Last week, my mother gave my husband and me a lovely gift. Two whole days of being toddler free! She drove over to our house and relinquished us from our parenting duties and we quickly hopped in the car and headed for one of our favorite places, Tampa, Florida!
Did I ever tell you how much I love Tampa? I love it so much that got married there. Even though we were living 3 hours away in north central Florida at the time, I drove to Tampa the weekend after we got engaged and booked a venue and photographer AND bought a dress all in one afternoon.
So, naturally we headed back to where it all started. Tampa is just a few hours drive from us, but even if you're not so close I'd highly recommend a visit to this wonderful city. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa has everything from gorgeous white-sand beaches to professional sports teams to theme parks. There is truly something for everyone in this fab city.
Here are my 3 favorite things to see and do in Tampa (in no particular order):
1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Busch Garden has always been one of my favorite theme parks. I grew up in the Northeast but like many families, we vacationed in Florida when my parents could swing it. On one of those trips we spent a day at Busch Gardens and although I was young I still remember riding The Python with my brothers. I loved seeing the animals and riding the rides and those great memories still come rushing back every time I visit this wonderful park. Although the rides may have gotten more sophisticated, the fun is still the same!
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay packs an amazing experience into one park. Sure, there are other theme parks out there that offer the opportunity to see animals from all walks of the Earth, or super thrilling rides, or great food and drinks, but none offer all of it in just ONE place. We got to see hundred of animals one our visit last week. Elephants, giraffes, lions, chimps, exotic birds, hippos, river otters - you name it, we saw it! We even got to feed a kangaroo!
Although we were "kid free" during our visit, we still paid a visit to the AWESOME children's area at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. They have many kid-friendly attractions, but this area of the park is perfect for young children and toddlers. Not only does it have lots of space to climb and play, it's got a "splash pad" AND the Sesame Street Safari! We got to see Elmo and the gang while we stopped by. I cannot wait to take our little guy to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! I know he's going to love it so we're already planning our next visit!
2. Ybor City, specifically to visit Columbia restaurant. Ybor City is one of only three National Historic Landmark Districts in Florida. This historic area is comprised of cobblestone streets and several old cigar factory buildings. Ybor City became "the cigar capital of the world" by 1900, but by 1950 the cigar factories were gone. The one thing that does remain from this time period (besides the awesome architecture) is the Columbia Restaurant. Founded in 1905, the Columbia is the oldest restaurant in Florida. It's made a lasting impact for good reason - the food and atmosphere are fantastic. Although Columbia has grown to several location on the west coast of Florida, the Ybor City location is the original and it's really worth a visit. You will love their warm Cuban bread and butter and their menu is full of yummy food and drinks.
I'd highly recommend their Imported Sangria - it's AMAZING. Since they have several locations you can visit any of them for a great meal, but the trip to Ybor City is definitely worth it. Pictured above is my husband and I toasting on our third wedding anniversary a few years ago at their Riverwalk location.
3. Professional Sporting Events. My husband is a MAJOR Major League Baseball fan and he especially loves the Tampa Bay Rays. We've been to quite a few of their games at Tropicana Field and we've always had a great time. In fact, our little guy's first major league experience was a Rays' game! If you're not into baseball, Tampa is also home to the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the NHL's Tampa Bay Lightening. All of Tampa's sporting venues are awesome too.
Have you been to Tampa, Florida?
What are your favorite things to see and do on vacation?
T.E. Lawrence says
I've always wanted to go to Busch Gardens. Nice to know it lives up to the hype. The black & white pic of you & your hubby is awesome!
Ruth V. says
Thanks T.E., that is one of my favorite wedding photos 🙂 Busch Gardens really is awesome! We even bought the year pass so we could go back again and again.
Tracy Gordon says
I grew up just outside of Tampa. Since moving away nearly 6 years ago I miss family, Cuban food, Busch gardens and going to see my favorite baseball and hockey team. I am lucky enough to be able to go back at least once a year.
Ruth V. says
That's awesome that you still have family and can go back to visit! I love the area and hope to relocate there some day. I need more Columbia in my life 😉
MollyP says
Love the Sangria and 1905 salad at Columbia! Glad you had a great time!
Ruth V. says
Thanks Molly! 🙂
Candy Kelley says
Great review I'll have to put it on my bucket list. They have a great strawberry festival too.
DG Middendorf says
We've been talking about another Florida vacation. It would probably be just my husband and myself this time but next time we would want the little grandsons along. It would give them a chance to be just a little older and enjoy it more. Your review helped me look at Tampa for both types of vacation. Thanks and I soooooo want to be there right now.
ANN*H says
Never been to Florida but have some friends that live there. I would like to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay . Sounds like something I would enjoy. thanks for the information of Florida sites to visit
kristen visser says
awesome!!! my hubby and I were actually talking about visiting Tampa next year for my 30th. have never been and would love to check it out 🙂
Lara Clinton says
I went to college at USF right in Tampa - Ybor is a great treasure! Living in Michigan now, I can't have Cuban sandwiches all the time anymore 🙁
Lesa C Jones says
I do understand your love of Tampa, I have the same feelings for St. Augustine even though I live in North GA it is my most favorite place to go. I love the cobble stone streets and side walk cafes. One day I shall retire it.
Laurie P says
Have never been to Tampa, although lots of friends have...and everyone's photos make me very envious. As do yours, great shots! One day we'll get there....it really is beautiful.
America S. says
Thanks for the tips! I have never been to Tampa before, but my sister has been asking about taking a sister trip to Florida. Maybe we will head to Tampa!
Elaine Buonsante says
Thanks for the great info about Tampa...we live in Canada and have never been to Florida. It sounds like a great place to vacation especially when it's cold up here!
AC says
This looks like so much fun!
Deborah D says
If i ever get to Tampa i will keep this in mind.