Discover Tampa's Channel District

The Channel District is home to the Port of Tampa, Florida’s largest seaport. Many major cruise lines and commercial freighters, as well as pleasure craft and sailboats call this harbor home. Annually, around 900,000 cruise ship passengers embark to their favorite Caribbean or Mexican destination via the Port of Tampa.

In-Town Tampa enjoys the nostalgic charm of the streetcar with the TECO Line Streetcar System. The streetcars connect Downtown and Channelside to the Port of Tampa and Historic Ybor City, and are replicas of the original Birney Safety Cars that shuttled passengers around Tampa beginning in 1892.

With 200,000 square-feet of air-conditioned fun, The Florida Aquarium anchors the eastern side of the Channel District. It’s a world-class facility with hundreds of entertaining and educational exhibits. Endorsed by the American Zoological Association (AZA), it’s the must-see attraction for all ages.

Adjacent to The Florida Aquarium is Channelside Bay Plaza, a mega-entertainment complex that’s at the core of the action in the Downtown Tampa Channel District. The area’s largest Visitor Information Center is located streetside at the front of the complex. Channelside has it all . . . stroll through the courtyard and shop at dozens of unique places like White House Gear & American Classics or Wine Design, Tampa's premier wine shop!

Enjoy lunch or dinner at one of a variety of restaurants that offer something for every taste and budget. Channelside’s restaurants are numerous: Thai Thani, Oishi Sushi & Hibachi Grill, serving the ultimate in Japanese food, sushi and the best variety of sake in Tampa, Taverna Opa, the new fun spot with great Greek Cuisine, as well as Hooters and a variety of others. Up Channelside Drive and a half block west on Madison is a great new place, the Pour House, where you can relax with friends and enjoy 40 taps of craft beer and 60 craft bottle selections with various wines by the glass.