Romantic Things to Do in Tampa, Florida: Perfect for Couples
Tampa, Florida, is a vibrant city that offers an array of romantic activities for couples. From stunning waterfront views to cultural experiences and exquisite dining, there are plenty of options to make your time together memorable. Here are 15 of the best romantic things to do in Tampa, Florida.
Top 15 Romantic Things to Do in Tampa:
Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on Tampa Bay
Stroll Through the Tampa Riverwalk
Dine at Mise En Place
Visit the Tampa Museum of Art
Relax on Davis Islands Beach
Explore Ybor City
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Watch a Show at the Straz Center
Visit the Florida Aquarium
Enjoy a Picnic at Lettuce Lake Park
Take a Couples’ Cooking Class
Pamper Yourselves at the Spa Evangeline
Visit the Henry B. Plant Museum
Go Wine Tasting at Tampa Bay Wine Tour
Take a Scenic Helicopter Tour
1. Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on Tampa Bay
One of the best things to do in Tampa is to take a sunset cruise on Tampa Bay. These cruises offer breathtaking views of the sunset over the water, providing a perfect setting for a romantic evening.
Insider Tips:
Book in Advance: Sunset cruises can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance.
Bring a Camera: Capture the beautiful sunset and the serene surroundings.
Recommendations:
Bring Refreshments: Some cruises allow you to bring your own wine and snacks.
Comfortable Seating: Choose a cruise with comfortable seating for the best experience.
Why Visit: A sunset cruise offers tranquility and beautiful views, making it one of the best romantic things to do in Tampa.
2. Stroll Through the Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic waterfront path that provides a serene and romantic setting for couples. The Riverwalk features beautiful views, public art, and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Insider Tips:
Visit During Special Events: Check the Riverwalk’s schedule for events like outdoor concerts or art festivals.
Bring a Picnic: Enjoy a picnic by the waterfront for a truly romantic experience.
Recommendations:
Evening Strolls: Visit in the evening for a romantic walk under the stars.
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the Riverwalk.
Why Visit: The Tampa Riverwalk offers a peaceful escape into nature, providing a perfect setting for romance and relaxation.
3. Dine at Mise En Place
Mise En Place is one of Tampa’s most renowned fine dining establishments, known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner.
Insider Tips:
Reservations Recommended: This popular restaurant often books up, so make reservations in advance.
Special Occasions: Let the staff know if you’re celebrating a special occasion for personalized service.
Recommendations:
Wine Pairing: Ask for wine pairing recommendations to complement your meal.
Outdoor Seating: Request a table on the patio for a more intimate dining experience.
Why Visit: Mise En Place offers an exceptional dining experience with a romantic ambiance, making it one of the best places to visit for a special night out in Tampa.
4. Visit the Tampa Museum of Art
The Tampa Museum of Art offers a sophisticated and cultural experience for couples. The museum features a variety of art exhibits, sculpture gardens, and educational programs.
Insider Tips:
Check Exhibit Schedule: Visit the museum’s website to see current and upcoming exhibits.
Museum Café: Enjoy a coffee or light snack at the museum’s café.
Recommendations:
Docent Tours: Join a docent-led tour for in-depth information about the exhibits.
Special Programs: Check for special programs or evening events for a unique museum experience.
Why Visit: The Tampa Museum of Art provides a cultural and intellectual experience, perfect for couples who appreciate art and creativity.
5. Relax on Davis Islands Beach
Davis Islands Beach is one of Tampa’s hidden gems, offering soft sands and clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic beach day.
Insider Tips:
Sunset Beach Walks: Visit in the late afternoon for a romantic walk along the beach as the sun sets.
Pack a Picnic: Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a meal by the ocean.
Recommendations:
Beach Chairs and Umbrella: Bring beach chairs and an umbrella for comfort.
Water Activities: Try paddleboarding or kayaking for a fun and active beach day.
Why Visit: Davis Islands Beach offers a tranquil and scenic setting for a romantic beach outing, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Tampa.
6. Explore Ybor City
Ybor City, Tampa’s historic district, is rich in culture and history. Stroll hand-in-hand through the cobblestone streets, enjoy live music, and explore unique shops and eateries.
Insider Tips:
Visit a Cigar Shop: Experience the art of cigar making and maybe pick up a souvenir.
Nightlife: Ybor City comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene.
Recommendations:
Dining: Try one of the local Cuban restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Walking Tours: Take a guided walking tour to learn about the history and culture of Ybor City.
Why Visit: Ybor City’s unique charm and vibrant atmosphere make it one of the best things to do in Tampa for couples looking for a mix of history and excitement.
7. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
For a truly unique and romantic experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Tampa area. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views and the thrill of floating in the sky.
Insider Tips:
Best Time to Fly: Early morning flights provide the most stunning views.
Booking: Reserve your flight in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning aerial views.
Special Occasions: Consider booking a flight for special occasions like anniversaries or proposals.
