Tampa’s most worthwhile tours zero in on three distinct areas: history, food, and nature. Walking tours through historic Ybor City – once America’s cigar capital – combine fascinating immigrant stories with authentic Cuban cuisine. Our favorite food tours include stop-offs at century-old bakeries and family-run restaurants. For nature lovers, eco-tours along the Gulf Coast showcase Florida’s diverse wildlife, with expert guides pointing out manatees, dolphins, and native birds. After dark, atmospheric ghost tours wind through supposedly haunted historic districts, bringing Tampa’s colorful past to life. Let’s explore the very best tours Tampa has to offer.
Good To Know
Ybor City Food Tours offer a diverse culinary experience and insights into Tampa’s rich history, with high traveler recommendations.
Tampa Sightseeing Tours provide immersive experiences in custom-designed golf carts, covering iconic neighborhoods and landmarks.
Paranormal enthusiasts can explore Tampa’s haunted locations through engaging ghost tours, using real ghost hunting equipment.
Unique experiences like the Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour and Eco Tour of Florida’s Gulf Coast offer personalized and memorable activities.
Seasonal tours, such as the Christmas Lights Wonderland Deluxe Golf Cart Guided Tour, provide a festive and enchanting way to experience Tampa during the holidays.
Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour
Offering a delightful introduction to the vibrant culture and diverse cuisine of Tampa’s historic Ybor City district, the highly acclaimed Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour takes participants on a flavorful journey through this iconic neighborhood.
With a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this well-reviewed tour allows guests to sample up to six food and drink tastings while exploring the area’s rich history.
Led by knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour highlights architectural landmarks and provides insights into Ybor City’s unique heritage.
Featuring stops at a variety of eateries, the tour offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, including Cuban sandwiches, Stromboli, and cannolis.
Culminating at a cigar lounge and coffee shop, the tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience.
Suitable for families and groups, the Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour provides a fun and educational way to discover Tampa’s vibrant food scene and cultural legacy.
Read our full review: Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour Review
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Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart
Travelers seeking a unique and engaging way to discover Tampa’s vibrant culture, captivating history, and local secrets will find the Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart an exceptional choice.
This highly rated tour, with a 98% recommendation from previous guests, offers an immersive experience led by knowledgeable local guides. Guests will explore Tampa’s most iconic neighborhoods, from the historic Ybor City to the lavish waterfront communities, all while riding in a custom-designed golf cart with premium features.
Along the way, they’ll make stops at must-see landmarks like the Tampa Postcard Mural and the Tampa Convention Center, while also enjoying insights into the city’s rich past and present.
With complimentary water, photo opportunities, and ample time for exploration, this tour provides an enjoyable and well-rounded introduction to the dynamic city of Tampa.
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What better way to take in the rich cultural tapestry of Ybor City than through the acclaimed Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour?
This small-group experience, highly recommended by 99% of travelers, provides an in-depth exploration of one of Florida’s three historic landmark districts. Led by award-winning guides, the tour focuses on the history of the Cuban sandwich, cigars, and vibrant Cuban culture that have shaped this unique neighborhood.
Visitors can expect engaging storytelling, insights into immigrant communities and cigar factories, and visits to historic buildings and local Cuban restaurants. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, enthusiasm, and exceptional storytelling abilities.
With a maximum of 25 participants, the tour ensures an intimate and accessible experience, catering to both travelers and locals alike. At just $35 per person, this two-hour walking tour offers tremendous value for those seeking a deep dive into Ybor City’s captivating heritage and culinary delights.
Read our full review: Shared Ybor City Historic Walking Tour Review
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Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays
The Ybor City Food Tour on Sundays provides a delectable adventure through the vibrant cultural tapestry of Tampa’s historic neighborhood.
Operating weekly, the tour gathers guests at 1600 E 7th Ave, just outside the Centro Ybor Jimmy Johns. Over the next two hours, participants embark on a flavorful journey, sampling iconic Cuban sandwiches, Italian pizza, Spanish empanadas, and German beer cheese soup.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour offers an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides. Accessibility features, including wheelchair and stroller access, ensure an inclusive experience.
