Tampa vs Tampa Bay: What’s the Difference (Things to do, Where to Stay + more!)

Have you ever wondered what the differences are between Tampa and Tampa Bay?

Well, you’re not alone. Many people are confused when it comes to understanding the differences between these two and just as many people believe that Tampa Bay = Tampa, but just another word for it. And you’re “partially” right, but then not at all.

As someone who has explored this area pretty frequently, I can tell you that there is a difference in these spots. I’ll also explain more about where they are, where to stay, and what to do while visiting!

So let’s dive into the details of why Tampa vs Tampa Bay are so different – and why this Central Florida area makes a great vacation spot!

Difference Between Tampa and Tampa Bay

The skyline of downtown Tampa on the Hillsborough river under a foggy sky

So is Tampa the same as Tampa Bay?

Let’s just go ahead and lay the question outright.

Tampa and Tampa Bay are two locations that many people think are the same, but they’re actually quite different! While Tampa is a city located in Hillsborough County, Florida, Tampa Bay is an entire region of Florida that includes several different counties.

The largest county within the region is Pinellas County, which includes some popular cities such like Clearwater or St. Petersburg (“St. Pete”).

The Tampa Bay area offers a lot of fun for visitors including world-class beaches, nature preserves, and even popular spots like Busch Gardens or the Dali Museum.

The city of Tampa is home to some top cultural destinations like the Florida Aquarium and Ybor City (a historical Cuban neighborhood). It’s also one of the top destinations for sports fans with professional teams such as the Buccaneers (NFL) and Lightning (NHL).

Oh, and to cover all bases, there’s also a body of water called Tampa Bay but it’s generally not what people are referring to when they say “Tampa Bay.”

What Area is Considered the Tampa Bay area?

*Map of the Tampa Bay Area according to Google Maps*

Tampa Bay, a top region along Florida’s Gulf coast, is made up of several counties and popular cities. Here are some of the most notable counties or cities in the area:

Hillsborough County – well known for the city of Tampa this county has several different suburbs and other areas surrounding Tampa such as Brandon and Plant City.
Pinellas County is home to St. Petersburg, a cultural hub renowned for its stunning waterfront, vibrant arts scene, and world-class museums. Also includes Clearwater, a city that boasts well-known beaches and a lively beach town atmosphere.
Pasco County – to the north of the Tampa area, this county has a blend of suburban charm and lots of beauty with its scenic parks and welcoming communities.

Tampa vs Tampa Bay Area Population

Tampa, the vibrant hub of the Tampa Bay area, boasts a population of almost 400,000 people, while the broader Tampa Bay area, with multiple counties, is home to around 3 million residents, making it one of Florida’s most populous regions.

Where Should You Stay: Tampa or Tampa Bay?

The beautiful pink Don Cesar Hotel in St. Pete Beach FL — *The beautiful and (very) pink Don Cesar Hotel in St. Pete Beach FL – a popular spot to stay at*

When deciding where to stay in the greater Tampa Bay area, there’s lots of great places but it’ll depend on your preferences or what you plan on doing while there.

If you crave the vibrant energy of a bustling city, Tampa is the better choice. With its lively downtown, historic neighborhoods, and a thriving culinary and entertainment scene, Tampa offers an urban experience with plenty to do. Plus, the Riverwalk makes it very walkable.

On the other hand, if you prefer a mix of city and coastal charm, staying in one of the beachfront cities within the broader Tampa Bay area, like St. Petersburg Beach or Clearwater, might be a good fit. With the beautiful beaches, things to do, and a relaxed beach town vibe, they’re a great place to stay.

Some top hotels you should check out in the Tampa and Tampa Bay area include:

Le Méridien (Tampa) – Housed in a historic federal courthouse building, this boutique hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with rich history. It has elegant rooms, a rooftop lounge, and is conveniently situated near lots of the best things to do downtown.
The Don CeSar (St. Pete Beach) – Known as the “Pink Palace,” this iconic beachfront resort offers a luxurious and glamorous experience. With its distinctive pink facade, world class amenities, and a full service spa, The Don CeSar provides a great way to stay on St. Pete Beach.
Sandpearl Resort (Clearwater Beach) – This beachfront resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation. With spacious rooms, a stunning beachfront setting, and a lagoon style pool, the Sandpearl Resort provides a peaceful escape on the shores of Clearwater Beach.

Top Things To Do in Tampa, Florida

The Amalie Arena in Tampa where you can see a Lightning game! — *Amalie Arena in Tampa where you can see a Lightning game!*

This isn’t a list of everything but it’s a good list of some of the top things to do in Tampa.

