Tampa International Airport

Tampa International Airport (TPA) is consistently ranked among America's best airports for its efficient design, short walking distances, and stress-free experience. Located approximately 6 miles west of downtown Tampa, it serves Florida's Gulf Coast region including Tampa Bay, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg.

The airport uses a distinctive hub-and-spoke design with a main terminal connected to four satellite airsides (A, C, E, F) via automated people movers:

• Airside A: Alaska Airlines, Avelo, JetBlue, Spirit, Sun Country, United (Gates A1-A18)
• Airside C: Breeze Airways, Southwest Airlines (Gates C30-C45)
• Airside E: Delta Air Lines, Frontier (Gates E62-E69)
• Airside F: American Airlines, international carriers including British Airways, Lufthansa (Gates F70-F90)

All check-in, security screening, and baggage claim happens in the main terminal. After clearing security on Level 3, you take a short automated shuttle ride (about 1 minute) to your airside. This design keeps the airsides compact and walking distances short.

Note: A new Airside D is under construction and scheduled to open in 2028, adding 16 gates with Delta as the anchor tenant.

Tampa International Airport is located 6 miles west of downtown Tampa and provides easy access to the entire Tampa Bay region.

Typical travel times:

• Downtown Tampa: 15-20 minutes
• Ybor City: 20-25 minutes
• Clearwater Beach: 30-45 minutes
• St. Petersburg: 25-35 minutes
• Busch Gardens: 25-30 minutes

The airport has excellent highway access via I-275, with most destinations easily reachable. Traffic can add significant time during rush hours (7-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.).

Uber & Lyft

Uber and Lyft operate at Tampa International Airport with pickup at designated areas.

• Pickup location: Ground Transportation Areas at Baggage Claim Level (Red 1 or Blue 2)
• Services available: UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Black, Lyft, Lyft XL

Destination	Uber/Lyft Fare	Time
Downtown Tampa	$18-28	15-20 min
Ybor City	$22-32	20-25 min
Clearwater Beach	$45-70	30-45 min
St. Petersburg	$35-55	25-35 min

Fares vary based on demand and traffic conditions.

Taxi

Yellow Cab taxis are available at curbside outside Baggage Claim at Ground Transportation Areas Red 1 and Blue 2.

Destination	Fare	Time
Downtown Tampa	$35 flat rate	15-20 min
Tampa Cruise Port	$35 flat rate	15-20 min
Clearwater Beach	$65-80	30-45 min
St. Petersburg	$55-70	25-35 min

Metered rates: $3.50 flag drop + $2.50 per mile

Tip: For downtown Tampa and the cruise port, the $35 flat rate provides certainty regardless of traffic.

HART Bus Service

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) buses serve the airport from the Rental Car Center, accessible via the free SkyConnect train from the main terminal.

Key Routes:

• Route 30 (Kennedy Blvd): Marion Transit Center, Downtown Tampa, Westshore, TPA
• Route 32 (Netpark): Netpark Transfer Center to TPA, hourly service
• Route 10 (Downtown Express): Marion Transit Center, Downtown Tampa, Westshore, TPA

Route	Destination	Frequency	Time
Route 30	Downtown Tampa	Every 30 min	35-45 min
Route 10	Downtown Tampa	Every 30 min	30-40 min

Fares (as of January 2025):

• Single ride: $2.00
• Daily cap (Flamingo card/app): $4.00

Note: Paper tickets were phased out in December 2024. Use the Flamingo app or smart card.

PSTA Cross-Bay Service

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority Route 300X provides express service to St. Petersburg and Clearwater, also departing from the Rental Car Center.

SkyConnect Train

The free SkyConnect automated train connects:

1. Main Terminal (Level 4)
2. Economy Parking Garage
3. Rental Car Center (HART/PSTA bus stop)

• Frequency: Every 2 minutes
• Travel time: 5-7 minutes to Rental Car Center

Future Transit

There are ongoing discussions about connecting TPA to the regional transit network, but no direct rail connection currently exists. Check for updates on planned improvements.

Tampa International Airport offers multiple parking options.

On-Site Parking

Facility	Daily Rate	Notes
Short-Term Garage	$28/day	Closest to terminal, hourly rates available
Long-Term Garage	$22/day	Covered parking, walking distance
Economy Garage	$18/day	SkyConnect train connection (7-12 min to terminal)
Valet	$32/day	Curbside drop-off at main terminal

Hourly rates:

• Short-term: $1 per 20 minutes
• Economy: $1 per 20 minutes

Tips:

• First 15 minutes free in all garages
• Book online at park.tampaairport.com for discounts
• Economy Garage maximum stay: 45 days
• Electric vehicle charging available

Off-Site Alternatives

Several off-airport parking lots offer rates from $7-12/day with free shuttle service. Search "TPA airport parking" for current options and availability.

