Wondering what to buy in Tampa Bay? I’ve scoured the city for the best souvenirs and perfect gifts to bring home. Unlike big tourist meccas overflowing with tacky trinkets, Tampa offers a mix of locally made goodies, sports gear, and unique finds that truly capture the city’s character. Here are 10 things to pick up on your Tampa adventure.
10 Things to Buy in Tampa Bay
1. Tampa Bay Lightning Gear
If you’re in town for a sports trip with teens, or know back home who is a Bolts fan, there’s no better souvenir than official Tampa Bay Lightning merchandise. From jerseys and hats to hoodies and collectible game day pucks, you can find gear at the Benchmark International Area shop or in sports stores like Dick’s. Whether you catch a game live or just want a stylish memento, Lightning gear is a winner for fans of all ages.
2. Ybor City Rooster
Until visiting Tampa, I had no idea of Ybor City’s significance. It is at the top of my must do list in Tampa. The rooster is unoffical mascot of Ybor City and you see them wandering around the area. You can find lots of rooster merch in Centro Ybor. You can get local art prints or funny souvenirs like roosters smoking cigars!
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Gear
Football lovers will want to grab some Tampa Bay Buccaneers gear. Jerseys, hats, and team scarves are perfect for showing your support at home. The official Raymond James Stadium store has a wide selection, but you can also find fun Bucs-themed souvenirs like pint glasses, keychains, and even vintage-inspired items around town.
4. Cuban Coffee & Coffee Beans
Tampa has a rich Cuban heritage, and coffee is at the heart of it. Grab a bag of locally roasted coffee beans to brew at home. It’s a flavorful reminder of Tampa, Ybor City, and its heritage.
5. Local Hot Sauces & Spices
Foodies will love picking up local flavors. Shops across Tampa offer unique hot sauces, spice blends, and marinades. Columbia Restaurant has a great gift shop with its own spice blends and pottery. (Make sure to stop in for a meal also! Read our list of the best places to eat in Tampa). You can also find food items in the Tampa Bay Historical Center gift shop and the Visitor’s Center.
6. Ybor City Cigars
No visit to Tampa is complete without a nod to its historic cigar industry. Ybor City is famous for handmade cigars, and picking up a box or even a single premium cigar makes a classy souvenir or gift. Some shops even offer rolling demonstrations. If cigars are not your thing, you can get beautifully painted boxes in Centro Ybor.
7. Spring Training Yankees Gear
Tampa hosts the New York Yankees during spring training, and their merchandise is surprisingly popular. Fans visiting during spring can find special spring training jerseys, caps, and memorabilia (like a Grapefruit League plush) perfect for collectors or as a unique keepsake of your trip.
8. Craft Beer & Local Wine
Tampa has a thriving craft beer scene and local distilleries. Pick up a few cans from Cigar City Brewing, or a small-batch spirit from a local distillery. Many breweries also sell branded glasses, shirts, and growlers, a local souvenir option that connects directly to your trip!
9. Fun souvenirs and gifts for kids
The Tampa Bay Historical Center is the best place to find kids souvenirs. Whether you are in the city for a city break or before a cruise from Port Tampa Bay, it’s a manageable size for all ages! My 14 year old went right for the Gasparilla duck as a cute gift for his brother. There are lots of pirate themed items in the visitors’ center. There is even a Tampa Bay version of Monopoly you can buy!
10. Tampa-Themed Apparel & Gifts
Beyond sports, you can find Tampa-themed t-shirts, mugs, magnets, and tote bags that celebrate the city in style. These are perfect for travelers who want something fun without going over the top. Look for shops in Downtown Tampa like the Visitors center for well-curated souvenirs that reflect the city’s laid-back personality.
Tip: Tampa isn’t your typical tourist city, so street corners are not overflowing with merch. You have to seek out items on this list by visiting Ybor Centro, the sports stadiums or the Tampa Bay Visitors Center. We were in Tampa for 3 days in search of these items.
Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.