A holiday vacation favorite, Tampa a city located in Florida which offers year-round sunshine and a rich culture that includes a clear Cuban influence- from the historic buildings to the sounds of acoustic music and smells of Spanish spices drifting from city-center restaurants.
It’s also an increasingly trendy destination and the urban heart of Florida’s Gulf coast has been officially mentioned as being one of the hippest communities in the U.S. Head to Tampa Bay and you’ll find an abundance of craft breweries, coffee shops galore, cool restaurants, and plenty of funky fun.
There are also some equally special places to stay, from chic boutiques to trendy large hotels, here are the Top 10 cool and unusual hotels in Tampa, Florida (in no particular order)…
1. Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection – a unique, hip and very Instagrammable experience-based hotel perfect for food and wine lovers
Neutral colors and reclaimed wood provide the backdrop for enjoying locally crafted beers, top-level food, and an in-house spa. With its freshly made treatments, Spa Evangeline is the place to indulge the senses.
Or if you’re a foodie or wine connoisseur, you may enjoy the ‘Epicurean theatre’ a calendar of events ranging from learning about Florida oysters to a Thanksgiving dine-in.
The Élevage restaurant offers innovative dishes from around the world, with two more excellent sister restaurants around the corner. You can also enjoy the Tampa skyline from the hotel rooftop bar or pick something up from Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits in the lobby.
Located in South Tampa’s vibrant SoHo district, full of boutiques, a wide range of restaurants and bars, there’s no shortage of things to do on your doorstep.
- To book, check prices or availability for Epicurean Hotel Tampa
2. The Tampa EDITION – one of the most extraordinary and exotic hotels in Tampa that feature a colorful and beautiful interior, which is within walking distance from Tampa Bay History Center
The EDITION brings luxury on the grand scale to downtown Tampa, with a marble lobby full of lush tropical plants and a stunning spiral staircase that’s become an Instagram hit. There’s a rooftop pool and spa in a setting of setting of cinematic splendor with pink flowering bougainvillea, fresh flowers throughout the hotel, and a range of upscale dining venues.
The interiors designed by Roman & Williams revel in simple color schemes: green and gold in the lobby, white and beige in the rooms framed by views of green trees and blue skies, and neon colors at the Arts Club Dance Floor.
The rooms are spacious and airy in the Florida style, with signature EDITION faux fur throws, white-lacquer Norman Cherner chairs, and surrealist prints by Rodney Smith. Some rooms and suites have balconies and garden terraces, and all have city or garden views.
Michelin-starred chef John Fraser is in charge of the seven onsite restaurants, lounges and bars. The Lilac restaurant specializes in Mediterranean dishes with local produce, and breakfast is served daily.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Tampa EDITION
3. Aloft Tampa Midtown – a cool, funky, and fun hotel perfect for partying Millenials and Gen Zs
Clean, sharp lines and soothing colors create the contemporary décor in this new Aloft hotel, located in Tampa Midtown. Alongside minimalism, there are also elements of geometric design, and the suspended spheres as you go up the stairs feel like they could have been lifted from an art installation.
Inside the bedrooms, pure white walls and Mondrian-inspired patterns help give even the smaller bedrooms an airy feel.
On the rooftop, you can sip crafted cocktails by the pool while soaking up the Florida rays or enjoy modern Latin food at the Sal Y Mar restaurant. Not far from downtown Tampa and the International airport makes this a convenient spot. Amenities-wise, there is also a fitness center, pool table, and 24hr-snack pantry.
- To book, check prices or availability for Aloft Tampa Midtown
4. Hotel Haya – a chic and modern design hotel with a fabulous swimming pool that reflects the cool vibes of the city
Hotel Haya is a new boutique hotel, not the biggest, but exceptionally rated and full of charm. Contemporary design meets comfort with cozy touches such as the wall of books and the sunny glass conservatory.
The Valencia Ballroom is not to be missed – an impressive setting for events, featuring a two-story-high ceiling with whitewashed brick and full-length windows.
The private courtyard pool is perfect for relaxing, or you could try the restaurant and café which serve up tasty bites from Cuban to Italian, Spanish to Mediterranean, inspired by the local area.
