We’re in that time of year in Tampa where you walk outside and think, wait… it’s actually nice out? Before the humidity fully takes over and stepping outside feels like a commitment, this is your window to take advantage of it.
Naturally, this is peak outdoor date season. When there’s a breeze, everything just feels easier. Conversation flows better, you’re not melting, and patios suddenly become the best seat in the city.
One of our favorite go-tos right now is Anchor & Brine ($$) at the Marriott Water Street. It’s right on the Riverwalk, so you can grab a drink, split a few things, and watch the sunset. And if you want to score some easy points, order the table-top s’mores once it gets dark. It’s unexpected, a little nostalgic, and yes, they use Ghirardelli chocolate. You’re welcome.
If you’re in the mood for another great patio date, Buchette Spritz Bar ($$) on Davis Islands is always a good idea. Tucked next to Oggi, it has that casual, walk-up spritz bar feel you’d only find along the Amalfi Coast. Order a Hugo, and if you can’t decide between the bruschetta and the burrata, just get both. As the sun goes down, the string lights come on and it turns into one of those effortlessly good date night spots.
Over here at Date Different, we love an activity date. It takes the pressure off and makes things feel a lot more natural.
If you’re more of a daytime date person, the Sunday market at Wat Mongkolratanaram Thai Temple ($) is one of those spots people wish they knew about sooner. It runs from 9 am to 1 pm every Sunday and has some of the best Thai food in Tampa. Grab a few things to share, the mango sticky rice is non-negotiable, then find a spot under the palm trees by the water. It’s a little different, and honestly a great way to see how someone operates outside of a typical dinner date. Just note it’s cash only, so come prepared.
Photo via Tampa Parks & Recreation
If you or your date have a dog, this one’s an easy win. While a full beach day early on can feel like a bit much, the dog beach on Davis Islands (free) is a perfect low-stakes option for a sunset walk. It’s relaxed and gives you something to focus on besides just conversation.
For extra points, swing by Kiki’s Ice Cream ($) beforehand. It’s one of the cutest new spots on the island, and ice cream before a sunset walk is a pretty hard combo to beat.
Even this time of year, Tampa weather can be a bit of a wild card. One minute it’s perfect, the next it’s… a little aggressive. The solution? Get out of the city and head to one of the nearby springs.
Check out Weeki Wachee Springs State Park ($) (about an hour north) if you’ve been dying to see their famous mermaids IRL. It’s a little quirky, and definitely gives you and your date something to talk about. If you’re more in the mood to cool off, Rainbow Springs State Park ($) (about an hour and a half away) is hard to beat, think crystal-clear water, tubing, and an easy day that feels like a mini escape.
At Date Different, we’ve always believed the right environment changes everything. And this time of year in Tampa? It kind of does the work for you. Pick a good spot, stay a little longer than planned, and see where it goes.
