As someone who lived in Tampa for four years and visits very often with my husband, it is one of my favorite weekend getaways when I am looking for something fun (and romantic) to do.
Tampa can be a cocktails-on-the-Riverwalk kind of weekend, a late-night Ybor City trip, or a kayaking on the Hillsborough River followed by brunch kind of getaway.
I say this because I've had the chance to do it all. That's why when people ask me my opinion on where to stay in Tampa, I always give them a different answer.
So to make it easier for you, instead of giving you a list of places to stay in Tampa, I broke it down by neighborhoods and hotels I would recommend based on the kind of weekend you are looking to have.
If you're short on time:
I'd book ROOST Tampa for most couples because it gives you the best combination of location, walkability, and value.
If you're celebrating something special, The Tampa EDITION is my splurge pick.
Looking for nightlife? I'd stay at Hotel Haya in Ybor City.
You'll find all three (plus several other great options) below depending on the type of weekend you're planning.
Tampa Romantic Hotels: Key Takeaways
- Downtown Tampa and the Channel District are great options if you are looking for a walkable neighborhood with a little nightlife.
- Hyde Park is also relatively walkable, but it's great for couples who want coffee, shopping, and a quieter neighborhood mood.
- Ybor City is for Cuban food, live music, cocktails, and late nights.
- Rocky Point gives you bay views near the airport, but you'll need a car or rideshare.
- North Tampa is great if you like theme parks like Busch Gardens, and let's not forget the Seminole Hard Rock for an all-in-one weekend of onsite entertainment.
Where to stay in Tampa for couples: choose the neighborhood that fits your trip.
You can have a good Tampa weekend in almost any of these areas. You will find the usual amenities at most hotels, like free wi fi, an on-site fitness center, and some even offer free breakfast and other amenities. But the question is, what is your vibe?
If I had to pick one on the fly, I would vote Downtown Tampa as my top pick only because it's a great spot, especially for first-timers, and you will find a little bit of everything. But you have plenty of options to choose from if that is not your style.
Downtown Tampa and the Channel District offer the best mix of romance and convenience.
If this is your first couples trip to Tampa, I'd stay Downtown. It's my top recommendation because you get a little bit of everything: waterfront views, great restaurants, rooftop bars, breweries, and plenty to do without constantly getting in the car.
If you want to explore beyond Downtown, you can even hop on the free TECO Streetcar to Ybor City.
One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon is walking the Tampa Riverwalk. Stretching 2.6 miles from Armature Works to the Channel District, it passes parks, museums, waterfront restaurants, and some of Tampa's best hotels along the way.
I almost always start or end my walk at Ulele. The Native American-inspired menu is excellent, and it's one of the restaurants I recommend most often to friends visiting Tampa. If you head the other direction, you'll end up near the Florida Aquarium and Water Street, making it easy to turn an afternoon walk into dinner and drinks.
If you're visiting during hockey season or have tickets to a concert at Amalie Arena, that's even more reason to stay Downtown. You can walk to the game, grab a drink afterward, and never have to worry about parking.
ROOST Tampa
ROOST Tampa is my top recommendation for most couples visiting Tampa because of its location. Staying on Water Street puts you just steps from the Riverwalk, waterfront restaurants, rooftop bars, and Amalie Arena, so it's an easy home base if you want to spend the weekend exploring without constantly driving.
I also like that ROOST offers apartment-style suites instead of standard hotel rooms. If you're planning a longer weekend or simply want a little more space, I'd book the one-bedroom with a balcony. I always looking forward to a private outdoor space where I can enjoy my morning coffee or unwind with a drink before dinner.
Between the pool, fitness center, and onsite parking, it checks a lot of boxes for couples looking for convenience. While I haven't stayed here personally, it's consistently one of the first hotels I recommend because it combines one of my favorite areas of Tampa with spacious accommodations that are hard to find Downtown.
Check out rates and availability for ROOST Tampa here.
The Tampa EDITION
If you're celebrating something special, The Tampa EDITION is the hotel I'd recommend splurging on. Whether it's an anniversary, birthday, honeymoon, or just an excuse to treat yourselves, this is one of the nicest luxury hotels in Tampa.
