Hotels in East Tampa

Discover East Tampa: Where Vibrant Culture Meets Scenic Shores and Thrilling Adventures

Discover East Tampa, a vibrant neighborhood that blends culture, sports, and local charm. Just minutes from downtown's waterfront, explore the Tampa Fairgrounds and experience thrilling events. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at nearby stadiums or enjoy family fun at theme parks. Stroll down Florida Avenue to savor delicious cuisine and unique shops. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions, East Tampa offers a perfect mix of urban excitement and laid-back Florida vibes, making it an ideal spot for a few unforgettable nights in the Sunshine State. Embrace the essence of Tampa in this dynamic destination! For the best hotel rates in East Tampa and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in East Tampa

East Tampa offers fantastic attractions for travelers, including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, known for thrilling rides and animal encounters; the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, perfect for leisurely strolls and dining; and Adventure Island, a water park filled with fun slides and pools. For accommodations, you'll find a range of hotels nearby, from budget options to suites with amenities like pools and fitness centers. For first-time visitors, Busch Gardens offers a great mix of excitement and adventure. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in East Tampa:

1. Near Busch Gardens Tampa BayOpens in a new window: If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, staying near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a fantastic choice. With thrilling rides, animal encounters, and entertainment options, this area is perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Consider Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa Busch Gardens AreaOpens in a new window, a cozy 2.5-star hotel just a mile from the park, offering amenities such as free cribs and a pool gate for child safety. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Tampa Near Busch GardensOpens in a new window is another solid option, also 2.5 stars, featuring an arcade game room and business facilities, making it ideal for both family vacations and business trips. Don't overlook Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa USF Busch Gardens, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, which provides accessible business amenities along with family-friendly services, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
2. Near Tampa RiverwalkOpens in a new window: The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic waterfront pedestrian path that offers stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for romantic strolls or outdoor adventures. While Best Western Plus Bradenton Hotel & SuitesOpens in a new window, Quality Inn Bradenton North I-75Opens in a new window, and Sunrise InnOpens in a new window are all approximately 31 miles away, they are great choices for business travelers, with amenities like 24-hour business centers and meeting rooms to accommodate your professional needs. Each hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring the Riverwalk and enjoying nearby attractions.
3. Near Adventure IslandOpens in a new window: For those seeking adventure, staying near Adventure Island offers easy access to thrilling water rides and family-friendly fun. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lakeland WestOpens in a new window is a great choice for pet owners, featuring amenities like a conference space and pet-friendly policies. Quality Inn Lakeland NorthOpens in a new window focuses on business travelers with multiple meeting rooms and a business center. Howard Johnson by Wyndham LakelandOpens in a new window is another versatile option, catering to families and pets, and providing various amenities to ensure a memorable stay.

Things to do in East Tampa for first time

East Tampa offers a vibrant mix of urban charm and natural beauty, perfect for a three-day getaway. Visitors can enjoy diverse outdoor activities like hiking and boating, while also exploring local entertainment venues and engaging in educational experiences. This area promises a memorable blend of adventure and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to East Tampa:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the water and the city skyline. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the area. Next, head to Sparkman Wharf, a vibrant waterfront destination filled with trendy eateries and shops. Grab lunch at one of the delicious food stalls while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Conclude your day with a visit to El Centro Español de Tampa, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area and learn about its significance in the local community.
• Day 2: Start your day at the Florida State Fairgrounds, where you can check out various events or simply explore the grounds. Afterward, make your way to the Skatepark of Tampa, a must-visit for skateboarding enthusiasts. Watch some impressive tricks or even try your hand at skating. Finish your day with a peaceful visit to the Wat Mongkolratanaram Temple, a beautiful Thai temple where you can experience tranquility and perhaps enjoy some delicious Thai food available on weekends.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Tampa Bay, where you can take in the stunning waterfront views and maybe catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Following that, explore the University of South Florida Botanical Gardens, a serene oasis filled with diverse plant species and lovely walking paths—perfect for nature lovers. Conclude your itinerary with a visit to the La Casita House Museum, where you can delve into the local history and culture, gaining insights into the lives of Tampa's early residents.

5 tips to find a great East Tampa hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit East Tampa for those on a budget is from September to November, as hotel rates are generally more affordable during this period. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least two months in advance to secure great value for money. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's key attractions, which include the vibrant neighborhoods and a popular theme park. This timeframe allows visitors to experience the charm and excitement of East Tampa without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to East Tampa, you're in luck! You could find great rates and good availability on hotels that fit your travel needs. To explore these offers, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted prices as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities for savings. Plus, you might enjoy a price guarantee for extra peace of mind.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and season. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in East Tampa.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience but usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods or areas that are less central, finding a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in East Tampa and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in East Tampa

Here are a few popular dishes in East Tampa, Tampa, Florida, United States of America:

• Cuban Sandwich: A delicious blend of flavors, the Cuban sandwich features layers of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between Cuban bread. This iconic sandwich reflects the vibrant Cuban influence in Tampa and is a must-try for any visitor.
• Stone Crabs: Renowned for their sweet, tender meat, stone crabs are a seasonal delicacy in Florida. Served chilled with a tangy mustard sauce, they embody the local seafood culture and are often enjoyed in a casual setting, making them perfect for sharing with friends.
• Grouper Sandwich: Freshly caught grouper is often grilled or fried and served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. This sandwich highlights the region's fishing heritage and is a favorite among locals, ideal for a spontaneous lunch or dinner by the water.

Best time to go to East Tampa

East Tampa experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 60.8°F (16.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 83.5°F (28.6°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in East Tampa, February, March, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.

East Tampa Travel Information