Looking for a fun-filled weekend escape? Look no further than Tampa, Florida! This vibrant city has something for everyone, from beautiful museums and parks to trendy shopping districts and lively nightlife.

We spent a weekend in Tampa to find the best 3 day itinerary for the perfect getaway!

Day 1

Oxford Exchange

Start your first day with breakfast at Oxford Exchange, a beautiful bookstore that also houses a home decor shop and cozy cafe/restaurant. You can grab a soul-warming cup of coffee from Buddy Brew or one of the excellent tea choices from the tea shop on location.

H.B. Plant Museum

When you’re done eating and sipping, head to the H.B. Plant Museum and admire its stunning architecture. H.B. Plant was a legendary businessman who made is fortune in railroads and is famous for connecting Tampa and Southeast Florida with the national rail.

Tip: You can get the Tampa Riverwalk Pass which includes this museum, as well as 7 other attractions, such as the Florida Aquarium and Tampa Museum of Art.

Tampa Theater

In the evening, take a spooky Ghost Tour at Tampa Theater and learn about the city’s haunted past! You’ll love the tales of folklore and the theater’s beautiful interior. You can even catch a show while you’re there!

Ulele

Finish your day off with dinner in one of Tampa’s trendy restaurant districts -we loved Ulele. It’s a really cool spot, inspired by the city’s early native and Spanish explorers. Get any of their seafood dishes for a real treat!

Day 2

Ybor City

The second day of your weekend in Tampa should be dedicated to Ybor City. This beautiful historic neighborhood is known for its Cuban and Spanish influence.

Start your morning with a Ybor City Walking Tour and learn about the city’s interesting history from award-winning tour guide Max Herman. He’ll take you through the cobbled streets, showing off some of Ybor’s beautiful architecture, murals, and even some of the haunted buildings. I learned so much about Ybor City and guarantee that you’ll love it!

Columbia Restaurant

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, dine at the Columbia Restaurant for some delicious Cuban and Spanish cuisine. This establishment has been around since 1905 and is one of the oldest restaurants in Tampa. We highly recommend ordering the 1905 salad; it’s so delicious! Soak in the history, and admire the amazing tile work on the outside before or after your meal. You’ll be glad you made the stop!

Hyde Park

When the afternoon sets in, take a break from the hustle and bustle of Ybor City and head to Hyde Park. This historic district is filled with one-of-a-kind shops, restaurants, and other attractions. You’ll find some really cool murals here too.

Our favorite was the ‘Dreams Really Do Come True’ mural, located right next to the pink Sprinkles store at 717 S Dakota Ave, Tampa, FL 33606.

Walk around and browse some of the unique stores like Kittenish. It has beautiful photo backdrops, so you can take some amazing pictures for the Gram here. Then, head to the Leafy Luv Affair and get yourself a little succulent or other green houseplant that’ll look perfect in your room at home.

Cake Drip

Round up your day with dinner and drinks at The Cake Drip. This cafe has a crazy interior—you won’t believe your eyes! Order their famous drip cake and pair it with a craft cocktail. This place is definitely a must-see during your weekend in Tampa.

Day 3

Alas, it’s the last day of your 3-day itinerary. We were totally smitten with everything we saw and did so far, but there’s still so much to explore and things to do in Tampa this weekend!

Tampa Riverwalk

Start your morning off with a leisurely stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk. This 2.4-mile pathway along the river provides plenty of opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike to explore the city by foot or bike. Depending on where you start, you can pass by some notable spots like Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and the University of Tampa campus.

Tampa Streetcar

Once you’ve reached your starting point, you can take the free Tampa Streetcar and explore some more of the city. Feel free to hop off at any stop to check out the local shops or attractions! This was one of our favorite Tampa activities this weekend. There’s just nothing like riding a streetcar through a beautiful city.

Tampa Museum of Art

When you’re all tuckered out from your morning adventure, head over to the Tampa Museum of Art, one of the city’s most impressive cultural institutions. As we mentioned earlier, this is part of the Tampa Riverwalk Pass, so you get a really great deal if you buy it. The museum houses some really beautiful works from both contemporary and ancient art collections.

Florida Aquarium

Finally, end your trip in style with a trip to the Florida Aquarium. This is also part of the Tampa Riverwalk Pass, so you don’t have to pay anything on top of the pass. This huge aquarium complex is filled with exciting exhibits and activities, perfect for any age group or family! You can even see a real-life mermaid show here if you want to add some magic to your last day in Tampa.

If your trip to Tampa is all about the food, then you’re in luck. There are so many great restaurants here! Here are some of our top picks:

Columbia Restaurant : A historical gem, get the 1905 Salad and admire the tile work outside!

Hyppo Hyde Park: This restaurant is known for its delicious ice bars - ask for the bars that are creamy or have milk in them!

Timpano Hyde Park: This spot has a beautiful interior and some amazing Italian dishes like Burrata, Skillet Roasted Mussels, and Linguini.

Driftlight: If you’re looking for breakfast, then this is the place to go. The Avocado Toast and Lemon Poppy Seed Pancake are especially delicious.

Armature Works: This historic building is now a social gathering spot with lots of eateries and places to hang out. M Bird Rooftop makes for an amazing evening destination, while Steelbach is perfect for dinner.

Ulele : inspired by the city’s early native and Spanish explorers. Get any of their seafood dishes!

Tampa is home to several great hotels, so you’re sure to find one that suits your budget and preferences.

J.W. Marriott Tampa

When we visited, we fell in love with J.W. Marriott Tampa, located in the heart of Tampa’s city center. This high-end hotel is perfect for those who want to be close to all the action while still having access to some luxury amenities.

Guests can enjoy their amazing rooftop pool, spacious rooms, and comfortable beds, along with a beautiful lobby, seating areas, and a fully-equipped fitness center.

Le Meridien Tampa

Le Meridien Tampa is another great option for those looking for luxury accommodation in Tampa. The hotel has a fitness center, rooftop patios, on-site maintenance services, and more. Guests can also enjoy fully-equipped kitchens as well as hardwood floors (perfect for pet owners!).

No matter what you’re looking for in Tampa, there’s sure to be the perfect hotel for you. Start your search now and get ready to experience the best Tampa activities this weekend!

Conclusion

Tampa is an amazing city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore nature or immerse yourself in the culture, there’s bound to be something that captures your heart and keeps you coming back for more.

Book a trip today and discover all the activities, attractions, restaurants, and hotels that Tampa has to offer!