Unique Tampa Attractions for Returning Visitors

Have you been to Tampa a few times? Looking for new, unique things to do? Skip the first-timer Tampa attractions like Busch Gardens or Big Cat Rescue and opt for a few places off the beaten path. Falcon Charter Bus can help you travel to lesser-known locations throughout the Tampa area. Keep on reading for locations to add to your itinerary and learn about how we can help you get there with a Tampa charter bus rental!

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How to Travel with a Group in Tampa

If you’re planning a large group trip, you’ll want to thoroughly think through your travel plan to avoid stress with last-minute organizing. One way to avoid travel-related stress is to book a minibus or charter bus rental in Tampa. Falcon Charter Bus provides personalized group transportation services for family vacations, private tours, or any other occasion in Tampa. 

Rather than splitting into multiple vehicles and then needing to drive, park, and keep track of everyone, Falcon Charter Bus can keep your group traveling together. We’ll customize your Tampa charter bus rental to your exact travel needs, no matter where or when you’re hitting the road. Book a comfortable bus rental with features like WiFi, power outlets, flatscreen TVs, reclining seats, and more for your next Tampa group trip. All you need to do is 813-944-3146 to learn more about Tampa charter bus rental pricing and to get a free quote.

56-passenger charter bus

Unique Lodging in Tampa

Planning a special group trip in Tampa should start with the lodging. Groups looking to stay in hotels beyond standard chains should consider booking a block of rooms in one of these local establishments:

Le Méridien Hotel

Address: 601 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone:  (813) 221-9555

Located in Downtown Tampa, Le Méridien was originally a federal courthouse that was built in 1905. This century-old hotel boasts architectural quirks from its courthouse past, including towering marble columns and beautiful skylights. Le Méridien is a short shuttle ride from Downtown Tampa attractions and the Riverfront. Hop on your charter bus and shuttle from this unique hotel to spots along the Riverwalk.

Epicurean

Address: 1207 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
Phone: (855) 829-2536

Epicurean Hotel is the best lodging spot for groups of food enthusiasts. Tampa’s Epicurean is located in the historic Hyde Park neighborhood and is a great choice for foodies who want a quiet hotel. Enjoy a comfortable stay and a luxurious meal at this food-centric hotel before exploring destinations across Tampa.

Floridan Palace Hotel

Address: ​​905 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone:  (813) 225-1700

This famous beaux-arts-style Downtown Tampa highrise was built in 1926 and holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The hotel offers old-world charm with easy access to Downtown Tampa and is just a short charter bus ride to Ybor City. Relax in spacious bedrooms before a show at the nearby Tampa Theatre or a stroll along the Riverfront.

Unique Tampa Itinerary Ideas for Different Types of Travelers

We’ve organized a few of Tampa’s coolest, one-of-a-kind attractions into short itineraries based on different interests. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, history, or even the outdoors--you’ll find something new to explore in Tampa.

Itinerary Ideas for the Quirky, Artsy Bunch

Is the Tampa Museum of Art not quite your speed? If you’re looking for an arts experience  beyond the standard art museum, consider visiting this local gallery and the surrounding Ybor City area.

An old motel sign inside of the Dysfunctional Grace Art Company store.

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Dysfunctional Grace Art Company

Address: 1903 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Phone: (813) 842-0830

Dysfunctional Grace Art Company houses creatively adorned animal taxidermy and one-of-a-kind antique decor. This shop of curiosities is relatively small but filled with interesting items that are sure to pique your interest. Who knows, you may find an odd or end that you’ll want to add to your collection.

After a short afternoon exploring this museum of oddities, walk or ride on your charter bus to grab a bite at the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the state.

Columbia Restaurant

Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Phone: (813) 248-4961

Columbia Restaurant opened in 1905 and is one of Florida’s most-visited restaurants. With a whopping 1,700 seats and 15 rooms, it's also the world’s largest Spanish restaurant. In addition to being historic and popular, Columbia Restaurant is a beautiful space that serves up delicious food. Order tasty bites like Cuban sandwiches and ropa vieja while admiring the traditional architecture in this Tampa mainstay.

If you opt to stay and explore the Ybor City area until evening, consider sticking around for a spooky tour of the historic neighborhood.

Ybor City Ghost Tours

Address: 7th Avenue and 16th Street, Tampa, FL 33605
Phone: (813) 386-3905

Ybor City is considered by some as being among the most haunted places in Florida. This area of Tampa was established as an enclave for Cuban immigrants around 1885 as thousands of people came to work in cigar factories. “Cigar City,” as the area came to be known, is now a historic area with a few tall tales of paranormal activity. Book a walking ghost tour of historically haunted buildings like the Cuban Club—there have been reports of visitors seeing ghostly apparitions of a boy who drowned in the club’s pool.

After a  long evening exploring Ybor City haunts on foot, hop on your private charter bus rental and shuttle back to your lodging to get more much-needed rest.

