Visit a Tampa landmark this Saturday for National Train Day! Tampa Union Station, Tampa Bay’s 101-year-old train station, is hosting a free celebration in honor of America’s love for trains. Saturday marks 144 years of connecting travelers coast to coast and commemorates the day the first transcontinental railroad was created.

In addition to live music and food trucks, National Train Day will feature:

• Railroad equipment displays and tours
• Operating model trains including LEGO and HO-, G- and N- scale trains from the Suncoast Model Railroad Club, The H.B. Plant Railroad Historical Society and others
• Historical exhibits from the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library/Burgert Brothers photograph collection, Operation Lifesaver, the Florida Coalition of Rail Passengers, Atlantic Coast Line & Seaboard Air Line Railroads Historical Society, Tampa Bay History Center, City of Tampa Historic Preservation and Urban Design, Tampa Preservation, Friends of Tampa Union Station, and more.
• Train simulators

National Train Day will be held on Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Tampa Union Station, which is located at the corner of Nebraska Avenue, Twiggs Street, and Nuccio Parkway in Downtown Tampa, on the edge of Ybor City at 601 N. Nebraska Avenue. Call 727-365-4077 for more information.

Stay tuned for more fun weekend activities!

These Tampa Bay locations are rolling out the red carpet for Moms to enjoy brunch on Mother’s Day:

Jackson's Bistro Bar & Sushi - Treat Mom to a delicious buffet at Jackson’s Bistro Bar & Sushi! Chef Yamani is preparing 70 savory items for the buffet, including omelets, sushi rolls and desserts that will make Mom feel absolutely spoiled on her special day! Cost is $34.95 per person and kids’ rates are available. Contact Jackson’s for details at 813-277-0112. Brunched served from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Located at 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd., Tampa.

Maestro's Mother's Day Brunch - If you find yourself downtown by the Straz Center on Mother’s Day, be sure to head on over to Maestro’s Restaurant for brunch! Maestro’s will be hosting a two delicious brunches, one at 11 a.m. and another at 1:30 p.m., to celebrate Mother’s Day with all of Tampa’s Moms!  To make reservation, call 813.229.STAR (7827). Located at 1010 North MacInnes Pl., Tampa. Download the full menu by clicking here.

Sono's Mother's Day Brunch - Sono’s Café is treating Moms to a delicious three course meal for only $19! Enjoy Bloody Mary’s and the Bubbly Bar for $8. Kids eat for just $12! At no extra charge, Mom can enjoy The Tampa Museum of Art while the kids take part in supervised art activities! For reservations call 813-421-8381. Serving brunch from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Located at 120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa.

Second Line Café (the NOLA café) - No need to head to Lousiana! Take Mom to experience the flavor of New Orleans this Mother’s Day! Just drive on over to the Second Line Café at 301 W. Platt St., Tampa, and enjoy free Beignets compliments of the NOLA Café! Call 813-258-8778 for details. Open Sunday from 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Mother’s Day Brunch & Dinner Cruises aboard Yacht StarShip - Spoil Mom this Mother’s Day with an exquisite dining experience aboard the Yacht StarShip! The whole family can enjoy gourmet food while soaking in the beautiful sights of Tampa Bay. Take Mom out for brunch or opt for dinner instead and witness an amazing golden sunset.  Tickets are $44.95 for adults and $29.95 for kids, and to celebrate Mother’s Day, Mom gets in free with the purchase of three tickets. Located at 603 Channelside Dr., Tampa.

Pelagia Trattoria Mother’s Day Brunch – Pelagia Trattoria at International Mall will host a Mother’s Day Brunch this weekend, May 12. The brunch buffet will feature classics such as pancakes, omelets and much more! Tickets are $49 for adults and only $18 for kids 12 and under. Located at 4200 Jim Walter Blvd., Tampa. Call 813-313-3235 for details.

Spain Restaurant and TOMA bar - The Spain Restaurant is celebrating Mother’s Day by rolling out a special menu! The Mother's Day menu offers mixed green salad, a choice of five amazing entrees, and a side dish for just $15. Located at 513 N. Tampa St., Tampa. Open Sunday from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Contact 813-223-2831 for details and reservations.

TAPs Restaurant, Bar and Lounge - TAPS is giving Mom a free meal with the purchase of another meal of equal or greater value! For locations and details, contact 813-463-1968.

Mangroves SoHo Mother’s Day Brunch - Mangroves SoHo is hosting a Mother’s Day brunch with live entertainment, $5 Bloody Marys and a delicious selection of brunch favorites including Huevos Rancheros, West Coast Toast, classic Eggs Benedict and more! Mangroves will be open this Sunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m and is located at 208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. Contact 813-258-3302 for details.

Ocean Prime Tampa - Enjoy a special Mother's Day brunch menu at Ocean Prime featuring mimosas, blueberry french toast, short rib hash, crab & eggs, and more! Ocean Prime is located in front of Tampa International Plaza at 2205 N. West Shore Boulevard, Tampa. Call 813-490-5288 for more information.

