Tampa Bay: An Insider's Guide for Spring Break 2007

Tampa Bay attracts thousands of sports-minded spring breakers year after year, with highlights at the vibrant city of Ybor, and sports-themed contests and car racing throughout the area. Ybor is the place to find Mediterranean-inspired buildings, streets, and the marketplace-it's a small city with plenty to see and do. As you visit the local pubs and breweries, theatres, museums, and shopping district, you'll also glean a peek at the scenic views of sand and shore along the coast. Tampa Bay is where you'll enjoy water sports, sailing, snorkeling, and all-night parties at some popular hot spots. Here's what you can look forward to as you venture south for spring break 2007:

• Rent a ferry or speedboat along the Clearwater Marina and coast of Florida. Dozens of local companies offer ferry rides, cruises, and speedboat ventures for you to enjoy a tour of the bay. Try www.tampabayboatcharters.com for special group rates during spring break.
  
• Visit the cigar shops in Ybor, once considered the 'Cigar Capital of the World.' Try King Corona Cigars and More for the hand rolled Cuban-style cigars-you'll find over 100 brands.
  
• Spend the day at Centro Ybor, a former cigar manufacturing plant that now houses a variety of gift stores, eclectic restaurants, and sponsors events along the nightclub scene downtown. Comedy shows and theaters offer more choices in performances than the surrounding sights.
  
• Hockey fans can enjoy the Buffalo Sabres vs. Tampa Bay Lightning at the St. Pete Times Forum on March 16, 2007; the New York Islanders vs. Tampa Bay Lightning is scheduled for March 20, 2007
  
• Racing fans can head to downtown St. Petersburg for the Honda Grand Prix events on March 30, 2007
  
• For those staying in the area during the first week of April, Meat Loaf performs at the Ruth Eckerd Hall on April 3, 2007
  
• For some amusements and adventure, head to Busch Gardens for a day of adrenaline-pumping fun and action on roller coasters, park rides, and concerts throughout the day.

Besides the highlights in Tampa Bay, there are plenty of activities along the coast and Ybor city for all tastes. The parks and museusm in Ybor should be your starting point for some interesting historical lessons about the area. Camping and hiking options abound in the nearby state parks, nestled amongst the hills and cliffs beyond the beach. For those wild nights out on the town, Tampa's dynamic nightlife will keep you up to watch the sunrise on the beautiful coast. Enjoy our spring break in Tampa Bay, Florida for a memorable and satisfying vacation!