Activities to Enjoy in Tampa: Before or After Your Cruise

A cruise departing from Tampa offers a fantastic chance for you, your family, and friends to discover this vibrant city along Florida's Gulf Coast. While there are many cruise activities awaiting you onboard a cruise ship, Tampa has an abundance of attractions to explore, both before and after your cruise.

If you're planning a cruise to the Caribbean, The Bahamas, or another exciting destination, think about arriving in Tampa a few days early for a weekend getaway or extending your stay a few days after your cruise. This will provide you with plenty of time to visit some of Tampa's renowned attractions, indulge in delicious food, and shop for souvenirs before heading home.

Exploring Tampa: Attractions and Sights

Tampa is known for its iconic theme parks and stunning beaches, but there's so much more to explore. From serene parks and extensive trails to nature preserves, historical centers, museums, and vibrant nightlife, you’re sure to find something for everyone to enjoy.

Local Aquarium

A fantastic spot to visit with your family before embarking on your Tampa cruise, this aquarium is the largest in the area and ranks among the best in the nation. Alongside an impressive collection of marine life, the aquarium offers numerous interactive programs and unique exhibits to excite visitors.

Lowry Park Zoo

This 63-acre family-friendly zoo allows you to explore animals from every corner of the globe. With numerous animal exhibits, exciting rides, captivating shows, and much more, this zoo is an essential stop for visitors.

Nature Preserves

Consider exploring some of the nature preserves in and around Tampa, where you can soak in Florida's stunning natural beauty while observing local wildlife. Many of the trails in these preserves offer opportunities for walking, hiking, biking, and skating.

Local Architecture and Scenery

For exercise enthusiasts, jogging along Bayshore Boulevard is a must, as it provides stunning views of historic, multi-million-dollar homes. You can also bike, skate, or stroll leisurely along the boulevard, where you'll find plenty of chances for stunning photographs. Another great spot for beautiful photos and a tranquil atmosphere is the Tampa Riverwalk, conveniently located near the Museum of Art and a lively waterfront park.

Shopping in Tampa

Tampa is a shopping paradise, boasting various plazas, shopping villages, and indoor malls that cater to all tastes and budgets. Be sure to explore the shopping areas mentioned below, where you'll find a mix of unique boutiques and well-known retailers.

Hyde Park Village

This charming shopping village beautifully blends national brands with local shops, creating a delightful outdoor environment for shopping, unwinding, and enjoying regular live music events.

International Plaza and Bay Street

For those who love mall shopping, this upscale destination is a must-visit. Featuring some of the finest shopping in Tampa, International Plaza also offers numerous dining options and vibrant nightlife experiences.

Just south of Tampa lies Ellenton, home to a massive outlet mall boasting over 130 stores. Additionally, near the airport, you'll find an indoor mall filled with various shops, allowing you to enjoy great shopping without breaking the bank.

What to Eat in Tampa

When it comes to dining in Tampa, you'll discover a wide array of options offering diverse cuisines. However, don't miss out on trying some local specialties that Tampa is famous for.

Cuban Sandwich

For lunch, why not indulge in a Cuban sandwich? This beloved and iconic sandwich can be found at many reputable sandwich shops and restaurants throughout Tampa. Typically served on a type of Cuban bread resembling a baguette, the traditional Tampa Bay Cuban sandwich includes salami, roast pork, ham, mustard, and Swiss cheese.

Grouper Sandwich

If seafood is more your style than deli meats, you won’t regret choosing the grouper sandwich over a Cuban. This delectable fish is typically battered and fried, and it can be paired with various condiments or sides, depending on the restaurant.

Stone Crab

For dinner, make sure to sample the stone crab. Generally served chilled with a classic mustard dipping sauce, it’s also featured in soups, stews, and other delicious dishes.

The Tampa Roll

The Tampa Roll is perfect for seafood enthusiasts—a sushi roll inspired by the local flavor, it includes fried grouper, seaweed, and mayonnaise. You can easily find it at nearly any sushi spot in Tampa.

There’s certainly much more to experience in this fantastic city, and taking some time to explore and sightsee is a wonderful way to start or conclude an unforgettable cruise from Tampa!

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.