Planning a trip to Tampa to catch an event at Amalie Arena? Whether you’re attending a Lightning game, concert, or other entertainment, finding the right hotel nearby is crucial for a convenient and enjoyable stay. This guide covers the top hotel options within walking distance and a short drive from Amalie Arena, helping you choose accommodations that fit your budget, style, and needs.
Amalie Arena, located in downtown Tampa, hosts everything from professional hockey to major concerts and conventions. The surrounding area offers diverse lodging options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly chains. We’ll explore the best choices, proximity advantages, amenities, and insider tips to help you make an informed decision for your Tampa visit.
Hotels Within Walking Distance of Amalie Arena
The most convenient way to experience Tampa’s downtown entertainment district is staying within walking distance of Amalie Arena. The Ybor City area and downtown core feature several hotels that put you steps away from the action, eliminating parking hassles and allowing you to enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene.
The Westin Tampa Downtown stands out as one of the closest options, offering modern amenities, a fitness center, and easy access to both the arena and downtown dining. Located on the riverfront, this property provides views and walkability to Tampa’s cultural attractions. The hotel features contemporary rooms with premium bedding, making it ideal for business travelers and tourists alike.
Hilton Tampa Downtown is another excellent choice positioned directly near the arena. This mid-range option balances comfort with affordability, featuring a business center, restaurant, and bar. The location provides quick access to the Riverwalk, making evening strolls convenient between dining and entertainment.
Le Meridien Tampa caters to travelers seeking a sophisticated atmosphere without the ultra-luxury price tag. The property emphasizes wellness and modern design, with an on-site restaurant and spa services. Its position in downtown Tampa makes it perfect for arena visitors who want walkable access to additional attractions.
Walking distance hotels offer significant advantages: you avoid parking fees (which can range from $15-$30 per day), reduce transportation stress, and can easily return to your room if needed. The downtown area is well-lit and patrolled, making evening walks safe and enjoyable, especially on event nights when crowds naturally provide additional security.
Luxury and Upscale Options Near the Arena
For travelers seeking premium experiences, Tampa’s luxury hotel market near Amalie Arena offers world-class service and amenities. These properties cater to visitors who prioritize comfort and convenience above budget considerations.
Epicurean Hotel represents Tampa’s most unique luxury offering, combining a boutique hotel with culinary excellence. This adults-only property integrates a cooking school, restaurant, and wine bar, creating an immersive experience beyond standard hospitality. While slightly further from the arena, the property’s distinctive character and proximity to Ybor City’s dining scene make it worthwhile for food-focused travelers.
Tampa Marriott Water Street provides five-star accommodations in a prime downtown location. The property features a rooftop pool, multiple dining venues, and spacious rooms with modern technology. Business travelers appreciate the executive lounge access and comprehensive conference facilities, while leisure guests enjoy the spa and fitness amenities.
These upscale properties often include 5-star hotel amenities near you, such as concierge services, premium room service, and personalized guest experiences. Many offer package deals for arena events, bundling accommodations with event tickets or dining credits.
Luxury hotels typically provide valet parking services, which is particularly valuable given downtown Tampa’s limited street parking. If you’re an electric vehicle owner, inquire about hotels with electric car charging stations for EV travelers, as several upscale properties now offer this amenity.
When booking luxury accommodations, ask about event packages specific to Amalie Arena. Many hotels partner with the venue to offer combined packages that include parking, room upgrades, or dining credits, potentially offsetting the premium room rate.
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Downtown Tampa
Visitors on tighter budgets have excellent options in downtown Tampa without sacrificing quality or location. Several mid-range and budget chains maintain properties near Amalie Arena, offering clean, comfortable rooms at reasonable rates.
La Quinta by Wyndham Tampa Downtown provides reliable budget accommodations with a no-frills approach that keeps prices competitive. The property includes complimentary breakfast, reducing overall trip costs, and free parking, which significantly impacts total expenses for multi-night stays.
Red Roof Inn Tampa Downtown offers another budget-friendly option with straightforward rooms and essential amenities. Pet-friendly policies make this choice excellent for travelers with animals, and the location provides reasonable access to downtown attractions and the arena.
Extended Stay America Tampa Downtown suits visitors planning longer stays, with kitchenette-equipped rooms that allow meal preparation and reduce dining expenses. Weekly rates offer significant savings compared to nightly pricing, making this option economical for week-long visits.
Budget hotel selection requires strategic thinking about what amenities matter most. Free breakfast saves $15-$20 daily, free parking eliminates $15-$30 nightly charges, and free Wi-Fi reduces reliance on paid services. Collectively, these savings can reduce total trip costs by 20-30% compared to properties charging for these basics.
When considering budget options, verify parking arrangements before booking. Some downtown properties charge for parking despite lower room rates, sometimes offsetting the apparent savings. Always calculate total costs including taxes, parking, and fees before comparing properties.
Hotels with Convenient Parking Solutions
Downtown Tampa presents parking challenges, particularly on event nights when Amalie Arena draws large crowds. Understanding parking options is essential for stress-free visits, and many hotels address this directly through innovative solutions.
Valet Parking Services are available at most upscale and mid-range properties, with attendants handling parking logistics. This service costs $20-$35 nightly but eliminates the frustration of finding street parking or navigating multi-level garages. For detailed information about this service, consult our guide on hotels with valet parking and what you need to know.
