With its white sand beaches, brilliant sunsets and attractions like the Curtis Hixon Downtown Waterfront Park, Tampa, Florida, is a city that lends itself to romance. Both local couples and visitors alike will find no shortage of spots to enjoy some one-on-one time with a significant other. Walk hand-in-hand along the waterfront, dine by candlelight at a local restaurant or even take in a Broadway show or opera at the Stratz Center. Regardless of your interests, you'll find plenty of romantic ideas in Tampa.
Bern's Steak House earns a spot as one of Tampa's most romantic restaurants on the travel website Gayot. As you enter the dining area, you are greeted with murals of French vineyards and lush décor in deep wood tones. Request a large, private booth where you'll be sheltered from other diners. With a wine list said to be among the largest in the world, you're sure to find one to compliment your entrée choice. The menu features 62 hand-butchered cuts of steak, chicken, lamb, seafood and veal. For side dishes, the restaurant focuses on organic fruits and vegetables grown at its farm. If you save room for dessert, it's served in a special area where you can request a romantic song from a live pianist.
For visitors to the Tampa area looking for a romantic hotel, consider staying at the Tahitian Inn. This locally-owned boutique hotel offers a break from large chain properties but includes all the amenities you'd expect. Request the romance package and have a bottle of champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries waiting for you upon arrival. The 79-room property features an on-site spa, outdoor pool and café. Request an executive queen suite with a private hot-tub for your romantic weekend. The suites also include a wet bar, TV with DVD player, microwave, refrigerator and free wireless Internet access.
Spend a romantic evening together in Tampa by going out on the water for an evening of dinner and dancing. Clearwater Dinner Cruises offers 3.5-hour boat rides around Tampa Bay. If you're celebrating an anniversary or engagement, the cruise offers packages that include items such as roses and champagne. Cruisers are treated to live music for dancing and entertainment. A full dinner is included in the cost of the trip, which features a restaurant-style menu with foods prepared on board. The boat also houses a cash bar. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure.