Why Visit: A hot air balloon ride offers a unique and breathtaking perspective of Tampa, making it an unforgettable romantic experience.
8. Watch a Show at the Straz Center
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts offers a variety of live performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. It’s a great way to enjoy a night out with your partner, experiencing the vibrant arts scene in Tampa.
Insider Tips:
Check the Schedule: Visit the center’s website to see the current and upcoming performances.
Pre-Show Dining: Enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants before the show.
Recommendations:
Season Tickets: Consider purchasing season tickets for regular theatre-goers.
Special Events: Look for special events and concerts for a unique theatre experience.
Why Visit: The Straz Center offers high-quality performances in an intimate setting, making it a perfect choice for a romantic night out.
9. Visit the Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium offers an educational and interactive experience for couples. Explore the diverse marine life exhibits and enjoy special events and programs.
Insider Tips:
Check Event Schedule: Look for special events like diving shows or animal encounters.
Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Consider a behind-the-scenes tour for a more in-depth experience.
Recommendations:
Café: Enjoy a coffee or snack at the aquarium café.
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the fascinating marine life.
Why Visit: The Florida Aquarium provides an engaging and fun experience, perfect for couples who love marine life and adventure.
10. Enjoy a Picnic at Lettuce Lake Park
Lettuce Lake Park is a beautiful nature park with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic picnic.
Insider Tips:
Wildlife Watching: Bring binoculars for bird watching and spotting other wildlife.
Kayaking: Rent a kayak and explore the waterways.
Recommendations:
Picnic Essentials: Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Photography: Capture the natural beauty of the park with your camera.
Why Visit: Lettuce Lake Park offers a peaceful and scenic setting for a romantic outing, providing a perfect escape from the city.
11. Take a Couples’ Cooking Class
Several culinary schools and cooking studios in Tampa offer hands-on cooking classes that are perfect for couples. Learn new recipes and cooking techniques from professional chefs in a fun and interactive environment.
Insider Tips:
Book Early: Classes fill up quickly, so book your spot in advance.
BYOB: Some classes are BYOB, allowing you to bring your favorite wine to enjoy during the class.
Recommendations:
Themed Classes: Look for themed classes that match your culinary interests.
Private Classes: Consider booking a private class for a more personalized experience.
Why Visit: A couples’ cooking class is a fun and interactive way to spend time together, learning new skills and enjoying delicious food.
12. Pamper Yourselves at Spa Evangeline
Spa Evangeline offers luxurious spa treatments and packages for couples. Relax and rejuvenate with massages, facials, and other pampering services.
Insider Tips:
Spa Packages: Book a couples’ massage or a spa package for a truly relaxing experience.
Reservations: Make reservations in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Spa Day: Plan a full day of pampering with multiple treatments.
Dining: Enjoy a meal at the nearby restaurant after your spa session.
Why Visit: Spa Evangeline offers a luxurious and romantic escape, perfect for pampering yourselves and enjoying each other’s company.
13. Visit the Henry B. Plant Museum
The Henry B. Plant Museum, located in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel, offers a glimpse into Tampa’s rich history and Gilded Age opulence. Explore the beautifully preserved rooms and exhibits.
Insider Tips:
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the museum.
Special Exhibits: Check for special exhibits and events.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and interiors.
Gift Shop: Visit the museum gift shop for unique souvenirs.
Why Visit: The Henry B. Plant Museum offers a fascinating and romantic journey through Tampa’s history, making it one of the best things to do for history lovers.
14. Go Wine Tasting with Tampa Bay Wine Tour
Tampa Bay Wine Tour offers guided wine tasting tours to local wineries and wine bars. Enjoy sampling a variety of wines and learning about the winemaking process.
Insider Tips:
Tour Packages: Choose from different tour packages based on your preferences.
Reservations: Book your tour in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Wine Flights: Try a wine flight to sample a variety of their best wines.
Picnicking: Bring a picnic to enjoy at the winery.
Why Visit: Wine tasting with Tampa Bay Wine Tour offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience, perfect for a romantic outing.
15. Take a Scenic Helicopter Tour
For a truly unique and romantic experience, consider taking a scenic helicopter tour over Tampa. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the city, the coastline, and the surrounding area.
Insider Tips:
Best Time to Fly: Sunset flights provide the most stunning views.
Booking: Reserve your flight in advance to ensure availability.
Recommendations:
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning aerial views.
Special Occasions: Consider booking a flight for special occasions like anniversaries or proposals.
Why Visit: A scenic helicopter tour offers a unique and breathtaking perspective of Tampa, making it an unforgettable romantic experience.
Conclusion
Tampa is an ideal destination for couples looking to enjoy a romantic getaway. From sunset cruises and botanical gardens to fine dining and serene beaches, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Tampa. Use this guide to plan your next romantic adventure and create unforgettable memories with your loved one. Whether you’re pampering yourselves at a luxurious spa, exploring the vibrant arts scene, or enjoying a scenic flight, Tampa offers countless opportunities for romance and connection.