Stay tuned for more things to do this weekend in Tampa Bay!

Delight in amazing wines from Washington and California this Friday, April 12, at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar! Join special guest Michael Rugers, Certified Sommerlier and Fine Wines Specialist, and Chef Partner Ryan Mitchell as they pair the dueling wines with the following  five-course dinner menu:

First course
Grilled Prawn
caramelized brussels sprouts, chevre foam
Schweiger, Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma Valley California, 2011
Chateau Ste. Michelle, Sauvignon Blanc Horse
Heaven Hills, 2011

Second course
Lobster Bisque
seared diver scallop, lobster croquet, truffle micro greens
Chateau Ste. Michelle, Chardonnay Canoe Ridge Estate Horse Heaven Hills, 2009
Beringer, Chardonnay Private Reserve Napa Valley, 2010

Third course
Stuffed Quail
spinach, garlic, honey, bing cherry gastrique, merlot reduction, black berry compote
Rodney Strong, Merlot Sonoma County, 2009
Hogue Genesis, Merlot Washington, 2008

Fourth course
Prime New York Strip
roasted shallot compound butter, twice baked blue crab potato, beet puree
Estancia, Meritage Paso Robles, 2009
Northstar Stella Maris, Columbia Valley, 2007

Fifth course
Milk Chocolate Cremose Espresso Parfait
tahitian vanilla bean, hazelnuts
Hogue Genesis, Syrah Washington, 2009
Red Car Wine Company, Syrah Sonoma Coast, 2008

Cost is $125 per guest. Call 813-874-9463 to reserve.

Stay tuned for more ways to eat and drink your way through Tampa Bay!

For music lovers in Tampa Bay, the Florida Orchestra has a range of performances coming up in April. Check out the details here!

April 3 and 4: Overtures, Intermezzi & Finales – Coffee Concert Series

Stuart Malina conducts this morning Coffee Concert that features Bernstein's Candide Overture, Bizet's Carmen: Intermezzo, and Rossini's La gazza ladra Overture (The Thieving Magpie), among other works. There will be a Pre-concert Conversation and complimentary coffee and doughnuts one hour before the concert.

Show times: Wed, April 3 at 10 a.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall; Thurs, April 4 at 11 a.m., Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater

Tickets: $24, $29, $34, $42

April 6 and 7: Tiempo Libre: A Night in Havana – Raymond James Pops Series

This classically-trained dynamo of Cuban musicians, Tiempo Libre, performs a dazzling array of their high-energy “timba” style music. They mix jazz, salsa, son, conga, cha-cha-chá and even Bach. It will be a night of hits from their Grammy-nominated CDs Bach in Havana, Lo Que Esperabas and Arroz Con Mango, along with music from their latest CD My Secret Radio. Guest Conductor is Sarah Hicks.

Show times: Sat, April 6 at 8 p.m., Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater; Sun, April 7 at 7:30 p.m., Ruth Eckerd hall

Tickets: $15, $30, $45

April 12, 13 and 14: Symphonic Dances & Rhapsodies – Tampa Bay Times Masterworks Series

From contemplative to frenzied, it is a night of folk dance-inspired favorites from Brahms’ Hungarian Dances, Dvorák’s Slavonic Dances, Bartok’s Dance Suite and Kodály’s Dances of Galanta. It will also feature John Adams’ The Chairman Dances and Bernstein’s Three Dance Episodes from On The Town. Guest Conductor is Perry So. There will be a Pre-concert Conversation one hour prior to curtain. Post-concert Conversation will immediately follow the morning performance on April 12.

Show times: Fri, April 12 at 10 a.m., Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater; Sat, April 13 at 8 p.m., Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater; Sun, April 14 at 7:30 p.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall

Tickets: $15, $30, $45

April 19, 20 and 21: Mozart’s Requiem – Tampa Bay Times Masterworks Series

In an all-Mozart concert, the evening opens with Ave Verum Corpus and Symphony No. 35, Haffner. Featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay with guest conductor Xian Zhang, the concert will continue with Mozart’s sublime and inspiring Requiem with one wave of beauty cascading after another, providing the listener with a breathless yet exhilarating experience. There will be a Pre-concert Conversation one hour prior to curtain.

Show times: Fri, April 19, at 8 p.m., Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Carol Morsani Hall; Sat, April 20 at 8 p.m., Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater; Sun, April 21 at 7:30 p.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall

Tickets: $15, $30, $45

Tickets are on sale at 800-662-7286 and online at www.floridaorchestra.org. Become a fan of The Florida Orchestra on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

Happy Monday, Tampa Bay!

