Tampa and the greater Tampa Bay Area are popular year-round, thanks to the nearly endless summer. But this time of year, it’s the sports that bring people to town. If you’re visiting Tampa for the MLB World Series, we have you covered. The guide focuses on Tampa, where you’re likely flying in and staying, but we have a day in St. Pete to cover your gameday fun.
From iconic restaurants and waterfront cocktails to charming neighborhoods and local favorites, here’s how I’d spend the perfect 72 hours in Tampa Bay as someone born and raised here!
ADVERTISEMENT
Day 1: Downtown Tampa & The Riverwalk
Brunch at a Tampa icon of choice
- Oxford Exchange: An iconic Tampa brunch spot with a champagne bar, Buddy Brew coffee (local staple), beautiful bookstore and shops. Don’t miss the new Wright’s Gourmet House Market for a slice of their famous Alpine Cake!
- Mad Dogs & Englishmen: A charming South Tampa staple with British-inspired fare and a cozy neighborhood atmosphere. Trust us, order the Fish & Chips!
Stroll the Tampa Riverwalk + Grab a drink
- Take in the waterfront views, downtown skyline and some of Tampa’s most scenic spots.
- Jackson’s Bistro, The Sail, and Sorsi Spritz Bar have great riverfront views with cocktails and light bites.
Option 1: A casual evening at Armature Works
- Explore the Heights Public Market, featuring a variety of local food favorites.
- Sip sunset cocktails at M.Bird overlooking the Tampa skyline.
- Grab a scoop from Chill Bros., Tampa’s beloved local ice cream shop.
Option 2: A fancy night out in Water Street
- Dinner: Boulon, The Pearl, Ash or Market or Azul at The Tampa EDITION.
- Drinks: The Tampa EDITION rooftop for chic cocktails, nightlife vibes at Predalina, or Alter Ego for a speakeasy-inspired energy.
- Dessert: Another opportunity for Chill Bros. or walk to Sparkman Wharf and have a viral dessert from Hampton Chocolate
Catch a Tampa Bay Lightning Game at Benchmark International Arena
- If you’re visiting during hockey season, cheering on the Bolts is a must! Expect an electric atmosphere, passionate fans and one of Tampa’s favorite game-day traditions. Bonus points if you catch a game during a downtown night out!
Bucket-List Bonus:
- If you can snag a reservation at Bern’s Steak House, it’s a must for any steak lover! Book well in advance and don’t miss the one-of-a-kind kitchen tour or the famous Harry Waugh Dessert Room, complete with private dining booths and live piano music. The Bananas Foster for two is a must-order!
Day 2: Downtown St. Pete
Start at the Saturday Morning Market
- Browse local vendors, grab a coffee and soak up the downtown atmosphere. (Saturdays only!)
Brunch at Perry’s Porch + St. Pete Pier
- Enjoy brunch before strolling the waterfront, taking in the views and exploring the iconic pier.
Drinks at Ferg’s Sports Bar
- A legendary St. Pete staple for sports fans, cold drinks and live music. Located right next to Tropicana Field, it’s the ultimate pregame spot if you’re catching a Tampa Bay Rays game!
Boujee dinner
- Allelo: A chic Mediterranean-inspired spot with fabulous food and wine.
- Elliott Aster: An elevated Italian dining experience inside The Vinoy with the best Radiatore alla Vodka pasta and bread service.
Catch a Tampa Bay Rays Game at Tropicana Field
- If you’re visiting Tampa Bay for the World Series, make time to explore the Rays’ hometown! Soak up the baseball atmosphere in downtown St. Pete, grab pregame drinks at the legendary Ferg’s Sports Bar and experience the excitement of October baseball!
The night’s not over yet!
- Dancing queen? Bust a move at Good Night John Boy where the disco vibes last all night long Mamma Mia style!
- Bar Hopping: Downtown St. Pete has no shortage of fun nightlife! Play arcade games at Park & Rec, grab cocktails at Mandarin Hide, check out the playful, retro vibes at Trailer Daddy, or head to The Canopy for rooftop drinks and waterfront views.
Day 3: Hyde Park Village, Bayshore & Historic Tampa
Lunch at The Columbia Restaurant
Located in historic Ybor City, Florida’s oldest restaurant is a Tampa must! Order the famous 1905 Salad, Cuban bread and sangria while soaking up more than a century of history.
Shop & sip at Hyde Park Village
Spend the afternoon browsing boutiques, exploring the charming streets and enjoying a coffee or cocktail at one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants. Our team loves Bouzy for popcorn and bubbly!
Sunset stroll along Bayshore Boulevard
One of Tampa’s most iconic experiences! Walk along the waterfront, admire the gorgeous South Tampa homes and take in beautiful views of Hillsborough Bay. Note: parking is available in nearby neighborhoods or walkable from Hyde Park Village.
One last South Tampa dinner
Casual dinner in SoHo:
Wrap up your weekend in Tampa’s lively SoHo neighborhood! Grab pizza at Sally O’Neal’s, enjoy a laid-back meal at Water + Flour or Meeting House, or spice things up at Green Lemon. All casual, local favorites!
Elevated dining in Hyde Park Village
For a more upscale evening, head to Hyde Park Village for incredible sushi at Ro, elevated fare at On Swann or pizza at Forbici (my personal favorite is the eggplant lasagna).
