:30 pm and 5:30-10 pm; Saturday and Sunday 6:30-11:30 am and 5:30-10 pm. Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 4860 W. Kennedy Blvd. (inside the InterContinental Tampa), Tampa. Phone 813-286-4366. http://www.donshula.com/shulas-steak-house-tampa.

Yacht StarShip Dining Cruise 603 Channelside Drive This small cruise ship (it seats 600) leaves Channelside and takes Tampa, Florida 33602 diners on a tour of the Tampa skyline and the bay. Live entertainment on and off shore adds to the party-boat feel. There's dancing on the Phone: 813-223-7999 dinner cruises. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch served. $$$$. 603 http://www.yachtstarship.com Channelside Drive, Tampa. Phone 813-223-7999. http://www.yachtstarship.com.

Taco Bus 913 E. Hillsborough Ave. Food trucks have rolled into nearly every U.S. city by now, so their Tampa, Florida 33604 owners must do something to stand apart. Chef Rene bought an old- school bus and converted it into a mobile Mexican taqueria. Everything http://www.taco-bus.com on the menu is good, but we especially liked the fish tacos. You can even order online, and the food will be waiting, hot and fresh, for your arrival. Sunday 11 am-11 pm, Monday-Thursday 11 am-midnight, Friday and Saturday 11 am-3 am. $. Most major credit cards. 913 E. Hillsborough Ave. (additional locations in downtown Tampa, St. Petersburg and by the University of South Florida campus), Tampa. http://www.taco-bus.com.

SECURITY

Personal Safety

Take the same precautions in Tampa that you would when visiting any large U.S. city, especially at night. Lock unattended vehicles and remove valuables or place them out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Plan your travel route before leaving the airport or your hotel.

The most popular area for nightlife, Ybor City, is well-patrolled, but if you're partying in Ybor City at night, stay within the main areas. Adjacent areas may be unsavory after dark. Consult your hotel's concierge or front-desk staff about any area or attraction you might want to visit.

Channelside is also very well-patrolled and well-lit. Channelside, the Aquarium, the bridge to Harbor Island, Harbor Island and the hotels lining the Channel are fairly safe at night, but use common sense.

Many of the things that residents and visitors love about Florida's Gulf Coast, namely the sun and beaches, have their risks. Not only does the intense sun have the potential to burn the skin, it can also cause heatstroke. To minimize the risks of both, it's best to avoid direct exposure during peak sunlight hours between 10 am and 4 pm.

Though invitingly blue, beautiful and warm, the Gulf has its dangers too, such as red tide, Portuguese man-of-wars and sharks. Red tide, an algae phenomenon, can pose a peril to people who suffer chronic respiratory conditions. Portuguese man-of-wars have a poisonous sting that can be deadly to people. Shark attacks, albeit rare, do occur.

Then, of course, there are the other pests such as mosquitoes, fire ants, alligators and a couple of poisonous snakes to be aware of, although you are less likely to encounter the latter two in the metro area.

Tampa is known as the Lightning Capital of the U.S., with around 25 cloud-to-ground lightning bolt blasts on each square mile annually. The months of June, July, August and September have the highest number of lightning-related injuries and deaths (lightning strikes about 50 people in the state each year).

Lightning usually occurs during daylight hours, with the highest concentration between 3 and 4 pm, when the afternoon storms peak. Lightning strikes usually occur either at the beginning or end of a storm and can strike up to 10 mi/16 km away from the center of the storm. Keep your eye on approaching storms and seek shelter when you see lightning. Then, at storm's end, wait 30 minutes after the last thunder clap before resuming outdoor activity.

Sanitation standards are generally high in Tampa, but some residents prefer filtered or bottled water.

Hospitals and clinics are readily available to provide emergency care. Major pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens have dozens of outlets in the Tampa area, including some that are open 24 hours.

In case of a medical emergency, phone 911.

Tampa General Hospital is a nationally recognized facility with a full-service emergency department. Phone 813-844-7000.

St. Joseph's Hospital is part of the Bay Care Health System and operates specific units for children and for women. Phone 813-870- 4000.

Florida Hospital Tampa serves North Tampa. Phone 813-971-6000.

There are also several walk-in clinics in the Tampa Bay area.

Modern buildings and many older structures have been remodeled to meet national accessibility standards. All public buses, vans and streetcars are wheelchair-accessible. For more information, contact Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH). http://www.sath.org. Alternatively, call Able Trust. Phone 888-838- 2253. http://www.abletrust.org Do pack comfortable walking shoes. Tampa is a great town for walking—the best places are around historic Ybor City and Hyde Park and along Bayshore Boulevard on Hillsborough Bay or the Tampa Riverwalk.

