Tampa, Florida is the place to stay if you love the hustle and bustle of the city, but still want to be on the water! With an incredible selection of day trips, boat tours, zoos, water parks, and so much more – Tampa is a great destination for families, couples, and groups alike. As a local resident, I’ve stayed at just about every hotel in Downtown Tampa – so let me show you where to stay in Tampa!
Downtown Tampa is the place to be for the traveler who wants to enjoy arts and culture, museums, shops, theatres and more. With a population of approximately 335,709, Tampa is a busy place with a lot of really interesting things to do and see.
The downtown area isn’t all that large, but it’s packed with arts and culture, along with delicious restaurants and unique shops!
Tampa makes a great home base for exploring the area’s theme parks, marine life and even hopping aboard some amazing cruises. Slip and slide down waterslides, go on a dolphin sightseeing cruise, or spend time at the Florida Aquarium. If you’re a traveler looking for a beach experience, then you’re going to want to visit Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach as well.
Best Places to Stay in Tampa, Florida
My top picks for the best hotels in Tampa - from a long time local resident!
Tampa Marriott Waterside
The Marriott is a wonderful choice for a luxurious stay, in a picture perfect location. This hotel is actually where our wedding guests stayed when my husband I got married on nearby Davis Island!
The location is pretty much unbeatable. The hotel sits directly on the water, so the views are gorgeous. It's walking distance to the Florida Aquarium and the restaurants and shops at Sparkman Wharf. And its directly adjacent to the Tampa Convention Center, and only a few buildings down from Amalie Arena.
It's also a great base for exploring the broader Tampa Bay area. It's less than 1.5 miles to Hyde Park, less than 5 miles to Raymond James Stadium and less than 7 miles to Busch Gardens.
The hotels features a swimming pool, fitness center, amazing breakfasts, and beautiful bay or city views. With countless reviews stating that the premises are simply stunning, and it’s an amazing place to stay, the Tampa Marriott Waterside is simply one of the best places to stay in Tampa!
The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk
Located right next to the performing arts center and the Hillsborough River, The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk is great for anyone that wants easy access to the Tampa Riverwalk, or anyone visiting the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.
The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk has an incredible number of features. A full-service restaurant and bar. a great outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.
The Florida Aquarium and Sparkman Wharf are only a 10-minute drive from the hotel.
The Westin Tampa Waterside
Located just across from the Tampa Convention Center (just walk over a short bridge!), The Westin Tampa Waterside is also right in the heart of Tampa!
This is a great hotel choice for business travelers due to the easy access to the convention center. Plus, it has a working area with a desk in each room!
Overlooking Tampa Bay, it also features an on site restaurant, small outdoor pool and gym. Previous guests have repeatedly mentioned that the comfort and service was simply outstanding.
Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown
Hyatt Place is a great choice right in the heart of the downtown action. There are plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance of the hotel, and it's only a few blocks walk to reach the Tampa Riverwalk area and Curtis Hixon Park, where you'll also find the popular Glazer Children's Museum.
Each room has a desk for working, making it a good choice for business travelers. And the hotel is known for having a great fitness center as well. The pool area is somewhat small, but very nice. Previous reviews rave about the cleanliness and friendly staff.
Overall, this is a nice choice. But the location is not as convenient as the Marriott if you plan on spending much time at the convention center, aquarium, or Sparkman Wharf.
Residence Inn Tampa Downtown
Perfect for a longer stay in the Tampa area! This hotel is built with long term stays in mind. With features like luxury bedding, a work desk with ample lighting, and kitchens right in the suites. Dip your toes into the outdoor pool, and lounge on the sun-lounger terrace!
The location is convenient walking distance to the Straz Center, Tampa Riverwalk, and Curtis Hixon Park. It's also an affordable choice for families that need a little more space - and you'll appreciate the complimentary buffet breakfast.
I hope you’ve found the best hotel for your visit to Tampa! Fore more trip planning ideas, check out these articles: