Tampa International Airport (TPA) stands as a premier gateway for travelers heading to the stunning St. Pete-Clearwater area, despite not being directly named “St. Pete International Airport”. Often recognized as one of America’s favorite airports, TPA offers unparalleled convenience and award-winning services just a short drive from St. Pete’s beautiful beaches and vibrant downtown. Located approximately 45 minutes from the shores of St. Pete-Clearwater and a mere 30 minutes from downtown St. Pete, TPA is strategically positioned to provide easy access to this sought-after destination.
Consistently lauded for its excellence, Tampa International Airport has earned numerous accolades. J.D. Power’s 2023 North America Airport Satisfaction Study distinguished TPA as the No. 1 large airport for the second year running, highlighting its commitment to passenger satisfaction. Further solidifying its reputation, USA TODAY’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2024 named Tampa International Airport “America’s Best Large Airport” and the “#1 Best Airport for Dining,” underscoring its superior facilities and traveler experience.
Serving over 24 million passengers in 2023, TPA is proactively expanding to meet growing demand through a comprehensive three-phase construction program. This initiative includes expanding the Main Terminal, introducing a state-of-the-art rental car facility, and implementing the efficient SkyConnect train system. Looking ahead, Airside D, a new 16-gate terminal designed for both international and domestic flights, broke ground in late 2024 and is slated to open in 2028, enhancing TPA’s capacity and international reach. By mid-2025, TPA will further streamline passenger flow with “Red Express Curbsides” for those traveling without checked baggage, complementing the already operational Blue Express Curbsides.
TPA’s advantageous location not only facilitates quick trips to St. Pete-Clearwater’s famed beaches but also to Orlando’s world-renowned theme parks, making it an ideal entry point for exploring central Florida. The airport boasts an extensive network of over 100 non-stop flights, varying seasonally, operated by most major airlines. With approximately 250 daily departures across 24 airlines, TPA provides flights to 20 international destinations, connecting St. Pete and the surrounding region to the globe.
Beyond travel logistics, TPA offers a rich array of amenities. More than 65 shops, restaurants, kiosks, and bars feature a blend of local and national brands. Culinary highlights include local favorites like Columbia Café, Cafe by Mise en Place, Goody Goody, RumFish Grill, and Ducky’s. For a taste of Tampa Bay, travelers can enjoy chargrilled oysters at Ulele or local brews at Cigar City Brewing. Adding to the convenience, Uber Eats service is available at most TPA restaurants, allowing passengers to order ahead and skip the lines.
For shopping enthusiasts, The Shoppes at Bayshore, a 6,300-square-foot mini-mall located on the Main Terminal’s third level, presents a curated selection of boutique brands, both national and local.
A unique and beloved feature of TPA is the 21-foot flamingo sculpture, affectionately nicknamed “Phoebe,” which has become a must-see and perfect photo opportunity for travelers passing through.
Airlines Serving Tampa International Airport for Your St. Pete Trip
Tampa International Airport is served by most major airlines, ensuring diverse flight options for visitors heading to St. Pete. These include AeroMexico, Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Edelweiss Air, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United, Virgin Atlantic, and WestJet. For a complete list of airlines, please visit the TPA website.
Parking Options at TPA for St. Pete Visitors
TPA offers a variety of parking solutions, and a popular feature is the ability to pre-book parking, especially useful during peak travel times to guarantee a spot. Through the TPA website, travelers can easily reserve parking in their preferred lot—Economy, Long-Term, or Short-Term—by specifying arrival and departure dates and times.
Short-Term Parking
- Location: Levels 4-9 above the Main Terminal, providing the quickest terminal access.
- Terminal Access: Elevator.
- Vehicle Clearance: 6 feet, 8 inches.
- Details: SunPass accepted, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (Level 5), 45-day maximum stay.
Long-Term Parking
- Location: Adjacent garage to the Main Terminal, balancing convenience and cost.
- Terminal Access: Pedestrian moving walkway on Level 4.
- Vehicle Clearance: 7 feet, 10 inches.
- Details: SunPass accepted, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (Level 4), 45-day maximum stay.
Economy Garage & Lot
- Location: South of the Main Terminal, the most budget-friendly option.
- Terminal Access: SkyConnect train from Level 1 of the garage.
- Vehicle Clearance: Garage Levels 2-6: 8 feet; Level 1 and surface lot: 13 feet.
- Details: SunPass accepted, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (Level 1), 45-day maximum stay.
Cell Phone Waiting Lot (Free)
- Location: South of the Main Terminal, ideal for passenger pick-up.
- Terminal Access: 5-minute drive to curbside pick-up when guests are ready.
- Vehicle Clearance: No limit.
- Details: Restrooms, vending machines, free Wi-Fi, flight information display, electric vehicle charging.
Green Parking
- Rates: Standard parking fees apply, no extra charge for EV charging.
- Location: Available in Short-Term (Level 5), Long-Term (Level 4), Economy (Level 1), and Cell Phone Waiting Lot.
- Details: TPA website for charging station details.
Nearby Off-Airport Parking
- A1 Express Parking: Popular, 24/7 free shuttle service.
- Memorial Airport Parking: Budget-friendly, west of TPA, 24/7 free shuttle service.
Passenger Pick-Up & Drop-Off for St. Pete Visitors
TPA streamlines passenger pick-up and drop-off with options like the Blue Express Curb for those without checked bags, and a future Red Express Curb in 2025. For arrivals with checked baggage, follow signs to “Ground Transportation” and “Baggage Claim,” then proceed outside to “Passenger Pickups” or “Ride Shares.” Departing passengers can utilize curbside bag check for most domestic flights.
Ground Transportation & Rental Cars for Your St. Pete Journey
Ride-shares: Uber and Lyft offer convenient services to and from TPA, with drop-off at all public access points and pick-up at Red Baggage Claim, Blue Express Curb, or Remote Curbside. Service fees apply.
Taxis: Yellow Cab (813-253-0121) service is available curbside at Baggage Claim.
Rental Cars: Easily accessible via the SkyConnect train from the Main Terminal.
Shared Passenger Van Services: Available through reservation or walk-in, with air-conditioned waiting lobbies at Baggage Claim ends.
Bus/Public Transportation: HART and PSTA bus stops at the Rental Car Center (via “Remote Curbside”). Greyhound terminal in downtown Tampa (1209 N. Marion St). Chartered bus services also available.
Services & Amenities at TPA for a Smooth Trip to St. Pete
Guest Services: Information kiosk in the Main Terminal, Level 3, open 4 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily.
Accessibility Services: Comprehensive services including disability parking in all lots, wheelchair assistance from airlines, elevators to all areas, and accessible restrooms. More details on the TPA website.
Currency Exchange: Travelex Currency Services on Level 3 of the Main Terminal.
Animal Relief Areas: Designated areas for service animals throughout the airport and pet relief areas outside the Main Terminal at Baggage Claim and Blue Express Arrivals. More information on animals at TPA.
Additional Amenities: Water bottle refilling stations, mothers’ nursing rooms, nondenominational chapel, and attached Marriott hotel.
Contact Information:
- 4100 George J. Bean Parkway, Tampa, Florida 33607
- 813-870-8770
- www.tampaairport.com
For those searching for “St. Pete International Airport”, remember that Tampa International Airport (TPA) is your gateway to St. Pete and Clearwater, offering superior service, convenient access, and a host of amenities to enhance your travel experience.
