Tampa Bay, Florida: Thrill Rides and Local Vibes in a Waterfront City

Close your eyes and listen. That’s the sound of pure delight. Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay will bring you closer to nature and put you in touch with your wild side. Spend the day on the fast-paced twists and turns of roller coasters like the family-favorite Cobra’s Curse or the fast-flying Cheetah Hunt. Or, try Falcon’s Fury, a 102-meter-tall freestanding drop tower. The Congo River Rapids whitewater rafting expedition ride is a great way to cool down on a warm day, and the Skyride cable car provides picture-perfect panoramic views of the park. Busch Gardens is also home to more than 300 species of animals. See big cats, adorable meerkats and wading hippos. Top off the park experience with one of the indoor shows.

Dig into Tampa Bay’s cultural roots in the vibrant, architecturally rich historic district of Ybor City. Founded by Cuban, Spanish and Italian immigrants, it boasts a colorful blend of vintage shops, pubs and restaurants. As you stroll the brick-lined streets, you’re likely to see craftsmen hand-rolling cigars, cafes serving Cuban café con leche and shops selling traditional Guayabera shirts. When it’s time to eat, the Columbia Restaurant is a local institution, renowned as Florida’s oldest restaurant at more than 110 years old. Dig into Spanish and Cuban cuisine, including paella, Cuban sandwiches and the famous 1905 Salad. Catch a flamenco show at the restaurant Monday through Saturday.

Piping hot bowls of ramen. Wood-fired pizza. Savory and sweet ice cream confections. You can sample all of these and more at Heights Public Market in Armature Works, a dining, drinking and community destination on the Hillsborough River¬. Some of Tampa Bay’s best eats are cooked up in this food hall. To get a taste of everything, bring a group and mix and match dishes to try. You can go light with fresh juices and vegetarian fare, indulge in breakfast served all day and even have a hand-crafted cocktail. Whatever you choose to plate up, you’ll get a taste of the region’s thriving culinary scene.

Fly into Tampa Bay via the top-rated Tampa International Airport (TPA), which offers non-stop flights to 10 international markets. Once you’re in town, getting around is a breeze. In addition to popular ride-hailing services and rental cars, Tampa Bay offers a number of ways for you to explore. For a free ride, hop on the vintage TECO Streetcar or in a Downtowner. Get around on the water with a ride on the Pirate Water Taxi, an eBoat or even a paddleboard.