Benchmark International Arena (formerly Amalie Arena): Best Seats, Insider Tips and More

Quick Highlights

• A multi-year renovation ($85M+) culminating in new loge boxes, improved concessions, expanded outdoor decks, and suite upgrades enhanced experience since 2011
• Home to three Stanley Cup Finals (2004, 2015, 2021) and other major events (All‑Star Game, NCAA tournaments, UFC, WWE)
• Home-team sellout streak is among the longest in pro sports—400+ consecutive Lightning home games .
• Streetcar access puts you steps from the building; doors open ~60 minutes before NHL events, 90 minutes for suites and club guests

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Best Seats At Benchmark International Arena

The building we all still call Amalie Arena officially became Benchmark International Arena in August 2025. I’ve been going to Lightning games here for probably a decade, and it’s one of the better NHL barns—good sightlines from almost anywhere, killer playoff atmosphere, and honestly not many truly bad seats. Here’s where to sit when you’re spending your own money.​

Lightning Games: Best Overall: Sections 107-115 (Lower Bowl Center Ice, Rows K-R): Center ice lower bowl is the sweet spot if you can swing $150-$250 depending on opponent. But here’s the critical part: don’t waste money on the first 10 rows. Sitting too close means the glass blocks your view and you miss plays on your end of the ice.​

Row R in Section 101 is legendary among locals—you’re at center ice, elevated enough to see the whole sheet, but close enough to hear bench chatter and feel hits. I sat 110, Row M last season against Boston and could see every passing lane, every defensive breakdown, the whole tactical game unfolding. The Lightning shoot twice toward Section 101, visitors toward Section 130, so pick your end accordingly if you care about watching home goals.​

Lightning Games: Best Value: Sections 205 to 212, 219 to 226 (200 Level Center Ice):

This is where I sit if i can. The 200 level puts you at the perfect height to see plays develop across the entire ice. Tickets run $75-$150 depending on matchup—way cheaper than lower bowl but infinitely better sightlines than being right on the glass.​

You see everything—breakouts, defensive collapses, odd-man rushes forming before they happen. Plus the crowd is less rowdy (if that matters to you), bathrooms have shorter lines, and the food options on that concourse are better.​

Tradeoff: You’re not hearing skate blades or feeling the glass shake. But if you actually want to watch hockey instead of just experiencing proximity to NHL players, this level is unbeatable.

Best Budget Seats for Lightning Games: Sections 304-310, 318-326 (Upper Bowl First Five Rows, Center Ice): Here’s the insider hack: grab Rows A-E in the upper bowl center sections. The first five rows of the 300 level are way closer than you’d think, and the elevated angle is actually perfect for hockey—you see the entire sheet, both zones, every player on the ice.​

Try section 313, Row B for $31-$40 on weeknight games, its a good choice. You’re on the Lightning-shoots-twice side (sections 301-313), so you see home goals up close in periods 1 and 3.​

What sucks: The climb is real (hold the railing), you’re far from ice-level intensity, and avoid sitting directly behind the net because championship banners block your view of the jumbotron. But for budget-conscious fans who actually want to watch the game? This is the play.​

Concerts: Best Overall

Sections 105-116 (Lower Bowl Opposite Stage): Lower bowl facing the stage gives you a straight-on view with actual seats. Sections 105-116 are typically set up opposite the stage, so you’re looking directly at performers with full production visibility. Expect $100-$200+ depending on the artist.​

I caught a show from 110 and it was the perfect combo—close enough to see facial expressions, comfortable seats, easy bathroom access, no neck strain.

Concerts: Best Value

Sections 301-323 (Upper Level Sides): Upper level side seats run $40-$80 and give you an elevated, angled view of the stage. You’re looking down at the production, which actually works great for seeing the full stage setup, lighting rigs, and effects. Just make sure you’re on the sides or center—never behind the stage unless tickets are dirt cheap and you just want to hear the music.​

Concerts: Best Budget

Floor GA (If You’re Young and Energetic): Hear me out—floor GA is usually $125-$250+, which isn’t technically “budget,” but it’s the cheapest way to get close to the artist. You’re standing the whole time, tall people will block you, and bathroom breaks mean losing your spot. But if you’re under 30, love crowds, and want that mosh-adjacent energy? This is your move.​

For actual budget seats, grab upper bowl behind the stage for $25-$50 if available. You’re watching the band’s backs, but you hear everything and the vibe can be fun if the artist uses screens and 360 staging.