While some guests felt the tour leaned more historical than culinary, the majority praised the engaging insights into Ybor City’s past. Feedback has also prompted improvements to restaurant choices and service consistency.
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Haunted Tampa Ghost and Pub Walking Tour – Ybor City
Visitors to Tampa can embark on a captivating Haunted Tampa Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour of Ybor City, blending the neighborhood’s haunted history with a pub crawl experience.
This 2.5-hour tour, available on Fridays and Saturdays, allows guests 21 and older to explore four historic bars while learning about local ghost stories from a costumed guide.
With a maximum of 12 participants, the tour offers an intimate setting to sip drinks (at own expense) and explore Tampa’s paranormal past.
Highlights include receiving a souvenir can cooler or cup and positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guide‘s ability to engage the group.
However, some guests wished for more emphasis on ghost stories rather than pub visits, and a few felt the tour lacked the expected drinking for a pub crawl.
Read our full review: Haunted Tampa Ghost and Pub Walking Tour – Ybor City Review
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Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in Street Legal Golf Cart
Travelers seeking a unique and immersive way to explore Tampa’s vibrant neighborhoods and iconic landmarks can embark on the Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in a street legal golf cart.
This 90-minute tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate from previous travelers, earning it a Badge of Excellence. Aboard a comfortable 8-seater golf cart, guests will discover Tampa’s diverse areas, including the university campus, Riverwalk, and notable landmarks, all while enjoying informative commentary from a licensed local guide.
The tour includes stops for photo opportunities and breaks, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience for a maximum of 7 travelers. With amenities like bottled water, sunscreen, and a Bluetooth stereo, the tour provides a well-rounded experience.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who offer insights into Tampa’s rich history and culture. As a recommended first-day activity, this tour is a must-do for visitors looking to get acquainted with the city.
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Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour
Offering a unique glimpse into the private lives of the rich and famous, the Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour invites guests to cruise through the bay and canals surrounding Davis Islands.
With a duration of one hour and a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, this tour provides an intimate experience to view the lavish homes of athletes, actors, and other celebrities.
Departing from the Tampa Bay History Center, the tour navigates the waterways, offering the chance to spot dolphins along the way. Guests can enjoy bottled water and soda during the cruise, with optional gratuities available.
While the tour has received generally positive reviews, some visitors have reported issues with difficult directions to the meeting point and problems with the audio system.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and child rates are available. Confirmed bookings are provided at the time of purchase, unless booked within one day of travel.
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The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour
Although the city of Tampa is well-known for its vibrant culture and bustling atmosphere, the downtown area also harbors a haunting past that comes alive on The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour. This 90-minute walking tour invites guests to explore the city’s most eerie and historic locations, guided by knowledgeable storytellers who bring Tampa’s ghostly legends to life.
At $35 per person, the tour offers exceptional value, with a maximum of 25 participants ensuring an intimate and immersive experience. Guests praise the tour guides, Rose Ann and Dustin, for their enthusiasm, engaging narratives, and deep knowledge of local history.
The tour includes access to haunted buildings, the use of EMF devices, and a wealth of captivating ghost stories that leave visitors both entertained and enlightened.
While a few guests have reported issues with local homeless individuals or felt the tour didn’t meet their expectations, the tour operators have addressed these concerns and demonstrated a commitment to providing an unforgettable and spooky adventure in downtown Tampa.
Read our full review: The Official Downtown Tampa Ghost Tour Review
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Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour
For those seeking an engaging and informative exploration of downtown Tampa’s rich history, the Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour provides an exceptional opportunity. With an impressive 95% recommendation rate from travelers and a 4.9/5 overall rating, this tour offers a captivating look into the city’s past through the eyes of knowledgeable and entertaining guides.
The tour takes visitors on a journey through the heart of downtown, highlighting key landmarks such as the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Henry Plant Museum, and the iconic Tampa Bay Hotel.
Along the way, participants gain insights into Tampa’s growth from a small town of 750 residents in the 19th century to the thriving metropolis it’s today, learning about the impact of the cigar industry and the city’s early 20th-century crime history.
