6 Best Areas Where to Stay in Tampa, FL (+Airbnbs & Hotels!)

Welcome to your ultimate guide on where to stay in Tampa, Florida! Finding the perfect place to stay can make or break your vacation, so I’ve done all the hard work for you. 

As a Florida local, I can say that the best area to stay in Tampa is Downtown. The area is conveniently located and has all the best tourist spots!

After comparing all the best areas and hotels and carefully reviewing guest experiences, I’ve pinpointed 9 suburbs of Tampa that every tourist should consider. 

For each of these top-notch locales, I share handpicked hotel recommendations for every budget – from luxury to budget-friendly stays. You can trust that every hotel on my list meets high standards for quality and comfort and has received excellent guest reviews!

All you need to do is read the post, pick your favorite, and be on your merry way!

Just remember to book your stay in Tampa in advance so you can secure the best deals!

If you are in a hurry

Here are the best hotels in Tampa’s Downtown, which is the best area to stay for most tourists:

To help you visualise the areas I will be discussing in this post, here is a handy map of safe areas where to stay in Tampa, Florida.

1. Downtown – where to stay in Tampa for first-timers

Downtown is the best neighborhood in Tampa for first-time visitors and passionate sightseers. Stay here, and the city’s top attractions will be within walking distance!

The area highlights the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, a green area with free monthly concerts and tons of Tampa Bay activities, as well as the Riverwalk.

Head to Tampa Riverwalk for the best shopping in Tampa! The area is also ideal for strolling, biking, and enjoying performing arts at the Straz Center next to Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk. 

Tampa Bay History Center is another great highlight if you’d like to learn more about the city’s history! The Tampa Museum of Art is the spot to explore modern art and Greek antiquities, while Glazer Children’s Museum is where to take the kids for innovative play!

Whether you’re into museums, open-air venues, fine dining or shopping, you’ll find it all in vibrant Downtown Tampa! 

Now, here’s my pick of the best-of-the-best hotels in Downtown Tampa.

Other accommodation options in Downtown Tampa

Things to do in Downtown Tampa, FL

• Ride water bikes from the Tampa Convention Center
• Check out the best restaurants Tampa Riverwalk has to offer
• Learn about Tampa at the Tampa Bay History Center
• Take the kids to the Glazer Children’s Museum
• Roam the bustling Water Street and finish off at the legendary Hattricks Bar 

2. Channel District – where to stay for urban enthusiasts

When you head east from Water Street, you’ll reach Channel District, a perfect area to experience the buzz and urban vibe that modern Tampa is all about! You can find Tampa’s historic hotels and places with unique charm here.

The skyline of Channel District keeps changing year after year, and its chic, pedestrian-friendly streets are attractive to both tourists and locals looking for some Tampa Bay fun. The Sparkman Wharf is the central plaza where all the action takes place, especially at night!

The famous Tampa Florida Aquarium is situated just next to the Sparkman Wharf, and it’s the top family-friendly destination! This is also the peninsula’s largest aquarium!

Whether you’re into luxurious restaurants with boat docks, family-friendly activities, or leisurely strolls, you’ll find it all here!

Although Channelside doesn’t feature any luxury hotels, you can still find excellent value-for-money accommodation. If luxury hotels are what you’re after, then check out the offer in Downtown Tampa.

Other accommodation options in the Chanel District

Things to do in Channel District

3. Ybor City – where to stay in Tampa for culture

Ybor City is Tampa’s Latin quarter, which attracts more tourists each year. It is a National Historic Landmark and one of the best places to stay in the city! 

This historic district used to be known for its cigar production, which earned Tampa the nickname “Cigar Capital of the World.”

Today, popular nightlife venues line the area’s 7th Avenue, and bar-hopping is an ideal activity for connecting with locals and travelers! James Joyce Irish Pub and Bad Monkey Ybor are two bars I highly recommend!

Ybor City is a pretty large area spreading up until East Tampa! Most of the action takes place from the E 7th to E 13th Ave, closer to Downtown!

What else is there to do in Ybor City? The area used to be a hub for Latino immigrants, and the Ybor City Museum gives an overview of that era and the neighborhood’s heritage. 

Art galleries in the heart of the quarter make this part of Tampa, Florida, popular with art lovers. 

I know a lot of people ask whether Ybor City is safe –  I can understand the hype because the media keeps portraying it as a dangerous area. But the truth is, the number of crimes here keeps lowering. It’s perfectly safe for travelers, especially if you stay near 7th Ave.

In Ybor City, you’ll find the legendary La Segunda bakery operating since 1915! I recommend their Cuban Sandwich and Guava pastries. So yummy!

