Tampa
About 400,000 people in the city, and around 3 million in the whole Tampa Bay area.
Tampa is a sunny, waterfront city on the west coast of Florida, sitting right on a big bay that opens into the Gulf of Mexico. It is famous for its warm weather, its old cigar-making neighborhood called Ybor City, and its friendly mix of cultures.
You can ride roller coasters and meet animals at Busch Gardens, walk the long Riverwalk downtown, or visit The Florida Aquarium to see sharks and sea turtles. Nearby you will find sandy beaches, pirate festivals, and the historic streetcars of Ybor City.
Downtown & Riverwalk
Downtown Tampa has tall shiny buildings that line the Hillsborough River. A walking path called the Riverwalk lets you stroll past parks, museums, and boats right along the water.
Theme parks & animals
Busch Gardens is a big theme park with exciting roller coasters and real African animals like lions, giraffes, and zebras. The Florida Aquarium in the city lets kids see sharks, otters, and colorful fish up close.
Ybor City & culture
Ybor City is a historic neighborhood where people once rolled cigars by hand, and many families came from Cuba, Spain, and Italy. Today you can ride an old-fashioned streetcar there and try tasty Cuban sandwiches.
Beaches & sports
Warm sandy beaches sit just a short drive from Tampa, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles. The city also cheers for its football team the Buccaneers, its hockey team the Lightning, and loves outdoor fun in the sunshine.