NEW CAMPAIGN

VISIT TAMPA BAY TURNS UP THE HEAT ON SUMMER TRAVEL WITH EXPANDED FLORIDA CAMPAIGN

A bold new campaign invites travelers to experience Tampa Bay’s authentic mix of family adventure and approachable luxury 

Tampa, FL (May 18, 2026) – Summer starts here in Tampa Bay, and this year, it’s easier than ever to turn your family getaway into something unforgettable. From sun-soaked waterfront adventures to top attractions and authentic cultural experiences, Visit Tampa Bay’s summer campaign invites travelers to experience summer in high gear. 

Launching in mid-May and running through July, the multi-channel campaign, developed by FKQ Advertising + Marketing, targets high-impact in-state and drive markets. It reaches key audiences in Atlanta and Orlando while expanding up Florida’s East Coast, from Miami to West Palm Beach, to broaden overall reach. 

“A key evolution in this year’s approach is a broader footprint across South Florida,” said Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “Rather than concentrating solely on Miami — where major summer sporting events are expected to drive increased media costs — we’re expanding north along the coast into West Palm Beach to reach more travelers efficiently.”  

Across key feeder and drive markets, the campaign combines advanced digital tactics — including connected TV, paid social, native, and display — with eye-catching out-of-home placements across Florida to engage travelers from inspiration through booking. The connected TV strategy leverages travel intent signals and real-world spending data to reach audiences most likely to visit Tampa Bay, while providing deeper insight into visitation and tourism economic impact.  

The campaign’s vibrant creative spotlights some of Tampa Bay’s top family attractions, including Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, The Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, the Museum of Science & Innovation (MOSI), Glazer Children’s Museum, and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. 

Returning for a second summer following last year’s inaugural success, the Doggone Summer campaign builds on its popularity with an expanded “dog-fluencer” strategy, putting pet-friendly travel front and center. Through authentic storytelling and full-funnel engagement, the initiative showcases Tampa Bay as a destination where travelers and their four-legged companions are always welcome. 

While Visit Tampa Bay’s summer campaign heavily emphasizes in-state and drive markets, international visitors are not forgotten in the process. Comprehensive research indicates travel advisories have continued to influence potential international visitors’ decision-making. With that insight, Visit Tampa Bay leveraged the competitive power of online travel agency Expedia to reach Canadian travelers researching Mexico and UK travelers considering Dubai — introducing Tampa Bay as a compelling alternative. This approach ensures the destination is part of the consideration set at a pivotal moment, as travelers re-evaluate their summer travel plans. 

Plan your summer escape at VisitTampaBay.com. Go and you’ll know — all you have to decide is when.