Want to win tickets to see @kennychesney LIVE at @rjstadium ?! Today's your lucky day! Enter to win here on.fb.me/Z9ZFXT #TampaBay

— Tampa Bay Sports (@SportsTampaBay) March 4, 2013

Join us in congratulating one of our Tampa Bay & Company Partners, The Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel which continues to rank among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotels in the U.S.

The Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel continues to rate among the top luxury hotels nationwide, based on the 2013 U.S. News & World Report’s rankings of the “Best Hotels in the USA.”
Select hotels were evaluated based on an analysis of awards, expert recommendations by professional travel industry representatives and guest reviews. An estimated 2,000 hotels from throughout the U.S. and Caribbean qualified for the 2013 annual rankings report.
Location, proximity to top shops and beaches, the comfort and quality of its 293 guest rooms and the hotel’s acclaimed, on-site restaurant, Pelagia Trattoria, (http://www.pelagiatrattoria.com/new/) were among the reasons cited for the AAA Four Diamond-rated Tampa hotel’s inclusion on the exclusive list, according to the U.S. News web site.

“This Renaissance web site boasts, and recent guests uphold, that the hotel will place you near the best restaurants, shops and beaches. You'll find that you're enviably close to the Tampa International Airport (TPA) as well. Room features are typical of a Marriott — plush bedding, marble showers — and they're accented with blue and green "Mediterranean-style" furnishings.
Recent guests report the rooms are spacious, well-appointed, and clean. Visitors also praise the on-site, Italian restaurant, Pelagia Trattoria. You'll find this four-star hotel on Jim Walter Boulevard. And if you're a Marriott Rewards member you can use or earn points by choosing to bed down here,” U.S. News noted.
“It is always a pleasure to be praised by our guests and recognized within our industry for creating a quality experience for everyone who stays at the hotel, dines at Pelagia Trattoria or has any reason to visit this property,” said Jim Bartholomay, general manager of the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel.

Renaissance Hotels is a lifestyle brand within the Marriott International, Inc. global portfolio of brands. 

“Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel ranks #2 out of 80 Tampa hotels based on an evaluation of expert ratings and awards, as well as user reviews. The hotel scored high enough to make the U.S. News list of the Best Hotels in Tampa,” according to U.S. News. For more information about the report go to: http://travel.usnews.com/Hotels/USA/.

For information about Florida hotels and resorts included on the list go to: http://travel.usnews.com/Hotels/Florida-r59/. For information about hotel properties located in Tampa go to: http://travel.usnews.com/Hotels/Tampa_FL/.

The Renaissance Tampa International Plaza hotel is located at 4200 Jim Walter Blvd. in Tampa. The full service hotel features the award-winning Pelagia Trattoria restaurant, a renovated fitness center, an outdoor pool and 12,500 square feet of meeting space. For more information, call 813-877-9200 or 1-800-644-2685 or go to http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpaim-renaissance-tampa-international-plaza-hotel/. To reach Pelagia, call 813-313-3235.

ABOUT RENAISSANCE
Renaissance Hotels represents a diverse collection of more than 150 hotels in 35 countries worldwide. Each property is unique, offering passionate travelers a one-of-kind experience and memories they will be sure to take with them long after they depart. Within every hotel, guests are greeted by an exceptional array of amenities and an inspiring world of local discoveries. For travelers looking to experience something new, innovative and locally driven programs including the industry leading entertainment platform RLife LIVE as well R Navigator, ensure that every trip is transformed into an eye-opening, unforgettable journey. Renaissance Hotels. Live Life To Discover. To discover more visit www.renhotels.com.

Friend them on Facebook www.facebook.com/RenHotels

Follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/RenHotels

 

Once a year, one of Tampa Bay’s oldest restaurants travels back in time and celebrates the year of 1905.

The Columbia Restaurant , owned and operated by fourth and fifth generation founding family members, will roll back its prices to celebrate the 107^th anniversary with “1905 Day” on Sept. 16.

This Sunday, from Noon to 7 p.m, The Columbia Restaurant will offer a special menu of some of Tampa Bay’s favorite Spanish dishes that were originally offered at the Ybor location’s grand opening back in 1905.

“1905 Day” Menu Items & Prices:

• Chicken & Yellow Rice "Ybor" – $2.95
• Boliche (eye round of beef) – $2.95
• Merluza "Russian Style" – $2.95
• Columbia’s Original "1905″ Salad – $1.95
• Spanish Bean or Cuban Black Bean Soup: cup .50 cents or bowl .75 cents
• Sangria: glass – $.95 cents or pitcher – $4.95
• Flan – $.50 cents
• Richly brewed American coffee – $.05 cents

A few things to keep in mind:

• On this day only, reservations are not accepted and take-out items are not available.
• Come early, expect a wait and a crowd.
• "1905 Day“ will take place at the Following Columbia Restaurants: Ybor City (The Original), Sarasota, The Pier in St. Petersburg, St. Augustine, Sand Key on Clearwater Beach and Celebration. 
• The Columbia Café on the Riverwalk at the Tampa Bay History Center in Downtown Tampa and the Columbia Restaurant Café at Tampa International Aiprot will not offer the special “1905 Day” menu and pricing, but will still be open and available to dine in.

