Stuck at Tampa International Airport (TPA) with time to spare? Whether you’re facing a long layover, a delayed flight, or an overnight stay, knowing what to expect can make the wait feel more manageable. Tampa Airport is modern and easy to navigate, with a decent mix of food, shops, and quiet corners to help pass the time. If your layover is long enough, the city itself is close by — but even staying put, there are a few low-key ways to eat, relax, and reset before your next flight. Here’s a practical look at what you can realistically do during a layover at Tampa Airport.
1. Grab a bite to eat
Sample local flavour and reliable eats at TPA. Tampa International Airport has a mix of regional favourites and convenient classics across its terminals and airsides. If you want a taste of the area:
- Columbia Café – Spanish-influenced café with brewpub-style meals and a relaxed sit-down feel.
- Ulele – Tampa Bay-themed bar/grill featuring locally inspired dishes and craft drinks.
- Cigar City Brewing Taproom – airport outpost of one of Tampa’s most-loved breweries (good for a local beer and snack).
- Casual & quick options you’ll also find include P.F. Chang’s, Qdoba Mexican Grill, Potbelly, Pei Wei, Chick-fil-A, and multiple Starbucks locations for coffee or a light bite.
Tips for layovers: Most sit-down restaurants are busiest around meal times and may close earlier in the evening. If you’re here late or want a quick snack, grab-and-go spots and coffee kiosks can keep you fueled between flights.
2. Spend time in a lounge
A long layover is the perfect opportunity to try out an airport lounge. If you are an economy class traveller flying on American Airlines, you can purchase a day pass to use their lounges. For a single price, take advantage of unlimited food and drinks, WiFi, comfortable seating, and news and TV, all in a quiet setting perfect for work or relaxation. [ read more ]
3. Browse the shops
Shop for local gifts, travel essentials, and Tampa-themed souvenirs. TPA’s retail mix runs from practical travel shops to local-flavoured finds.
- The Shoppes at Bayshore – central retail hub with snacks, books, essentials, and Tampa Bay gifts.
- Tampa Bay Sports – shirts, caps, and fan gear for Buccaneers, Lightning, and Rays fans.
- Dylan’s Candy Bar – colourful sweets and treats if you’re craving something fun.
- MindWorks, Time Zone/Shades, Tech on the Go, Stellar Bay, SPANX, Duty Free – typical airport accessories, electronics, fashion, and gifts.
The classic Hard Rock Café location also sells branded apparel and memorabilia, which can double as a souvenir.
4. Check out the art
Explore TPA’s art displays — unexpected and relaxing ways to pass time. Tampa International Airport has a well-regarded public art program that includes rotating and permanent pieces throughout the terminal.
- Airport Gallery (pre-security): Small curated exhibitions in the hall connecting the Main Terminal to the Airport Marriott. Pieces rotate regularly and feature local and regional artists.
- Terminal & Airside installations: Throughout the public and post-security areas you’ll see paintings, photos, sculptures and large installations by local and national creators.
- Phoebe the Flamingo statue: A quirky, public art landmark inside the Central Terminal — this bright pink flamingo sculpture has become an unofficial airport icon and makes for a fun photo stop.
Art walks are great for quiet wandering between gates, give your eyes a break from screens, and show a bit of Tampa Bay’s creative scene without leaving the airport.
5. Treat yourself to some pampering
Relax before your next flight. TPA offers a couple of ways to unwind if you need a break from crowds, chairs, or long lines.
- Terminal Getaway Spa — convenient spa inside the airport with express treatments, massages, and grooming services. (Check current hours and service menus — offerings may change.)
- Marriott Hotel services — The Airport Marriott (inside the terminal complex) has massage and wellness options like Rick’s Massage & Bodywork just outside the terminal; good for longer layovers when you want a deeper unwind.
Quick foot rub, stretch, or manicure — whatever you pick — can make a long layover feel shorter and more restful.
6. Go sightseeing
Head into Tampa if your layover allows it. If you have 7+ hours and have accounted for clearing security on your return, downtown Tampa and nearby neighbourhoods are close enough for a quick visit.
Visit Tampa Bay
Transport options:
- Taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Quickest and most convenient way into downtown (average ~15–20 min depending on traffic). Uber-type rides from TPA to Tampa typically run around $24–$28 on average, though prices vary with demand and time.
- Public bus (HART): Regular buses connect TPA to downtown Tampa for an affordable fare (typically around $2 one-way). The journey can take about 25–40 min depending on the route and schedule.
- Shuttle services: Shared-ride or pre-booked shuttles can be a mid-range option in cost and convenience. (Exact services and prices should be checked ahead of your trip.)
Once in town, check out the Tampa Riverwalk or get some history at the Henry B. Plant Museum. Head to Ybor City, where you’ll stroll past historic bungalows, coffee shops, and former cigar factories in the historically Cuban neighbourhood. Take a break from the hot Florida sun with a visit to the Tampa Bay History Center or the nearby Florida Aquarium. If your layover is longer, buy a ticket to Busch Gardens, a combination theme park and botanic gardens.
Whatever exploring you do, leave plenty of time to return to the airport for that next flight! Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Tampa.
7. WiFi
Free WiFi makes it easy to spend your layover online.
8. Sleep
Catching up on a sleep is an entirely acceptable way to pass your layover. Expect a decent amount of seating, though most are equipped with armrests. The carpeted floor is a better option for spreading out, and the third floor has some hidden nooks and corners that offer some privacy and peace. [ read more ]
Hotel more your style? The Marriott Tampa Airport is located inside the main terminal, and a few more hotels are within a quick drive of the airport. Please take a look at our Tampa Airport Guide for details and locations. [ read more ]
Updated 14 December 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Tampa Airport. Visit our Tampa Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.