Accessible by the free Tampa Streetcar and accommodating up to 25 travelers, the Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour provides a convenient and inclusive experience for all.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a flexible and hassle-free way to explore the rich heritage of this dynamic city.
Read our full review: Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour Review
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Haunted Tampa Golf Cart Tour
The Haunted Tampa Golf Cart Tour provides a thrilling and unique way to explore the city’s spooky history. This 5-star rated tour takes participants on a journey through Tampa’s most haunted locations in a street-safe golf cart, eliminating the need for physical exertion.
With a maximum of 7 guests, the intimate small-group setting allows for personalized attention from the licensed, trained local guide. Equipped with Bluetooth stereo, custom lighting, and other specialized features, the golf cart creates an immersive experience as guests are guided through Ybor City, stopping for bathroom breaks and cultural insights along the way.
Complimentary headsets ensure clear communication with the storytelling expert, who regales travelers with tales of Tampa’s paranormal past. The tour includes unlimited water, gratuity, and an optional photo-taker service, providing a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience.
While not recommended for pregnant travelers or those in wheelchairs, the Haunted Tampa Golf Cart Tour is suitable for most.
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Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour
Offering a unique paranormal experience, the Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour in Tampa, Florida, invites visitors to explore the city’s haunted Ybor district.
Using real ghost hunting equipment, groups of 20 or fewer participants investigate historical locations for signs of paranormal activity. The tour provides complimentary photos and a free post-tour trolley ride, allowing guests to continue their ghostly adventure.
While the meeting point is fixed, the starting location changes nightly, with participants receiving GPS details via text. The tour is wheelchair accessible and welcomes service animals, making it inclusive for a wide range of visitors.
However, it isn’t recommended for those with serious medical conditions.
Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars, the Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour has received praise for its knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences.
Some customers have reported issues with organization and communication, but many express a desire to return for another spooky exploration of Tampa’s haunted past.
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Christmas Lights Wonderland Deluxe Golf Cart Guided Tour in Tampa
Though Tampa’s holiday season is filled with dazzling light displays, the Christmas Lights Wonderland Deluxe Golf Cart Guided Tour offers a truly unique and immersive experience.
Aboard a custom-outfitted golf cart, guests embark on a 25-review-backed journey through the city’s most impressive Christmas light displays. With Bluetooth stereo, custom lighting, and comfortable seating, the tour provides a cozy and convenient way to soak in the festive atmosphere.
Along the way, a licensed driver and trained local guide share insights and historical tidbits, while also facilitating photo opportunities and bathroom breaks. Headsets ensure clear communication, and unlimited water keeps travelers hydrated.
Catering to most guests, the tour even accommodates those with special needs, excluding those with back problems or pregnant travelers.
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Ghost Investigation Tours With Interactive Paranormal Experience
What sets the Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience apart is its immersive and engaging approach to exploring Tampa’s supernatural legacy. Offered through the SpookEasy Lounge, these 2.5-hour tours provide participants with the opportunity to become active ghost hunters, using specialized equipment to detect paranormal activity.
With a maximum group size of 25, the tours offer an intimate and personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides like Nikki, whose expertise and accommodating nature have earned rave reviews from both families and individuals.
The tours take guests on a journey through Tampa’s haunted past, providing historical context that brings the city’s ghostly encounters to life. Accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-pushers, the tours involve significant walking on cobblestone streets, making them a must for adventurous travelers.
Priced at $35 per person and with a free cancellation policy, the Ghost Investigation Tours provide an exceptional value and a truly unique way to experience Tampa’s supernatural side.
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Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart
Travelers seeking a unique and immersive way to explore Ybor City’s thriving craft beer scene can embark on the Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart. This highly-rated tour offers private transportation to up to five local breweries, allowing guests to sip on alcoholic beverages while taking in the neighborhood’s vibrant murals and landmarks.
