About Tampa Bay

A red-hot destination, Tampa Bay is a vibrant waterfront area on Florida's beautiful West Coast and offers a unique blend of urban excitement  in a natural surrounding. Start your day off  by roaring down roller coasters in the morning; then take a slow row down the scenic Hillsborough River in the afternoon. Catch a ball game from the bleachers; catch some rays on the nearby beaches. This central Florida location offers easy access to the rest of the state, but you're bound to stay for all the excitement Tampa Bay has to offer.

Tampa Bay,  originally the name of the body of water on the west coast of Florida, has now come to represent the region made up of the many distinct communities connected by the Bay waters. The New York Times says, "Now, in fact, if not law, it's one big metropolitan area, laced together with bridges and freeways - everyone calls it Tampa Bay, and it is a prototypical example of the Sun Belt's explosive growth." Tampa Bay is not only the most populous and affluent metropolitan statistical area in Florida; it is also the largest television market in the state.

From the distinct Latin roots of Tampa's historic Ybor (E-bore) City to the Greek history of Tarpon Springs; from the thrills of Busch Gardens to the culture of our museums, visitors have plenty of genuine, exciting attractions and communities to explore.

Local Travel Tips

Even though Tampa is more business-like than St. Petersburg and Clearwater when it comes to attire, dress tends to be informal. Few restaurants require a jacket and tie, and most nightspots are decidedly casual.

The Tampa Bay area is served by two daily newspapers, the Tampa Tribune and the St. Petersburg Times. Several publications with smaller circulations serve local areas.

Parking in downtown Tampa is available both on-street and in various parking garages. Rates for municipal parking garages start at $1.25 per hour and range from $5.50 to $7 for 6-24 hours.

Generally, downtown speed limits in Tampa are 30 mph or as posted. Unless otherwise posted, a right turn is allowed on a red light after a complete stop. Rush hour is generally from 7 to 9 a.m. and from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

Sales tax in Hillsborough County is 7 percent. There is also an additional 5 percent tax on accommodations.