Don't expect to see flamingos everywhere in Florida. Although these unusual birds have the perfect art-deco/tropics look, they're not native to the state. However, you just might see the pink roseate spoonbill in season in areas such as the Hillsborough river preserve, as well as many other species of birds. If you can't find one in the wild, visit Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg.

Do stop by one of Ybor City's cigar factories if you like a good cigar. Some still roll them by hand.

Do take insect repellent. Florida's lush, subtropical environment may add to the state's enticements, but it also means that visitors will become familiar with the state's insect life (in particular, mosquitoes and the little creatures known locally as love bugs that hit your car and leave a paint-eating goo).

Do not attempt to drive during downpours if your visibility is greatly impaired. Summer storms often bring short blasts of torrential rain. It's best to put on your hazard lights and pull off to the side of the road, as long as there's room, until it lets up.

Do pay attention to hurricane information during the season, June-November, and do evacuate if instructed to do so.

Don't feed alligators, and don't bother alligator babies or come between a mother and her young. Do closely supervise children and pets playing in or near fresh or brackish water. Alligators tend to feed at dawn and dusk.

FACTS

Geostats

Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico. Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other designated secure document to enter the U.S. Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your carrier prior to departure.

Population: 355,047.

Languages: English, some Spanish.

Predominant Religions: Christian (Protestant and Roman Catholic), though most major religions are represented.

Time Zone: 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-5 GMT). Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November.

Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.

Telephone Codes: 813, area code, Tampa; 727, area code, St. Petersburg/Clearwater;

Currency Exchange

ATMs, the most convenient way to obtain U.S. dollars, are located throughout the city. You'll find them at most banks, in shopping areas, at convenience stores and in grocery stores.

Most major credit cards and traveler's checks are widely accepted throughout the city.

Only a few downtown branches of banks will exchange foreign currency. Currency exchange kiosks are available at Tampa International Airport, and there's an exchange kiosk at Westshore Plaza.

Local sales tax is 7%. Hotel tax is an additional 12% in Hillsborough County. In restaurants, tip 15% unless service warrants more. Some restaurants automatically add a gratuity of 13% or more, so check your bill. Hotel bellhops generally receive US$1-$2 per bag. Tip cab drivers 15% of the meter fare.

Weather Sun, warm temperatures and water are Tampa's selling points. Accompanying the warm weather is high humidity, which can be uncomfortable in the summer. Temperatures generally stay around 82 F/28 C. Be sure to use sunscreen—the Florida sun is relentless. Winters are mild and generally dry but with occasional cold snaps. Temperatures hover around 60 F/15 C. Some winter mornings may see near-freezing temperatures, but rest assured that by midday the warmth will return.

If you're traveling to Tampa during the summer, you'll find that the heat and humidity are tempered by sea breezes or by afternoon and early-evening thunderstorms.

Hurricane season is June-November. If you are traveling to Tampa during this time, pay attention to weather reports and heed all warnings. If advised to evacuate, please do so as soon as possible. If you are unable to evacuate, most hotels provide shelter. For a list of shelters, hurricane zones, evacuation maps or more information, contact Hillsborough County Emergency Management. Phone 813-272-5900. http://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/index.aspx?NID=660.

A mix of light, casual summer clothes will serve you well in Tampa in the spring, summer and early fall. Even at night, there is rarely a need to go formal.

Despite the heat and humidity, many businesspeople downtown still stick with traditional attire, including coats and ties for men.

Most restaurants do not have dress codes. A few cold days can be expected in winter, so it's wise to take along a jacket if you'll be visiting then. Also, many places (shops, movie theaters, restaurants) are overly air-conditioned, so a light sweater is a good idea even during warm weather.

Don't forget sunscreen and a hat. Insect repellent may also come in handy. And pack an umbrella in summer; afternoon thunderstorms are common, and rain can be quite heavy at times.

If visiting Tampa in the winter, be sure to pack a jacket or heavy sweater and at least one pair of slacks. Tampa does experience cold fronts, and temperatures can dip into the 30s F/0-5 C at night and 50s F/10-15 C during the day.

Telephone

Pay phones are increasingly difficult to find, but Tampa has good cell phone coverage. Most hotels offer Internet access in guest rooms and have business centers with computers to access the internet. Check to see if the hotel charges a daily access fee.

You can also find computers with internet access at public libraries and at most copy shops, including FedEx Office.

Free Wi-Fi is available at select hotels, cafes and restaurants.

U.S. Post Office Tampa, Florida 33610-9998 The most convenient post offices for visitors are downtown and at the 813-877-0374 airport. Downtown: 401 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. Open Monday-Friday Phone: 8:30 am-5:30 pm. Tampa's main post office is located near Tampa http://www.usps.com International Airport at 3501 Bessie Coleman Blvd. Open Monday-Friday 8 am-10 pm, Saturday 8 am-8 pm, Sunday 10 am-8 pm. Phone 813- 877-0374. Toll-free 800-275-8777. http://www.usps.com.