Tampa International Airport is known for bringing local Tampa Bay restaurants into the terminal, offering a genuine taste of the region.

Airside A

• Cigar City Brewing: Hand-crafted Tampa beers brewed on-site, pub fare (6 a.m.-9 p.m.)
• Ulele: Casual Florida cuisine, native-inspired dishes
• Burger 21: Gourmet burgers

Airside C

• Four Green Fields Irish Pub: Traditional Irish pub food and drinks (7 a.m.-7 p.m.)
• Chick-fil-A: Fast food favorite
• Einstein Bros. Bagels: Breakfast and sandwiches

Airside E

• Columbia Cafe: Tampa institution since 1905, authentic Spanish-Cuban cuisine including paella and the famous 1905 Salad (4 a.m.-9 p.m.). Features a replica of the historic mahogany bar from the original Ybor City location. The only Columbia location serving breakfast.
• RumFish Grill: Fresh local seafood with aquarium feature (7 a.m.-7 p.m.)
• Starbucks: Coffee and light fare

Airside F

• Louis Pappas: Classic Greek fare (12 p.m.-7 p.m.)
• Auntie Anne's: Pretzels
• Jet Box Grab & Go: Quick snacks and drinks

Main Terminal

• Starbucks: Multiple locations
• Chili's Too: American casual dining
• Various quick-service options: Pre-security dining available

Tip: Columbia Cafe in Airside E is the standout dining option and worth seeking out for an authentic Tampa Bay culinary experience.

Free WiFi is available throughout Tampa International Airport.

Detail	Information
Network name	TPA Free WiFi
Registration	Email or social login required
Time limit	240 minutes per session
Speed	Good for browsing and streaming

The WiFi covers all terminals, airsides, and public areas. For faster connections, airline lounges offer premium WiFi access.

SIM card options at the airport are limited but available.

At the Airport

• InMotion (multiple airside locations): Electronics retailer carrying T-Mobile prepaid SIM cards and travel accessories

Near the Airport

For better selection and prices, major carrier stores are located nearby:

• T-Mobile: 221 N. Westshore Plaza (5 min from airport)
• AT&T: 1812 N. Westshore Blvd (5 min from airport)
• Verizon: Available at International Plaza Mall (10 min from airport)

Pricing

Option	Price	Data
T-Mobile Prepaid	$40-50	10-15 GB
AT&T Prepaid	$40-60	10 GB - Unlimited
Verizon Prepaid	$50-60	Unlimited

Tip: Purchase SIM cards at Walmart, Target, or carrier stores outside the airport for better prices. eSIM options from providers like T-Mobile or international services like Airalo can be activated before arrival.

ATMs are located throughout the main terminal and all airsides. Major bank networks (Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Chase) are represented.

Currency

• United States: US Dollar (USD)
• Credit and debit cards widely accepted

Currency Exchange

Travelex currency exchange counters are located in the main terminal. However, airport exchange rates include significant markups.

Better alternatives:

• Withdraw USD from ATMs using a no-fee debit card (check your bank's international ATM policy)
• Use a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees
• Exchange currency before arriving using Wise or similar services

Tip: Florida is heavily card-friendly. Credit/debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere, reducing the need for cash.

Tampa International Airport offers 66 shops and restaurants showcasing local Tampa Bay brands alongside national retailers.

Duty-Free

Duty-free shopping is available in Airsides E and F for international travelers.

• World Duty Free (Airside E & F): Perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, tobacco, confections
• Brands include Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Estee Lauder, Johnnie Walker, Glenfiddich

Note: Alcohol and tobacco purchases restricted to international departing passengers. Fragrances and confections available to all.

Local Shops

• Tampa Bay Watch (Airside E): Local souvenirs, Florida-themed gifts
• Gasparilla Gear: Tampa Bay-themed apparel and accessories
• Inkwood Books: Local bookstore with Florida authors

Electronics & Travel

• InMotion (multiple airsides): Electronics, headphones, chargers, travel accessories
• Hudson News (all airsides): Magazines, snacks, travel essentials
• Brookstone (Main Terminal): Travel gadgets and comfort items

Tips

• Shop online at tampa.shopdutyfree.com and collect at the airport
• TPA All Access program allows non-travelers to access airside shops (restrictions apply)

Tampa International Airport has limited lounge options compared to larger hubs.

