Parents, you deserve a break! Whether you're planning a romantic anniversary evening, a much-needed date night while the grandparents watch the kids, or a couples getaway to Tampa Bay, this guide covers the best things to do in Tampa for couples.
From sunset cruises and waterfront dining to rooftop bars and cultural experiences, here are our favorite adult-only activities in Tampa—plus tips on finding reliable childcare so you can actually enjoy them.
Romantic Waterfront Experiences
Tampa's waterfront setting creates the perfect backdrop for romance. Here are the best ways to enjoy it together:
Tampa Riverwalk
The 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk connects downtown's best attractions and offers stunning views of the Hillsborough River. Walk hand-in-hand from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park to Sparkman Wharf, stopping for drinks or dinner along the way.
Best for: Evening strolls, sunset watching, connecting multiple date activities
Cost: Free to walk; dining/drinks extra
Pro Tip: Start at Armature Works for drinks, walk to Sparkman Wharf for dinner
Sunset Cruise on Tampa Bay
Nothing says romance like watching the sun set over Tampa Bay from the water. Several companies offer cruises ranging from casual to upscale.
Popular Options:
- Yacht StarShip: Dinner cruises with elegant dining ($$$$)
- Tampa Bay Fun Boats: Casual sunset BYOB cruises ($$)
- Paddleboard Tampa: Sunset paddleboard tours for active couples ($)
Typical Costs: $50-$150 per person depending on experience
Best Season: Year-round, but fall/winter sunsets are spectacular
Canoe or Kayak the Hillsborough River
For adventurous couples, paddling the Hillsborough River offers a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown. Rent kayaks or canoes and explore Florida wilderness together.
Where to Launch:
- Hillsborough River State Park (most scenic)
- Canoe Escape (rentals included, various trip lengths)
- Lettuce Lake Park (shorter paddle option)
Cost: $35-$75 per couple for 2-4 hour rentals
Best For: Nature-loving couples, morning or late afternoon
Romantic Restaurants in Tampa
Tampa's dining scene has exploded in recent years. Here are the most romantic spots for couples:
Fine Dining
Bern's Steak House – Tampa's legendary steakhouse has been wowing diners since 1956. Don't skip the dessert room tour!
- Vibe: Old-school elegant, special occasion
- Price: $$$$
- Reservations: Essential, book 2-4 weeks ahead
Mise en Place – Creative American cuisine in a sophisticated setting in Hyde Park.
- Vibe: Modern, foodie-focused
- Price: $$$$
- Best For: Adventurous eaters, tasting menus
Oystercatchers – Waterfront seafood at the Grand Hyatt with stunning bay views.
- Vibe: Upscale casual, romantic sunsets
- Price: $$-$$$
- Best For: Seafood lovers, sunset dinners
Casual Romantic
Ulele – Native Florida cuisine in a beautiful riverside setting at Tampa Heights.
- Vibe: Lively yet romantic, great outdoor seating
- Price: $$-$$$
- Best For: Unique Tampa experience, brunch dates
Armature Works – Food hall with multiple vendors, craft cocktails, and river views.
- Vibe: Trendy, flexible options for different tastes
- Price: $-$$
- Best For: Casual dates, couples who can't agree on cuisine
Oxford Exchange – Beautiful historic building with restaurant, coffee, and bookstore.
- Vibe: Instagram-worthy, literary romance
- Price: $$
- Best For: Brunch dates, afternoon tea
Rooftop Bars & Evening Drinks
Tampa's rooftop scene has grown significantly. Here are the best spots for couples:
M. Bird – Atop Armature Works with panoramic city views and craft cocktails.
- Best Time: Sunset through late evening
- Vibe: Trendy, social
The Sail – Downtown Tampa's newest rooftop at the Tampa Edition hotel.
- Best Time: Any evening
- Vibe: Upscale, stunning views
Rooftop at the Epicurean – South Tampa hotel rooftop with culinary-focused cocktails.
- Best Time: Sunset
- Vibe: Sophisticated, intimate
The Roof at Pier Boy – Channelside views with casual atmosphere.
- Best Time: Sunset to late night
- Vibe: Relaxed, social
Cultural Date Nights
Tampa offers surprisingly robust cultural options for couples seeking something beyond dinner and drinks:
Tampa Museum of Art
Beautiful waterfront museum featuring contemporary and classical art. Friday evenings often feature special events.
- Address: 120 W Gasparilla Plaza
- Hours: Check website for evening events
- Cost: $20 adults, free third Thursdays
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Broadway shows, ballet, opera, and concerts in a stunning waterfront venue. The largest performing arts center in the Southeast!
- Best For: Special occasions, shared cultural interests
- Pro Tip: Book dinner nearby at Ulele or Armature Works before shows
Tampa Theatre
This 1926 movie palace is one of America's most beautiful theaters. Catch a classic film or special screening in stunning historic ambiance.