For more information visit The Columbia Restaurant’s website: www.ColumbiaRestaurant.com

Stay tuned for more things to do and dining & nightlife in Tampa Bay!

Nationally ranked as a “Top-5 Kid-Friendly Aquarium” by Parents Magazine, The Florida Aquarium is home to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and marine animals from around the world.

With a strong focus on conservation and education, there are a ton of fun and exciting things to see, learn and interact with at The Florida Aquarium.

Take a stroll through the four exciting galleries that take you on a journey from the freshwater exhibits of the Wetlands Gallery through the salty waters of Bays and Beaches, deeper into the Coral Reef Exhibit and finish off the tour with our high-tech gallery Ocean Commotion!

And forget the acrylic windows! See African Black-footed penguins in the ‘no borders, no barriers’ Penguin Promenade daily or sign up for one of our special Behind the Scenes experiences like the Penguin Backstage Pass or Stingray Feeding where you can actually touch and interact with the animals!

Continue your journey to the 2-acre outdoor, water adventure park at Explore A Shore. But bring a bathing suit because water cannons are plentiful and children can explore a two-story, water-logged pirate ship. Parents can relax with a beverage at the Cantina while the kids play the day away.

But wait….there’s still more to encounter with our added value experiences! Did you know The Florida Aquarium is one of the few places in the country that offers guests the opportunity to swim and dive in our exhibits?!

Our Dive with the Sharks program provides a unique opportunity for certified SCUBA divers to come face-to-face with live sharks in our 500,000 gallon tank! Dive into the warm clear water, teeming with massive sand tiger sharks, moray eels, barracudas, a green sea turtle and more!

Not SCUBA certified? No problem, our Swim with the Fishes program is an in-water reef adventure that gives you the opportunity to encounter one of the Florida Keys' most beautiful coral reef dive sites without being a certified SCUBA diver.

After you’ve seen everything inside, take a trip on our Wild Dolphin Cruise aboard our brand new 72-foot catamaran through the bay where you can experience the amazing wild dolphins that call Tampa Bay home!

Whew! I’m exhausted just talking about all the fun stuff The Florida Aquarium has to offer! There really is something for everyone! If you need more information please visit www.flaquarium.org and we hope to see you all soon!
 

Greetings all! Jerm here to give you the lowdown on all things Mother's Day in Tampa Bay this weekend, and boy are there plenty of things for you to do and places to take mom!

In Tampa Bay this weekend, you definitely have your pick of Mother's Day brunches throughout the are at some of the Tampa Bay area's finest dining establishments! Here's a quick list of a few of them!

Mother's Day Brunches and Dining

• Aqua Bar & Grille - AQUA's fresh colors reflect the vibrancy of the cool ocean waters. Experience an environment designed to entertain your every sense, highlighted by a water encased walk-in wine cellar and a state
  of the art open kitchen. Website - Menu

• Boizao Steakhouse - Mother's Day at Boizao mean's $29.99 per person! Website

• Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar -  Gather your family at Fleming's for a memorable Mother's Day celebration on Sunday, May 13th. They will be opening early for brunch at 11:30 am, but will have a $25 gift for your Mom no matter what time of day you choose to celebrate. Web Site

• ItalAsia - GREAT menu and VERY affordable at only $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for ages 6-12.  The menu is available on our new ItaliAsia. Web Site - Menu

• Roy's Hawaiian Fusion - Enjoy a  3-course Mother's Day Brunch starting at $29.95. All mom who dine will recieve a $20 dining card to use on their next visit.
  
  Web Site

• Yacht Starship - We’re celebrating Mother’s Day and the return of Florida’s Largest Dining Yacht in a BIG way! *The first 50 moms with parties of four or more cruise for FREE (Buy 3, Mom is free)! Call in reservations only! Offer not valid online. Restrictions apply. Subject to availability. 813-223-7999 Web Site
   
  Cruise Times
  Early Cruise                   Late Cruise
  Boards: 10:30 am           Boards: 2:00 pm
  Departs: 11:00 am          Departs: 2:30pm
  Returns: 1:00 pm           Returns: 4:30 pm
  
  Prices
  Adults: $44.95*
  Children: $29.95*
  *plus tax, port fee, and gratuity

Mother's Day Things to Do

• The Florida Aquarium - This Mother's Day treat mom to a sea of memories that she will never forget. Introduce her to our awe-inspiring Sand Tiger Sharks and over 20,000 other amazing sea creatures. Moms can enjoy free admission on May 12th and 13th with the purchase of a full paid admission. Web Site

