In a city as vibrant and diverse as Tampa, FL, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect date night. Whether you’re looking to break out of the ordinary for date night or you’re celebrating a milestone like an anniversary, the options are endless! As Central Florida wedding photographers, couples are sort of our speciality, so we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Tampa date night ideas & restaurant recommendations.

FAQ:

Does Tampa have a nightlife?

Absolutely! There’s no shortage of things to do in Tampa, especially at night.  Whether you’re looking for entertainment, cocktails, or a high-end dinner at a swanky restaurant, you’ll find all of the above in downtown Tampa.

Where do people hang out in Tampa?

It depends on your taste.  The riverwalk is a popular destination where you can visit multiple businesses or restaurants during your stroll with a view of the waterfront.  There’s nearly always an event happening somewhere in town, whether it’s hosted at a local business or one of our many parks.  The community is unmatched!

Outdoor Things to Do in Tampa Florida for Couples

1. Talk a walk along Tampa River Walk

Named one of the top 10 River Walks in the US, the Tampa River Walk is the total Tampa date night package! Take in the scenic waterfront views hand-in-hand or, if you’re more adventurous, scooter along the river walk. Countless bars, restaurants, and attractions line the walk, so you’re guaranteed to have a fun evening out together.

2. Paddle boarding at Weeki Wachee Springs

My favorite day date in Tampa is paddle boarding at Weeki Wachee Springs! Whether you’re experienced at paddle boarding or trying it for the first time, the park staff will help guide you.  You’re in for a treat with fun in the sun as you paddle down the  crystal clear Weeki Wachee River. The two of you will get to experience marine life in their natural habitat (including manatees!) during your visit.

3. Picnic at Curtis Hixon Park

Speaking of the River Walk, Curtis Hixon Park is a stop along the way & their sloped lawn is the perfect spot for a romantic picnic.  Check to see what special event they’re hosting or spend the afternoon hanging out in the dog park with your furry friends.  Enjoy the views of the waterfront and take a water taxi to continue your Tampa date night.

4. Explore St. Pete Pier

St. Pete Pier is a one stop shop for just about any date night plan you could envision! Tour the St. Petersburg Museum of History, enjoy a meal and a drink overlooking Tampa Bay at one of the many restaurants that line the pier, or cast a line from the fishing deck.  The choices are plentiful and you’re guaranteed a good time.

5. Hit the beach for a relaxing & romantic evening

A romantic evening on the beach is a classic date night idea and for good reason! Who doesn’t want to spend the evening relaxing in hammocks or enjoying a blanket picnic on the sand watching the sun sink into the water?

Fun Date Night Ideas in Tampa

1. Top Golf

Show off your competitive streak with a friendly game of golf at Top Golf Tampa. They’ve just debuted a new game for added fun, and don’t forget to order drinks & apps while you play! The best part?  They offer half off on Tuesdays– what better excuse not to wait for the weekend for your date night?

2. St. Pete Shuffleboard

Pack snacks and drinks (no glass bottles please) and head to St. Pete Shuffleboard for their Friday Night St. Pete Shuffle! Never played before? Not a problem! Their staff and volunteers are there to teach you.  They don’t reserve courts on Fridays, so you’ll want to arrive early to be sure you have one available for your shuffleboard date.

3. Popstroke

Can’t decide between an ice cream date, dinner & drinks, or mini golf? At Popstroke, you don’t have to  choose!  Play a round of golf and use their app to have your drinks delivered to you on the course.  Their full service restaurant offers a great selection of made-from-scratch dishes and appetizers, plus frozen treats for dessert.  For one price, you can make it an entire date day!

4. Dave and Busters

Want to channel your inner  child with arcade games and tons of fun?  Dave and Busters has it all!  Watch the game on the flat screens, chat over drinks at happy hour, challenge each other to a game of pool, and chow down on an order of wings. (P.S.- They offer half price games on Wednesdays!)

5. Park and Rec in St. Pete

You can always count on St. Petersburg Parks & Rec for a good time with their extensive calendar of special events. The downtown waterfront is another great stop for food, drinks, and games surrounded by the vibrant, fun-loving community.

Unique and Creative Tampa Bay Date Night Ideas

1. Candle Pour

Our personal favorite for a unique date night is heading to The Candle Pour to make our own candles.  The process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, and during that time, you get to blend your own personal fragrance and pour the wax for a customized candle you take home once it sets.  It’s a date night with a souvenir!

2. You Do the Dishes

Get creative while you make your own pottery together at You Do the Dishes! They boast a full serve coffee & tea bar which means you can enjoy a delicious drink while you paint.  It’s an unforgettable experience and is sure to shake things up for date night!

3. Cooking Class at Sur La Table

Sur La Table has an impressive selection of date night cooking classes to choose from when you want to do something out of the ordinary for your night on the town. From French cuisine to Southeastern Asian dishes, they have a class for every palette! Check out their  calendar of events to learn a new skill together and put the recipe to use for at home date nights in the future.