Airline Lounges

American Airlines Admirals Club (Airside F, near Gate 85)

• Access: Admirals Club members, AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Oneworld Emerald, Business Class on AA/Oneworld
• Hours: 5 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily
• Amenities: Buffet snacks, full-service bar, business center, WiFi, showers
• Day pass: Available for purchase (approximately $65)

Delta Sky Club (Airside E, near Gate 68)

• Access: Delta SkyMiles Reserve cardholders, Diamond/Platinum Medallions, Delta One passengers
• Hours: 4 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily
• Amenities: Complimentary food and beverages, WiFi, workstations

International Club Lounge (Airside F, near Gate 78)

• Access: Premium cabin passengers on outbound international flights only
• Hours: Opens for departing international flights
• Notes: Not accessible via memberships or credit cards

Priority Pass

Priority Pass membership does not provide lounge access at TPA. However, there is a restaurant credit option:

The Cafe by Mise en Place (Airside F, before Gate 85)

• Priority Pass restaurant with credit toward food/beverages
• Requires same-day boarding pass
• Note: Many credit cards have discontinued Priority Pass restaurant benefits

USO Center

Located in the main terminal before security, available to active-duty military and their families.

Future Lounges

When Airside D opens in 2028, it will include two new lounges: a large Delta Sky Club (18,000 sq ft) and potentially a second lounge.

At the Airport

There are no hotels directly connected to the terminal, but several excellent options are within 5 minutes.

Nearby Hotels

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay

• 3 miles from airport, waterfront location on 35 acres
• 4-star, two outdoor pools, restaurants, spa
• From $180/night
• Free airport shuttle

Tampa Airport Marriott

• Adjacent to airport property, walking distance
• 4-star, pool, restaurant
• From $150/night

Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel

• 2 miles from airport, adjacent to International Plaza Mall
• 4-star, upscale amenities
• From $160/night

Hyatt Place Tampa Airport/Westshore

• 3 miles from airport
• Free breakfast, free airport shuttle
• From $120/night

AC Hotel Tampa Airport

• 3 miles from airport
• Free airport shuttle, modern design
• From $140/night

Budget Options

• Hampton Inn Tampa Airport/Westshore: Free shuttle, from $100/night
• Holiday Inn Express Tampa Airport: Free shuttle, from $95/night
• La Quinta Tampa Airport: Budget-friendly, from $80/night

Gulf Coast Beaches

For beach access, consider staying in Clearwater (30-40 min from airport) or St. Pete Beach (35-45 min from airport).

Tampa Bay offers a diverse mix of theme parks, beaches, urban culture, and outdoor activities. The region has warm weather year-round with a wet season from June to September.

Getting to Key Attractions

Destination	Travel Time	Route
Downtown Tampa	15-20 min	I-275 South
Ybor City	20-25 min	I-275 South, exit 22nd St
Busch Gardens	25-30 min	I-275 North
Clearwater Beach	30-45 min	SR-60 West
St. Pete Beach	35-45 min	I-275 South to I-275 into St. Pete
Tampa Riverwalk	15-20 min	I-275 South

Top Attractions

• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: World-class roller coasters and zoo with over 200 animal species. Arrive early for shorter lines. Parking from $25/day.
• Ybor City: Historic Latin quarter with Cuban restaurants, cigar shops, and vibrant nightlife. Visit the original Columbia Restaurant (founded 1905). Free TECO Streetcar from downtown.
• Tampa Riverwalk: 2.6-mile waterfront path connecting parks, museums, restaurants, and attractions.
• Florida Aquarium: Interactive exhibits showcasing Florida marine life.
• Clearwater Beach: Consistently rated among America's best beaches, 30-40 minutes from the airport.

Local Tips

• TECO Line Streetcar: Free rides connecting downtown Tampa to Ybor City
• Tampa CityPASS: Saves over 50% on Busch Gardens, Florida Aquarium, Zoo Tampa, and more
• Beach access: St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach are on the Gulf Coast (west). Consider renting a car for beach trips.
• Dining: Tampa has a strong food scene. Don't miss Cuban sandwiches (Tampa-style with salami) and grouper sandwiches.
• Weather: Summer months (June-September) are hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms. Winter (December-February) is mild and dry.

Day Trips

• Salvador Dali Museum (St. Petersburg): 35 minutes, world's largest Dali collection
• Tarpon Springs: 40 minutes, historic Greek sponge-diving community
• Anna Maria Island: 50 minutes, Old Florida beach town
• Sarasota: 1 hour, upscale beach community with Ringling Museum

Local Specialties

• Cuban sandwich: Tampa's signature dish (different from Miami-style, includes salami)
• Grouper sandwich: Fresh Gulf seafood staple
• Deviled crab: Tampa Bay specialty, found in Ybor City
• Cigar City beer: Tampa's craft brewery, available throughout the airport and region
• Stone crab: In season October through May