Featuring 13 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the tour includes a licensed and insured driver, a souvenir koozie, and all gratuities. Guests can take advantage of free pickup and drop-off within the designated boundary map, arriving 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
The tour requires a minimum age of 21 and digital consent forms for all adults. While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour is an ideal option for most travelers looking to discover Tampa’s craft beer culture in a fun and convenient manner.
With a 5.0 overall rating, this experience provides an entertaining and unique approach to brewery hopping in the city.
Read our full review: Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart Review
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Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart
For travelers seeking an immersive experience exploring Tampa’s thriving craft beer scene, the Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart offers a unique and convenient way to discover the neighborhood’s vibrant breweries.
This private tour takes guests on a journey through up to five breweries of their choice, navigating the area on a custom golf cart. Along the way, the tour includes stops at selected murals and landmarks for photo opportunities, as well as a souvenir koozie and a licensed, insured driver.
Guests can enjoy alcoholic beverages during the tour, though open containers aren’t permitted by Florida law. With free pickup and drop-off within the specified boundary map, and a 5.0 overall rating based on 9 reviews, this tour provides an exceptional way to explore Tampa Heights’ burgeoning craft beer culture.
The experience is priced at $200 per group of up to 5 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized brewery exploration.
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Private Tour to Christmas Winter Village, Bayshore and Hyde Park
The Private Tour to Christmas Winter Village, Bayshore and Hyde Park takes guests on an enchanting journey through Tampa’s most festive holiday destinations.
This private tour boasts a 100% traveler recommendation, a Badge of Excellence, and the opportunity to experience the city’s Christmas lights and events in a custom golf cart with a personal guide.
Highlights include Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Bayshore Boulevard, and Hyde Park Village, where guests can capture photos at seasonal landmarks.
The tour is suitable for families with children aged 6 and older, though individuals with certain medical conditions should exercise caution.
Logistically, the tour includes private transportation, alcoholic beverages, and a meeting point downtown. Guests must arrive 10 minutes early and sign digital consent forms.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour offers a unique and flexible holiday experience in Tampa, Florida.
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Taste of Downtown Tampa Culinary Walking Tour
Embarking on the Taste of Downtown Tampa Culinary Walking Tour, visitors enjoy the vibrant food and cultural scene of Florida’s bustling urban center.
This highly-rated 3-hour experience showcases the best of downtown Tampa, with stops at 4 local restaurants for sampler plates and opportunities to engage with the area’s art and history.
Guided by a knowledgeable professional, the tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, offering an intimate, European-inspired culinary adventure.
Participants stroll through the picturesque Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, admiring landmarks and exploring the neighborhood’s thriving arts scene.
The tour includes all food, tax, and server gratuities, providing exceptional value.
While beverages and parking fees aren’t covered, the experience earns glowing reviews, with 100% of travelers recommending it.
With easy access via public transportation and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Taste of Downtown Tampa Culinary Walking Tour is an ideal way to discover the city’s dynamic flavors and cultural offerings.
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Tampa Historic VIP Boutique Private City Tour
Offering an immersive exploration of Tampa’s rich history and vibrant culture, the Tampa Historic VIP Boutique Private City Tour provides travelers with a personalized and in-depth experience. Rated 5.0 from 4 reviews, this private tour showcases the city’s top landmarks and hidden gems, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
Guests can expect a comfortable, air-conditioned ride, complimentary refreshments, and even a delicious lunch. The tour includes pickup and drop-off at their hotel or Airbnb, eliminating the hassle of driving and parking.
Highlights include the iconic Henry B. Plant Hotel and the Cuban cigar community in Ybor, offering an authentic taste of the city’s diverse heritage. Travelers consistently praise the tour’s exceptional value, personalized attention, and overall convenience, making it a must-do for those seeking an immersive Tampa experience.
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Private Tampa City Tour by Custom Golf Cart
As travelers seek to explore Tampa’s vibrant cityscape, the Private Tampa City Tour by Custom Golf Cart offers a unique and captivating experience. Boasting a 4.9-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, this 90-minute tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s notable landmarks, including the Armature Works, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, and the Channel District.