Located in the Ybor City, just 2 km for Tampa’s center, this abode is perfectly situated for exploring the different sides of this vibrant area. Other onsite facilities include a fitness center, garden, and meeting rooms.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Haya Tampa
5. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa – a fun, lively and cool music-themed hotel perfect for hip partying guests
This is one of the big daddies on the Tampa hotel scene. The signature Hard Rock décor features memorabilia from Beyonce to Bowie, setting the scene for fun times.
There’s top-draw entertainment at the Hard Rock Event Center, a music-themed casino, and no less than 5 restaurants and 3 bars. The restaurants and bars cater for every taste – American fare, sushi bar, deli, poolside grill, noodle bar, and Sugar Factory to finish for those with a sweet tooth.
Cementing its place as one of the biggest hotels in Tampa, the accommodation towers 17 stories high, housing 550 guest rooms and suites.
You can choose from 4 levels of luxury – up to the Gold Suite level – depending on the level of rockstar lifestyle you’re looking for.
- To book, check prices or availability for Seminole Hard Rock Hotel
6. Le Méridien Tampa – old-world courthouse charm meets all the mod cons in this unique Tampa boutique accommodation
Once an old courthouse, this imposing, stone-fronted building is now a gorgeous boutique hotel in downtown Tampa, cleverly blending a mix of historic architecture, marble hallways, and original oak with modern-day tech and comfort.
The features of the hotel tell the story of 100 years of history – from the original witness stand in the Bizou Brasserie to the elegant gold elevator doors.
The courthouse ballroom boasts original oak paneling, and floor-to-ceiling windows, and the gold eagle emblem has remained untouched, lending a regal feel to any event.
Soothing slate greys and mahogany woods create a calming environment in the bedrooms that fit with the hotel’s dignified atmosphere. Contemporary facilities include a business center, range of meeting rooms, pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.
- To book, check prices or availability for Le Méridien Tampa
7. Hotel Alba Tampa, Tapestry Collection By Hilton – a bright, chic and modern boutique hotel with hip industrial-chic touches
It’s not hard to see why this hotel is exceptionally rated. Large windows fill the Hotel Alba Tampa with light in the lobby, the restaurant, and the bedrooms.
The simple, but super-stylish decor beautifully sets off a stunning collection of local student artwork. Strong community links can also be found in the two restaurants which focus on local ingredients, serving Florida cuisine with a Spanish fusion.
To unwind, try a poolside drink in the Tampa sunshine or relax under one of the cute straw huts offering some shade. If you prefer to venture further afield, downtown Tampa is just a short drive away.
The hotel regularly holds events thanks to their dedicated events team, 600-person ballroom, and host of meeting rooms.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Alba Tampa
8. Roost Tampa – a modern, bright and artful well-designed aparthotel that is perfect for guests to enjoy a comfy environment set in the heart of Tampa
The perfect home away from home for hip millennials and indeed for anyone who prefers spacious and homelike accommodations, Roost Tampa is located in the Water Street district. The neighborhood is worth exploring on foot or by bike, with downtown Channelside, the Arena, the History Museum and Riverwalk within walking distance,
The pet-friendly apartments have studio, one- and two-bedroom and coliving options. They have high ceilings and large windows that let in natural light, and the minimalist modern design is accented with green living plants, intriguing artwork and comfortable seating. There are all kinds of practical amenities like free wifi, a full kitchen and laundry machines.
Shared spaces include a garden, outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, lounge, gym and business center. The grilling area with outdoor TVs is especially popular, so you don’t have to miss your favorite program or game while picnicking.
- To book, check prices or availability for Roost Tampa
9. Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown – a trendy and colorful, sleek hotel that features a Latin vibe and is close to major attractions such as The Tampa Museum of Art and Glazer Childrens Museum
You’ll find chic Florida style with a Latin flair in this downtown Tampa hotel, winner of a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2022 award. It’s located near the Riverwalk, Tampa Museum of Art, Amalie Arena and you can take the free streetcar to Ybor City with its nightlife and entertainment.
The interiors are spacious and full of light, with colorful artwork and an emphasis on comfort. Rooms come with couches and workstations, and a TV that swivels from seating areas to the bed. A mini fridge and coffee maker will help keep you fueled, and some rooms have a full kitchen. There’s a 24/7 gym and a heated outdoor swimming pool on the fifth floor with a great view of the downtown area.