The Tampa Tribune is a daily paper serving the Tampa area, and The Tampa Bay Times serves the wider Tampa-St. Petersburg area with daily zoned editions. Both papers are available in most hotel gift shops, vending machines and convenience stores. The Tampa Bay Times also publishes the daily TBT, a quick-read tabloid-size free paper.

Creative Loafing, a free alternative newspaper that focuses on features and entertainment, is available every Thursday from racks at restaurants and on major street corners downtown. It's pretty much the bible for information about entertainment, dining, concerts and film.

Transportation

Tampa is a relatively easy city to navigate, but attractions are spread out, making a car a necessity for most visitors.

HARTline, the public bus line, offers multiday passes and serves most of the attractions and major malls in the Tampa area.

Air Tampa Intl (TPA) 5503 W Spruce St Tampa, Florida 33607 Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is located 6 miles from downtown, has been praised for its architecture and Landside/Airside Phone: 813-870-8700 design of a central terminal (landside) is connected by people movers to http://www.tampaairport.com four satellite air terminals and gates (airside). The terminals are connected with walkways and are easy to navigate. The airport handled over 21 million passengers in 2018 making it the 29th busiest airport in North America in terms of passenger movement. The airport is under continuous expansion mode in order to accommodate 34 million passengers each year. Their master plan comprises three phases out of which phase 1 was completed in 2018. They have started with phase 2 which includes a curbside expansion that will feature 16 new express lanes exclusively for passengers without checked luggage and 35-acre commercial development. The curbside expansion includes 16 new express lanes exclusively for passengers without checked luggage. Phase 3 is targeted at adding new Airside D with 16 gates. For more information, call 813-870-8700 or visit www.tampaairport.com

Security At TPA only ticketed passengers are allowed beyond the entrances to the shuttles leading to the airsides and gates. The screening checkpoint waiting time vary throughout the day. 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. is generally the busiest during the day. Travelers should keep in hand about 20 minutes to clear security during non-peak times and 45 minutes during peak times.

As per the Transportation Security Administration, certain items are not allowed beyond security checkpoints or on an aircraft. For information on restricted items visit www.tsa.gov or call TSA toll-free at (866) 289- 9673.

The Tampa International Airport also offers Transportation Security Administration's TSA PreCheck program at all four airside. The program allows the members to keep their shoes, belts, and jackets on and leave their liquids and electronic devices in their bags when going through security. This helps to expedite the security screening process.

The airport also has advanced technology to speed Customs screening in case of international travelers such as Global Entry - a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows the low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States to expedite clearance for pre-approved. Members enter the United States through automatic kiosks. Approved Global Entry members scan their passport and fingerprint at dedicated kiosks for expedited Customs' processing. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and citizens of a few foreign nations are eligible. Global Entry members are also eligible to participate in TSA Pre-check for no additional fee.

The Tampa Airport also has a full-service police department with 69 sworn police officers, 59 traffic specialists, and 44 support personnel. Apart from enforcing federal regulations associated with transportation security it also provides traditional law enforcement services. Crime Prevention, Bike Detail, Traffic, Administration, Lost and Found, Airport Operations Center, Patrol, K9, Criminal Investigations and Professional Standards are all various sections of the department. Connecting Transportation Taxi

The Yellow cab and United Cab are available outside the Baggage claim level. $18 is the minimum fee from the airport and flat $28 to the cruise terminal and downtown Tampa.

Rental Cars

A lot of companies offer car rental service for airport passengers. SkyConnect train from the Main Terminal takes you to the rental car providers.

Shared Passenger Vans

These are paid shuttles that facilitates the passenger to go around anywhere in the city. Airport limos are also available.

Bus

Public bus stops such as The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) and Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) are located at the Rental Car Center. Apart from public buses Greyhound bus and charter bus service are also available.

SkyConnect

The SkyConnect connects the Main Terminal to the Economy Garage and the new Rental Car Center. It is a people mover or shuttle.

Greyhound 610 E. Polk St. Greyhound bus links Tampa to more than 2,000 cities nationwide. Daily 5 am-midnight. 610 E. Polk St., Tampa. Phone 813-229-2174. For fares, Tampa, Florida 33602 call toll-free 800-231-2222. https://locations.greyhound.com/bus- Phone: 813-229-2174. stations/US/Tampa/bus-station/bus-station-471504. https://locations.greyhound.com/bus- stations/US/Tampa/bus-station/bus- station-471504

Residents and visitors frequently travel the Courtney Campbell and Howard Frankland causeways, along with the Gandy Bridge, which link Tampa and the Gulf Coast beaches. These streets should be avoided during the morning and afternoon rush hours, when possible.