Should you decide to stay here, make sure you book your stay in advance! The best hotels tend to sell out quickly!

Other accommodation options in Ybor City

Things to do in Ybor City

• Go bar hopping along the 7th Avenue
• Join the Cigar Tour at the Ybor City Museum
• Attend the Flamenco Dinner show at Columbia Restaurant
• See monuments honoring historic personalities in Centennial Park
• Try the Cuban Sandwich, one of Florida’s most popular foods

4. Westshore + Airport – where to stay for business

Welcome to Tampa’s business district! If you’re in town for work, this is the best area to stay! Convention centers, corporate offices, and conference venues are all situated here!

The area is just next to the Tampa Airport, making it ideal for short stays and layovers, too. And if you’re in town for a Bucs game, Raymond James Stadium is right next to the airport!

Shopping aficionados will love that Westshore has 2 big shopping malls, including the iconic Westshore Plaza. When you want to relax, make sure you visit Bay Street and dine at some of Tampa’s coolest restaurants.

The OCC Road House & Museum is one of the top spots for entertainment. It has a motorcycle museum, a casual bar, and a live event venue with a great atmosphere!

This Westshore area is less walkable than Downtown or Ybor City, and there aren’t any notable attractions here (apart from the Lowry Park Zoo, some 15 minutes by car!). So, if you’re wondering where to stay in Tampa with a car, Westshore is a good idea. It’s close to the airport but also a short distance from Downtown. 

Other accommodation options in Westshore

Things to do in Westshore

5. Bay Harbor – nicest neighborhood in Tampa near the beach

If you wonder where to stay in Tampa for beach activities, Tampa Bay Harbor, Florida, is it! You’re looking at the best area in town for beach hopping! You can explore local beaches (more on them in my article about Tampa beaches) and visit ones nearby in St. Pete and Clearwater.

The nearest beach in the area is Ben T Davis, featuring outdoor showers. The beach is open every day from early morning to sunset.

Plus, romantics and gourmands who stay in this area will enjoy beautiful sunset spots and cozy restaurants within walking distance! You can also go for a romantic date at Cypress Point Park.

Downtown is some 20 minutes away by car, so you can easily reach most tourist attractions while staying near the beach.

Bay Harbor is also an ideal district for a brief visit due to its proximity to the airport. 

Other accommodation options in Tampa Bay Harbor

Things to do in Tampa Bay Harbor

6. South Tampa – where to stay in Tampa for nightlife

South Tampa is a hotspot for all things nightlife-related. The rather quaint surroundings may give away an old-fashioned feel, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth! 

SoHo (South Howard) Avenue is the nightlife epicenter! Think bars, restaurants, pubs, and anything in between. Ciro’s Tampa is just one of the many cocktail bars I could recommend here.

And if you’re not so much into nightlife, South Tampa can be a great option for you, too!

You’ll find plenty of shopping spots and pedestrian areas like the Hyde Park Village and Bayshore Boulevard. It’s easy to lose track of time in these places because they are packed with fun shops and eateries! And don’t get me started on the romantic cobblestone streets!

Here’s a quick idea for a great date night in the area: See a movie at the CMX CinéBistro, where you can also get cocktails and fabulous food! 

When in South Tampa, you want to explore Davis Island and sunbathe at Ben T Davis Beach, too! Finally, golfing enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that the Palma Ceia Golf Club is located here!

NOTE: South Tampa is a big area, and most of the action is around Hyde Park, SoHo, and S Dale Marby Hway. Also, it takes anywhere from 10 minutes (by car) to 40 minutes by public transport to reach Downtown from here.

Other accommodation options in South Tampa

Things to do in South Tampa

7. Seminole Heights + Tampa Heights – best budget areas

If you are a budget-conscious traveler, look no further than Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights, the city’s oldest yet hip suburbs. 

Starting from the North to the South, you pass through Old Seminole Heights, South Seminole Heights, and then reach Tampa Heights. These areas are also considered some of the trendiest residential areas around. 

The district features several green oases ideal for relaxation. With abundant greenery, waterfront access, and diverse historic bungalows, exploring Tampa Heights on foot is a rewarding activity. 

It’s very easy to get around from here, too. The theme parks of North Tampa, Zoo Tampa, the decadent nightlife of Ybor City, and Downtown attractions are all nearby. Depending on the location, travel times are less than 15 minutes by car.

Overall, these neighborhoods are quiet and well-connected by sidewalks. You’ll love staying here if you value seclusion and peace at night but still want to be near the fun things to do in Tampa! 

