Look-see trip in September... what to see?? (Tampa, Clearwater: hotel, houses)

[Leaving4Ca]

Hi all,

we are going to Tampa for 3 days in September for a quick look around... thinking of getting a hotel near the airport, and using that as a base. What specifically would you recommend we see, what areas or attractions, etc.,? The downtown? the beach area?

We are spending time one day with a realtor to look at some houses in Riverview, Valerico & Brandon area... just to get a feel of what you get for your money there. Coming from the metro DC area, I am sure we will be pleasantly surprised!

One night we will go to Lakeland to meet with friends and family too.

[jambo101]

Just 3 days wont give you much time to see much especially if one of those days will be spent seeing relatives in Lakeland and the best part of another day is going to be spent running around with a realtor..
Beaches? if you want active and touristy head for Johns Pass.
http://www.johnspass.com/
if you want something more wild head for Ft Desoto
,http://www.pinellascounty.org/park/05_Ft_DeSoto.htm
While in the area of Ft Desoto do a drive over the Skyway Bridge its scenic and impressive,do a u-turn in the rest area on the south side then drive over the bridge again or continue on to I-75N and do the loop back to Tampa..
Tampa itself? Ybor City is probably all you'll have time for, the Tampa Aquarium is nice but a bit pricey $30.

While Tampa seems like the place you want to be i wouldnt rule out St Petersburg as also being a potential as long as work doesnt force you into a commute to Tampa every day.

[BucFan]

Well if you're planning on moving to the area, I'd recommend you hold off on visiting the attractions until you're actually here. Why do things that you'll be looking to do when you're permanently here and can do at your leisure?

I'd recommend a Busch Gardens annual pass w/ parking included - then visit there at your leisure throughout the 365 yrs afterwards.

Bucs might have a game during the time you're here. The game will likely be sold out but tickets are available now on the Buc's website.

Tampa really doesn't have any beaches - Bradenton, St Pete, and Clearwater do. Tampa's beach (Ben Davis) is one of the least favorite in the area.

Other things to visit: Dali Museum in St Pete, The Tampa Bay Rays in St Pete (if they're in town), Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, USF Bulls football game (if your in town on a Saturday - cheap tickets available). Sept usually is miserably hot/humid, so prepare yourself.

Visit the MOSI at USF. Has an IMAX theater as well.

Ybor City might have something going on during your stay.