Miami has lengthy been the “social gathering” spot for these popping into Florida for just a little turn-up. However what if we instructed you that Tampa has all of that, plus some — particularly for the following guys or ladies journey. The Central Florida metropolis is residence to a few of the greatest resort manufacturers, and world-class delicacies, and also you’re simply minutes away from what has been deemed one of the vital lovely seashores throughout the globe: Clearwater.
From poolside hip-hop concert events to tranquil spas to indulging in mouthwatering tomahawk steaks along with your title carved in them and extra, we’ve curated this easy-to-follow information to make sure the following group journey in your calendar is one for the books.
The place to remain
The important thing to a memorable guys or ladies journey is making certain you’ve booked an lodging that speaks to everybody’s wants. Whether or not which means an on-site pool with bar, late-night eating choices and even an total luxurious vibe for the chums preferring to “deal with themselves” always, the right resort does exist.
A few of our favourite digs within the space embrace the Seminole Exhausting Rock Resort & On line casino Tampa. The huge property has all the things you would want and wish for a weekend along with your crew, and also you truthfully don’t have to go away. We’re speaking one of many largest casinos within the nation, loads of eating choices to go well with everybody’s dietary wants — together with a tremendous steak and seafood spot — in addition to up to date rooms with various flooring plans and choices. Additionally, it’s solely a brief Uber trip to the epicenter of Tampa nightlife, Ybor Metropolis.
For those who solely need to go upscale for this journey, the JW Marriott Tampa is one other nice possibility. Additionally residence to a full-service spa, the resort’s rooftop pool overlooks the town’s waterfront, and you will get boozy milkshakes from the walk-up window late into the night time.


The place to eat and drink
Mentioned to be certainly one of Florida’s oldest eating institutions, Columbia Restaurant is at all times a must-do when in Tampa Bay. Our favourite menu objects are its traditional “1905” salad, the Cuban sandwich, and, nicely, you possibly can’t go to a Latin restaurant with out making an attempt its home made sangria. Professional Tip: Choose to go for dinner so to catch the dwell flamenco present.
If you would like to have the ability to pattern a variety of native eateries in a single spot, take a look at Heights Public Market within the Novice Works neighborhood. For a light-weight breakfast or snack, head to Sparkman Wharf for made-to-order smoothies and açai bowls at Match Bowl Co. If you would like one thing just a little heavier — and photo-worthy — Oxford Trade is your home. Professional Tip: Come late sufficient to make the most of the champagne bar.
No mates journey is full with out no less than one night time the place all the crew will get dressed to perfection for a bomb sit-down dinner. Our ideas right here: Council & Oak Steaks and Seafood or Cipresso (Italian) inside the Exhausting Rock Tampa. You’ll need to make reservations for each. Professional Tip: If you wish to flex just a little, order the off-the-menu tomahawk steak, and they’ll carve your title or nickname into the bone. It positively makes for nice pictures.

Issues to do and see
In case your weekend is all about turning up, then add bar-hopping up and down East Seventh Avenue in Ybor Metropolis to your record. At night time, the road is closed off to car visitors in order that pedestrians can take pleasure in themselves whereas remaining protected.
Wish to strive your luck? In fact, you’re within the metropolis of one of many nation’s largest casinos, so it’s solely proper. Whether or not you favor blackjack, slots or the multicultural favourite — baccarat — the Exhausting Rock Tampa on line casino gives 24/7 nonstop enjoyable. Did we point out additionally it is residence to a few of the dopest poolside concert events, together with a latest cease by Nas and Wu-Tang for the State of New York tour? Let’s simply say, the Exhausting Rock is aware of the way to throw a pool social gathering.
For the thrill-seeking group, make the quick drive over to Busch Gardens Tampa. After you hit all of the rides within the park, make a reservation for the giraffe encounter. There, you possibly can sip South African liqueurs as you rise up shut and private with the tallest animal within the kingdom.

DeAnna Taylor is a legal protection attorney-turned-travel author, creator and senior-level editor. The Charlotte, NC native has touched all seven continents, traveled to over 40 international locations — and even lived and labored in South Korea. Her ardour lies in educating others on the way to see the world.
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