Tampa Bay Blog

11 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT TAMPA BAY Tampa Bay has a long and colorful history (long for Florida, anyway), much of it is waiting for you to discover. Here are some things you probably never knew about Cigar City. 1. The cigar industry helped build Tampa Bay In the 1880s, Cuban cigar magnate Vicente Martinez Ybor moved his operations from Key West to a patch of scrub just east of downtown close to the port. Henry B. Plant’s newly arrived railroad carried Ybor’s cigars to market in New...

CATCH SOME (SUN) RAYS THE GREAT OUTDOORS Tampa Bay has some of Florida's best city adventures, but it's also home to amazing outdoor experiences just minutes from downtown's glittering towers. Paddling, bird-watching, animal interactions -- they're all waiting for you to discover when you unlock Tampa Bay. Walk into the Woods Explore nature along the paths and boardwalks of major parks just minutes from the excitement of the city. Canoe Florida's only Class 2 rapids at...

UNDISCOVERED THINGS TO DO OFF THE BEATEN PATH While the secret may be out about Tampa Bay, there are still plenty of local favorites, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences to uncover. EMPOWER ADVENTURES Challenge yourself with a way-up obstacle course at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay. Take on 3,000 feet of ziplines, conquer the 200-foot over-water suspension bridge, and move through other obstacles – all without ever touching the ground! URBAN KAI Located at Armature Works in...

THINGS TO DO BEFORE THE GAME BEFORE LIGHTNING STRIKES Before the puck drops at Amalie Arena tonight, hockey fans will discover ways to have a cool time away from the ice in Tampa Bay. Try these ideas on for size: Grab a Beer While in Florida’s hub of craft brewing, you must explore the broad selection of beers flowing from taps all around Tampa Bay. Visit the cornerstone of craft brewing in Tampa, Cigar City Brewing, and enjoy Florida-inspired flavors at one of the three locations in the

THEY SAY THERE'S NO SUCH THING WAYS TO PLAY FOR FREE They say the best things in life are free. Well, sensational sunsets, waterfront views, a scenic drive, a picnic in the park with perfect weather are all things that come at no extra charge when you’re in Tampa Bay. There’s plenty of ways to play without breaking the bank. Here’s some of our favorite free things to do right now. Catch the Florida Sun Embrace the sunshine! If you’re an early riser, get ready for...

IN TAMPA BAY KIDS TAKEOVER SUMMER Visiting Tampa Bay with the kids? We’ve got 10 great ideas for fun family activities they’ll love, from Tampa Bay’s most popular attractions, to kid-friendly restaurants and other outdoor fun. From the nature lover to the thrill seeker, Tampa Bay truly has something for the whole family. Be sure to check attraction's for hours, safety protocols, and reservations before heading out. Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park Tampa is home to a host...

As the urban heart of Florida’s West Coast, we are known for our rich culture, incredible waterfront views, and now for becoming a city of champions with a Super Bowl and Stanley Cup win. What may be a surprise is that Tampa Bay is home to some of Florida’s most successful agricultural crops, festivals, farmers markets and produce providers. From the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World’s annual Strawberry Festival in Plant City to artisanal heirloom fruits and vegetables...

As photogenic as it is fun, let the heart of Florida's Gulf coast fill your feed with gorgeous scenery. Tampa Bay has become a hub for the vibrant, hip, and trendy lifestyle. Let this list help you find some of its most Instagramable places. With beautiful weather, stunning waterfront views and amazing meals, it’s always bragging season in Tampa Bay. NO. 1 Visit Tampa Bay Icon Start your selfie safari off right in the heart of downtown where a bright yellow monument captures the...

With blue skies and beautiful weather, now's the perfect time to take Tampa Bay on two wheels. Tampa Bay has won praise from bicycle advocates for its work creating an urban environment that's friendly and safe for cycling. People for Bikes specifically lauded downtown’s Cass Street bike corridor, which runs through the north side of downtown toward Ybor City. A matching corridor now runs along Jackson Street on the south side of the urban core. Both corridors are sheltered...

Tampa Bay is a melting pot of people, cultures and backgrounds. Nowhere is this diversity more prominently displayed than in its murals and public art scene. With beautiful murals spread throughout downtown and several other neighborhoods, you’re sure to find the perfect backdrop for your next photo op. Take a stroll, by foot or by bike, and be inspired by Tampa Bay’s colorful array of mural art. NO. 1 STAY CURIOUS Located across from the Glazer Children’s Museum in the...