Premium Seating Options

If you want to experience Benchmark International Arena like the corporate suits and season ticket whales do, the premium options here are legitimately worth it. I’ve splurged a few times for big games and honestly, once you go all-inclusive with no lines, it’s hard to go back to regular concourse chaos.

Chase Club (All-Inclusive Heaven)

This is the crown jewel. Chase Club seats in the lower bowl come with unlimited food and top-shelf alcohol brought right to your plush seat. We’re talking Grey Goose, Tito’s, craft beer, wine, and an upscale buffet with hot entrees, fresh salads, carving stations, and desserts.​​

What you get:

• Private entrance and dedicated escalators (skip the masses)
• Private lounges with multiple bars
• Private bathrooms (zero lines, ever)
• In-seat wait service—order from your phone or flag an attendant
• Early arena access (90 minutes before puck drop)​​

I went to a New Year’s Eve game in Chase Club and it ruined me. Unlimited drinks, legitimately good food (not arena garbage), and you never wait for anything. You can grab food, use the bathroom, and be back in your seat in under 10 minutes.​

Chase Club runs $300-$600+ depending on opponent. Yeah, it’s expensive, but when you factor in what you’d normally spend on food and drinks ($100+ easily), the gap shrinks. For playoffs, special occasions, or entertaining clients? Absolutely worth it.​​

Ashley VIP Lounge (The Newest Option)

This is one of the newer all-inclusive areas with unlimited upscale dining, beer, wine, cocktails, private entrance, and access to “The Mark” club during Lightning games.​

Amenities include:

• Concierge services for game-night needs
• Early entry (90 minutes before puck drop)
• Platinum valet parking for season ticket holders with 4+ seats
• Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge access​

Pricing is similar to or higher than Chase Club depending on seat location and event. Best for high-rollers or corporate groups who want the full VIP treatment.​

Benchmark International Club Level (Standard Club)

The renamed club level (formerly Club Lexus area) sits on the second tier between Chase Club and the Loge Boxes. Important: these seats do not include all-inclusive food and beverage unless you specifically buy “The Mark” or Ashley VIP tickets.​

What you do get:

• Access to private club-level concourse with premium food vendors
• Multiple bars and upscale lounge areas
• Private, nicer bathrooms (shorter lines)
• Excellent viewing height and sightlines​

Tickets run $150-$300+ depending on location and event. It’s a solid upgrade if you value comfort and shorter lines over being glass-side, but you’re still paying for every beer and hot dog.​

Loge Boxes (Ultra-Premium Semi-Suites)

Situated just off the lower bowl, Loge Boxes deliver 5-star hospitality with premium catering options, concierge services, and semi-private viewing areas. These are for corporate clients or serious season ticket holders who want the suite experience without renting a full private suite. Think of them as mini-suites for smaller groups.​

Suites

Full private suites hold 18-50 guests with an indoor lounge plus outdoor terrace overlooking the arena bowl. Fully catered food and drinks available (usually purchased separately), HDTVs, wet bar, private restrooms, the works.​

Suites run $4,000-$8,000 for most Lightning games, higher for playoffs and big-name concerts. Best for corporate events, milestone celebrations, or when someone else is paying. I’ve been invited to a couple and they’re obviously amazing—you’re hosting your own private party with a view of the game.​

Club Areas

The Mark – All-inclusive club access for Ashley VIP Lounge ticket holders during Lightning games. Upscale buffet, full bar, lounge seating, top-shelf everything.​

Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge – Speakeasy-style cigar lounge for premium ticket holders with hand-rolled cigars, specialty cocktails, and gourmet small plates. Very Tampa, very exclusive, very expensive.​

I haven’t seen current 2025 references to the 502 Club (named for Dave Andreychuk’s retired number) or Club W (the luxury nightclub experience), so those may have been rebranded or discontinued during the arena’s recent renovations and naming change. The focus now seems to be on Ashley VIP Lounge, The Mark, Chase Club, and the Benchmark International Club offerings. With the name change i imagine the premium seating options will change, so i’ll keep an eye on the naming. Its exhausting.

