Tampa Area

If the average American family lived with one less car and took public transport instead, they could save up to $10,000.

However, taking public transport can be a daunting task, especially in a new city. If you’re moving to Tampa, it’s worth reading a little about the public transport system in the city before you get onboard.

Although it may initially seem confusing, this handy guide to public transportation in Tampa, FL will provide you with the basics. Let’s get going:

1. Take a Historical Ride on a TECO Line Streetcar

One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with your new city is by jumping on a streetcar.

Tampa’s streetcar will run you between Ybor City and Channelside Bay Plaza. You’ll be riding on either a replica streetcar or even a historic streetcar.

There are eleven stops on this route. Better yet, taking the streetcar is free. However, if you’re traveling outside of 7 am to 7 pm, the streetcar may not be running.

However, when running, it arrives every 15 minutes. Find out more about travel times on the TECO line streetcar website.

2. Avoid the Tourists and Take a Bus

Although the streetcar is an excellent way to take in your new city historically, it’s not necessarily the most practical way to get around town.

To avoid crowds of tourists, take the bus instead. For all things bus related, make sure to visit the Go Hart website.

Here, you’ll be able to plug in your start, and final destination and the website will show you the fastest and easiest routes.

Depending on which bus you’re taking, you could be paying between $1 and $3 for a one-way fare. You can buy your ticket on the bus.

If you’re traveling more than once in a day, consider the 1-day unlimited Hartride travel pass. This pass will cost between $3 and $6. You can buy this from the bus driver or at a HART sales outlet.

There are also 3-day, and monthly bus passes available too. Check specific prices online.

3. Be on the Move and Exercise at the Same Time

Don’t want to sit on a bus? Then switch gears – and ride a bike.

One option to consider, if you don’t have your own bike, is Coast Bike Share. With this company, you can download an app and be on your way.

For an hour of daily ride time, you can pay $15 per month. Although it may be more economical to buy your own bike, this is a great option for the occasional ride.

4. Impress the Relatives with a Boat Tour

Although not the most convenient way to get around the city, especially if you’re commuting to work, the Tampa boat is a great way to travel.

If you have friends or family visiting, or simply want a fun weekend activity to enjoy, check out the city’s Pirate Water Taxi.

This option is excellent for seeing the sights from a new perspective. There are also multiple stops so you can jump on and off as you need. A day pass will cost you around $20.

Public Transportation in Tampa is Easy When You Know What to Do

Public transportation in Tampa shouldn’t be something you worry about. On a weekend or day off, go out and explore your new city.

Once you get used to the rhythm of the public transport system, you’ll be able to use it daily. However, never be afraid to ask for help if you’re a little lost!

Are you soon to be moving to Tampa and need some help? Get in touch today.

Ybor City is arguably the most exciting neighborhood in Tampa Bay.

It’s an eclectic area with a buzzing nightlife that’s great for dancing and drinking the night away. But when the sun comes out, the city takes on a completely different feel. It’s quiet and quaint and perfect for spending an afternoon with the family.

Ybor is the place to be if you’re looking for a bit of adventure in your backyard and some good food, too. There are plenty of restaurants and bars on the strip for your choosing, but you may as well get to know the best Ybor City restaurants first.

Here are 4 top restaurants Ybor has to offer.

1. The Columbia

The Columbia is one of the most well-known restaurants in all of Tampa and with good reason. The decor takes you back to colonial Spain the second you walk in, and the food is incredible. Whether you’re sharing a bunch of tapas or ordering a huge pan of paella, you’re sure to be impressed.

The service is top-notch, the sangria is mixed just right, and the desserts are pretty good, too. It’s family-friendly fine-dining at a more affordable price than a steakhouse, making it an excellent option for a special celebration or an everyday outing.

2. La Segunda Central Bakery

The atmosphere of La Segunda is entirely different from the Columbia.

It’s a traditional Hispanic bakery with multiple counters for you to walk up and place your order. There’s minimal seating to stick around and eat, but it’s fun to grab a breakfast sandwich or a quick lunch then enjoy your meal on the main Ybor strip.

