8 days in Tampa Itinerary

Tampa ranks among the country's most livable cities, attracting newcomers with its growing economy and status as a major port on the Gulf of Mexico.

Escape the urban bustle at St. Pete Beach and Fishing Charters & Tours. Eschew the tourist crowds and head to ZooTampa at Lowry Park and Room Escape Games. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Tampa: Bradenton Beach (Coquina Beach & Bradenton Beach), Tarpon Springs (Sunset Beach & Fred Howard Park) and Manatee Public Beach (in Holmes Beach). There's still lots to do: look for all kinds of wild species at Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center, trek along Bayshore Boulevard, stroll around Lettuce Lake Regional Park, and get engrossed in the history at Henry B. Plant Museum.

To see maps, photos, reviews, and more tourist information, go to the Tampa trip planner.

Philadelphia to Tampa is an approximately 4-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. Plan for much warmer temperatures traveling from Philadelphia in December, with highs in Tampa at 78°F and lows at 61°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 28th (Wed) to allow time to fly back home.