Tampa Travel Information
Tampa, the third largest city in Florida, is characterized by tall
buildings nudging cozy marinas on the Gulf waters, sail boats bobbing
on azure tides, and huge ocean liners butting their way through the
port as motorboats scoot out of sight. With a population of over
312,000, Tampa is hardly small town America. It offers top-rated
restaurants, hotels, theaters and museums, and it’s the home of three
universities. It’s a metropolis where old buildings steeped in history
blend with spanking new glass towers that overlook the city with
youthful arrogance. Famous for its Busch Gardens, a 335-acre
African theme park, Tampa is host to many fine museums including the
Tampa Museum of Art, the Tampa Aquarium, the Museum of Science and
Industry, and the Lowry Park Zoo. While all the theme parks in the
Tampa area are excellent, a lesser-known venue strikes a stimulating
note. Canoe Escape, about 10 miles from downtown Tampa, is an
adventure trip that excites every naturalist at heart. Slipping down
the Hillsborough River in a canoe, paddle boat, or kayak, nature nuts
pass all sorts of exotic wildlife including gators, deer, wild hogs,
turtles and birds. River otters, wood storks, and bald eagles have
been spotted as well. Fishing is permitted and photography is advised.
The 16,000-acre park is a must see for anyone interested in the
Florida countryside and its wonderful wildlife. There’s plenty
to cheer about in terms of spectator sports here. From dog and horse
racing to baseball, football, basketball, and hockey, Tampa has it
all. There are also many opportunities for participatory sports from
boating and beachcombing to skydiving and hot air ballooning.
Simulated speed car racing is an interesting attraction at Malibu
Grand Prix in North Tampa, which also has arcade games, miniature
golf, go-carts and batting cages. Of course, there are always the old
standbys of swimming, golf and tennis for which there are countless
facilities available. Tampa is an easy ride on I-4 about 85
miles west of Orlando.
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