Don’t forget to try the coffee and consider bringing a few pastries or a baguette home with you. These are so good that you’re sure to end up coming back to La Segunda on a regular basis.

3. La Creperia Cafe

Up next is La Creperia Cafe. This restaurant, best known for its crepes, also offers classic deli sandwiches, salads, and other plates. But, you’re really here for the crepes.

They have delicious savory creations and hearty breakfast options, as well as two pages of dessert crepes to choose from. These hit the spot at any time of the day.

4. Acropolis Greek Taverna

Last but not least, the Acropolis. This Ybor restaurant has a handful of other locations around the Tampa area, but there’s something special about coming here.

This fun restaurant offers a high energy atmosphere and features live music, belly dancing, Zorba dancing, napkin throwing, even plate breaking; all to recreate the ancient Greek culture as part of your dining experience.

Discover All the Best Ybor City Restaurants, Coffee Shops, and Cigar Bars

You probably don’t want to try the best Ybor City restaurants all in one day, but just one of these places is bound to keep you coming back. Make sure you stop for a hand-made gourmet ice pop at The Hyppo or grab a cup of coffee at Blind Tiger to top everything off.

For more fun things to do in the Tampa Bay area, click here.

Over 20 million people visit Tampa, Florida each year. Once you see the bustling city nestled within scenic nature spots, you’ll know why Tampa is so alluring. Whether you like outdoor activities, shopping, or exploring, there’s always something exciting happening in Tampa.

If you’re interested in planning your next visit, here are upcoming events in Tampa you definitely don’t want to miss.

1. Tampa Night Market

If you’re looking for fun, downtown Tampa events, look no further than Tampa Night Market. From September 6 and the following first Thursdays of each month through December 6, 2018, visitors can browse a variety of vendors under the stars.

People interested in free things to do in Tampa will have a blast checking out the crafts, vintage items, street performers, live art, artisans, jewelry, and more that will be on display.

2. MEGACON

You don’t have to be a comic nerd to love the Southeast’s most prominent fan convention. On the weekend of September 21-23, 2018, visitors will have the chance to meet their favorite actors at the Tampa Bay Convention Center.

Actors from The Walking Dead, Doctor Who, Back to the Future, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Gotham are among some of the famous guests. Take pictures with your favorite celebrities, dress up in costume, and connect with fellow fans at this year’s MEGACON.

3. Howl-O-Scream

One of the most fun things to do in Tampa Bay is visiting Busch Gardens for the annual Howl-O-Scream events. Howl-O-Scream lasts from September 21-October 28, 2018, so visitors have plenty of time to get into the spooky spirit of Halloween.

You can ride insane roller coasters in the dark, venture through haunted houses, take terrifying pictures, eat and drink, shop, and play games all night long.

4. Tailgate Taste Fest

A free family and dog-friendly event at Curtis Hixon Park on October 6, 2018, from 3-10:30 pm, Tailgate Taste Fest includes activities for the casual event participant and the ultimate sports fan alike.

Enjoy a food competition with local restaurants serving delicious tailgate foods, live music from local bands, inflatables for kids, a corn hole tournament, as well as live action from the day’s exciting football games displayed on huge LED video screens.

5. Annual Oktoberfest

The weekend of October 12-14, 2018 is one of the best fall festivals in Tampa. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the spot for the largest family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration in Tampa.

Visitors can sample tons of beer concoctions, play free games like Keg Stacking, Tug-O-War, Grain Sack Tossing, and Corn Hole. Attendees can win prizes, dance, and be merry.  

Oktoberfest offers free admission to kids 12 and under and features a kids zone area with kid-friendly games until 8 pm on Friday and Saturday and 6 pm on Sunday.

Have You Fallen in Love with Tampa?

Now that you know the best upcoming events in Tampa, you’re ready for your dream vacation. Many visitors can’t resist the city’s charm and decide to make Tampa their new home. If you’re interested in moving, Community Mover is your ultimate resource for getting settled.

If you have any questions about how we can make your transition as easy and fun as possible, please contact us.