Itinerary Ideas for Culture Lovers

Tampa is a melting pot of different cultures. Visitors interested in learning about different cultures and cuisines will find a variety of new experiences to have in Tampa. Here are a few locations just a short charter bus ride from one another to add to your itinerary!

the hindu temple of tampa

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Hindu Temple of Florida

Address: 5509 Lynn Road, Tampa, FL 33624
Phone: (813) 962-6890

This cultural center is dedicated to serving the Tampa Hindu community and visitors with continuing education about religion and culture. The temple offers daily worship services and tours that are open to the public. Reserving a time slot for tours is highly encouraged and can be done online. Tours are free but donations are appreciated. Please also review the temple’s dress code and policies before your visit.

Working up an appetite after your temple visit? The temple has a canteen with delicious vegetarian Indian cuisine. Groups interested in trying a different spot for lunch or dinner can board their charter bus rental and shuttle 15 minutes up the road to another unique Tampa location.

Skipper’s Smokehouse

Address: 910 Skipper Road, Tampa, FL 33613
Phone: (813) 971-0666

If you're not from the south, eating gator might be a new experience. Skipper’s Smokehouse is one of Tampa’s most iconic restaurants, serving up “Floribbean” cuisine and live music. Sit out on Skipper’s brightly decorated patio and enjoy tasty eats like barbecue gator, smokehouse-style clam chowder, and blackened crawfish. Groups visiting on the weekend can even catch a show on the restaurant’s main stage, the Skipperdome.

Interested in rounding out your day with a brew or two? Or maybe even dessert?  Don’t worry, you’ll have a built-in designated driver with your Tampa charter bus rental as you shuttle to the next stop.

Mr. Dunderbak's Biergarten and Brewery

Address: 14929 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33613
Phone: (813) 977-4104

A traditional German bierhalle may seem out of place in Tampa, but Mr. Dunderbak's has become a local mainstay. Beyond its amazing Oktoberfest celebrations, Mr. Dunderbak's is a wonderful spot to indulge in authentic German cuisine and beer. Don’t worry, if you’re not having rounds of refreshing German-style beer alongside scrumptious dessert options like apple strudel and black forest cake. Mr. Dunderbak’s also has a market with hard-to-find European meats, cheeses, and breads to take with you on the road.

After getting your fill of food and drinks, safely shuttle back to your hotel with a professional charter bus driver behind the wheel!

Itinerary Ideas for History Buffs

Visitors interested in learning about unique parts of Tampa's history will find interesting locations to add to their itinerary. Of course, the spots listed above will give you unique perspectives into the city’s history, but here are a few locations to round out a trip focused on Tampa's history.

the henry b plant museum

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Henry B Plant Museum

Address: 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
Phone:  (813) 254-1891

Wealthy entrepreneur Henry B. Plant originally built this Moorish Revival-style building as a hotel in 1888. The towering Tampa Bay Hotel boasted 511 rooms and was the creme de la creme of lodging during the era. Today, the stunning building is a part of the University of Tampa and a wing houses artifacts and exhibits from the Gilded Age. You'll learn about the booming early years of Tampa Bay’s tourism industry and about the eclectic individuals who made it possible.

There are a handful of renowned eateries within walking distance of the Plant Museum but if you want to keep the historic theme going, get on your private bus rental and shuttle a few minutes up the road.

Ulele

Address: 1810 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone:  (813) 999-4952

Housed in a century-old building along the Hillsborough River, this Tampa eatery is named after Tocobaga Native American princess Ulele. This restaurant serves up a fusion of dishes inspired by Florida’s water and land. Dine on delicious fresh seafood from the Gulf, perfectly cooked local vegetables, and grilled items cooked on a 10-foot barbacoa grill in the center of the restaurant. Ulele offers delicious food and gorgeous views of the river. Reservations are highly recommended for small and large groups alike.

If sitting by the Hillsborough River over dinner isn't enough, how about taking your excursion to the water?

Tampa River or Bay Tours

Taking a water tour of Tampa is one way to learn while also enjoying the gorgeous views. You’ll get a unique view of the city while learning a few things. There are several companies that offer a variety of guided and self-guided tour water tour options around Tampa’s waters. Choose a historic highlights option with Tampa Water Taxi Company or a picturesque sunset cruise with The Pelican St. Pete. Whichever tour you decide on, you’ll have reliable transportation with Falcon Charter Bus to and from your boat’s launching point. 

Book a Charter Bus Rental in Tampa Today

Falcon Charter Bus has simple and stress-free transportation covered wherever your travels take you around the Tampa Bay area. Even if you’re planning a day trip to the Salvador Dali Museum in a St. Petersburg bus or a visit to the Weeki Wachee Springs mermaids in Spring Hill, we’ll make sure you have the right Tampa charter bus to get there. Give us a call anytime at 813-944-3146 to learn more about available charter bus services and to book the best ride for your next trip!

Popular Charter Bus Trip Itineraries in Tampa