Ways to Get Around in Tampa

The bustling city of Tampa, Florida, has a wealth of attractions and neighborhoods to explore. One of the most important things to know before you go is how best to navigate the city, for your ease and convenience. Luckily, Tampa offers a range of transportation options that cater to every traveler’s needs and preferences.

From efficient public transportation to car rental services, here are some of the best ways to get around Tampa.

Public Transportation

Tampa’s main public transportation system is the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART), which serves the city and its surrounding areas. HART operates buses throughout downtown Tampa, suburban neighborhoods, and to major attractions, in 26 local routes and 7 express routes. One-way fares are $2.00 for the local service and $3.00 for the express service, though there are unlimited day and month passes that can offer better value.

HART also operates the TECO Line Streetcar, a historic trolley system that runs from downtown Tampa and the Channel District to Ybor City.

Taxis

Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tampa, offering visitors a convenient and flexible means of transportation. Uber, Lyft and the like can be accessed simply by downloading an app on your smartphone, allowing you to call a cab from nearly everywhere; traditional taxis can be hailed at the city’s designated taxi stands or called through local companies. Taxis can be the perfect option to get to locations that cannot easily be accessed by the HART system.

Biking

Because of its flat terrain and warm weather, Tampa is an ideal city for cycling lovers. The city is home to a large network of bike lanes and paths, making biking both safe and scenic. Due to the popularity of biking, Tampa also offers a number of bike-sharing and bike rental options, including Coast Bike Share, which has hundreds of dockless bikes across the city. Healthy, eco-friendly, and affordable, renting a bike is one of the best ways to get around Tampa.

Rental Cars

If you are flying into Tampa and prefer the freedom and flexibility of having your own vehicle, renting a car may be your best bet. Rental cars are readily available in Tampa, at the Tampa International Airport, and all throughout the city. If you rent a car, you’ll be able to explore Tampa at your own pace and also embark on some exciting day trips to the surrounding areas and attractions, like Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg.

However, parking in downtown Tampa can be limited, and you may incur additional fees.

Trolley Tours

In addition to the TECO Line Streetcar, other Tampa companies offer trolley tours that show off the city’s history and culture. Though this is less of a transportation option and more of a way to enjoy all of Tampa’s iconic landmarks, a trolley tour still merits consideration. You can sit back and relax as you hear about Tampa’s intriguing past and enjoy the sights.

Walking

Last but not least, walking is one of the best ways to experience Tampa’s downtown area and certain neighborhoods like Channel District and Ybor City. Walking will allow you to discover the city’s hidden gems, architectural details, and other little charms; you can truly take in the city at your own pace. Many parts of Tampa are pedestrian-friendly, especially the gorgeous Tampa Riverwalk.

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