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Last updated on June 5th, 2024
Tampa transforms into a playground of nocturnal adventures, and I can assure you there is no shortage of fun things to do in Tampa at night! From dazzling rooftop bars to vibrant nightlife hotspots, the city comes alive after dark with endless possibilities.
Whether you’re craving late-night bites, live music, or simply strolling under the stars, Tampa offers plenty of exciting activities to keep the fun going well into the night. Get ready to dive into the electric energy of Tampa’s nightlife scene and discover the best after-hours experiences the city has to offer!
Best things to do in Tampa at night
1. Explore the Riverwalk
Tampa’s Riverwalk is a great spot to start your nighttime adventure! Stretched along the beautiful Hillsborough River, this scenic walkway offers stunning views of the city skyline. Take a relaxed stroll (bike, or rollerblade), enjoy the gentle breeze, and admire the illuminated bridges and landmarks.
You can also find various waterfront restaurants and bars where you can grab a bite or sip on a cocktail while enjoying the ambiance. There are so many great restaurants on the Riverwalk.
I love the Riverwalk because it’s the kind of place where the night feels young, alive, and just begs you to linger a little longer.
2. Enjoy live music in Ybor City
Ybor is known for its rich cultural heritage and comes to life at night with its vibrant music scene. This historic neighborhood has several live music venues that cater to different genres and tastes.
From EDM clubs to rock bars, you’ll find diverse options to suit your musical preferences. Don’t miss the chance to experience the soulful melodies and energizing beats that fill the air in Ybor City.
3. Catch a show at the Straz Center
If you’re a fan of performing arts, a visit to the Straz Center for the Performing Arts is a must. This renowned cultural institution hosts a variety of shows, including Broadway performances, ballets, operas, concerts, and more.
Immersing yourself in the arts is easily one of the best things to do in Tampa at night! So treat yourself to a magical evening of entertainment in a world-class theater.
4. Visit Sparkman Wharf
Sparkman Wharf is a unique open-air entertainment district in Channelside. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a trendy and laid-back evening. Located along Tampa’s waterfront, this vibrant food and entertainment hub offers a mix of dining options, live music, and outdoor activities.
Sparkman Wharf also frequently has fun seasonal events (they are decked out for Christmas!) and even watch parties for Tampa sporting events!
5. Take a dinner cruise
For a romantic and memorable night out, consider going on a dinner cruise with the Yacht Starship Dinner Cruise. Step aboard a stunning yacht and indulge in a gourmet dining experience as you sail through the beautiful waters surrounding Tampa. To make your evening even more enjoyable, the cruise also provides entertainment with a DJ.
Whether it’s a special date night or a celebration of some sort, this Tampa bout tour offers a breathtaking ambiance with stunning sunset views. Let the glittering lights of the city create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
6. Sing your heart out at karaoke
Sing your heart out at one of the city’s many karaoke bars and let your inner rockstar shine! Whether you’re belting out power ballads or rocking out to your favorite tunes, karaoke is such a fun thing to do in Tampa at night with your crew!
Double Decker in Ybor is one of the best bars to karaoke in front of a crowd, but if you have some stage fright places like Gangchu Chicken & Beer in Seminole Heights have a private karaoke room you can rent.
7. Go out to dinner
Tampa’s culinary scene is just like the city itself—diverse, vibrant, and bursting with flavors! Explore downtown Tampa’s top tables, rummage through Ybor City’s yummiest bites, or discover Midtown’s must-try menus. Trust me, you’ll want to clear your schedule for a culinary adventure—it’s one of the tastiest things to do in Tampa at night!
8. Go to a Speakeasy
Transport yourself back to the Prohibition era by visiting one of Tampa’s speakeasies. Each of these hidden gems provides a unique ambiance, often requiring a secret password for entry. Enjoy craft cocktails, fun music, and a touch of mystery as you step into the world of the Roaring Twenties.
9. Brewery Hop
Tampa’s craft beer scene is thriving, and brewery hopping at night is a fantastic way to explore it. Visit a series of breweries, each offering its own unique selection of artisanal beers.
The evening is the perfect time to sample IPAs, stouts, and lagers while enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of Tampa’s craft beer community.
There are plenty of amazing breweries in Tampa, but my top 4 must-visits are Common Dialect Beerworks (one of the best Seminole Heights breweries), Bastet Brewing, Coppertail Brewing (an iconic Ybor City brewery), and Yuengling. But honestly, there I haven’t met a Tampa brewery I don’t like!
10. Laugh at the Funny Bone
For a night filled with laughter, head to the Funny Bone, where talented comedians take the stage to entertain and amuse the audience. This is not only one of the best things to do in Tampa at night, but it’s also one of the best things to do in Ybor! It’s the perfect destination if you’re looking for a hilarious night out.
11. Drive-in movies
Step back in time and soak up the nostalgic charm at one of Tampa Bay’s drive-in theaters for an evening that’s truly like no other! It doesn’t get much better than snuggling up in your car with a bucket of buttery popcorn, under a blanket of twinkling stars, as the big screen springs to life with cinematic magic.