Covered Parking Garages provide protection from Tampa’s intense sun and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Properties with on-site garages offer convenience and security, eliminating concerns about vehicle conditions during hot weather or inclement conditions. These facilities typically cost $15-$25 daily.
Self-Parking Options at downtown hotels often include discounts for extended stays. Some properties offer free self-parking for guests, while others charge modest fees significantly below commercial parking lot rates. Confirm parking rates during booking to avoid surprises at check-in.
Parking Validation Programs allow guests to use nearby commercial parking facilities at reduced rates. Some hotels validate parking at partner garages, creating flexible options if on-site parking fills during major events.
For event nights, arrive early or use hotel parking rather than searching for street spots. The stress and time investment in finding free parking often outweigh modest fees, particularly when attending evening events when parking pressure intensifies.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Families attending events at Amalie Arena should prioritize hotels offering kid-focused amenities and convenient layouts. Several properties cater specifically to families, providing experiences beyond basic rooms.
Suite Hotels offer separate living areas, allowing families to spread out while maintaining affordability compared to booking multiple standard rooms. Properties like Homewood Suites and Residence Inn provide kitchenettes, allowing families to prepare simple meals and snacks, reducing dining expenses significantly.
For comprehensive family options, review our guide to family-friendly hotels in Orlando, which covers amenities and considerations applicable to Tampa properties as well. Many principles for selecting family accommodations translate across Florida destinations.
Pool Access matters greatly to families, particularly during hot months. Properties with heated pools and splash pads provide evening entertainment, allowing kids to cool off after arena events. Verify pool hours and any age restrictions before booking.
Breakfast Inclusion simplifies mornings with families, eliminating restaurant search time and reducing meal costs. Properties offering complimentary breakfast allow quicker starts to days filled with arena visits and Tampa attractions.
Room Configuration Options should include connecting rooms or spacious suites accommodating larger families. Request these configurations during booking rather than hoping for availability at check-in, as availability varies by season and demand.
Many family-friendly hotels partner with nearby attractions, offering discounted admission to museums, aquariums, and entertainment venues. Ask about these partnerships when booking, potentially unlocking significant savings on Tampa activities beyond arena events.
Booking Tips and Transportation Options
Strategic booking approaches maximize value and ensure smooth hotel experiences during Amalie Arena visits. Understanding Tampa’s transportation network enhances your overall trip planning.
Book Directly with Hotels when possible, as many offer loyalty benefits, room upgrades, or parking discounts not available through third-party booking sites. Hotels often match online rates while providing additional perks for direct reservations.
Check for Event Packages specifically tied to Amalie Arena. Hotels frequently offer bundled deals including room, parking, and sometimes arena tickets or dining credits. These packages provide better overall value than booking components separately.
Transportation Alternatives reduce parking concerns entirely. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) system provides bus service to downtown, with routes serving major hotels and the arena. HART’s official website offers route planning and fare information.
Rideshare Services like Uber and Lyft operate extensively in Tampa, making hotel-to-arena transportation straightforward. Splitting rideshare costs among multiple travelers often costs less than parking, particularly if your hotel lacks discounted parking options.
Timing Your Booking significantly impacts pricing. Book 2-3 months in advance for major events, securing better rates before price increases. Last-minute bookings sometimes yield discounts as hotels fill remaining inventory, but availability becomes limited.
For more comprehensive Tampa hotel information, consult our resource on best hotels in Tampa, which covers the broader market beyond arena proximity. This guide helps you understand the full range of Tampa’s hospitality options and how they compare.
FAQ
What’s the closest hotel to Amalie Arena?
The Westin Tampa Downtown and Hilton Tampa Downtown are among the closest options, positioned within easy walking distance. The Westin offers riverfront views, while the Hilton provides mid-range pricing with excellent downtown access. Both properties are under a five-minute walk from the arena.
Are there parking fees at downtown Tampa hotels?
Parking fees vary by property. Some hotels include free parking, while others charge $15-$35 nightly. Luxury properties typically offer valet parking for additional fees. Always confirm parking costs during booking, as they significantly impact total trip expenses.
Can I use public transportation to reach Amalie Arena from hotels?
Yes, HART transit system provides bus service to downtown Tampa and the arena. Many hotels are located on transit routes, making public transportation a viable alternative to driving and parking.
Which hotels offer event packages for Amalie Arena?
Most major chains and independent properties near the arena offer event packages. Contact hotels directly or check their websites for current promotions tied to specific events. Package availability depends on event date and hotel booking volume.
Are there pet-friendly hotels near Amalie Arena?
Several downtown Tampa hotels welcome pets, including Red Roof Inn and some boutique properties. Pet policies vary regarding size, breed, and additional fees. Confirm pet policies when booking to ensure your animal is welcome.
What’s the best time to book hotels for Amalie Arena events?
Book 2-3 months in advance for major events to secure better rates and ensure availability. For last-minute trips, booking 1-2 days before arrival sometimes yields discounts as hotels release final inventory. Avoid booking too close to event dates when prices typically spike.
Do downtown hotels offer shuttle services to Amalie Arena?
Many hotels provide complimentary shuttles to nearby attractions, including the arena. Confirm shuttle availability and schedules during booking, as service varies by property and may be limited during peak event times.