Tampa Bay Lightning Tickets

Getting tickets to Tampa Bay Lightning games or events at the arena can be a straightforward process if you know where to look. Here’s an overview of the best ways to secure tickets:

• Get your Tampa Bay Lightning Tickets Here! Check out our partner Vivid Seats for tickets to Lightning, Bucs, Magic, Gators or Seminoles games or any event at Benchmark International Arena!
• Official Website: The most reliable way to purchase tickets is through the official website of the Tampa Bay Lightning or Benchmark International Arena. They often release tickets for sale well in advance of events and offer various seating options.
• Season Tickets: If you’re a die-hard Lightning fan, consider purchasing season tickets directly from the team. Season ticket holders often receive perks such as priority access to playoff tickets and exclusive events.
• Membership Clubs: Many sports teams offer membership clubs or fan clubs that provide exclusive access to tickets, discounts, and other benefits. Check if the Tampa Bay Lightning offers any membership programs that include ticket perks.
• Secondary Market: Keep an eye on secondary marketplaces like Craigslist or local classified ads for potential ticket deals. Exercise caution and ensure the legitimacy of the seller before purchasing from these platforms.

Remember to purchase tickets from trusted sources to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets. Additionally, be mindful of ticket availability, especially for popular games or events, and consider purchasing tickets well in advance to secure your desired seats.

Benchmark International Arena Seating Chart

The Arena has a maximum seating capacity of 19,092 for hockey games and concerts. Here is a current Seating Chart on the update website.

Benchmark Arena Bag Policy

The bag policy at Benchmark International Arena in Tampa is straightforward but stricter for hockey games. Bags larger than 12x12x12 inches are prohibited, and all large bags must go through an x-ray scanner before entry.​

For Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games specifically, bags larger than 4x6x1.5 inches require x-ray screening. This catches people off guard—basically anything bigger than a small purse or wallet is getting scanned, which adds time to your entry.​

Medical and parenting bags exceeding these limits are permitted but subject to additional search. There is no bag check or storage service, so if your bag is too big, you’re walking back to your car.​

Pro tip: Bring the smallest bag possible or just use your pockets. I’ve seen people turned away at the gates because they weren’t prepared.

Additional Policies To Know

Cashless Arena: The arena is cashless for concessions, retail, and merchandise. You’ll need a credit card, debit card, or mobile payment. Concert merch tables may still accept cash since touring artists run those.​

Mobile Tickets Only: All tickets are accessed via your phone through Ticketmaster or the Lightning app. Screenshot them or save offline in case cell service is spotty—nothing worse than a dead phone in the entry line.​

Prohibited Items: You cannot bring: bags over 12x12x12 inches, video/audio recording devices, weapons, bottles or cans (except one empty plastic water bottle to fill at water stations), outside food or drinks, laser pointers, or noisemakers.​

The one empty plastic bottle exception is clutch—fill it at touchless water stations inside and save $6 per bottle.​

No Re-Entry: Once you leave, you cannot come back in. Plan accordingly.​

Camera Rules: For hockey games, still cameras with lenses under 6 inches are allowed. For concerts, only small point-and-click cameras—no professional gear or video recording.​

Bottom line: Keep it simple—bring a tiny bag or none at all, have mobile tickets ready on your phone, and bring a card for cashless payments. Arrive early to account for security lines, especially for big games. Don’t try bringing outside food, drinks, or anything on the prohibited list—there’s no storage, so you’ll be tossing stuff or walking back to your car.

Benchmark International Arena Parking

When driving to the Arena, be sure to allot extra time to account for traffic, especially for big games or concerts. Approach downtown from the north or south (if you can) to avoid congestion on the expressways near the arena. Parking attendants will direct you to garages and lots – follow their signals. Prices range from $10-25 depending on proximity. The onsite Channelside Parking Garage offers the most convenient parking adjacent to the arena entrance.