The Corazon Bar & Restaurant will satisfy cravings you didn’t know you had for favorite foods like burgers, tacos and fish with a Cuban flavor, and it has patio outdoor seating as well as a cozy interior. A complimentary breakfast is served every morning with delicious fresh tacos, scrambled eggs, and fruit.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown
10. Element – a contemporary, stylish and refined hotel that is within walking distance to major shops and restaurants, located in the heart of Midtown Tampa
When Element hotels meet hip Tampa style, you get airy spaces full of natural light, the blues of sky and water alongside the lush greens of tropical foliage, and understated, laid back luxury. Plus a great midtown location, buzzing with energy and great shops and restaurants to explore.
The rooms have signature Heavenly Beds, ergonomic workstations, 65″ Smart TVs and a kitchenette or full kitchen. The gorgeous rooftop bar Sal y Mar has tapas and handcrafted cocktails and a poolside setting.
Other amenities onsite include free bikes, private parking, a fitness centre and a healthy Rise breakfast buffet. The Restore: Gourmet Pantry has everything you could need for nutrition on the go with drinks, healthy snacks and grab-and-go meals.
- To book, check prices or availability for Element
11. The CURRENT Hotel, Autograph Collection – a chic luxury hotel delivering amazing views
Polished woods, rich brown leathers, and open spaces give the lobby an immediate feel of luxury and warmth. But what sets this hotel apart are the fabulous views.
Every room has a ceiling-to-floor view of Tampa Bay, and the restaurant and ballroom offer panoramic views of the calming waterfront – as does the pool. If you enjoy soaking up stunning sunsets – or sunrises – this is for you. As if that’s not enough, the hotel has its own private beach area for guests to relax in.
To refuel, there’s either Tampa’s tallest rooftop bar or the Julian restaurant serving locally inspired light options. A state-of-the-art fitness center, meeting rooms, and business services complete the amenities package.
- To book, check prices or availability for The CURRENT Hotel
12. AC Hotel Tampa by Marriott Tampa Airport – a bright, airy, elegant, and sophisticated place to stay in sexy Tampa
Flooded with light, and decorated in whites, creams and neutral shades, the interior of the AC Hotel Tampa is simple, streamlined, and chic. Carefully curated decorative pieces add subtle touches of color and interest. The exterior of the hotel is also impressive with a huge digital board, lighting up the night sky.
Style meets convenience with a range of meeting rooms, events rooms, and media salons. Or you can enjoy the 24-hour fully-equipped fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows or the outdoor pool in the famous Florida warmth.
The AC Kitchen serves a European-style breakfast, and craft beers, cocktails, and tapas are available in the lounge.
Not far from downtown Tampa, the AC Hotel Tampa is in a great spot for exploring the Tampa area.
- To book, check prices or availability for AC Hotel Tampa
13. The Westshore Grand, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Tampa – a chic contemporary hotel where style meets comfort
Sleek on the outside and with a comfortable, chic interior, punctuated with pops of color, the Westmore Grand is suited for business or pleasure.
The private courtyard is especially lovely for a bit of reading, chatting, or working, surrounded by vibrant greenery and calming water features. Or you might prefer to take in views of Tampa from the heated rooftop pool.
Situated in the Westshore business district, but only a few miles from downtown Tampa, the hotel is in a great location whatever your purpose.
From the meeting rooms and business center to the ballroom all options for events are covered. Spacious bedrooms, fitness center, and fine dining restaurant make for a comfortable base to explore the Tampa area.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Westshore Grand Tampa
14. LEAGUE 704 at West Shore – a modern boutique apartment perfect for a longer stay in Tampa
For the more independent traveler, these stylish apartments, decorated with a relaxed color scheme and comfortable furniture, have everything you need – an uncluttered living space with all the necessary facilities.
Air conditioning, Wi-Fi, fully fitted kitchens and lounge area make a home from home.
A lovely patio and pool area sits in the heart of the apartment blocks for relaxing after a busy day enjoying the local culture and many attractions Tampa has to offer.
Located in the Westshore district, not far from Ben T Davis Beach, and just a short drive to the waterfront or downtown Tampa, this is a great base for taking your break at your own pace.
- To book, check prices or availability for LEAGUE 704 at West Shore
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Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always been a sucker for an adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued his taste for seeking out new cultures. So much in fact he now travels the world as a trading digital nomad, exploring everything from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, street food, playing carrom, and fine wine and knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations.