Making the Most of Tampa’s Summer Vibes
There is no denying that summers in Tampa can be sweltering. However, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors while also beating the formidable Tampa weather. From comfortable covered patios to biergartens with great vibes, there are plenty of fun things to do in Tampa, Florida, throughout the summer. Here, I’m sharing a round up of Tampa outdoor restaurants and breweries to enjoy throughout the summer. Be sure to download my free Tampa travel guide here for even more cool things to do in the Tampa Bay area!
Table of Contents:
Cool Things to Do in Tampa
Tips for Enjoying Outdoor Dining in Tampa Summer
When planning an outdoor Tampa outing in the warmer months, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. You can avoid the hottest parts of the day by opting for mid-morning brunches or happy hour drinks, especially in places with shaded patios and fans. In either case, it is smart to start your day with a tinted SPF. Be sure to bring extra sunscreen to reapply throughout the day!
You should also consider the Tampa weather when you pick your outfit for the day. Loose, comfortable clothing with breathable fabrics are best for warm days out — and don’t forget your sunglasses! These lightweight dresses are a go-to style for me and perfect for a nice day out in Tampa.
Summer Styles for Tampa
Many Tampa restaurants with outdoor seating have some kind of shaded patio space, which is far more comfortable than sitting in the direct sun. Rooftop bars are often breezier spaces, making them especially popular Tampa outdoor restaurants in the summer months. If you are looking for dog-friendly spaces — which includes most Tampa breweries — you’ll want to make sure that the ground is not too hot for your pup’s paws.
Best Restaurants in Tampa with Outdoor Seating
For casual lunches, Cali and Bare Naked Kitchen (both featured here) offer comfortable covered patios where you can enjoy a tasty lunch with friends. I highly recommend opting for one of the delicious iced teas both restaurants offer to help offset the Tampa weather even more!
If you’re looking for a great brunch option, I have a few places you’ll want to try.
- First, the new Mad Dogs & Englishmen has a great indoor-outdoor space that has major biergarten vibes. Between their special brunch options to a delicious lunch and dinner menu, you’re sure to find something delicious to snack on or share.
- Rome + Fig, a chill neighborhood bistro in North Hyde Park, has a fun patio space with plenty of umbrellas and comfortable seating. The area is perfect for a girls’ brunch out or date night, and, as far as Tampa outdoor restaurants go, it basically begs to be Instagrammed.
- On Swann, a Hyde Park favorite, offers nicely shaded patio dining. Pair one of these tables with their kale salad for peak summer vibes! After you eat, then, take some time to wander around the shaded Hyde Park Village.
Breweries & Bites with Chill Patios
One of my favorite ways to spend a lazy summer day off is by visiting a great local brewery.
There is no shortage of great breweries in the Tampa and St. Pete area, and many have great outdoor spaces to enjoy throughout the year. Some of these spots serve food or small bites, while others offer a rotating schedule of food trucks. Here are a few of my favorite breweries with chill patios:
- BarrieHaus’ patio is top notch. It is partially covered and has a bunch of fans that help keep the space cool even in the warmest Tampa weather. Learn more about BarrieHaus Beer Co. here!
- Coppertail Brewing Co. is another great option, and not too far from BarrieHaus. This brewery has a robust food menu and two outdoor patio spaces to enjoy!
- In St. Pete, I recommend checking out Pinellas Ale Works (PAW), 3 Daughters, and Greenbench Brewing Co. All are conveniently located near downtown St. Pete, where you can find many great restaurants and walkable shops.
- The Independent Bar and Cafe in Seminole Heights is another great option for beer lovers, with lots of covered patio seating and a great menu of small plates and sandwiches. You can read more about this spot in my full review here.
Other Outdoor Spaces Worth Visiting
If you are looking for something a little different, why not try out some of Tampa’s great coffee shops? Many offer outdoor seating, like Buddy Brew’s Hyde Park and Armature Works locations.
And, for a sweet treat, be sure to check out Chill Bros, a great local ice cream shop with a handful of locations! I love their Double Down Oreo flavor, and they always have something fun and seasonal to try, like the Key Lime Pie below.
Enjoying the Outdoors in Tampa’s Summer
Even in the summer heat, there are plenty of cool things to do in Tampa, from delicious restaurants to delightful biergartens and even some decadent treats. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter here to get more great local finds, along with my free guide to the best of Tampa!
Hidden Gems in Tampa to Visit Next:
- Tampa Breweries with Outdoor Patios to Enjoy Year Round
- The Best Restaurants in South Tampa
- What to Wear in Tampa: A Local’s Capsule Wardrobe for Warm Weather
- The Best Tampa Coffee Shops
- The Best Restaurants in Tampa: Where to Eat in Tampa, Florida
Whether you’re in town for a quick trip or you’re a Tampa local trying to branch out of your routine, there are plenty of fun local spots to check out!
From walkable areas you can find all along the water to more options for the foodies amongst us, there are so many hidden gems that make the city special.
Click here to learn more about the best things to do in Tampa, Florida!