Parking Tips:

• Pre-purchase parking passes online in advance whenever possible. This guarantees you a spot and will save time driving in.
• Arrive early, at least 1 hour before puck drop or showtime, to get parked and inside stress-free.
• Consider using public transportation or ride shares to avoid parking altogether. The TECO streetcar and city buses stop right at the Arena.
• Don’t leave right away after the event ends. Grabbing a bite or walking around Channelside district allows traffic to thin out.

With proper planning and preparation, parking at the Arena for a Lightning game or concert can be a breeze. Arrive early, purchase passes in advance online, and consider public transit to avoid parking woes. Follow parking attendants’ directions and be patient when leaving the venue. With these tips, you’ll have no problem parking and enjoying all the action at the arena.

Public Transportation

Getting to Benchmark International Arena using Tampa’s public transportation system is an easy and affordable option for visitors and locals alike. By taking the streetcar, city buses, or water taxi, you can avoid driving and hunting for parking near the busy arena.

• TECO Line Streetcar: The TECO Line Streetcar is a modern, convenient way to reach the Arena. Streetcars run frequently from downtown Tampa into the Channelside District with a stop right at the front entrance of the arena. The closest stop is called Whiting Street Station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the entrance. Streetcars operate daily, arriving every 15-30 minutes. Fares are $2.50 per ride each way. The streetcar is air-conditioned, wheelchair accessible, and allows bicycles on board.
• HART Buses: HART operates a number of bus routes that stop near the Arena’s entrance in Channelside. Route 30 runs directly from Downtown Tampa into Channelside, stopping right in front of the arena entrance. Other options are Route 96 from the Westshore area, Route 400 from St. Petersburg, and the Marion Transit Center Shuttle from downtown. Buses arrive frequently and fares are $2.25 per ride with day/weekly passes available. The Marion Transit Center is a short walk over the bridge from the arena.
• Pirate Water Taxi: For a fun water ride, the Pirate Water Taxi is a unique option to reach Benchmark International Arena. Water taxis depart frequently, around every 15-20 minutes, from various points along the Tampa Bay waterfront. The Channelside/Arena stop will drop you off right next to the arena. Fares are $2 per one-way ride. Water taxis run daily.

By taking advantage of Tampa’s streetcar system, city buses, or water taxi, visitors to the Arena can avoid driving hassles and parking challenges. Public transportation provides an easy and affordable way to enjoy events at the arena.

Rideshare Tips 

• Rideshare drivers such as Uber and Lyft can drop passengers off right at the main entrance of the Arena. The designated rideshare drop-off zone is located on Old Water Street, directly in front of the arena entrance gates.
• This area will be clearly marked for rideshare use only during events at the arena.
• Drivers are able to safely pull over in this zone to drop off passengers right at the gate, providing the closest and most convenient access. Attendees can then walk right into the arena entrance quickly after being dropped off.

Rideshare Pick-Up

• After events at the Arena, rideshare pick-up occurs across the street on Channelside Drive. There will be signs and staff directing attendees where to go for rideshare pick-up.
• Multiple rideshare vehicles can safely load passengers along Channelside Drive.
• The rideshare pick-up area is still quite close to the arena, allowing quick access after events. Attendees will need to cross the street using the marked crosswalks to access the rideshare pick-up area.
• Police are on duty to direct traffic and assist with pedestrians crossing.

By using the designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up zones, Arena attendees can easily get to and from events. Careful coordination allows safe, smooth transportation by rideshare services.

Benchmark International Arena Insider Tips

I’ve been to enough Lightning games at this place to know all the little shortcuts and quirks that make your night smoother. These are the things nobody tells you until you’ve learned them the hard way—or until you read this.

