Tampa Photography Spots: Capture the Best Views of the City!
Tampa is a city that is full of stunning photography spots. From beautiful beaches to colorful murals, Tampa has something for every photographer. Whether you are a professional photographer or love taking pictures, the city has a lot to offer.
If you are looking for the best photography spots in Tampa, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will be sharing some of the most Instagrammable places in Tampa.
We have scoured the city to find the most photogenic spots that are sure to make your Instagram feed pop. So grab your camera and get ready to explore the best photography spots in Tampa!
Historical Landmarks
Tampa is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to visit and photograph. Here are two of the most popular ones:
Ybor City
Ybor City is a historic neighborhood in Tampa that was founded in the 1880s by Vicente Martinez-Ybor, a cigar manufacturer. Today, it is a vibrant area with a mix of restaurants, bars, and shops. Ybor City is a great place to take photos of colorful buildings, street art, and historic landmarks.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Ybor City is the Ybor City Historic District, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The district includes over 950 historic buildings and is known for its unique architecture, which blends Mediterranean, Victorian, and Cuban styles.
Tampa Theatre
The Tampa Theatre is a historic movie palace in downtown Tampa that was built in 1926. The theater is known for its ornate architecture, including a decorative ceiling with stars and clouds, and a Wurlitzer organ that is still played before some shows.
The Tampa Theatre is a popular spot for photographers, especially during the annual Tampa Theatre Summer Classics series, which features classic films from the 1930s-1960s. The theater also hosts regular tours, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the theater’s history and architecture.
If you’re interested in photographing historic landmarks in Tampa, Ybor City and the Tampa Theatre are two must-visit spots.
Museums and Galleries
Tampa is a city that is rich in culture and history, and it’s no surprise that it has several museums and galleries that showcase the best of the city’s art scene. Here are two must-visit destinations for photography enthusiasts:
Tampa Museum of Art
The Tampa Museum of Art is a great place to visit for those who appreciate contemporary art. The museum features a collection of over 8,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Alex Katz, Robert Rauschenberg, and James Rosenquist. The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year, which feature works by local and international artists.
The museum is located in downtown Tampa, right next to the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. The building itself is a work of art, with a striking facade that features a perforated aluminum exterior.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free for children under the age of six.
Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts is a unique museum that is dedicated to the art of photography. The museum features a collection of over 5,000 works of art, including photographs, prints, and other forms of visual art. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned photographers such as Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Cindy Sherman.
The museum is located in Ybor City, which is known for its vibrant arts scene. The building itself is a historic landmark, with a beautiful brick facade that dates back to the early 1900s. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, and admission is free for members and children under the age of 12.
Both museums offer a unique and inspiring experience for photography enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art or traditional photography, these museums are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the art of photography.
Parks and Outdoors
If you’re looking for some of the best photography spots in Tampa, you won’t want to miss out on the city’s beautiful parks and outdoor areas. Here are a few of the top locations to check out.
Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. This 2.6-mile walkway runs along the Hillsborough River and offers stunning views of the water and the city skyline.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of great photo opportunities, from the colorful murals and sculptures to the bridges and boats that pass by. Be sure to check out the Tampa Riverwalk at sunset for some truly breathtaking shots.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a great place to capture some stunning outdoor photos. This 8-acre park features plenty of green space, a large water fountain, and a playground for kids.
You’ll also find a number of public art installations throughout the park, including the iconic “LOVE” sculpture. Whether you’re looking for a scenic backdrop or a unique piece of public art, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park has plenty to offer.
Bayshore Boulevard
For some of the best views of Tampa Bay, head to Bayshore Boulevard. This scenic road runs along the water and offers stunning views of the bay and the city skyline.
You’ll find plenty of great spots to stop and take photos, including the Bayshore Boulevard Linear Park and the iconic Balcony of the Americas. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful sunset shot or a panoramic view of the city, Bayshore Boulevard is a must-visit location for any photographer in Tampa.
Beaches
Tampa Bay is known for its beautiful beaches that offer great photography opportunities. Here are a few beaches that are worth checking out:
Ben T. Davis Beach
Ben T. Davis Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. This beach is located in the Rocky Point area and offers stunning views of the bay. The beach has a long boardwalk that is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. There are also several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery.
If you are looking for a more active day at the beach, there are several activities available such as volleyball, jet skiing, and parasailing. There is also a playground for kids to enjoy.
Picnic Island Park
Picnic Island Park is a hidden gem located in South Tampa. This park offers a secluded beach area that is perfect for a quiet day at the beach. The park also has several picnic areas, grills, and a playground for kids.
One of the unique features of this park is the fishing pier that extends out into the bay. This pier is a great spot to watch the sunset or try your luck at catching some fish.
Overall, Tampa Bay has several beaches that offer great photography opportunities. Whether you are looking for a quiet day at the beach or an active day filled with water sports, there is a beach for everyone to enjoy.
Nightlife Photography
If you’re looking for some great spots to take photos of Tampa’s nightlife, you’re in luck! The city has a lot to offer in terms of bars, clubs, and other venues that are perfect for capturing the energy of the night. Here are some of the best places to take photos of Tampa’s nightlife:
Channelside
Channelside is a great place to start your nightlife photography tour of Tampa. This area is home to a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants, many of which offer great views of the waterfront.
One of the best spots to take photos in Channelside is the Tampa Riverwalk, which offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Hillsborough River. You can also head to the rooftop bar at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Downtown Tampa
Downtown Tampa is another great spot for nightlife photography. This area is home to a number of bars and clubs, as well as some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
One of the best spots to take photos in downtown Tampa is the Tampa Theatre, which is a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace that offers a great backdrop for photos. You can also head to the rooftop bar at the Aloft Tampa Downtown, which offers great views of the city and the waterfront.
Overall, Tampa is a great city for nightlife photography, with plenty of great spots to capture the energy and excitement of the night. Whether you’re looking for stunning views of the waterfront or iconic landmarks, you’re sure to find plenty of great photo opportunities in Tampa’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Wildlife Photography
If you’re interested in capturing some of Florida’s wildlife, Tampa Bay has a lot to offer you. Here are two great spots for wildlife photography in the area:
Lowry Park Zoo
Lowry Park Zoo is a great place to photograph animals in a controlled environment. The zoo has a wide variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and big cats.
You can also take a behind-the-scenes tour to get up close and personal with some of the animals. The zoo offers photography classes and workshops, which can help you improve your skills and get the most out of your visit.
Big Cat Rescue
Big Cat Rescue is a sanctuary for big cats, including tigers, lions, and leopards. The sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating big cats that have been abused or abandoned.
You can take a guided tour of the sanctuary to see the cats up close and learn about their stories. The sanctuary also offers photography tours, which allow you to take photos of the cats in their natural habitats.
When photographing wildlife, it’s important to be respectful of the animals and their environment. Make sure to follow the rules and guidelines of the location you’re visiting, and don’t disturb the animals or their habitats.
Always keep a safe distance from the animals, and never feed or touch them. With these precautions in mind, you can capture some amazing photos of the wildlife in Tampa Bay.
While in Tampa, don’t miss Fun Couple Activities in Tampa: A Guide to Romantic Getaways and Best Brunch in Tampa: Top Spots for a Delicious Weekend Meal
