Exploring Tampa in 4 Days

  • Day 1: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
    20 minutes (12.3 miles) from Downtown Tampa

    Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a theme park featuring thrilling rides and attractions along with live shows and animal exhibits. The park is divided into themed areas such as Egypt, Congo, and Pantopia, each with its own unique features and experiences.

  • Day 2: The Florida Aquarium
    9 minutes (2.6 miles) from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

    The Florida Aquarium is a top-rated aquarium that showcases marine life from Florida and around the world. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and habitats, watch animal feedings and shows, and even go on a Wild Dolphin EcoTour.

  • Day 3: Ybor City
    13 minutes (6.2 miles) from The Florida Aquarium

    Ybor City is a historic neighborhood that was once the cigar-making capital of the world. Today, visitors can experience the unique blend of Cuban, Spanish, and Italian cultures through its architecture, restaurants, and nightlife scene.

  • Day 4: Tampa Riverwalk and Museums
    7 minutes (2.2 miles) from Ybor City

    Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic walkway that spans 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River. It features various stops such as parks, art installations, and museums. Visitors can also visit the Tampa Museum of Art and the Glazer Children's Museum nearby.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (6 hours, $110)
  • The Florida Aquarium (4 hours, $40)
  • Ybor City (5 hours, $80)
  • Tampa Riverwalk and Museums (4 hours, $50)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $280

Transportation

To get around Tampa, visitors can use a rental car, public transportation such as buses or trains, or ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. The average cost for a rental car is $50 per day, and public transportation costs range from $2-$5 per ride. Ride-sharing services are also widely available and convenient, with prices varying depending on the distance and time of day.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Lowry Park Zoo or taking a short drive to some of Tampa's beautiful beaches such as Clearwater or St. Pete Beach. If you have less time, skip Ybor City or the Tampa Riverwalk and Museums and spend more time at Busch Gardens or The Florida Aquarium.

Airports

Tampa International Airport (TPA) is located 6 miles west of Downtown Tampa. It is a major hub for domestic and international flights and serves several airlines such as Delta, United, and Southwest. Ground transportation options include rental cars, taxis, Uber/Lyft, and buses with an average cost of $20-$30 for a one-way trip to downtown Tampa.

0