Best Romantic Restaurants in Tampa

1. Meat Market

If you’re looking for an upscale dinner for your date night in Tampa, check out Meat Market for a truly delicious, high end experience.  Here you’ll find experienced, dedicated staff, and sleek, modern decor coupled with a curated selection of drinks & dishes. For special occasions and anniversaries, you can’t go wrong with Meat Market!

2. Azure at Tampa Edition

Azure at Tampa Edition is fine dining with a view.  Enjoy fresh, upscale, Greek dishes by a Michelin-star chef from this rooftop restaurant for a date night you’ll be talking about for years to come.

3. Bern’s Steakhouse

The award winning Bern’s Steakhouse in Tampa is an experience in and of itself.  The cherry on top, so to speak, is dessert in their Harry Waugh dessert room (a classic Tampa experience!)  Be sure to take a look at their dress code beforehand so you can plan accordingly & come ready for what they call a, “…gastronomic adventure.”

4. StarLite Dinner Cruise

Board the StarLite Sapphire Dining Yacht at St. Pete Beach for views of the open sea, dinner, & entertainment.  Admission gets you a 2.5-3 hour cruise, and you’ll enjoy a meal made with the freshest ingredients plus cocktails.  If this is a celebration, be sure to ask about their birthday & anniversary packages for even more indulgence!

5. The Dan at Hotel Flor

The Dan at Hotel Flor in downtown Tampa is a sight to behold. The roaring ‘20s meets the 2020s in this speakeasy inspired bar & restaurant.  It has the ambiance and smooth jazz of a bygone era, but many modern touches including a top notch drink menu and selection of swanky dinner entrees.   The Dan is a great choice for an upscale night on the town.

Fun Things to do in Tampa, Florida at Night

1. Jekyll Speakeasy

Tucked away in Hyde Park is the Jekyll Speakeasy, and it lives up to its name!  A password is required to enter and each drink is inspired by a literary classic.  It’s a fresh, exciting take on cocktail hour, ideal for any book lover or couple who wants to experience drinks as beautiful as they are delicious.

2. Watch a Movie or Enjoy a Comedy at Tampa Theatre

This historic community landmark first built in 1926 has been a popular date night destination for nearly 100 years! They host more than 700 events each year, so you’re sure to find a film or live show to enjoy with your person.  Word to the wise– Tampa Theatre recommends balcony seating for date night smooches.

3. Straz Center

For couples who appreciate the performing arts, look no farther than Straz Center in Tampa.  Whether you’re in the mood for broadway productions, shows, ballets, operas, or a play that’ll hook you from the first scene, they’ve got you covered.

4. Drip in Ybor City

For a fun night of creativity and learning, head to Drip for pottery, mosaics, t-shirt design, or an in depth workshop to learn the crafts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced creative, Drip has something for everyone.

Day Date Ideas in Tampa

1. Ulele

Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and Native American-inspired dishes, Ulele  is a favorite. This restaurant and brewery is perfect for a casual lunch date, or enjoy dinner and a stroll along the riverwalk.

2. Urban Stillhouse

Reservations are required for this sophisticated yet cozy, but it’s well worth the advance planning.  The menu is based around classic staples with an elevated touch and the brunch menu at Urban Stillhouse is one you don’t want to miss!

3. Oxford Exchange

For breakfast, brunch, & lunch, or afternoon tea in Tampa, don’t miss an opportunity to visit Oxford Exchange. Afternoon tea is from 3-5PM and you’ll enjoy a wide selection of beverages while surrounded by curated art pieces.  Oxford Exchange is our favorite lunch date destination.  We order their amazing whipped feta, grab a cup of tea, shop, and just sit to enjoy company and the atmosphere.

4. Hong Hot Pot

If you’ve never had a Hot Pot from Hong Hot Pot, go ahead and schedule your next date night around it!  This fun and interactive dining experience will allow the two of you to cook Chinese-style fondue dishes at your table together.

5. Columbia Restaurant

Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City or Sand Key Beach is an award winning restaurant that offers more than authentic Spanish cuisine.  They offer live entertainment with flamenco shows and a full experience with every visit.  You haven’t lived until you have tried some of the best Cuban food and their famous 1905 salad!

6. Gigglewaters

Looking for the perfect brunch spot for your day date in Tampa?  Check out Gigglewaters, especially on the weekends when you can order all-you-can-drink mimosas! You don’t have to wait until the weekend for brunch, however– they serve it daily.  This speakeasy style establishment even offers a screening room for dinner and a movie!

7. Bella’s Italian Cafe

If authentic Italian food is your love language, check out Bella’s on South Howard. The warm, inviting atmosphere is perfect for romance and it remains one of the most popular restaurants in Tampa for good reason!

8. Breweries

Tampa is home to many fantastic breweries where the two of you can taste test IPAs together over great conversation for a more laid back, casual date experience.

Tampa Date Night Photoshoot

If you really want a date night to remember, consider hiring me as your photographer to join you!  I’ll happily third wheel with my camera in hand to capture every candid look of adoration or stolen kiss during your evening together.  Take Clifton & Sophie for example: they planned a downtown Tampa date night session together and will use the photos for their upcoming elopement.  What better way to celebrate your love than with photos to document it for years to come?