Tampa St. Pete International Airport, often recognized as Tampa International Airport (TPA), stands as a premier gateway to Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast. Conveniently located just 45 minutes from the award-winning beaches of St. Pete-Clearwater and a mere 30 minutes from downtown St. Pete, TPA offers travelers unparalleled access to the region’s top attractions. Consistently lauded as one of America’s favorite airports, Tampa St. Pete International Airport isn’t just about connections; it’s about crafting a positive travel experience from the moment you arrive.
Award-Winning Excellence and Continuous Growth at Tampa St. Pete International Airport
The accolades speak volumes about the quality of Tampa St. Pete International Airport. J.D. Power’s 2023 North America Airport Satisfaction Study proudly ranked TPA as No. 1 among large airports for the second year running, highlighting its commitment to passenger satisfaction. Further solidifying its reputation, USA TODAY recognized Tampa International Airport as America’s Best Large Airport and the #1 Best Airport for Dining in their 2024 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. These prestigious awards reflect the airport’s dedication to providing exceptional service and amenities.
Serving over 24 million passengers in 2023 alone, Tampa St. Pete International Airport is proactively managing its growth through an ambitious three-phase construction program. This expansion includes significant enhancements to the Main Terminal, the addition of a state-of-the-art rental car facility, and the innovative SkyConnect train system designed to streamline airport navigation. Looking ahead, TPA broke ground on Airside D in late 2024, a 16-gate terminal poised to handle both international and domestic flights, with an anticipated opening in 2028. Moreover, by mid-2025, passengers traveling without checked baggage will benefit from the new “Red Express Curbsides,” complementing the already operational Blue Express Curbsides and further expediting the arrival and departure process.
Strategically Located for Florida Adventures: Beaches and Theme Parks Near Tampa St. Pete Airport
One of the key advantages of Tampa St. Pete International Airport is its prime location. Travelers can effortlessly combine the relaxation of St. Pete-Clearwater’s pristine beaches with the excitement of Orlando’s world-renowned theme parks. TPA acts as the perfect starting point for diverse Florida vacations, offering easy access to both coastal serenity and theme park thrills.
Extensive Flight Network: Airlines and Destinations at Tampa St. Pete International Airport
Tampa St. Pete International Airport is well-connected, served by most major airlines. Passengers benefit from a wide array of options, including over 100 non-stop flights to various destinations, depending on the season. With approximately 250 daily departures across 24 airlines, TPA provides extensive domestic and international connectivity. For those looking to explore beyond the U.S., the airport offers flights to 20 international destinations, making global travel easily accessible. A comprehensive list of airlines and destinations is readily available on the Tampa St. Pete International Airport official website, ensuring travelers can easily plan their journeys.
Dining and Shopping: Local Flavors and Boutique Finds at Tampa St. Pete Airport
Tampa St. Pete International Airport enhances the travel experience with a diverse selection of over 65 shops, restaurants, kiosks, and bars. Passengers can indulge in distinctive local brands like Columbia Café, Cafe by Mise en Place, Goody Goody, RumFish Grill (from TradeWinds St. Pete Beach), and Ducky’s, offering a taste of the region’s culinary scene. For food enthusiasts, Ulele provides chargrilled oysters, and Cigar City Brewing offers locally brewed beers, ensuring a flavorful airport experience. Adding to the convenience, Tampa St. Pete International Airport now offers Uber Eats, allowing customers to order from most airport restaurants and skip the lines for pickup.
For retail therapy, The Shoppes at Bayshore, a 6,300-square-foot mini shopping mall located on the third level of the Main Terminal, features a curated collection of national and local boutique brands. This provides travelers with ample opportunities for shopping and finding unique items before or after their flights.
Don’t miss the chance to visit “Phoebe,” the iconic 21-foot flamingo sculpture that has become a beloved landmark within the airport. Saving a few minutes for a selfie with Phoebe is a must for many travelers passing through Tampa St. Pete International Airport.
Parking at Tampa St. Pete International Airport: Options and Pre-Booking
Navigating parking at Tampa St. Pete International Airport is made easy with a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets. A popular and convenient feature is the ability to pre-book parking spaces online. This is highly recommended, especially during peak travel times and holidays, to guarantee a spot in your preferred parking garage. Travelers can use the TPA website to enter their arrival and departure dates and times, and choose from economy, long-term, or short-term parking options.
Short-Term Parking
- Location: Levels 4-9 above the Main Terminal, providing the closest access to the terminal.
- Terminal Access: Direct elevator access to the Main Terminal.
- Vehicle Clearance: 6 feet, 8 inches.
