Tampa, Florida, has multiple attractions and fun activities for travelers to explore. One of the best things to do in Tampa is to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which is both an amusement park and a zoo. Additionally, in this destination, visitors can easily find museums, restaurants, shopping spots, and beautiful views of the coast. This theme park is truly a must-visit for ultimate family fun. You can make the excursion with your loved ones more memorable by staying in one of the family resorts in Tampa. Meanwhile, the city also has a rich history, which you might want to learn more about at sites such as Tampa Bay History Center. Another great option for history buffs is to book a place that will take them back to the past. For interesting stays, read on to find the best historic hotels in Tampa, Florida.
1. Le Méridien Tampa, The Courthouse (from USD 169)
Previously a Historic Federal Courthouse, this building has been around for a century and now functions as a beautiful hotel reminiscent of the past. Le Méridien Tampa is in a great location for those who wish to explore Tampa’s attractions, since Port Tampa Bay Cruise is only 1 mile away (1.6 kilometers) and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is only 9.6 miles (15.4 kilometers) away.
Guests who like keeping fit will be pleased to find that there’s a fitness center in this accommodation in Tampa. There’s also a swimming pool for those who prefer a quick swim. Meanwhile, each room includes a flat-screen TV with cable for indoor entertainment. Additionally, if you’re feeling hungry, you can head to the restaurant and bar found on the property.
Le Méridien Tampa, The Courthouse
Address: 601 North Florida Avenue
1.65 km (1.1 mi) from The Florida Aquarium
2. Floridan Palace Hotel, BW Premier Collection (from USD 95)
A grand 19-story hotel found in the middle of downtown Tampa, this hotel boasts an old-world charm mixed with the comforts of modern times. Originally built in 1926, it has earned its spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, it has since been restored with care, maintaining much of its detailed craftsmanship.
Free Wi-Fi is available in all the rooms of this unique place to stay in Tampa. Those who like staying active can freely access the fitness center. Guests can also venture out and visit nearby places such as Tampa Riverwalk, which is 640 meters (2,099.7 feet) away, and Arnalie Arena, which is 1.2 kilometers (745.6 miles) away.
Hotel Flor Tampa Downtown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Address: 905 N. Florida Ave, Tampa City Center, Tampa (FL), United States, 33602
1.62 km (1.1 mi) from The Florida Aquarium
Nearby historic hotels
3. The Don CeSar (from USD 389)
The Don CeSar has been around since 1928 and, with its long run, has welcomed many guests since then. This includes some of America’s most famous figures, from Robert de Niro to Cher. With this grand hotel boasting 241 remodeled guest rooms and 36 suites, it’s easy to understand why it attracts such a prominent crowd.
The property provides great views of wind-swept dunes and vast coastal views, while the rooms overlook the Gulf of Mexico. Additionally, luxurious amenities await you here. Two heated outdoor pools are available for relaxation or fun. Moreover, if you’re feeling hungry, you can have many dining options to choose from, including the new Beacon Pool Bar & Lookout. You can also opt for in-room dining for a more private meal.
The Don CeSar
Address: 3400 Gulf Boulevard
38.8 km (24.2 mi) from The Florida Aquarium
4. The Birchwood (from USD 295)
The Birchwood’s Spanish Mission-style building has been around since 1924 and was initially known as the Lantern Lane Apartments. Since then, it has undergone careful renovation with a focus on historical accuracy and has been added to the National Registry of Historic Places.
This boutique inn with its 18 rooms provides guests with a cozy and charming place to stay. Its main and most striking feature is the huge mural painted on one of its walls, which portrays a stunning birch forest. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided daily to those staying here. As for other meals, The Canopy Rooftop Bar and Lounge is ready to serve you not just international cuisine, but breathtaking skyline views, as well.
The Birchwood
Address: 340 Beach Drive Northeast
26.23 km (16.3 mi) from The Florida Aquarium
5. The Terrace Hotel Lakeland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (from USD 180)
First opened in 1924, this hotel was recognized as Lakeland’s first grand hotel and Florida’s first year-round hotel. Though it closed down briefly, it reopened in 1998, and guests can once again enjoy its magnificent rooms designed with historic charm. From here, guests can also appreciate the sweeping views of Lake Mirror and the Promenade.
The Terrace Hotel is found in the heart of Lakeland, located right on the main street. From here, a variety of dining and shopping options are just a block away. Additionally, guests who want to visit nearby attractions can visit Polk Theatre, RP Funding Center, and Swan Brewing, which are all just 1 mile (0.6 kilometers) away.
The Terrace Hotel Lakeland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Address: 329 East Main Street
49.42 km (30.8 mi) from The Florida Aquarium
6. Belleview Inn (from USD 314)
Constructed by Henry Plant, founder of a railroad system, this Victorian hotel was thoughtfully created for passengers who needed a place to stay. Though it closed in 2009 due to several reasons, the hotel has been successfully renovated in 2016 and accepts guests in its 35 grand guest rooms.
From this accommodation near Tampa, water lovers can enjoy an ocean adventure on Belleair Beach, just 2.5 kilometers (4 miles) away. For those who prefer a more private dip, visit the on-site swimming pool instead. When you’re not exploring attractions or splashing around in the water, feel free to walk around the garden or cozy up in your room, most of which feature fireplaces and chaise lounges.
Belleview Inn
Address: 25 Belleview Boulevard
35.83 km (22.3 mi) from The Florida Aquarium
7. Cordova Inn (from USD 156)
Towering in downtown St. Petersburg since 1921, Hotel Cordova has gone through multiple owners and some name changes over the years. It was only until 2001, once renovations were completed and things have settled down, that it became the Cordova Inn it is today.
Despite having been updated, the building still exhibits its original grand arches and vast rooms, exuding the same elegance as during its prime. The hotel consists of 32 guest rooms, each one providing a microwave, refrigerator, wet bar, and French duvet. Guests will also be able to use reliable Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Cordova Inn - Saint Petersburg
Address: 253 2nd Avenue North, St Petersburg Downtown, St. Petersburg (FL), United States, 33701
26.73 km (16.7 mi) from The Florida Aquarium
Explore Tampa's history with modern comforts
Great coastal views, various parks, and wildlife areas - no traveler will have a shortage of things to do in Tampa, Florida. If you decide to visit here, make sure to book one of the historic and best places to stay in and around Tampa to fully immerse yourself in all it has to offer.
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