Food Strategy (Where to Eat, What to Skip)

Hit the new local vendors for actually good food. The arena just dropped $2 million on a food and beverage overhaul for the 2025-26 season. New additions include Gangchu Chicken (Tampa’s Korean fried chicken spot) and Little Greek. These are actual local restaurants, not generic arena chains.​​

Outback Steakhouse at Section 117 has the Bloomin’ Burger. It’s topped with Bloomin’ Onion petals and that spicy bloom sauce, and you can only get it inside the arena. I grabbed one last season and it’s absurdly indulgent but worth it once.​

Moschella’s Italian at Section 108 is clutch for pasta. Italian plates, sandwiches, salads, and desserts—way better than standard concourse food. If you want something more substantial than a hot dog, this is your move.​

Bull Market (Section 311) for Asian fusion. Bowls, spring rolls, dumplings, sandwiches. Upper bowl food is usually an afterthought at most arenas, but this spot is legit.​

Bowl’d Over (Section 323) for bao buns. Chicken and pork bao buns with bold Asian flavors. Another upper-level option that punches above its weight.​

Tampa Bay Market (Section 112) is the Swiss Army knife stand. Hot dogs, Italian sausage, turkey panini, empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, candy, cookies, donut holes, Dippin’ Dots, popcorn, pretzels, and Mister Softee ice cream. If your group can’t agree on anything, send everyone here.​

Cuban sandwiches and empanadas are everywhere. This is Tampa—the Cuban sandwich is a local treasure and you’ll find it at multiple stands. Way better than most arena food and very Florida.​

Self-checkout is coming/already here. The arena rolled out self-checkout kiosks as part of the $2 million upgrade. Skip the long lines at traditional stands and scan your own stuff. Game-changer during intermissions.​

Drink Hacks

Budweiser Biergarten has outdoor deck views. It’s an outdoor bar area where you can grab a beer and look out over downtown Tampa during intermissions. Way better vibe than standing in a crowded concourse.​

Between the Pipes bar on the 300 level. Another solid bar option in the upper bowl with craft beers and cocktails. Less crowded than the main concourse bars.​

Cigar City Brewing Taproom Downtown is inside the arena. Tampa’s most famous craft brewery has a taproom stand serving their Jai Alai IPA and other local brews. If you’re doing beer, skip the Bud Light line and get something actually from Tampa.​

Timing & Crowd Management

Arrive 60-90 minutes early for big games. Doors usually open 90 minutes before puck drop, and that window is golden. You beat the food lines, grab a drink, explore the concourse, and actually relax before the chaos hits.​​

If you show up 20 minutes before game time, you’re fighting crowds, missing warmups, and choosing between seeing the opening faceoff or eating dinner.

Bathrooms on the 200 level are less slammed. Main concourse (100 level) bathrooms have brutal lines during intermissions. Walk up to the 200 level even if your seats are down low—it’s faster and you’ll thank me.​

Order food through the arena app during the game. I haven’t personally tested this at Benchmark yet, but most modern arenas let you order ahead via app and skip pickup lines. Check if it’s available—total time saver during second intermission when everyone’s rushing concessions.

Get food during the first period, not intermission. Everyone waits until intermission to eat, which means 15-minute lines. Grab your food halfway through the first period when the concourse is dead. You’ll miss 5 minutes of hockey but save 20 minutes of standing.

Ticket & Entry Tricks

Secondary markets drop prices day-of for weeknight games. For non-premium matchups (Blue Jackets, Ducks, Sharks), check StubHub or SeatGeek a few hours before puck drop. I’ve seen upper bowl tickets fall to $15-$25 last-minute.​

Avoid TicketMaster fees when possible, but beware scams. The only truly secure way to get tickets is through TicketMaster directly. StubHub and SeatGeek are legit resale sites, but you’re paying resale markups. Never buy from randos on Facebook or Craigslist—scams are rampant for Lightning games.​

Single seats get dumped cheap. Nobody wants to sit alone, so single tickets in good sections often sell below face value. I’ve scored lower bowl seats for 40% off just because it was a solo ticket wedged between season ticket holders.

