Tampa in 2 Days for Couples - Brunch at Oxford Exchange
A relaxed, intimate two-day itinerary through Tampa's waterfronts, historic charm, and celebrated dining — timed for golden-hour moments, cozy meals, and two special experiences (couples spa and an iconic steakhouse dessert-room finale). Designed for spring travel.
Highlights
- Brunch at Oxford Exchange
- Historic Henry B. Plant Museum & University of Tampa views
- Couples spa treatment
- Sunset at Ballast Point Park Pier
- Ulele waterfront dinner
- Bayshore Boulevard golden-hour stroll
- Bern's Steak House and famous Dessert Room
Itinerary
Day 1
A leisurely day blending historic charm, a restorative couples spa, and a waterfront sunset followed by a riverside dinner.
Brunch at Oxford Exchange
Start your getaway with sunlit brunch in a beautifully restored space that feels intimate and cultured — shared plates, coffee, and a browse through the bookstore before you go.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a window table in advance for a quieter corner and natural light perfect for photos.
- Oxford Exchange has limited on-site parking; use nearby metered spots on Kennedy Blvd or valet if available — allow 10–15 extra minutes.
- After brunch, browse the bookstore together and pick a small book or postcard as a memento of the trip.
Visit Henry B. Plant Museum (University of Tampa)
Explore the Moorish-revival former Tampa Bay Hotel's exhibits and ornate rooms — a romantic step back in time and excellent photo backdrops on campus grounds.
Tips from local experts:
- Aim for a short guided walkthrough if available — the architecture and stained glass are highlights for couples.
- The museum is compact; comfortable shoes and an easy pace keep the visit unhurried and intimate.
- Cross to the nearby University of Tampa campus lawn for quiet bench time and skyline views — great for candid photos.
Afternoon at Armature Works (food hall + riverside seating)
Browse artisanal vendors, share light bites or a pastry, and enjoy riverside seating with a relaxed local vibe — perfect for a midday break and people-watching.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick a vendor to share several small plates so you can sample and linger together rather than a heavy meal.
- Grab a seat on the second-floor terrace for quieter riverside views and better photo angles.
- If the weather is breezy, bring a light layer — the restored industrial space opens to the waterfront.
Couples Massage at Hand & Stone (relaxing two-hour spa time)
A dedicated couples treatment to unwind — timed to emerge refreshed for golden-hour plans (book a side-by-side room when reserving).
Tips from local experts:
- Request a private couples room when booking and ask for aromatherapy or hot-stone add-ons to heighten the experience.
- Arrive 15 minutes early to use changing rooms and relax together before the treatment.
- Plan light clothing afterward and hydrate — the relaxed window before sunset makes the afternoon unhurried and romantic.
Sunset at Ballast Point Park Pier (special moment)
Arrive at the pier ahead of sunset to watch the sky change over Tampa Bay — intimate bench seating and a long pier make this a memorable golden-hour spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light blanket and a small bottle of chilled sparkling water or prosecco (where allowed) for a quiet toast as the sun goes down.
- Park in the main Ballast Point lot or nearby residential streets; arrive 20 minutes before sunset for best pier seating.
- The pier can get breezy at dusk — bring a light jacket and choose a bench facing west for unobstructed views.
Riverside dinner at Ulele
Dinner in a warm, historic setting focusing on local ingredients and waterfront views — reserve a table outdoors if you prefer breezy ambiance and twinkling lights.
Tips from local experts:
- Request an outdoor or window table with bay views when you reserve—ideal for late-evening ambiance.
- Ulele's tasting plates are great for sharing; order a couple of starters and a main to savor things slowly.
- Parking fills up on weekend nights—allow extra time or use nearby paid parking; valet may be offered seasonally.
Day 2
A gentle second day with stylish neighborhoods, historic cinema, a scenic Bay stroll, and a show-stopper dinner at Bern's Steak House (dessert room included).
Morning coffee and stroll in Hyde Park Village
Browse boutique shops, enjoy coffee at a cozy cafe, and soak up leafy streets — calm, upscale neighborhood perfect for a quiet start.
Tips from local experts:
- Park in the Village garage or street meters; early morning is the quietest time for romantic window-shopping.
- Drop into a local bakery for pastries to share on a bench under the oaks — slow pacing is part of the charm.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the compact village is made for a gentle wandering pace and spontaneous photo stops.
Historic film or tour at the Tampa Theatre
Visit the atmospheric 1920s Tampa Theatre for a midday screening or brief guided look-around — the ornate interior is wonderfully romantic.
Tips from local experts:
- Check the theatre schedule in advance and aim for a matinee film for a cozy, shared cultural moment.
- Arrive early to admire the lobby and take couple photos under the iconic marquee and starry ceiling.
- Seats are plush but limited — buy tickets online to secure a preferred row together.
Lunch and light waterfront time at Sparkman Wharf
Casual waterfront food vendors and lawn seating — a relaxed midday with views and maybe live music depending on the schedule.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose two small plates to share and sit on the lawn if you want a picnic-style experience together.
- If you prefer quieter seating, arrive early or find a table tucked to the side of the main lawn.
- Check event listings — on some days Sparkman Wharf hosts live music which can add a romantic soundtrack to your meal.
Leisurely walk along the Tampa Riverwalk
Stroll hand-in-hand along the scenic Riverwalk, pause for photos, and discover little waterfront parks and public art at an unhurried pace.
Tips from local experts:
- Start near Sparkman Wharf and walk toward the larger parks — stopping for photos at the bridge and public art pieces.
- Bring a portable phone charger; the Riverwalk has great sunset and skyline photo ops you'll want to capture.
- If you want to shorten the walk, use a water taxi stop to hop forward and keep the day relaxed.
Golden-hour stroll on Bayshore Boulevard
The nation’s longest continuous sidewalk — a classic, serene place for a sunset walk with expansive bay views and benches for pauses.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan your walk to begin about 45–60 minutes before sunset for the best light; find a bench facing west to watch the colors deepen.
- There are shaded stretches and nearby cafes — combine a short coffee stop if you want to linger after the sun dips.
- Parking along Bayshore can be limited near popular piers; consider arriving early or parking one block back and walking in.
Dinner and Dessert Room at Bern's Steak House (special moment)
Reserve a table at Tampa's famous Bern's for an indulgent multi-course steakhouse dinner; finish the night in their legendary Dessert Room for a truly memorable finale.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve well in advance and request a late seating to allow a relaxed pace; ask the host about the Dessert Room reservation when booking.
- Splitting a sampling of sides and a single shared dessert is a romantic way to taste more without overfilling.
- Dress smart-casual and plan transportation ahead — Bern’s is popular late into the evening and taxi/rideshare waits can grow on weekend nights.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 7 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 4 |
| Total Activities | 12 |
| Total Places | 12 |
| Activities Types | Restaurant, Culture, Attraction, Experience, Outdoor, Neighborhood, Meal |