• Henry B. Plant Museum - As our gift to all Mothers, free admission to the Henry B. Plant Museum on Mother's Day, May 13th! Bring your Mother to the Museum and let her escape to Victorian splendor at the former Tampa Bay Hotel. Web Site

• Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo - Bring mom to the Zoo for Mother’s Day and she gets in for free!  On Saturday, May 12 or Sunday, May 13, moms receive free admission with the purchase of their son’s or daughter’s full-priced admission ticket (paid ticket can be child or adult admission, as applicable). For moms to receive free ticket offer, the paid ticket must be purchased on May 12 or 13 only. Offer not combinable with other discounts. Web Site

• MOSI - May 7 & 8 - $5 Mother's Day.  Bring mom to MOSI on Saturday, May 7 or Sunday, May 8 and she gets in for only $5! Web Site

• Dinosaur World - Mom’s free on Mother’s Day (Mom receives free admission with a fully paid child admission) Web Site

• For more Mother's Day related things to do, be sure to check out 813 Area for more! Web Site

Hi everyone. We're excited to have a guest blog today by Joe Laing with El Monte RV Rentals!  Here you go:

Whether you are planning a family RV vacation to Tampa Bay or have Tampa on your Florida itinerary and plan to fly in to take in the sights, there is high adventure waiting for you in this exciting city. Sometimes even Tampa residents get so involved in their workaday world, they forget there are so many things for the whole family to do right at home.

Of course, you can't neglect the most important attractions in town. The first family adventure should be the famous Busch Gardens. This theme park has rides, shows and plenty of animal exhibits. Take the sky lift ride and get a unique view of the wildlife. Another must-see is Serengeti Safari at Busch Gardens, an unforgettable trip of over 65 acres of African Plain where you'll enjoy getting up close and personal with zebras, ostriches and much more.
 
When you love animals and sea life, Tampa Bay is the place to come. The Florida Aquarium offers an educational and interactive experience with touch tanks that allow kids to get "hands-on" with fascinating creatures. They also provide a Wild Dolphin Cruise so you can see some amazing dolphins in their natural habitat – Tampa Bay.

Something tells me it's all happening at the zoo, and Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo is no exception. Visit this highly rated zoo! The animals will love it if you do. The Big Cat Rescue is worth a visit, too. This is a large sanctuary dedicated to big cats, with over 100 lions, cougars and more.

Be sure to take the family to see the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center just south of Tampa. If visiting from November through April, you'll see manatees, an endangered species that finds love and attention here. Other times of the year, you can play games, see the butterfly gardens and experience a hurricane simulator. Best of all is the free admission.

Adventure Island has 30 acres of water rides, and if you desire a day of swimming in a giant wave pool, playing in waterfalls or rushing down a corkscrew slide, you'll love it here. The Florida sun isn't quite as ferocious when you visit this theme park.

The historic neighborhood of Ybor City is a wonderful place to soak up some interesting history. One of the best ways to absorb that history is to engage in the Secret City Walks, where you stick those headphones on your head and get a self-guided audio tour. This experience really brings the ghosts of Ybor City to life for the whole family.

No matter if you have an RV camper or car, you will find it extremely rewarding to drive over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, keeping an eye out for the dolphins that often appear in the water below. Great views are yours to behold from this marvelous bridge. You can also fit in some fishing from the nearby pier. Make it a point to stop at Bayshore Boulevard, a sidewalk that has the claim to fame of being the longest sidewalk in the world. Winding along the bay, you will truly enjoy the 4.5-mile stroll.

Love to visit parks and take part in many different outdoor activities? Lettuce Lake Park offers canoe rentals, fishing, hiking and a lovely path to take a bicycle. Another popular park to take a nice little trek through the woods is Al Lopez Park, 132 acres of great wildlife and a pond where you can throw in a line.

Speaking of canoeing, the perfect place to get away from the crowds is Hillsborough River State Park. Once you move away from the main picnic area, you will get some solitude and relaxation in the fragrant woods. This state park has an RV campground as well as tent camping. Hiking is great here too. Of course, if you prefer the beach you can take the Courtney Campbell Causeway over to Clearwater, and make your way right to Clearwater Beach. Walk out on the pier and enjoy the fresh salt air. The sand is clean and white.

Once back in Tampa, you may wish to see some of the museums in the city. There are many, but you can get a unique view of some of Tampa history at the Henry B. Plant Museum, once an opulent hotel where Teddy Roosevelt and Babe Ruth stayed. Another site you shouldn't miss if the Museum of Science and Industry, with over 450 hands-on activities that the kids will love.

Yes, Tampa offers much adventure for any family, whether exploring on an RV vacation or touring by car.

About the Author
Joe Laing is the Marketing Director for El Monte RV Rentals. You can see more great RV vacation ideas in their Monty's Musings RV Travel Blog. Be sure to check their Florida Rentals page for a luxury motorhome for a Florida vacation adventure.

Good morning Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know some great news about The Westin Tampa Bay!

