Discover Places to Visit in Tampa: A Guide for International Students

Choosing to study abroad is a significant decision filled with academic growth, cultural immersion, and the chance to make lifelong friends. If you're an international student considering Schiller International University's Tampa campus, you'll enjoy numerous benefits! From stunning waterfronts to historic sites, Tampa offers a vibrant mix of urban energy and natural beauty. This guide focuses on places to visit in Tampa, revealing popular attractions and exceptional experiences. Discover why Tampa offers a dynamic lifestyle for students, with experiences that seamlessly blend enriching study with incredible leisure opportunities. With so much to see and do, your time at Schiller’s Tampa campus will be filled with adventure and discovery.

Exploring Tampa's Top Attractions 

Tampa offers a wealth of attractions perfect for exploring during your downtime. Consider these must-see attractions in Tampa: 

1. Historical Tours 

Tampa's history is a fascinating blend of Native American heritage, Spanish colonial influence, and booming industry. Exploring these historical layers unveils a vibrant past. 

Ybor City:

More than just a historic neighborhood, Ybor City is a testament to Tampa's cigar-making heyday. Immigrants, primarily from Cuba, shaped this area into a bustling center of cigar production. A walking tour reveals stunning examples of Spanish architecture, remnants of cigar factories, and the rich cultural heritage that persists today. You'll find charming cafes serving authentic Cuban coffee and pastries, historic landmarks like the Columbia Restaurant, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Don't miss the Ybor City State Museum for a deeper look at the area's past, including its labor history and cultural evolution. 

Tampa Bay History Center:

Located downtown, this center offers a comprehensive overview of Tampa Bay's history from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. Interactive exhibits cover themes such as Native American heritage, the Spanish colonial period, and the development of the cigar industry. 

The Henry B. Plant Museum:

Housed within the magnificent Tampa Bay Hotel, this museum showcases Victorian-era artifacts, highlighting the hotel's opulent past. You'll find exhibits on the hotel's history and the life of Henry B. Plant. Guided tours provide detailed insights into the building's architecture and historical significance. 

2. Scenic Walking Areas 

Tampa offers stunning locations for leisurely strolls, providing opportunities to appreciate the city's beauty and waterfront views. 

Tampa Riverwalk:

This 2.6-mile waterfront path winds along the Hillsborough River, providing breathtaking views of the city skyline and lush greenery. The Riverwalk is ideal for walking, jogging, biking, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Several benches provide resting spots, with plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way. 

Bayshore Boulevard:

This iconic boulevard, known for its picturesque views of Tampa Bay, boasts the longest continuous sidewalk in the world. Long, relaxing walks or scenic rides on the bike path are a great way to unwind. The beautiful homes lining Bayshore Boulevard showcase Tampa's architectural heritage. 

3. Fun & Games 

You can spend a fun-filled day in Tampa with a range of entertainment options. 

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay:

More than just a theme park, Busch Gardens is an exhilarating fusion of thrilling rides and a world-class zoo. Visitors can experience heart-pounding drops and exhilarating twists on rides while also enjoying immersive animal exhibits showcasing exotic species. 

Adventure Island:

Adventure Island is the ultimate water park destination, offering an exciting escape from the Florida heat. This vibrant park features thrilling water slides and gentle splash areas for younger children, along with relaxing lazy rivers and tranquil pools. 

4. Nature and Wildlife Tours 

Tampa's location on the Gulf Coast provides access to diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. 

Tampa Bay Estuary Program:

This program offers guided eco-tours that provide insights into the unique ecology of Tampa Bay. You'll learn about the various plant and animal species that inhabit the estuary and the importance of preserving this vital ecosystem. 

Lowry Park Zoo:

Home to over 1,300 animals from around the world, this zoo is committed to conservation and education. The zoo offers engaging exhibits that highlight the importance of protecting endangered species. 

Clearwater Beach:

A short drive from Tampa, this pristine beach offers stunning white sand and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Many day cruises depart from here, offering spectacular views of the Gulf Coast. 

5. Immersive Cultural Experiences 

Tampa's diverse cultural landscape is reflected in its numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. 

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts:

One of Florida's largest performing arts centers, offering a wide variety of shows and concerts throughout the year. 

Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI):

This interactive museum offers engaging exhibits suitable for all ages, blending science, technology, and entertainment. 

Ybor City's cigar factories and historical buildings:

Take a tour of a historic cigar factory to learn about the city's cigar-making heritage, providing a deeper understanding of Ybor City's culture. 