Remember that during a rainstorm, you must turn on your car's headlights—it's a state law. The use of seat belts is also mandated for the driver and passengers.

Florida state law requires drivers to be 16 years of age to operate an automobile and 25 years of age to rent a car.

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HARTline) Tampa, Florida 33605 Tampa's public bus system provides regular service between downtown 813-254-4278 and the suburbs. All major malls and attractions are served, with Phone: connections between downtown and Ybor City. However, unless you are http://www.gohart.org very familiar with times and routes, it may not be the most efficient way to get around the city. A route map is available at the Visitor Information Center at the corner of Ashley and Madison streets and at information kiosks at several stops. For in-town travel, HARTline also operates a trolley with a one-way fare of US$0.25 in the downtown loop. Day and multiday passes are available. Local one-way fare is US$2, express is US$3; cash only. Phone 813-254-4278 (recorded information). http://www.gohart.org.

Tampa is a popular embarkation point for Caribbean cruises. Most cruise ships dock at the terminals near Channelside.

Cruise lines provide charter bus service between the airport and the port. You can also catch the TECO streetcar from several points in the Channelside area. One-way fare is US$2.50.

Several 24-hour cab companies are radio-dispatched and offer competitive rates. Five passengers can usually ride for the price of one. Taxis generally do not cruise streets looking for fares, so flagging one down is difficult in most areas.

Fares run at a flat fee of US$2 plus US$2.50 each additional mile.

Amtrak 601 N. Nebraska Ave. You can catch a train at the refurbished Union Station and travel in money-saving comfort, if you are not in too big of a hurry to reach your Tampa, Florida 33602 destination. The train takes longer than flying, but the scenery and http://www.amtrak.com comfort are incomparable. The station was built in 1912 and forced to close in 1982 because of structural deterioration. Donations brought this historic landmark back to life. Now, trains regularly stop in Tampa and transport passengers to and from hundreds of cities in the U.S. Daily 9:30 am-6:15 pm. 601 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa. Toll-free 800-872- 7245. http://www.amtrak.com.

TECO Line Streetcars Tampa, Florida From 1892 to 1946, streetcars dominated Tampa streets and were the preferred mode 813-254-4278 of transportation, but they were abandoned after World War II. Now streetcars are back Phone: in Tampa. http://www.tecolinestreetcar.org Built as replicas of the originals, these electric cars link Channelside and Ybor City, a distance of about 2 mi/4 km. The streetcars were built with tourists in mind and are an ideal way to see the city and to visit the interesting shops and restaurants along the route.

Ten stations are located at major points of interest along the way. Streetcars run every 15-20 minutes. Information kiosks are available at each stop, along with benches and canopies. Additional routes and stops are planned. Monday-Thursday 7 am-11 pm, Friday 7 am-2 am, Saturday 8:30 am-2 am, Sunday 8:30 am-11 pm. One-way fare is US$2.50 adults, US$1.25 seniors; exact change only. One- and three-day passes, good for unlimited rides, are available. Phone 813-254-4278. http://www.tecolinestreetcar.org.

For More Information

Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tampa Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau 401 E. Jackson St., Suite 2100 Publishes a free annual destination guide, maintains an informative Tampa, Florida 33602 website and staffs a helpful booth. Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm, Sunday 11 am-5 pm. 401 E. Jackson St., Suite 2100, Tampa. Phone Phone: 813-223-1111 813-223-1111. Toll-free 800-448-2672. http://www.visittampabay.com. http://www.visittampabay.com

Ybor City Visitor Information Center 1600 Eighth Ave. E. Provides tourist information specific to Ybor City. Monday-Saturday 10 Tampa, Florida 33605 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 1600 Eighth Ave. E. (Centro Ybor Complex), Tampa. Phone 813-241-8838. http://www.ybor.org. Phone: 813-241-8838 http://www.ybor.org

EVENTS Calendar

Small-town pride meets big-city extravaganzas all year long in Tampa. Whether it's football, a home game of the Devil Rays or an ethnic festival, you won't be disappointed by the local offerings.

For detailed information about upcoming events in the Tampa area, contact the Tampa Convention and Visitors Bureau. Phone 813- 223-1111. Toll-free 800-448-2672. http://www.visittampabay.com.

To call any of the phone numbers in this calendar from outside the U.S. or Canada, you must first dial your country's international access code, followed by the U.S. country code, 1.

Information in this calendar is subject to change and should be confirmed.

November

25 Nov—Thanksgiving Public holiday.