Located on Channelside Drive, you're an easy walk to Water Street, excellent restaurants, rooftop bars, and the Tampa Riverwalk, so it's easy to turn dinner into a full evening without worrying about driving back to your hotel.
If you're planning to catch a concert or hockey game at Amalie Arena, the location is even better since you can simply walk back to your room afterward instead of dealing with traffic or parking.
👉 If you're celebrating a special occasion, I'd check rates at The Tampa EDITION first. It's one of the most popular luxury hotels in Tampa, so the best rooms tend to book up early.
Hilton Tampa Downtown
If you want to stay downtown without paying luxury hotel prices, Hilton Tampa Downtown is one of my favorite places to stay. It's just a couple of blocks from the Riverwalk, so you can easily walk to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, restaurants, bars, and everything happening Downtown.
One thing I really like about staying here is that it gives me an excuse to slow down.
After spending the day out and about, it's nice to come back, relax by the rooftop pool, or grab dinner at the hotel's Italian restaurant instead of heading back out again.
I also tend to find that Hilton Tampa Downtown is a little more affordable than some of the newer luxury hotels nearby, which makes it a smart choice if you'd rather spend your money on rooftop cocktails, a nice dinner, or tickets to a Lightning game instead of a more expensive room.
👉 If you want a comfortable downtown hotel in one of the best locations without the luxury price tag, check rates at Hilton Tampa Downtown.
Tampa Marriott Water Street
If being able to walk everywhere is at the top of your list, Tampa Marriott Water Street is hard to beat. Sitting right on the waterfront, you're just steps from the Tampa Riverwalk, Amalie Arena, the marina, and all of the restaurants and bars in Water Street Tampa.
I love this location because you park your car and can pretty much walk everywhere the entire weekend. I love being able to take a sunset stroll or walk to dinner. If it's available, I'd definitely book a bay view room. Waking up to the water makes the stay feel even more special.
👉 If your ideal couples getaway is all about walking to dinner, drinks, and the Riverwalk, check rates at Tampa Marriott Water Street.
Hotel Flor Tampa Downtown
If you love boutique hotels with plenty of character, Hotel Flor is one of the best places to stay in Downtown Tampa. This beautifully restored Art Deco hotel blends historic charm with modern touches, all within walking distance of the Tampa Riverwalk, Water Street, and some of Downtown's best restaurants and bars.
This place is super cute. And because it is a boutique hotel it gives you more reason to get out and check out the city versus spending the entire day lounging by the pool (which I love to do).
It also feels a little more intimate than some of the larger chain hotels nearby, which makes it a great fit for couples looking for something with a bit more personality.
👉 If you'd rather stay in a charming boutique hotel than a large resort, check rates at Hotel Flor Tampa Downtown.
Aloft Tampa Downtown
If you're looking for a stylish Downtown hotel that's a little more budget-friendly, Aloft Tampa Downtown is a solid pick. Sitting along the Hillsborough River, you're right next to the Riverwalk, Downtown restaurants, bars, and nightlife, making it easy to explore without constantly driving.
I'd recommend this hotel for couples who plan to spend most of their time out exploring Tampa and just want a comfortable, modern place to come back to at the end of the day. If you're visiting for a Lightning game, concert, or event at Amalie Arena, the location is also excellent.
👉 If you want a modern Downtown hotel in an unbeatable location without paying luxury hotel prices, check rates at Aloft Tampa Downtown.
Ybor City brings history, nightlife, and plenty of personality.
I've spent plenty of late nights in Ybor City, and it's still one of my favorite neighborhoods in Tampa when I'm in the mood for good food, live music, and a fun night out. The historic brick streets, cigar shops, Cuban influence, and lively atmosphere give it a completely different feel from Downtown.
I'd stay here if your ideal date night starts with dinner and ends with cocktails, live music, or maybe even a little dancing. It's also easy to explore Downtown and Water Street thanks to the free TECO Streetcar, so you don't have to worry about driving or parking.
If you're considering staying near Centro Ybor, just keep in mind that it can get noisy on weekend nights. Especially when the University of Tampa students are in town. (I'm an alum. I know where we like to hang out).
