You think you know Tampa? Maybe you’ve seen the crazy You Tube snippets about the latest Florida Man incident, that glaring billboard that distracts drivers on I-4, or the constant construction in and around Malfunction Junction. You think you know the city pretty well.
Yet there is an incredible way to see and learn much more about Tampa Bay. Regardless if you’re a tourist, newcomer from “up north” or a salty native, it’s always a good idea to learn more about the city.
Tampa by Bike Tour
You never forgot how to ride a bike so now it’s time to make some new memories. Start off on a roll – literally. Bicycles are ready with helmets and bottled water for you to do something different. This is an easy, 8 mile bicycle tour of various aspects of Tampa. Your group start is in Downtown Tampa with the tour exploring Davis Islands, Hyde Park, Beautiful Bayshore Blvd. and Harbour Island. You see so much more riding a bike than you ever could by walking. They also offer a Brew Loop Tour and Custom Tours! 2.5 to 3 hrs. $49 per person.
Tampa Riverfront History Tour
Glide on the waters to see a lesser known, but rich in detail, historical tour along the Hillsborough River on one of the Pirate Water Taxi Boats. A Tampa Bay History Center docent narrates interesting information that would make Columbus or Jose Gaspar jealous. In partnership with Pirate Water Taxi, the tour sets sail from stop 7 located at the Tampa Convention Center. After or before the tour you have an incredible chance to get a bite or brew to help make this day a memorable
one. A graduate of FSU, Mary Jo Shenk is your personal guide, docent and time traveler. 1 hour $34.95 per person.
Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour
Yes, we know about New Orleans, Savannah, St. Augustine and of course Ybor City Ghost Tours. Yet Downtown Tampa also has a murderous, deadly, ghostly and definitely haunted past. Tampa Terrors takes you through the dark underbelly of the city where you’ll learn about the horrible tragedies that have befallen those who walked the same footsteps before you. Stay close to your guide so you don’t become part of the storyline! 1 to 2 hrs. $30 per person.
Ybor Historic Walking Tour
Not your average tour! This is a well researched historical venture by a true native with – dare it be said – who has a lot of “connections”. You won’t find a more authentic guide. Joe was literally “born” on 7th Avenue and policed the wild and gritty streets in the 1980’s and 1990’s. His family members were doctors, laborers, peasants and are featured in books and historical archives. He hosts this walking tour as part of an “AirBnB Experience.” Joe is passionate, proud and his “Ybor City DNA” is unequaled. This is an alternative to those other city cookie cutter tours you might see elsewhere. Reviews say he has exceptional knowledge of Ybor City to give you all that you need to be an Ybor City native. 1.5 hours $22 per person.
Downtown Tampa Walking Tour
Given the indigenous influence of the Timicua and Tocobago American-Indian culture and the Spanish explorers, Tampa has plenty historic sites and neighborhoods — some that go back several hundred years. The Tampa Bay History Center organizes a 90-minute walk limited to 25 people and led by a History Center-trained docent. You walk about one mile along public sidewalks and brick streets and if you blink your eyes, a new building may sprout up. You are certain to see something new. 1.5 hrs. $25 per person.
How to prepared
About the weather and wardrobe. Tampa. Is. Hot. The humidity lasts all year. All of the above tour operators suggest you monitor the weather forecasts, stay hydrated, bring necessary fluids and wear appropriate clothing.