Tampa Convention Center

Exhibit Hall

The exhibit hall is the heart of the convention center, with 200,000 square feet and a 30-foot ceiling. It can be divided into 75,000, 100,000, 125,000, or 200,00 square feet. At its full size, it can accommodate up to 1,000 10'x10' exhibit booths. There are four cafes located in the hall. Everything from the Florida Bar Exam to boat shows takes place in this hall.

Ballroom 

The ballroom is a more elegant space. Its 36,000 square feet can be divided into four sections. It can accommodate banquets with up to 2,080 people or theater seating for up to 3,600 people. For conventions, it can accommodate up to 170 10'x10' exhibit booths.

Additional Meeting Space 

For more intimate space, there are 52 meeting rooms, with 27 of them being waterfront. This also includes over 84,000 square feet of flexible pre-function gathering space. 

Events 

You will find events taking place throughout the year. Everything from professional organizations to job fairs, galas, sporting competitions, and hobby gatherings take place at the center. Some of the most attended events take place in January for Gasparilla. This annual event is one of the largest pirate celebrations in the country. The famous pirate ship is often docked at the convention center’s dockage.

Concessions 

There are several concessions located inside the convention center. You will find coffee bars, Central Eats, East Grill, West Grill, and Street Eats. Beverage options include coffee, soda, water, beer, wine, and liquor. Food includes classic favorites like hotdogs, burgers, chicken fingers, and sandwiches.

Docking 

On the backside of the convention center are two floating docks. Contact the dockmaster to book a stay for a few hours or overnight. All boats are $2 per foot, a minimum of $52, plus tax. Hourly docking is $3 and available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, check the convention center website before going, as there are blackout dates. 

The Sail and Big Ray’s Fish Camp 

The Sail and Big Ray’s Fish Camp are located outside the Tampa Convention Center. These locally owned establishments offer craft cocktails, beer, wine, and frozen drinks. You can also order from a mouth-watering menu of seafood plates. Plan your visit for a yappy hour when dogs take over happy hour. Or check the schedule and enjoy live music. 

How to Visit 

To visit the convention center, you need to find an event that you want to attend. While some are closed to the public, many are not. You can typically purchase tickets in advance or on the day of the show. However, this can vary. While there is parking directly in front is the TCC Front Circle Drive, this is often packed. A better option is one of the nearby parking garages. You don’t need to enter the convention center to enjoy food and drinks at The Sail or Big Ray’s Fish Camp. 

Attend an event at the Tampa Convention Center.

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