Recently, The Westin Tampa Bay was ranked the #1 Hotel in Tampa by the U.S. News & World Report.

Wondering why The Westin received this recognition? According to U.S. News & World Report there was quite a few reasons...  The brilliant view of Old Tampa Bay from all 255 rooms, the ultra-comfortable rooms (featuring the trademark heavenly beds) and the gracious front desk staff.

Guests also appreciate having access to the heated indoor pool, gorgeous beach and tasty-in house restaurant.  The Westin Tampa Bay suggests you order from the delicious prix-fixe menu at The AQUA Bar and Grille during your visit!

Next time you are looking for a wonderful hotel and/or a great place to eat, keep The Westin Tampa Bay in mind!

Check back often for more information on things to do and Tampa Bay Hotels!
 

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to help you get a start on your Easter dining plans.

If you have been on the hunt for a great Easter meal, The Columbia Restaurant is open and including special Easter features to the menu.

The Columbia Café on the Riverwalk in Tampa is also open on Easter Sunday. You are welcome to enjoy a more casual meal from the regular menu at the cafe.  Easter features are not offered. Indoor or outdoor waterfront seating available without reservations.

Easter Features

Roast Leg of Lamb “Dali” - Domestic lean leg of lamb, marinated with red wine, garlic, lemon and oregano, roasted with potatoes in a rich gravy. Served with “Good Rice”, spring vegetables and mint jelly.  $19.95

Baked Virginia Ham - Hand carved ham topped with an orange sauce. Served with real mashed potatoes, candied yams and vegetable medley. $19.95

Entrees served with Caesar Salad and hot Cuban bread.  Try Columbia’s Original “1905” Salad for $2.95 extra.

Chocolate Tres Leches - A light sponge cake in a mixture of three milks and rich chocolate. $5.95

Strawberry Malaguena  - Fresh strawberries marinated in Spanish Amontillado Sherry, brown sugar and fresh mint. $5.95

Sangria de Cava - Spain’s wonderful bubbling cooler made with Spanish Cava (Champagne), Torres brandy and liqueur, with citrus juices. One taste will transport you to the sunny coast of Spain.  Pitcher $19.95

This sounds like the perfect place to enjoy a great Easter meal. I hope you all enjoy the featured menu items too! Call to make your reservations today!

Check back with us often for more Tampa Bay dining news.

Hi everyone.  Travis back with some great things to do in Tampa Bay, as well as some ways to get you outdoors and enjoying the weather!  Here are some events and activities for you to take part in, all taking place at Hillsborough County's Parks and Recreation Centers:

The Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department will hold a FREE Double Dutch class for boys and girls ages 11 - 17. For more information, contact Toi Powell or Tasha Mingo, Ruskin Recreation Center, at 813-672-7881.
What: Double Dutch Class For Girls & Boys
Where: Ruskin Recreation Center, 901 6th St. SE in Ruskin
When: March 21 – May 9 on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Registration: Is FREE, by March 19

The Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department will hold a FREE Hip Hop Line Dance Class for boys and girls ages 11 – 17. For more information, contact Toi Powell, Parks, Recreation and Conservation, at 813- 672-7881.
What: Hip Hop Line Dance For Girls & Boys
Where: Apollo Beach Recreation Center, 664 Gulf & Sea Blvd. in Apollo Beach
When: March 22 - May 10 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Registration: FREE, by March 20

The Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department will hold an Individual 3-Point Basketball Shoot-Out competition for anyone age 12 and above. Registration includes trophies for the winners. For more information, contact Keystone  Park at 813-264-3819.
What: Individual 3-Point Basketball Shoot-Out
Where: Keystone Park, 17928 Gunn Highway in Odessa
When: Saturday, March 24 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Fee: $5 Early Registration, $10 Game Day Registration

The Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department and ZUMBA with Erika are holding a Zumbathon to benefit County Parks programs and the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Augie’s Quest to cure Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
What: Zumbathon
Where: Gardenville Recreation Center, 6219 Symmes Road in Gibsonton
When: Saturday, March 24 from 10 a.m. – Noon
Registration: Saturday, March 24 at 9 a.m.
Fee: $10 donation, vendor tables $20 donation
More information: contact Heather Cobb, Gardenville Recreation Center, at 813- 672-1120.

The Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department is hosting a youth basketball league for boys and girls ages 7– 12. This basketball league is designed to encourage self-esteem, recreation and physical activity. Cost includes a t-shirt and trophy.
What: Youth Basketball League
Where: Ruskin Recreation Center, 901 6th St. SE in Ruskin
When: March 27 - May 10, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Registration: Begins March 12
Fee: $30 per child, $25 for Rec2Six participants
More information: contact Joy Robinson, Ruskin Recreation Center, at 813-672-7881.

Join Hillsborough County’s Bakas Equestrian Center as they host the Area Special Olympics Equestrian Championships. Competitions include: Trails obstacle course; showmanship; pole bending speed event; barrel racing speed event; drill team; English and Western equitation; and dressage.