That's part of the neighborhood's charm, but if you're an early-to-bed traveler, I'd stay elsewhere and plan an evening in Ybor instead.
Hotel Haya
Hotel Haya is easily one of my favorite hotels in Tampa, and I've stayed here myself. It's the first place that comes to mind when someone asks where to stay in Ybor City because the location couldn't be better.
You're just steps from the neighborhood's best restaurants, bars, live music, and nightlife, so it's easy to enjoy everything Ybor has to offer without worrying about driving.
One of my favorite parts of staying here is grabbing a coffee from Café Quiquiriquí before heading out for the day. Even if you stay somewhere else, you need to add it to your itinerary because it's worth the visit.
If your ideal couples getaway includes great food, cocktails, and evenings that turn into late nights exploring Ybor City, I don't think you can beat Hotel Haya.
👉 If you want to stay in the heart of Ybor City's nightlife, check rates at Hotel Haya.
Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District
If you want to stay in Ybor City without paying boutique hotel prices, Hilton Garden Inn is a great value. You're close enough to walk to many of the neighborhood's restaurants, bars, and nightlife, and the TECO Streetcar makes it easy to spend time exploring Downtown Tampa without moving your car.
I'd recommend this hotel for couples who plan to spend most of their time exploring rather than relaxing at the hotel. After a night out in Ybor, it's a comfortable, dependable place to come back to, and having an outdoor pool and onsite restaurant is a nice bonus if you want to slow down before heading out again.
👉 If you want to experience Ybor City while keeping your hotel budget in check, compare rates at Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District.
Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor/Downtown
If you'd rather spend your money on experiences than your hotel room, Hampton Inn & Suites is a smart choice. You can easily walk to many of Ybor City's restaurants, bars, and nightlife, and the complimentary breakfast is a nice bonus before a day of exploring.
I always say, save a little here so you can splurge a little there. The money you save on your hotel can go toward dinner at Columbia Restaurant, tickets to a show, rooftop cocktails, or another memorable night out in Ybor instead.
👉 If you're looking for a comfortable stay in a great location while keeping more room in your budget for fun, check rates at Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor/Downtown.
Hyde Park is a great fit for couples looking for a quieter getaway.
If your idea of a romantic weekend includes brunch, boutique shopping, and long walks along the water, Hyde Park is where I'd stay. It has a completely different feel from Downtown or Ybor City, with tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, local boutiques, and some of my favorite restaurants in Tampa.
You'll also be just minutes from Bayshore Boulevard, where you can take a walk along the waterfront, and Hyde Park Village, which is filled with local shops, cafés, and outdoor patios.
It's the kind of neighborhood where you can slow down, linger over brunch, browse a few shops, and simply enjoy spending time together while still being just a short drive from Downtown.
Palihouse Hyde Park Village
Palihouse Hyde Park Village is my pick for couples who want a slower, more relaxed weekend in Tampa. Located right in the heart of Hyde Park Village, you're just steps from boutique shops, coffee shops, restaurants, and one of the city's most walkable neighborhoods.
The apartment-style rooms are nice if you're staying for a long weekend and want a little extra space to spread out.
👉 If brunch, boutique shopping, and a slower pace sound like your perfect getaway, check rates at Palihouse Hyde Park Village.
Epicurean Hotel
Epicurean Hotel is my top pick for couples who plan their trips around great food and wine. Located near South Howard Avenue (SoHo), you're surrounded by some of Tampa's best restaurants, cocktail bars, and nightlife, making it an easy choice for a romantic getaway or special celebration.
One thing that makes this hotel special is its cooking classes. I recently started taking cooking classes when I travel, so having that experience right at the hotel is something I'd genuinely look forward to.
Spend the day shopping in Hyde Park Village or walking along Bayshore Boulevard before getting ready for dinner. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply looking for an excuse to treat yourselves, it's easy to build an entire weekend around great food here.
👉 If your ideal couples getaway revolves around amazing restaurants, wine, and memorable experiences, check rates at Epicurean Hotel.
Westshore and Rocky Point are great for a relaxing waterfront stay.
