View source for Tampa

{{Infobox settlement
 | name               = Tampa
 | official_name      = City of Tampa
 | settlement_type    = City
 | image_skyline      = Tampa_Skyline.jpg
 | image_caption      = Downtown Tampa and Hillsborough River
 | subdivision_name1  = Florida
 | subdivision_name   = United States
 | established_date   = 1849
 | population_total   = 400,000
 | area_total_km2     = 455
 | timezone           = Eastern (EST/EDT)
 | postal_code        = 33601–33694
 | area_code          = 813, 656
}}
'''Tampa''' is a major city located on the west coast of [[Florida]], along the Gulf of Mexico. It is known for its waterfront views, cultural diversity, sports teams, and thriving tourism industry. Tampa is part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, which includes St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

== Overview ==

* '''Population''': ~400,000 (over 3 million in the metro area)
* '''Founded''': 1823 (as Fort Brooke)
* '''Nicknames''': Cigar City, The Big Guava
* '''Geography''': Located on Tampa Bay, with access to the Gulf of Mexico

== Landmarks and Attractions ==

* Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – theme park and zoo
* The Florida Aquarium
* Ybor City – historic Latin district
* Tampa Riverwalk
* Raymond James Stadium – home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
* Amalie Arena – home of the Tampa Bay Lightning

== Economy ==

Tampa’s economy is driven by:
* '''Tourism and hospitality'''
* '''Finance and banking'''
* '''Healthcare and education'''
* '''Port of Tampa''' – a key shipping and cruise hub

== Culture and Lifestyle ==

* Strong Cuban, Spanish, and Italian cultural influence
* Known for cigars, historic streetcars, and Cuban sandwiches
* Hosts popular events like Gasparilla Pirate Festival and Tampa Bay Margarita Festival
* Beaches, fishing, and water sports are part of daily life

== Education and Innovation ==

* Home to the University of South Florida (USF)
* Active startup scene and tech sector
* Growing in biotech, cybersecurity, and defense industries

== Transportation ==

* Tampa International Airport (TPA) – consistently ranked among the best
* TECO Line Streetcar and HART bus system
* Port Tampa Bay – one of Florida’s largest seaports
* Bridges and highways connect Tampa with surrounding beach communities

== Fun Facts ==

* Ybor City was once the cigar capital of the world
* Tampa’s name may come from a Native American word meaning “sticks of fire”
* One of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeastern U.S.

== See Also ==
* [[Florida]]
* [[Southeastern States]]
* [[Tourism in the United States]]
* [[United States Cities]]