The Tampa Theatre:

Catch a classic film in this beautifully restored historic movie palace, offering a chance to experience a piece of Tampa's history. 

6. Popular Attractions in Tampa 

Beyond the previously discussed locations, these attractions offer a different flavor of Tampa: 

The Florida Aquarium:

Discover a captivating underwater world teeming with marine life. The aquarium features diverse marine habitats, allowing you to observe a wide range of species. 

Amalie Arena:

Catch a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game, a concert, or another major event at this state-of -the-art arena. Check their website for upcoming events! 

Channelside Bay Plaza:

A vibrant waterfront area, perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. This is a beautiful place to stroll, grab a bite to eat, and soak in the Tampa Bay ambiance. 

7. Day Cruises 

Tampa Bay offers many exciting day cruises. From dolphin-watching tours to sunset cruises, there's something for everyone. These cruises provide incredible views of the city skyline and the surrounding coastline. 

Tampa Bay Water Taxi:

This offers a scenic way to explore various waterfront destinations, making stops at key locations along the waterfront. 

Dolphin-Watching Tours:

These popular tours give you the opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat. 

Sunset Cruises:

Relax and enjoy breathtaking views as the sun sets over Tampa Bay on a peaceful evening cruise. Many companies offer sunset cruises, providing a romantic and memorable experience. 

8. Shopping and Entertainment 

Tampa offers several options for shopping and entertainment: 

International Plaza and Bay Street:

This upscale mall is a premier shopping destination featuring a diverse range of stores and restaurants, catering to fashion enthusiasts and food lovers alike. 

Hyde Park Village:

A vibrant shopping and dining destination that combines boutique shopping with a charming atmosphere, featuring unique boutiques and delightful cafes.  

Transportation in Tampa 

Getting around Tampa is relatively easy. You can use the following modes of transportation: 

Public Transportation:

Tampa has a public bus system (HART) that covers most areas, providing a cost-effective way to get around the city. 

Ride-Sharing Services:

Uber and Lyft are readily available, offering convenient and flexible transportation options. 

Taxis:

Taxis are also available, although ride-sharing is often more convenient and cost-effective. 

Biking:

Rent a bike from local shops or use bike-sharing programs available around campus. 

Rental Cars:

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring areas outside the city center.

Food Adventures in Tampa 

Tampa boasts a diverse food scene, offering culinary delights from around the world. Don't miss these culinary experiences: 

Authentic Cuban Cuisine in Ybor City:

Try traditional Cuban sandwiches, Ropa Vieja, and flavorful cocktails. 

Fresh Seafood:

Tampa Bay offers an abundance of fresh seafood, with numerous restaurants serving delicious dishes. 

International Flavors:

Tampa's diverse population is reflected in its culinary scene, offering numerous international cuisines.

Fun Facts About Tampa 

Here are some interesting tidbits about this vibrant city: 

• Tampa has one of the largest cigar industries in the world. 
• The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Buccaneers (NFL) and Rays (MLB). 
• The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is an annual event that celebrates Tampa's pirate history.

Schiller International University Programs in Tampa 

As you explore these wonderful attractions, remember that your academic journey at Schiller University can be just as enriching. The university offers a variety of programs designed to prepare you for global success, including: 

Bachelor's degrees 

• B.A. in International Relations and Diplomacy 
• B.Sc. in International Business 
• B.Sc. in International Marketing 

Master’s degrees 

• M.A. in International Relations and Diplomacy 
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) 
• MBA in International Business 

These programs prepare students for successful careers by blending academic rigor with real-world experiences.

Pack Your Bags to Study in Tampa 

Tampa offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. The city provides excellent places to visit, whether you're seeking thrilling theme park adventures, relaxing beach days, or fascinating historical explorations. Combine these amazing opportunities with Schiller International University's rigorous academic programs, and you'll have an unforgettable study abroad experience. 

From historical tours to thrilling theme parks, there are countless places to visit in Tampa that will enrich your experience. Remember to explore beyond this guide and discover your own hidden gems. Your time in Tampa will be filled with exploration, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime. Make sure you take advantage of these opportunities while pursuing your studies! With so many must-do experiences in Tampa, your time here will be unforgettable. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure filled with learning, exploration, and fun!

This blog serves as your ultimate travel guide around Schiller International University’s Tampa campus while ensuring you have all the necessary information about places, transportation, food options, and local attractions during your stay in beautiful Tampa!