The Heights Public Market is a safe haven for foodies looking to try international and local foods!

Besides being affordable, these two are also the safest neighborhoods in Tampa!

NOTE: There are no luxury hotels or apartments that caught my attention here. For luxury accommodation, refer to other areas closer to Downtown. 

Other accommodation options in Tampa Heights

Things to do in Seminole Heights + Tampa Heights

• Visit the Zoo Tampa
• Enjoy a bike ride throughout the Heights
• Visit the Angry Chair or other nearby breweries
• Admire the Hillsborough River view from the Water Works Park
• Oyster fans, check out the Ulele restaurant near the Green Oasis

8. North Tampa – where to stay in Tampa for families

There are many nice places in Tampa for families, but North Tampa has to be the most popular one! Travelers and families interested in outdoor adventures should book a holiday home here! 

More importantly, if you’re looking for a safe place to stay in Tampa, FL, with kids, North Tampa is it!

The area features top tourist attractions like Adventure Island and Busch Gardens. At Busch Gardens, you can go on a safari ride, while the Adventure Island water park is ideal for a day out in the sun and water!

Other highlights include the Museum of Science and Industry, a perfect playground for future scientists, and Howl-O-Scream, which puts visitors’ bravery to the test.

Tampa is a fantastic destination to visit with kids, so much so that I made a separate post on the best things to do with kids! You can check it out here for some fresh ideas! 

North Tampa is also home to Temple Terrace, a beautiful space with parks overlooking the Hillsborough River. You can come here with your kids, play golf, or even visit the local library!

In ideal conditions, a car trip to North Tampa takes up to 15 minutes from Downtown. Taxis and shuttles are the best options for getting to Tampa International Airport. North Tampa is where to stay if you’re looking for hotels near Tampa Zoo.

For luxury options, though, I recommend you look in areas closer to Downtown.

Other accommodation options in North Tampa

Things to do in North Tampa

• Spend a day at the Lettuce Lake Park 
• Visit the Adventure Island and Museum of Science and Industry
• Have Cuban breakfast at Mamas Kitchen, a lovely family restaurant
• Play, stroll, and picnic at Copeland Park in University Square
• Take a Colossal Curl ride and join a volleyball game at Adventure Island

9. East Hillsborough – where to stay for entertainment

All of Tampa is fun, and there are tons of entertainment activities you can enjoy. But the reason why I recommend East Hillsborough especially is if you’re coming to town to attend concerts!

The MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater is located here, so you’ll appreciate the fact you can stay within walking distance of major events!

Also, the area is ideal for hiking. This is where you can find the Hillsborough River State Park, known for its far-off wilderness vibe. You can explore more than 4,000 acres of trails or even rent a kayak for a river adventure!

Popular attractions here also include the Safari Wilderness Ranch and the Dinosaur World theme park!

Beware that there are tons of motels on East Hillsborough Ave, but they all have super low ratings. I don’t recommend you stay here. Instead, check out the options I recommend below!

Other accommodation options in East Hillsborough

Things to do in East Hillsborough

• Test your luck at the Hard Rock Casino
• Attend a concert at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater 
• Hike in the Hillsborough River State Park (map)

BONUS 1: Where to stay outside of Tampa

While Tampa and its districts are fabulous destinations for most types of travelers, the villages a bit further from the city are a better fit for those seeking an active vacation near the ocean. 

Here’s my choice of the best spots outside of Tampa for a dreamy holiday. They’re all easily reachable from Downtown Tampa if you have a car:

• Clearwater Beach – a 2-mile stretch of pristine white sand beaches 25 miles (40 minutes by car) from Downtown Tampa, ranked as the best beach in the US multiple times
  Wyndham Grand($$$), Devon Shores($$), Camelot Beach Suites($)
• Downtown St. Petersburg + St. Pete Beach – a modern area 24 miles from Downtown Tampa (29 minutes by car) known for world-renowned beaches and the iconic Salvador Dali Museum, as well as upscale shopping
  The Saint Hotel($$$), Hyatt Place($$) Hotel SOL($)
• Treasure Island – a perfect vacation spot for travelers looking for natural beauty and pristine beaches, ideal for kayaking and dolphin watching; Treasure Island is 29 miles or a 40-minute ride away from Downtown Tampa
  Ocean Club($$$), Providence Oceana($$) Twins Inn & Apartments($)
• Dunedin – one of the West Coast’s oldest towns 24 miles from Tampa (a 40-minute ride) loved for its beaches and a pine forest, with plenty of tourists despite its small size
  Fenway Hotel($$$), Hampton Inn($$), Howard Johson($)
• Madeira Beach (Mad beach) – home to John’s Pass Village and the best eateries serving fresh groupers (fish), this coastal area that is 27 miles from Tampa (a 45-minute ride) has amazing sunsets, and it’s perfect for families AND couples
  Cambria Hotel($$), C7-Dolphin($)
• Pass-a-Grille Beach – a lovely beach near St. Pete Beach, or more precisely, the last one in line; ideal for shopping, dining, and sipping drinks at rooftop bars in a laid-back atmosphere. Tampa is 31 miles away (35 minutes by car)
  Inn on the Beach($$), Coconut Inn($$), Camelot by the Sea($)  
• Gulfport – a tiny waterfront district 26 miles from Tampa (a 30-minute ride) with a strong LGBTQ+ community, a hotspot for writers, artists, and small business owners; has a pedestrian-friendly downtown
  Sea Breeze Manor Inn($$), Peninsula Bed & Cocktails($$)