- Address: 711 N Franklin Street, Downtown
- Cost: $11-15 per ticket
- Why It's Romantic: Ornate architecture, nostalgic atmosphere
Spa & Wellness Experiences
Sometimes the best date is doing absolutely nothing together. Tampa offers excellent spa options for couples:
Epicurean Spa – Culinary-inspired treatments in South Tampa's Epicurean Hotel. Try the couples' massage with champagne service.
- Price: $200-$400 per couple
- Best For: Foodies, hotel guests
The Spa at Streamsong – Worth the 1-hour drive for a true resort spa experience in the Florida countryside.
- Price: $$$$
- Best For: Day-trip getaways, golf + spa combos
Riverwalk Relaxation – Multiple day spas in the downtown area offer couples' treatments at varying price points.
Active Couples Adventures
For couples who prefer adventure over relaxation:
Golf Getaways
Tampa Bay has world-class golf. Consider a couples golf package at Streamsong Resort or play one of the many public courses together.
Beach Day (Without the Kids!)
The beaches are just 30 minutes west. Pack a cooler, bring a book, and enjoy uninterrupted adult conversation at:
- Clearwater Beach – Classic Florida beach vibes
- Pass-a-Grille – Quieter, more romantic atmosphere
- Honeymoon Island – Perfect name for couples!
Brewery & Winery Tours
Tampa's craft beer scene is thriving. Spend an afternoon exploring:
- Cigar City Brewing – Tampa's flagship craft brewery
- Hidden Springs Ale Works – Downtown with food trucks
- Keel & Curley Winery – Plant City wine with farm setting (the adult side of Keel Farms!)
Ybor City: Historic Romance
Tampa's historic Latin district offers a unique date night atmosphere:
What to Do in Ybor:
- Walk the brick-lined 7th Avenue
- Enjoy tapas at Columbia Restaurant (Florida's oldest)
- Catch live music at numerous venues
- Explore cigar history at the Ybor City Museum
Best For: History buffs, foodies, nightlife lovers
When to Go: Weekend evenings are liveliest
Finding Childcare in Tampa
Of course, the biggest challenge for parents isn't finding date ideas—it's finding someone to watch the kids! Here are trusted options:
Professional Babysitting Services
- Care.com – Large network of background-checked sitters
- Sittercity – Similar service with reviews and references
- TLC Family Care – Local Tampa nanny agency
Parents Night Out Programs
Many gyms, rec centers, and kids' activity centers offer drop-off childcare on weekend evenings:
- YMCA of Tampa Bay – Members can access occasional PNO events
- My Gym/The Little Gym – Check for PNO schedules
- Urban Air/Sky Zone – Some locations offer supervised evening play
Hotel Concierge
If you're staying at a Tampa hotel for a couples getaway, the concierge can often arrange vetted babysitters.
Build Your Village
Connect with other Tampa parents for babysitting swaps! Local Facebook groups and neighborhood apps can help you find other families for reciprocal childcare.
Date Night Ideas by Budget
Budget-Friendly Dates (Under $50)
- Sunset picnic at Bayshore Boulevard
- Tampa Riverwalk walk + ice cream
- Free museum admission on third Thursday
- Happy hour at Armature Works
- Beach day at a local park
Mid-Range Dates ($50-$150)
- Dinner at a casual romantic restaurant
- Concert at local venue
- Kayak rental + lunch
- Brewery tour + appetizers
- Movie at Tampa Theatre
Splurge Nights ($150+)
- Fine dining at Bern's or Mise en Place
- Sunset dinner cruise
- Couples spa treatment
- Straz Center show + dinner
- Overnight staycation at boutique hotel
Romantic Hotels for Couples Getaways
Sometimes you need a full escape, even if it's just across town:
Epicurean Hotel – South Tampa's food-lover's hotel with rooftop bar and on-site spa.
The Edition Tampa – New luxury option downtown with stunning design.
Tampa Marriott Water Street – Waterfront location, rooftop bar, convenient to Riverwalk.
Don Vicente de Ybor Inn – Boutique historic hotel in Ybor City for something unique.
Planning Your Perfect Date Night
Before You Go:
- Book the babysitter first—they fill up on weekends!
- Make restaurant reservations (especially for popular spots)
- Check for special events or shows
- Confirm hours and parking
Pro Tips for Parents:
- Start earlier than you think—you'll want to maximize kid-free time
- Put phones away (or at least silence notifications)
- Don't just talk about the kids (easier said than done!)
- Schedule regular dates, not just special occasions
Final Thoughts
Tampa offers endless romantic possibilities for couples, whether you're parents desperate for adult conversation or visitors enjoying a romantic getaway. From world-class dining and waterfront sunsets to cultural experiences and adventure activities, there's something for every couple.
The key is making it happen—book that babysitter, make those reservations, and prioritize your relationship. Your kids benefit from parents who invest in their marriage!
More for Tampa Parents:
- Free Things to Do in Tampa
- Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants (for when you have the kids with you!)
- Tampa Family Fun Guide
