The Tampa Bay region is well known for its’ beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, world-class theme parks, 3 major pro sports teams, and hot, humid weather (which includes plenty of intense thunderstorms in the summer). Although Tampa often gets passed over in favor of the nearby theme park capital of the world, Orlando, its diverse range of activities & close proximity to top-rated beaches actually make Tampa a nice vacation destination. In order to get excited about this destination here are some Tampa facts you may not know.
1. Tampa is home to the world’s longest continuous sidewalk
Bayshore Blvd in downtown Tampa, at 4.5 miles long, earns the title of “the world’s longest continuous sidewalk.” This gorgeous recreational path, which is used by cyclists, joggers, and walkers alike, is lined with palm trees and features never-ending views of the bay.
2. Tampa’s temperature has never exceeded 99 degrees
Despite the area’s widely recognized humidity and seemingly endless days of oppressive heat, the temperature has actually never reached 100 degrees! The record is 99 degrees...although that is not to say that the temp feels below 100 when factoring in the heat index.
3. Tampa is home to Florida’s oldest restaurant (as well as the world’s largest Spanish restaurant)
The amazing Columbia restaurant (Ybor City location) is Florida’s oldest restaurant & the world’s largest Spanish restaurant. The Ybor City location in Tampa opened in 1905, and 110 years later 4th and 5th generation members of the Hernandez and Gonzmart families still own the restaurant. This restaurant is widely regarded as offering some of the best Spanish and Cuban cuisine in the country.
4. Ybor City is one of the most haunted places in the world
Ybor City is a historic downtown Tampa neighborhood founded in the late 1800s by cigar manufacturers. Aside from its smoky past, the area has a long history of strange paranormal happenings and is considered to be one of the most haunted towns in America. They offer a number of ghost tours, including one that is frequently rated amongst the best in the country. Book your tour here Ybor City Ghost Tour.
5. Tampa is home to Florida’s largest port
Port Tampa Bay is the largest port in Florida and the closest full-service port to the Panama Canal. It also happens to be one of the top cruise ports in the US, with 4 cruise lines homeporting here, including Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America, Royal Caribbean International, and Norwegian Cruise Line.
6. Tampa Bay is the lightning capital of the world
If you’ve ever visited the Tampa region during the summer season, it will come as no surprise that Tampa is known as the lighting capital of the world. These storms can get pretty intense and come with no advance warning. One minute you’re sitting at a beach, enjoying the sunny skies, only to need to pack up all your stuff and run to your car before the torrential downpour starts.
The Gasparilla Pirate Festival, a large party celebrating the legend of pirate Jose Gaspar, dates back over 100 years. The festive pirate themed lineup features the Gasparilla Invasion (arrival of the Gasparilla ship downtown), pre-invasion live entertainment, a special brunch, and the 3rd largest parade in the country.
8. Tampa ranks as one of the best cities for coffee lovers
Looking to skip the standard chain coffee shops like Starbucks and Dunkin? You are in luck, as Tampa is home to many eclectic coffee shops. Tampa ranks amongst the best cities for coffee lovers! It’s home to so many wonderful laid-back shops, each offering their own unique vibe.
9. Venice, Florida is the shark tooth capital of the world
If you visit any beaches in the Sarasota area, you will likely notice beachgoers using a weird looking shovel, attempting to dig for something, although it is not your typical seashell. Venice, Florida is known for being “the shark tooth capital of the world.” Millions of years ago, Florida was submerged with water - and although most of the sharks disappeared, the fossilized teeth remain! Casperan Beach is one of your best bets for finding these prehistoric treasures. Visit early in the morning or after a storm for better luck.
10. Siesta Key Beach is home to the whitest sand in the world
The sand at Siesta Key Beach is made up of 99% pure quartz. It is the softest and whitest sand you will ever step foot on. Siesta is the ultimate getaway for anyone seeking a relaxing day on the Gulf – it doesn’t get much better than this. And better yet, it is one of the widest stretches of sand in the area so you actually have room to spread out a bit.