Riders from Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando counties will compete for top places in order to move up to the State Championships to be held in May. Concessions are available.
What: Area Special Olympics Equestrian Championships
Where: Bakas Equestrian Center, 11510 Whisper Lake Trail in Tampa (For directions, visit www.bakasridingcenter.com. It is not recommended to use MapQuest as this website does not provide accurate directions)
When: Friday, March 30, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., and Saturday, March 31, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Registration: FREE

And there you go...plenty of ways to get you involved in Hillsborough County's Parks and Recreation centers!  If you sign up...have a great time!  And we'll see you back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay! 

Just 20 minutes from Tampa’s downtown, and 3 miles north of Ruskin, EG Simmons park is one family friendly experience you won.t want to miss out on!.

To some this is a just an ordinary county park, to endangered wildlife such as the manatee, Bald Eagle and the Roseate Spoonbill, its considered home.

E.G. Simmons is a known vacation destination for many families since the mid- 1960’s because of its camping sites and natural preservations.

Native Mangroves cover more than 250 acres of the park (200 acres is preserved for the wildlife sanctuary), followed by open landscapes and a BEAUTIFUL beach; what else could anyone ask for?

There are tons of things to do while visiting the park such as taking a swim at the public beach, salt water fishing, camping (electrical hookups and waterfront camping sites), grilling, hiking, canoeing (launches and rentals), beach volleyball and hiking.

Are you are looking for family fun? Then load up the car and then head to EG Simmons Park, it’s worth the experience! That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more family friendly things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

Hello everyone! We wanted to drop by and tell you all about a recent group outing to one of Florida's newest attractions!

LEGOLAND® Florida is a 150-acre interactive theme park dedicated to families with children between the ages of 2 and 12. With more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, LEGOLAND is geared towards family fun.

Located in Winter Haven, FL and just 45 minutes from the Orlando theme parks and downtown Tampa. LEGOLAND is a brand of interactive theme parks dedicated to families with children between the ages of 2 and 12.

Each Park features more than 50 rides, shows and attractions geared towards interactive family fun. There are four other LEGOLAND Parks in the world – LEGOLAND Billund in Denmark, LEGOLAND Windsor outside of London, LEGOLAND California in the U.S. and LEGOLAND Deutschland near Günzburg, Bavaria Germany.

Legoland Florida provides education, adventure and in this second park of its kind in the United States. Kim Iseman, Director of Sales & Marketing and Todd Andrus, Sales Manager with Legoland gave us a in-depth tour of the park’s newest addition opening in late May.  It is Legoland Water Park.  It will be a waterpark for both children and adults to enjoy.

There will be an additional $15 added to the admission price of the Theme Park to be able to enter this section of Legoland.  People can stroll through the exhibits and hands on experiences of Legoland and walk to the water park to cool off and enjoy the rest of the afternoon.  They will have cabanas to rent, beach chairs, restaurant on site, lockers all with the Legoland theme.

Legoland is a fun place to spend the entire day.  The activities are limitless and it is a place where children can have their imaginations soar. That's all for now folks, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

Hi everyone! Team YKPF (Ye Krewe of Palos de Fuego) headed out to Pinellas County and more specifically Clearwater Beach to visit StarLite Cruises. 

Laura Lothridge, the Director of Sales, was kind enough to meet us out there (and to be our photographer) to show us their Majesty, Calypso Queen and Nature Cruise boats.    

The Majesty is a modern style ship with a contemporary flair featuring brass and mirrored interior design. 

The vessel holds 180 guests for sit down meals and up to 400 for cocktail style events.  The Majesty serves up lunch with sightseeing starting at $34.95 for adults and also has dinner and dancing cruises starting at $53.25 for adults.  

The Calypso Queen is StarLite’s colorful Caribbean themed ship which is more in tuned with a laid back atmosphere for those beach goers.  The vessel holds up to 149 passengers for its afternoon lunch and dolphin viewing excursion or its sunset dinner and tropical cruise party; prices start at just $24.90 for the lunch and $34.90 for the dinner.

Take advantage of these great Clearwater Beach experiences “for a dazzling night out”.  That's it for now folks, but be sure to check out Starlite Dining Cruises and check back here for more updates and outings on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hello there folks! Jerm here with an update for you on an awesome festival coming this month!

Saturday March 10 and Sunday March 11, Join the Ruskin Southshore chamber of Commerce as they promote the awareness and preservation of the West Indian Manatee at the Manatee Festival of the Arts! The festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary with visual, performing, and even culinary arts!

The Apollo Beach Manatee Festival of the Arts is an innovative showcase of fine arts and fine crafts which draws talent from all across the country. The exhibitor's area offers visitors an opportunity to meet and interact with artists - to view their works and purchase art from the individual who created it.