12. Take a sunset cruise
Tampa’s waterfront is stunning, especially at sunset. Hop on a sunset cruise to witness the city’s skyline bathed in the warm hues of twilight.
Totally Tiki Tours is one of my favorites! With its larger size and spacious layout, it’s perfect for accommodating bigger groups and providing ample room for guests to move around and enjoy the festivities. I really love this idea for Tampa bach parties and birthday celebrations.
Enjoy doing a shotski with your crew while blasting your favorite tunes (let me suggest one of Two Friends’ Big Bootie mixes). They also provide plastic cups and shots and plenty of cooler space. My favorite part just may be the onboard bathroom, which offers so much convenience.
They even do boat tours in St. Pete!
13. Go on a ghost tour
Tampa has a rich history, and with that history comes a few ghost stories. Join one of the best ghost tours in Tampa to explore the city’s haunted past and hear chilling tales of restless spirits. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, a ghost tour is a unique and spine-tingling way to experience Tampa at night!
14. Vibe at a rooftop bar
Is there anything more enchanting than sipping a refreshing Billy Ocean Water at M. Bird as the sun dips below the horizon? Tampa might not have the tallest skyscrapers, but what the skyline lacks in height, it more than makes up for in sheer beauty.
The soft glow of the fading daylight against the Tampa skyline provides the perfect backdrop for an evening out. With a glass in hand at The Tampa EDITION, you can watch as the hues of sunset paint the sky in splashes of orange and pink, an everyday masterpiece unfolding right before your eyes!
Each rooftop bar in Tampa stitches its own patch into the city’s vibrant quilt of nightlife, from low-key lounges to trendy terraces, ensuring you’re in for a night that’s as spectacular as the views!
15. Experience a night market
Bubbling with energy and local Tampa charm, night markets are an absolute must-do if you’re looking to sprinkle a bit of magic into your weekday evenings. They are celebrations of local culture and creativity!
Check out some of the best markets in Tampa like the Heights Night Market. This market is one of my all-time favorite markets because of how well it’s organized, the awesome vendors, and the fact that it’s at Armature Works along the Tampa Riverwalk where there are plenty of other fun activities as well!
16. Embrace Tampa’s nightlife
Dive into the electric buzz of Tampa’s nightlife scene! This city is a glittering playground when the stars come out, offering endless fun that can take you from sipping cocktails at chic rooftop lounges to dancing the night away in pulsating clubs or some of Tampa’s best country bars.
There are plenty of awesome bars speckled throughout the city just waiting to be enjoyed!
17. Attend a sports event
Tampa is home to the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL). Attending a nighttime game is an exhilarating experience, whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for some exciting entertainment!
The stadium comes alive in a different way when the stars are out, with the field brightly lit and the fans’ energy at its peak.
18. Get your game on
You’ll find the arcades in Tampa bustling with a mix of classic and modern games to challenge and thrill gamers of all levels. Whether you’re aiming to set a new high score or just want to have a playful competition, Tampa’s arcades are the perfect nighttime hangout.
Ramp up your evening excitement at Tampa’s top bowling alleys! Not only can you strike it lucky on the lanes, but many spots also have awesome arcades for double the entertainment.
19. See a show at the Tampa Theatre
The Tampa Theatre isn’t just a venue; it’s a journey into the golden age of movie palaces. This beloved historic landmark dazzles with its ornate architecture and vintage charm, offering a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.
Get cozy in the opulent auditorium and catch a selection of contemporary films, classic movies, comedians, and musicians. You can even get a tour!
Ticket prices vary depending on the event or show you choose to see. There are concessions as well as a full bar available.
20. Try your luck at the casino
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is an oasis of entertainment that twinkles against Tampa’s night sky. From the constant clattering of slot machines to the intense focus at the poker tables, this hotspot provides non-stop action if you’re seeking a dynamic and maybe even lucky evening.
Indulge in a feast at one of the on-site restaurants (Council Oaks is amazing), catch a live show, or simply drink in the electrifying energy that pulses through the casino. It’s a sure bet for a memorable night out!
If you win, up the ante by treating yourself and getting a room for the night!
21. Go roller skating
Lace up your skates and visit one of Tampa’s roller skating rinks! Whether you’re skilled enough to dance on wheels or just aiming not to hug the walls too tightly, roller skating is a fun (and entertaining) way to spend your evening.
Some of the rinks even have super fun theme nights like Barbie and Taylor Swift!
Ready to experience the best things to do in Tampa at night?
Tampa truly comes alive at night, offering several experiences to suit every interest. From scenic walks along the river to cultural performances and captivating entertainment districts, Tampa has it all. So, the next time you find yourself exploring Tampa after dark, experience these fantastic activities to make your evening unforgettable!
Before you go be sure to follow @sunkissedintampa_ on Instagram and check out some other Tampa blog posts:
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