BONUS 2: Things to know before your stay in Tampa

Here are some important facts to know before your trip:

• Expect heavy traffic jams on the Florida Interstate 275 during rush hours
• Get the Tampa City Pass if you want to tour plenty of attractions
• Avoid swimming at dawn and dusk, and swim only in designated areas
• The rainy season lasts from June to September, and it is dry and warm anywhere from November to April
• Consider renting a car if you plan to discover the surroundings of Tampa
• Alternately, rent a bike to discover the city or use water taxis
• Sea temperatures are comfortable for swimming from April to November
• Choose a stay with free cancellation and book in advance!

FAQs about where to stay in Tampa, FL

🏖️ What is the closest beach to Downtown Tampa?

The closest beach to Downtown Tampa is Ben T. Davis Beach, located just over 8 miles (13km) away on the shores of Tampa Bay.

🌟 Where do celebrities stay in Tampa?

Popular athletes have homes in Davis Island, North Tampa, and Harbour Island. Celebrities visiting Tampa often stay in 5-star hotels or private vacation rentals in upscale neighborhoods like these three.

💑 What are some unique places to stay in Tampa for couples?

The Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay offers a unique and romantic treetop escape with stunning bay views, making it the best place to stay in Tampa for couples.

🎉 Where to stay in Tampa for a bachelorette or bachelor party?

Downtown Tampa or anywhere near the beach! This way, you’re always close to the cool places and fun things to do in Tampa at night! 

🏈 Where is the best area to stay in Tampa for a Bucs game?

Numerous hotels are available near Buccaneers Stadium in Westshore. This area is also the closest to the airport and a short drive from Downtown and most attractions.

🚢 Where should I stay in Tampa before a cruise?

Ybor City’s historic district is 10 minutes from the Cruise Port, making it ideal for short stays in Tampa before a cruise. Check out luxury hotels like ROOST Tampa and Haya Hotel for the best experience and easy access to Ybor City’s nightclubs and attractions.

🚙 Where is the best place to stay in Tampa without a car?

Downtown is the best place to stay in Tampa without a car. All attractions are within walking distance. Alternatively, Ybor City is an excellent location near Downtown, and it’s easy to move from one place to another using a trolley or a cab.

✅ Is Tampa, Florida, safe to visit?

Yes! Like other cities in Florida, Tampa is safe overall. Although the town may have a slightly higher crime rate than the national average, it’s entirely safe for tourists. Use common sense when walking late at night and keep your belongings close, and you won’t have to worry!

🚗 Do I need a car in Tampa?

Yes and no. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing and want to visit different beaches, then you definitely need a car. If you’d rather be stationed in one place and occasionally move around, then you can use public transportation or even rent a bike.

✖️ Are there any unsafe areas to stay in Tampa?

Most of Tampa is safe, but the only district where you should be extra cautious is Sulphur Springs, North of Tampa Downtown.

Conclusion

This was my honest guide on where to stay in Tampa, Florida! I have covered all the best Tampa suburbs and hotels for all budgets.

Now that you have an overview of only the most popular and reliable places, you can easily plan the rest of your trip! But if you’re still indecisive, here are my 2 favorite hotels in Tampa:

• JW Marriott Tampa – a luxury stay with top-class amenities and central location
• Hyatt House – excellent King Studio Suites suitable for couples and families, including complimentary breakfast

I hope you find the article useful for your Tampa Bay trip. For more inspiration, check out all of my Florida posts!

Remember to book your stay in advance so you don’t miss out on the best deals!

Finally, feel free to share your questions about Tampa in the comments! I’ll be happy to answer!

Safe travels,

Amira

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