If your ideal getaway is more about waterfront views than nightlife, Westshore and Rocky Point are both excellent places to stay.
Westshore is a convenient choice if you're flying into Tampa, thanks to its proximity to Tampa International Airport, International Plaza, and plenty of restaurants.
Rocky Point, on the other hand, offers beautiful views of Tampa Bay and a quieter atmosphere that feels more like a relaxing escape.
I'd recommend these neighborhoods for couples who want to slow down and enjoy the hotel just as much as the city. Just keep in mind that you'll need a rental car or rideshare if you plan to spend much time exploring Downtown, Hyde Park, or Ybor City since these areas aren't as walkable.
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay is my favorite recommendation for couples who want to slow down and enjoy the resort as much as the city. Tucked along the waterfront, it feels like a peaceful escape while still being just minutes from the airport and Downtown Tampa.
If you're celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply want a little extra privacy, I'd take a look at the villa-style casitas. They feel more secluded than a standard hotel room and are especially popular with couples.
One of my favorite parts of staying here is dinner at Oystercatchers. If you can, make a reservation around sunset. Watching the sun go down over Tampa Bay while you enjoy dinner is one of my favorite experiences in the city.
Between the waterfront walking paths, pools, and bay views, it's easy to spend an entire day at the resort without feeling like you're missing out on Tampa.
👉 If your idea of a romantic getaway includes waterfront views, sunset dinners, and plenty of time to relax, check rates at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay.
The Current Hotel
I've stayed at The Current Hotel, and if waking up to waterfront views is high on your list, it's hard to beat. The pool overlooks Tampa Bay, and the rooftop bar and restaurant are both worth making time for during your stay.
I'd definitely plan to enjoy the hotel instead of treating it as just a place to sleep. Spend a few hours by the pool, grab a drink on the rooftop before dinner, and take in the views before heading out for the evening. It's one of those hotels where slowing down is part of the experience.
Since it's a little farther from Downtown, you'll want a car or rideshare if you plan to explore the city. But if you're looking for a quieter waterfront stay with beautiful views, I think the tradeoff is well worth it.
👉 If you'd rather wake up overlooking Tampa Bay than stay in the middle of Downtown, check rates at The Current Hotel.
Marriott Tampa Westshore
Marriott Tampa Westshore is a great choice if you're flying into Tampa and want an easy, hassle-free getaway. The complimentary airport shuttle makes getting to and from the airport simple, and you'll be close to International Plaza, some of my favorite restaurants, and just a short drive from Hyde Park and Downtown.
I've stayed here during a conference, and while it's definitely more of a business hotel, I was pleasantly surprised by the pool area. Having both indoor and outdoor pools gives you a nice place to unwind after a day of exploring or shopping.
I'd recommend this hotel for couples who want a comfortable home base that's close to everything without paying Downtown prices. It's especially convenient for a quick weekend trip when you'd rather spend your time enjoying Tampa than sitting in traffic.
👉 If you're looking for an easy, convenient home base with quick access to the airport, shopping, and Downtown Tampa, check rates at Marriott Tampa Westshore.
East Hillsborough is a great fit for couples who want everything in one place.
If your idea of a romantic getaway includes great restaurants, cocktails, live entertainment, and never having to leave the resort, East Hillsborough is worth considering. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa has everything you need for a fun weekend together, making it easy to check in, relax, and let the resort do the rest.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
If your idea of a romantic getaway is checking in and never needing to leave the resort, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is hard to beat. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just looking for an excuse to get away, it's easy to turn a weekend here into a celebration.
Spend the afternoon by the pool or at the spa, enjoy dinner at one of the resort's restaurants, catch a concert, and end the evening with a little time in the casino if that's your thing. Everything is in one place, so you can simply relax and enjoy the weekend together.
While it's farther from the Riverwalk, Hyde Park, and Downtown Tampa, that's actually part of the appeal. Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, you can settle in and enjoy everything the resort has to offer.
👉 If you'd rather spend your weekend relaxing, dining, and being entertained without leaving the resort, check rates at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa.
North Tampa is a great choice for couples planning a day at Busch Gardens.