Catch a Lightning Game – Immerse yourself in one of the most exhilarating atmospheres in Tampa: a Lightning hockey game (NHL) at Amalie Arena. This city loves its hockey team!
Explore Busch Gardens – Enjoy thrilling rides or seeing exotic animals? Or want to catch some live shows? Head to Busch Gardens, a well known theme park in the area! From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to interactive animal encounters, there’s lots to see and do here.
Wander the Tampa Riverwalk – Stroll along the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, a beautiful pedestrian path that winds alongside the Hillsborough River. Enjoy great views and lots of dining and entertainment options along the way.
Explore Ybor City – Step into the rich history and vibrant culture of Ybor City, Tampa’s historic neighborhood. Discover its charming streets lined with historic buildings, visit cigar shops, and enjoy incredible, genuine food at local eateries. Ybor City is also known for its lively nightlife scene.
Discover the Tampa Museum of Art – Dive into the world of art at the Tampa Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary and classical works.
Visit the Lowry Park Zoo – Spend a day at the Lowry Park Zoo, a family-friendly attraction that houses a large collection of animals from around the world. Explore various exhibits, including the Asian Gardens, Primate World, and Safari Africa, where you can see elephants, giraffes, lions, and more.
Enjoy a River Cruise or Waterfront Dining – Take advantage of Tampa’s picturesque waterfront by embarking on a river cruise along the Hillsborough River. Admire the scenic views and learn about the city’s history. There are also plenty of restaurants for waterfront dining to enjoy if you’re looking for a good view of the water without getting on a boat!

Top Things To Do in the Tampa Bay Area

St. Pete Beach Florida - part of the Tampa Bay — *St. Pete Beach Florida – part of the Tampa Bay area and a great spot to enjoy!*

What can you do in the greater Tampa Bay area? Here are some of the top things to do!

Stroll along Clearwater Beach – Enjoy the white sand and crystal clear waters of Clearwater Beach, consistently ranked among the top beaches in the United States.
Enjoy St. Pete Beach – Spend a day at St. Pete Beach, known for its stunning white sand beaches and warm Gulf of Mexico waters.
Explore the Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg – Immerse yourself in the surreal world of Salvador Dalí at the Dalí Museum. Admire the largest collection of the artist’s works outside of Spain, including paintings, sculptures, and prints, as well as captivating exhibits.
Visit the Chihuly Collection – Located in St. Petersburg, the Chihuly Collection showcases the mesmerizing glass art creations of renowned artist Dale Chihuly.
Discover the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks – Take a trip to Tarpon Springs, known as the Sponge Capital of the World. Explore the Sponge Docks, learn about the city’s Greek heritage, shop for sponges and unique souvenirs, and savor amazing Greek food.
Discover the Sunken Gardens – Wander through vibrant botanical gardens featuring over 50,000 tropical plants, cascading waterfalls, and colorful flora, creating a beautiful setting.
Explore the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge – Venture outside to Crystal River where you can swim with gentle manatees in their natural habitat.
Catch a Rays Game – Enjoy the electric atmosphere of a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg.

Tampa vs Tampa Bay: Transportation Options

When it comes to getting around, Tampa and the Tampa Bay area offer different perks. If you love walking and want to be close to everything, stay in downtown Tampa. It’s easy to explore on foot and there’s a streetcar system too.

If you’re okay with renting a car, the you can check out the Tampa Bay area. You’ll need a car to get around as places are a bit more spread apart and not quite as walkable as downtown Tampa. Another perk with a rental car is that you have access to taking road trips to other areas too, if that’s something you’re into.

Tampa Bay vs Tampa: Which Airport to Fly Into

When it comes to flying into the Tampa Bay area, you have two main options: Tampa International Airport (TPA) and St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE).

If you prioritize convenience and a wide selection of flights, TPA is your best bet. It’s a bustling airport with modern amenities and a variety of airlines serving domestic and international destinations. There are lots of hotels with airport shuttles nearby too!

On the other hand, if you’re specifically planning to stay in St. Petersburg or Clearwater, PIE offers a more localized option. It’s a smaller airport, which means shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere (generally).

FAQs About Tampa and Tampa Bay

Why are teams called Tampa Bay?

Teams in the Tampa Bay area are called “Tampa Bay” because they represent the broader region, making up multiple cities and counties, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater, fostering a sense of unity and pride across the region.

Is there a place called Tampa Bay?

Absolutely! The Tampa Bay area is real and is made up of many cities and counties along the Gulf Coast of Florida. It’s known for its vibrant urban centers, beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and diverse communities, making it a sought-after destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Are Tampa and Tampa Bay the same thing?

No, Tampa and Tampa Bay are not the same thing. Tampa refers to the city itself, while Tampa Bay refers to the broader region that encompasses Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and other surrounding areas along the Gulf Coast of Florida.

What is the nicest part of Tampa Bay?

The nicest part of Tampa Bay is subjective but you can’t go wrong with the beautiful beaches like Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. With their soft sand, sparkling clear waters, and laid-back vibes, they’re like little slices of paradise right in the Tampa Bay area.

Final Thoughts: Tampa vs Tampa Bay

So, in a nutshell, here’s the deal with Tampa vs Tampa Bay: Tampa is the city with its lively downtown, vibrant neighborhoods, and all the urban buzz you could want. Tampa Bay, on the other hand, is the whole area – the city, the beaches, the coastal towns like St. Pete and Clearwater, all wrapped up into one.

So whether you crave the city lights or the sun-soaked shores, Tampa or the Tampa Bay area are a great destination with their unique vibes and endless adventures. So, pick which sounds better to you and get ready for plenty of sun and fun things to do!