Random Arena Hacks

The arena’s been renamed but everyone still calls it Amalie. It officially became Benchmark International Arena in August 2025, but you’ll hear “Amalie” constantly. Don’t be confused—it’s the same building, just a new sponsor.​

Championship banners block jumbotron views in some upper bowl seats. If you’re sitting directly behind the net in the 300 level, the Stanley Cup banners hang in your sightline when you try to watch replays. Stick to center ice upper sections to avoid this.​

The glass seats are overrated for actually watching hockey. I know it sounds cool to be right on the glass, but the first 10 rows of the lower bowl have terrible sightlines—you miss plays on your end and spend half the game watching the jumbotron. Save your money and sit higher.​

Grab-N-Go stands (Sections 114, 118) for quick snacks. Pre-packaged salads, snacks, and drinks you can grab without waiting in line. Perfect if you just need water or a quick bite.​

Gluten-free and vegan options are scattered throughout. If you have dietary restrictions, look for Grab-N-Go stands (buttered popcorn, tomato mozzarella salad, pushPRO protein snacks, Good Mood Food power bites). Most burger stands offer GF buns now too.​

Playoff & Big Game Tips

Prices skyrocket for playoffs and rivalry games. That $31 upper bowl ticket against Columbus? It’ll be $150+ for a playoff game against Toronto or Boston. Buy early if you know you’re going, or accept paying premium prices closer to game day.​

The atmosphere during playoffs is unmatched. I’ve been to playoff games here and the energy is absolutely electric. The building shakes, the crowd is deafening, and it’s legitimately one of the best sports experiences in North America. Worth paying extra if you can swing it.

Warmups are worth arriving early for. Get there when doors open and head down to the glass during warmups (before ushers kick you out). You can watch players up close, see their routines, maybe snag a puck. It’s free entertainment and a huge part of the experience, especially for first-timers or kids.

Local Food Flex

PDQ chicken tenders are a Florida thing. PDQ (People Dedicated to Quality) is a regional fast-casual chicken spot, and they have a stand inside the arena. If you’ve never had it, it’s solid—better than generic arena chicken tenders.​

Ford’s Garage burgers are also local. Florida-based brewpub chain with a stand inside. Their burgers are legit, and they lean into the car-garage theme which is kinda fun.​

Hotels Near Benchmark International Arena (Formerly Amalie Arena)

The arena is located in downtown Tampa’s Channelside District, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. There are many hotel options steps away that make attending events easy. Staying near the arena allows you to walk to games or shows and avoid parking hassles. Here are some hotels near Amalie Arena in Tampa with some budget options:

• JW Marriott Tampa Water Street: This luxury hotel is directly connected to Amalie Arena via skybridge. Offers high-end spa, pools, and dining options.
• The Westin Tampa Waterside: Upscale hotel located across the street from Amalie Arena. Great city views and amenities like a spa and restaurants.
• Embassy Suites Tampa Convention Center: All-suite hotel adjacent to arena. Complimentary happy hour and cooked breakfast. Great for families.
• Epicurean Hotel: Boutique hotel directly across from arena. Farm-to-table dining and a renowned spa onsite.
• Hampton Inn & Suites: One block from arena with free breakfast, WiFi, and modern rooms with fridges/microwaves.
• Aloft Tampa Downtown: Lively hotel 4 minutes walk to arena. Outdoor pool, bar, and grab-and-go food options.
• Holiday Inn Express: Budget-friendly hotel 0.2 miles from arena. Free breakfast, pool, and downtown shuttle.
• Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown: Stylish hotel 6 minute walk to arena and convention center. Free WiFi and hot breakfast.
• Hampton Inn Channelside: 7 minute walk from arena. Heated outdoor pool, free breakfast and WiFi. Budget choice.
• SpringHill Suites: Affordable hotel 0.4 miles from arena. Free breakfast buffet and rooftop pool.

If you’re looking to stay near the arena for a night or two for a game or event we recommend booking.com. The offer consistently good rates especially if you book in advance. With so many great places near the arena its recommended to try to stay close if you can!