If visiting Busch Gardens or Adventure Island is part of your Tampa itinerary, staying in North Tampa just makes sense. Instead of driving across the city after a full day at the parks, you'll be just minutes from your hotel and ready to relax. It's a smart choice if you'd rather spend your time enjoying the parks than sitting in traffic.
Hyatt Place Tampa/Busch Gardens
If Busch Gardens is the main reason for your trip, Hyatt Place Tampa/Busch Gardens is a smart home base. The rooms are spacious, breakfast is included, and you'll be just a short drive from both Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, making it easy to maximize your time at the parks.
This isn't the hotel I'd choose for a luxury staycation, but that's not really the point. I'd rather save money on my hotel and spend it on park tickets, a great dinner afterward, or another experience during the trip. Plus, having breakfast included before a full day at Busch Gardens is a nice bonus.
👉 If you're planning a Busch Gardens getaway and want a comfortable hotel that leaves more room in your budget for fun, check rates at Hyatt Place Tampa/Busch Gardens.
Best Hotels in Tampa for a Romantic Getaway
After living in Tampa for four years, I've had plenty of opportunities to really get to know this city. Every weekend had a different theme. Some were spent discovering a new neighborhood, others were all about good food, rooftop cocktails, or a staycation that felt like a vacation.
That's why I love recommending Tampa to couples. There are so many different ways to experience the city.
If you're planning a special occasion, I'd book The Tampa EDITION or Epicurean Hotel. For waterfront views and a slower pace, Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay and The Current Hotel are both excellent choices.
Hotel Haya is still one of my favorite hotels for a weekend in Ybor City, while ROOST Tampa is a great pick if you want a little extra space without giving up a fantastic Downtown location.
No matter which hotel you choose, you're going to want to book early. Especially if you're visiting during festival weekends (like Gasparilla), concerts, or hockey season. Tampa has become a popular weekend destination, and the best rooms don't stay available for long.
My Tips for Choosing the Right Hotel
The best hotel really depends on the type of weekend you're planning.
If you want to walk to restaurants, rooftop bars, and the Riverwalk, stay Downtown. Hyde Park is my favorite for a slower weekend filled with brunch, boutique shopping, and evening strolls. Ybor City is what I would recommend for couples who like to start with dinner and end up enjoying live music and cocktails.
If relaxing by the water is your priority, look at Rocky Point or one of the waterfront resorts. And if Busch Gardens is at the top of your itinerary, staying in North Tampa will save you a lot of time.
Before you book, take a quick look at parking fees, resort fees, and what's within walking distance. A hotel that's a little more expensive can sometimes save you money if you don't need a rental car or rideshares all weekend.
Which Tampa Hotel Would I Choose?
After living in Tampa for four years and coming back often with my husband, I've learned there's no single “best” hotel. It really depends on the kind of weekend you're planning.
If you asked me for a recommendation, here's what I'd suggest:
- For most couples: ROOST Tampa is still my top overall pick. The location on Water Street makes it easy to explore Downtown, walk the Riverwalk, and enjoy dinner and drinks without constantly getting in the car.
- For a special occasion: I'd splurge on The Tampa EDITION. If you're celebrating an anniversary, birthday, or mini honeymoon, it's hard to beat.
- For food lovers: Epicurean Hotel is my favorite. Between the cooking classes, nearby restaurants, and SoHo nightlife, it's easy to build an entire weekend around great food.
- For nightlife: Hotel Haya is still my first choice. I've stayed here myself, and it's the hotel I'd choose if I want to experience the best of Ybor City.
- For a relaxing waterfront escape: I'd book Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. Sunset dinner at Oystercatchers alone is worth the stay.
- For Busch Gardens: Hyatt Place Tampa/Busch Gardens makes the most sense if the parks are the reason you're visiting.
No matter which hotel you choose, I always recommend booking early if you're visiting during festival weekends, concerts, or hockey season. Tampa has become one of my favorite weekend destinations, and the hotels I recommend here are the ones I'd confidently suggest to friends and family planning a couples getaway.
I hope this guide helps you find the hotel that fits your travel style and gives you an excuse to start planning your next Tampa weekend.