Guided by knowledgeable narrators, the tour provides an informative and immersive glimpse into Tampa’s rich history and culture. The custom golf carts not only add an element of novelty but also allow for an up-close and intimate exploration of the city.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it caters to a wide range of travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or serious medical conditions. With digital consent forms required for all adults, the tour ensures a seamless and secure experience.
Despite some concerns raised about safety during rush-hour traffic and summer heat, the tour receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, highlighting the guide’s expertise and enthusiasm.
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Discover Tampa With Local Stories From a Virtual Tour
For travelers seeking an immersive and authentic experience of Tampa, the Discover Tampa With Local Stories From a Virtual Tour provides a captivating alternative to traditional sightseeing. This virtual tour allows visitors to access the Autio app and explore Tampa through the lens of local stories, providing a unique and personalized journey.
With 30 days of unlimited streaming, travelers can explore over 10,000 additional stories across the United States, offering a wealth of cultural insights.
The tour’s flexibility is a standout feature, as it can be started and ended at the participant’s convenience, with no fixed meeting point. Accessibility is also a priority, with the tour being wheelchair and stroller-friendly, and service animals allowed.
The virtual nature of the experience means that travelers can enjoy the tour from the comfort of their own devices, making it an ideal option for those with limited mobility or time constraints.
At a competitive price of $29.99 per person, the Discover Tampa With Local Stories From a Virtual Tour provides excellent value for money, with a lowest price guarantee.
While non-refundable, the tour is available for a limited time from May 31, 2023, to February 2, 2026, ensuring that visitors can plan their Tampa adventure with confidence.
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Half-Day Private Guided Nature of Florida’s Gulf Coast Eco Tour
Providing an intimate and immersive exploration of Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Half-Day Private Guided Nature Eco Tour invites travelers to discover the region’s diverse ecosystems.
Based in Tampa, this half-day excursion takes guests on an island-hopping adventure, with stops at Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island, and Anclote Key Preserve state parks.
Suitable for groups of up to six passengers, the tour offers a personalized experience, catering to individual interests and preferences.
Highlights include relaxing on pristine beaches, engaging in water activities, collecting unique seashells, and observing the area’s abundant wildlife.
Guests can also explore historical sites, seeing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Convenient transportation and bottled water are provided, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on a glowing review, this eco-tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.
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Private Shopping Tour From Tampa Hotels to Tampa Premium Outlets
Travelers seeking a premier shopping experience can embark on a Private Shopping Tour from Tampa hotels to the renowned Tampa Premium Outlets.
This 4-hour excursion, operated by taxiGo.online, provides modern, air-conditioned private transportation with roundtrip service from selected Tampa accommodations. The tour offers ample time for shopping and dining at the Tampa Premium Outlets, a premier shopping destination featuring over 100 designer and brand-name stores.
The tour is priced at $388.47 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Participants can take advantage of the Reserve Now and Pay Later option, ensuring a hassle-free booking process.
This private tour is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available. All fees and taxes are included in the price, and the tour starts at 9:00 am.
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Sunset and Night Cruises Tour
What better way to experience the stunning Tampa skyline than on a Sunset and Night Cruises Tour? This 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise offers a unique perspective of the city. Priced from $30 per person, the tour accommodates up to 25 travelers and provides a professional guide, bottled water, and soda.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, children are welcome with adult supervision. Guests can board at the History Center/Amalie Arena and return to the same location after the cruise. Parking is available, though charges apply.
Reviews for the tour are mixed, with some customers expressing disappointment that it wasn’t a true sunset cruise as advertised. Communication issues and waiting times have also been reported.
However, positive feedback highlights the enjoyable experience and educational opportunities. To improve, the tour operator could provide clearer information and directions on their website.
Read our full review: Sunset and Night Cruises Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Tampa offers a diverse array of tours, from historic walking tours of Ybor City to eco-tours showcasing the region’s natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in culinary experiences, ghost sightings, or shopping, there’s something for all. With so many options, visitors can easily find a tour that aligns with their interests and provides an engaging, informative way to explore the vibrant city of Tampa.