Restaurants Near Benchmark International Arena

Benchmark International Arena is located right in the heart of downtown Tampa, surrounded by great dining and nightlife options. The Channelside District just steps away offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment all within walking distance of the arena. Here are some top picks near the Arena:

• Sparkman Wharf: This waterfront beer garden features a mix of food trucks and outdoor bars. Great spot for drinks and casual eats.
• YEBO Beach Haus: Open-air restaurant with global street food and tropical drinks. Festive vibe with fire pits and live music.
• Splitsville Luxury Lanes: Upscale bowling alley with billiards, an arcade, and restaurant serving American classics and sushi.
• The Sail: Rooftop bar atop the Tampa Marriott Waterside hotel. Offers panoramic city views, cocktails, and light bites.
• Texas de Brazil: Popular Brazilian steakhouse with rodizio-style meats carved tableside plus an extensive salad bar.
• Edison Food: Drink Lab: Industrial-chic eatery with global fusion dishes and craft cocktails.
• Hattricks Tavern: Lively sports bar next to the arena serving American pub favorites like wings, burgers and more.
• Bay Star Restaurant: Waterfront seafood restaurant providing fresh local catches with outdoor patio seating.
• Dragonfly Sushi and Sake Co: Hip sushi restaurant and sake lounge with a modern ambiance and extensive sushi menu.
• Cigar City Brewing: Local Tampa brewery taproom featuring house-brewed beers and ciders.

In addition to Channelside, downtown Tampa’s Soho and Hyde Park neighborhoods also offer plenty of nightlife, shopping, and dining options to explore before or after events at the Arena. With so many choices nearby, you are sure to find great places to eat, drink, and have fun.

Great Beaches in The Tampa/St. Petersburg Metro

If you’re in from out of town for an event, don’t forget the beaches With its prime location on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Tampa Bay region is blessed with a number of beautiful, sandy beaches to enjoy. From isolated getaways to lively social scenes, here are 5 top beach destinations not to miss.

• Clearwater Beach: Clearwater’s award-winning beach has sparkling white sand and calm Gulf waters perfect for swimming. Pier 60 is the place to be at sunset with street performers and craft vendors.
• St. Pete Beach: Twelve miles of pure soft sand and crystal clear water make this barrier island beach a favorite. Pass-a-Grille at the southern tip offers a quaint, laid-back vibe.
• Siesta Key Beach: Situated on a barrier island near Sarasota, Siesta Key is consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the U.S. with its pristine quartz sand and family-friendly amenities.
• Fort De Soto Park: Made up of five interconnected islands, this county park offers some of the area’s most secluded and unspoiled beaches with hiking trails, camping, and kayak rentals available.
• Honeymoon Island State Park: Accessible by the Dunedin Causeway, Honeymoon Island offers four miles of peaceful shoreline in a natural setting complete with a nature trail through the woods and an osprey nesting area.

These beaches are within about 45 minutes to a bit over an hour down to Siesta Key so plan accordingly. Some of these may be a good add on day to your trip. With beautiful sugar-sand beaches, soothing Gulf waters, and amazing sunsets, the Tampa Bay region truly shines when it comes to beachgoing. Each destination offers its own unique vibe and activities for unforgettable waterfront fun.

Fun Things To Do In Tampa

Tampa offers a diverse array of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From adrenaline-pumping theme parks to fascinating museums to vibrant cultural districts, there are many ways to experience Tampa’s unique charms. When visiting this sunny Gulf Coast city, be sure to add these exciting attractions to your Tampa itinerary.

1. Busch Gardens: This world-class theme park thrills with epic rollercoasters, shows, and animal encounters. The serengeti safari, montu, and sheikra are highlights.
2. Ybor City: Tampa’s vibrant historic Latin quarter features shops, eateries, and nightlife. Stroll 7th Avenue and tour cigar factories.
3. Tampa Riverwalk: Walk or bike the scenic path along the Hillsborough River through downtown. Stop at Curtis Hixon Park, Glazer Children’s Museum, and more.
4. Lowry Park Zoo: Get up close to wildlife like rhinos, cheetahs and manatees at this top Tampa zoo. Don’t miss the safari Africa exhibit.
5. Sparkman Wharf: Hang out waterside at this downtown park’s bocce courts, beer garden, food trucks, and live music stage.

Here are some other guides in the Tampa area and around Florida. Let us know if we missed anything:

Raymond James Stadium

Kia Center in Orlando

Florida and Florida State Football

Inter Miami Games for Soccer Fans who want to see the Great Messi.

Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.