So often people think of the Carribean islands or Mexico when it comes to a quick vacation. There are so many places right here in the U.S. that make for incredible vacation getaways.

Have you ever looked into vacation experiences in Tampa, Florida? Not only do they have fun events and festivals year-round, but the weather is also perfect.

Tampa is a great city located in central Florida. It is close to the Gulf coast beaches. They have pro football, hockey, and baseball teams. If shopping is your thing there are plenty of shopping and dining experiences.

When it comes to family fun, Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium are great selections. Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are both an hour away.

For those planning a trip to Tampa, FL, we have you covered. Keep reading for five incredible things you can do during your Tampa vacation.

Vacation Experiences in Tampa, Florida Are Muti-Cultural and Fun

What makes Tampa, Florida, such a great place to visit? Most people will say it’s diversity and attention to multi-cultural festivities. It feels as if there is something new to experience each weekend of the year.

They have festivities that celebrate everything the city has to offer. Whether it is the culture of the people, a celebration of food, or a winter wonderland during the holidays, incredible memories await you.

1. Gasparilla

The legendary pirate José Gaspar invades Tampa every winter. The celebration spans over two fun-filled months. Before planning your vacation check out the schedule to see which activities are of interest.

Gasparilla spans from mid-January into March or every year.  Here are the most popular events:

  • Gasparilla Children’s Parade – January
  • Gasparilla Piratefest – January
  • Sant’Yago Knight Parade – February
  • Gasparilla Distance Classic _ February
  • Gasparilla Art Festival – February
  • Gasparilla Music Festival – March

Tampa has been celebrating Gasparilla for decades. Each year the festivities get better. Day parades follow the popular Bayshore Boulevard along the city’s waterfront. Night parades take place in the famous Ybor City.

For those planning to visit and check out the music festival, expect to experience a great line-up of top artists. Music, food, and good libations make this a perfect vacation getaway.

Go all out with the celebrations by wearing authentic pirate gear. 

2. 2021 Super Bowl

If you’re planning a vacation experience in Tampa, Florida, why not start planning to attend the 2021 ultimate celebration of the National Football League. The fifty-first NFL Superbowl makes it’s way to Tampa.

Even if you can’t get tickets to the big game, there are so many fun things to do during the days leading up to the championship matchup.

The NFL provides numerous fan experiences. Players are made available to meet and greet fans at autograph signings.

Then there are the numerous concerts, parties, and other festivities put on by private promoters. There will be a long list of unique things to do in Tampa before and after the big game.

Celebrities will converge on the area and you may have the opportunity to score tickets to a private party or two. Come to have fun and don’t be shy. Enjoy your vacation.

Getting into the game is a bonus. Getting into as many events as you can is worthy of a spot on your bucket list.

3. Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival

When it comes to celebrating its rich culture, Tampa, Florida has great multi-cultural celebrations throughout the year. Plan your unique vacation experience in Tampa and include the ten-day Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival.

The festival spans over two inspiring and fun-filled weekends. During the day there are lectures by notable nationally known speakers. In the evening you will enjoy various representations of black culture via expressions of dance, poetry, and music.

The festival culminates with a two-day concert event along the city’s popular Curtis Hixon Riverfront Park. There you will be entertained by a diverse group of popular recording artists, bringing the best in R & B, Jazz, and instrumentals.

During your visit, consider renting a boat in Tampa and sailing around Tampa Bay to take in all the sights. You can dock at one of many waterside restaurants to grab a meal. Book a reservation here.

4. Busch Garden’s Food and Wine Festival

The Busch Garden’s Food and Wine Festival is a great weekend getaway vacation. The festival takes place each weekend from late February to the end of April. Admission is free with the purchase of a theme park pass.

Busch Gardens is a popular theme park in Florida. It is fashioned around the continent of Africa and includes native animals. Since it is an amusement park expect to be thrilled by rides such as Cobra’s Curse, Tigris, and the new Iron Grawzi. 

A sister park to Busch Gardens is Aventure Island, a water-themed park.

Plan your vacation around the food and wine festival. Be a kid by day, enjoying all the rides the park has to offer. In the evenings indulge in food tastings, wine, and musical acts.

5. Ybor City Architectural Hop

Last but definitely not least is the Ybor City Architectural Hop. This is one of the unique things you can do in Tampa while vacationing.

Ybor City is a place to visit regardless of the time of year. It is a part of Tampa’s rich history and is known for the Cuban cigar factories that were once prominent features of the area.

If you are visiting Tampa in early March, add this to your must-do list. The architectural hop is a tour of historic businesses coupled with a trolly tour. The one-day event starts with a private social and then takes guests on a tour that includes stops at local restaurants and bars.

Enjoy Tampa

Vacation experiences in Tampa, Florida, are plenteous. This shortlist is just the beginning of all there is to do. The Tampa Bay area is a cultural mecca with many fun things awaiting visitors.

Did you enjoy this list? We have plenty of articles featuring great information. Visit our entertainment section for more interesting and informative topics.

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