There is also a Children's Creativity Center, live musical performances, special environmental exhibits, a Culinary Arts program and a free shuttle to the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center to view the gentle manatee in their winter habitat and a variety of foods to tempt any palette. This is an excellent venue to display and sell art in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

Here are some of the details of the event below!

Dates: Saturday, March 10, 2012, 10 AM - 5 PM; Sunday, March 11, 2012, 10 AM - 5 PM

Location: Tampa Electric Company South Shore Community EventsCenter,
Dickman & Noonan Branch Roads,
Apollo Beach, FL 33572

Admission: $5 Adults; Children 10 and under free - Includes free parking and free shuttle to Manatee Center & Overflow parking lot. Park at the Elementary School at the corner of Dickman & Apollo Beach. Take the shuttle. Avoid the traffic.

Featuring:

• Approximately 90 juried fine artists and craftsmen from across the country
• Patrons Program for the art enthusiast, which includes a preview party
• Children's Creativity Center with hands-on arts and crafts
• Free Shuttle Service to the Manatee Viewing Center from the Festival and parking sites
• Wide variety of food and beverage vendors.
• Non-profit organizations on hand to educate and show ways to protect wildlife, boating, environment and other causes
• Entertainment

This is gonna be a great event for families and all so be sure to come out and enjoy! That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know that the Mummies of the World exhibition will be making its Florida premiere at MOSI on Friday, April 27, 2012. 

The presentation in Tampa will mark the fifth stop of the exhibition’s exclusive seven-city tour. This astonishing collection of mummies and related artifacts includes a 6,420-year-old child mummy from Peru, dating 3,000 years before King Tut. 

Mummies of the World is the first exhibition of its kind to be showcased at MOSI. The exhibition presents a never before seen collection of rare mummies from across the world including South America, Europe, Asia, Oceania and Egypt that spans eons of time and transcends history.

With its collection of 150 specimens and objects, Mummies of the World is the largest exhibition of real human and animal mummies and related artifacts ever assembled. The exhibition reveals how the scientific study of mummies provides a window into the lives of ancient people, offering unprecedented insights into past cultures and civilizations. It also demonstrates that mummification – both through natural processes and intentional practices – has taken place all over the globe, from the hot desert sands of South America to remote European bogs.

Mummies of the World will be on exhibition from April 27, 2012 through September 3, 2012.  Tickets are on sale now and reservations are highly recommended.

Mummies of the World is a timed-entry exhibition, so before making a purchase, visitors will be asked to select the date and time of their visit.

Don’t miss out on a chance to see rare collections of mummies from across the world. Buy your tickets today by calling (813) 987-6000. MOSI will be offering special packages that include regular admission plus Mummies of the World, as well as a Mummies of the World only ticket. 

Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here with some great news for local business owners.

With 52,062 small businesses in the area, Tampa Bay was named one of the 10 Great Cities for Starting a Business by Kiplinger.com.

Who wouldn’t want to start a business in a location filled with wonderful attractions, arts & culture, sports, parks, beaches and so much more? It’s like working in paradise!

The local government is business-friendly, promising tax credits to businesses that locate in certain areas or work in one of a number of high-demand industries, including life sciences and sustainable energy.
 
Tampa’s small-business owners also benefit from the state’s lack of personal income tax and 5.5% corporate income tax. The city is a key player in the Startup America Partnership, a national initiative that has funneled more than $730 million to new businesses in Florida and six other states.

To check out this article for yourself go to, http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/10-great-cities-for-starting-a-business/11.html.

Have a wonderful evening! Check back with us throughout the week for more information on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know that Music on the Bay is taking place at Whisky Joes in March.

Music on the Bay (MOTB) is a three day Parrot Head Trop-Rock Event that is taking place at Whisky Joes Barefoot Beach Bar in March.

In conjunction with The Tampa Bay Parrot Head Club, other Parrot Head clubs from all
over the state of Florida and Whiskey Joe's new Barefoot Beach Bar are coming together to make this event a fantastic Trop-Rock vacation event on the waters of beautiful Tampa Bay.

MOTB 2012 will feature some of America’s best Trop-Rock Bands from all over the
nation. Beginning Friday, March 2 at 1pm, 17 artists will take over the outdoor
waterside beach stage through Sunday, March 4, 2012.

Trop- Rock is a Island/Tropical inspired genre that blends Rock, Reggae, Caribbean and Latin music with Island/Tropical instrument arrangements and song themes. Its roots are based upon the beach music scene from the 60’s.

 Registration ends on February 6th, so don’t delay and register today! Each registered attendee will be given a goodie bag. In addition, there will be vendors with “parrotphanlia” for sale on site.  *The proceeds from MOTB raffles benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children.*

Discount hotel accommodations are still available as well as vendor spaces. Visit the MOTB website at www.musiconthebay.org to register and to get more detailed information on this event.

Enjoy the Party! Check back with us often for updates on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!