- Details: Accepts SunPass for payment; equipped with Electric Vehicle Charging Stations on Parking Level 5; maximum stay of 45 days.
Long-Term Parking
- Location: Garage adjacent to the Main Terminal, a convenient option for trips of a few days or longer.
- Terminal Access: Pedestrian moving walkway on Level 4 directly connects to the terminal.
- Vehicle Clearance: 7 feet, 10 inches.
- Details: SunPass accepted; Electric Vehicle Charging Stations available on Parking Level 4; maximum stay of 45 days.
Economy Garage & Lot
- Location: Situated south of the Main Terminal on airport property, offering the most budget-friendly parking.
- Terminal Access: SkyConnect train provides quick and easy access to the Main Terminal, with the access station located on Level 1 of the garage.
- Vehicle Clearance: Levels 2-6 clearance is 8 feet; Level 1 and surface lot clearance is 13 feet, accommodating larger vehicles.
- Details: SunPass accepted; Electric Vehicle Charging Stations on Parking Level 1; maximum stay of 45 days.
Cell Phone Waiting Lot (Free)
- Location: South of the Main Terminal on airport property, next to the SkyCenter One office building and near the U.S. Post Office.
- Terminal Access: Designed for convenient passenger pick-up; a short five-minute drive to the Main Terminal curbside pick-up area once arriving guests are ready.
- Vehicle Clearance: No height restrictions.
- Details: Free of charge; amenities include restrooms, vending machines, free Wi-Fi, real-time flight information display, and electric vehicle charging stations.
Green Parking
- Rates: No additional charge beyond standard parking fees for utilizing EV charging.
- Location: Available across all parking facilities: Short-Term (Level 5), Long-Term (Level 4), Economy (Level 1), and Cell Phone Waiting Lot.
- Details: Offers various types and numbers of charging stations, detailed on the TPA website under “Green Parking Options,” supporting eco-friendly travel.
Off-Airport Parking Options
- A1 Express Parking: A popular off-site option providing free shuttle service to and from Tampa St. Pete International Airport 24/7.
- Memorial Airport Parking: A budget-friendly choice located just west of TPA, also offering complimentary shuttle service around the clock.
Passenger Pick-Up & Drop-Off at Tampa St. Pete International Airport
Tampa St. Pete International Airport streamlines passenger pick-up and drop-off with designated curbside options. The Blue Express Curb is ideal for passengers without checked bags, offering a quicker and less congested alternative. This curb serves airlines in TPA’s blue group. Anticipate the opening of the Red Express Curb in 2025, which will further enhance curbside efficiency.
For arriving passengers with checked baggage, clear signage directs them to “Ground Transportation” and “Baggage Claim.” Once ready for pick-up, passengers should proceed outside to the designated “Passenger Pickups” area or the “Ride Shares” zone.
Departing passengers will find curbside baggage check-in available for most domestic flights, offered directly by the airlines for added convenience.
Ground Transportation and Rental Cars at Tampa St. Pete Airport
Tampa St. Pete International Airport offers a comprehensive range of ground transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs:
- Ride-shares (Uber, Lyft): Provide convenient drop-off at all public access points, including Ticketing, Baggage Claim, and the Remote Curbside at the SkyCenter One office building. For pick-up, designated areas are Red Baggage Claim, Blue Express Curbside, or Remote Curbside at SkyCenter One. A service fee applies to ride-share fares.
- Taxis: Yellow Cab service is readily available at the Baggage Claim level curbside. Contact Yellow Cab at (813) 253-0121 for immediate service.
- Rental Cars: Access on-airport rental car services via the SkyConnect train from the Main Terminal, simplifying the rental process.
- Shared Passenger Van Services: Airport limos and shared van services can be booked in advance or upon arrival. Enclosed, air-conditioned lobbies at both ends of the Baggage Claim areas provide comfortable waiting areas.
- Bus/Public Transportation: Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) and Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) bus stops are located at the Rental Car Center. Follow signs to “Remote Curbside.” For Greyhound bus services, the terminal is in downtown Tampa at the Marion Transit Center North Platform. Chartered bus services are also available with pick-up points in the Ground Transportation Centers.
Services & Amenities at Tampa St. Pete International Airport
Tampa St. Pete International Airport prioritizes passenger comfort and convenience with a wide array of services and amenities:
- Guest Services: The information kiosk, centrally located on Level 3 of the Main Terminal, is staffed from 4:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily to assist with any inquiries.
- Accessibility Services: Accessible parking is available in all airport parking areas. Airlines offer wheelchair services from curbside to gates. The airport is fully equipped with elevators and wheelchair-accessible restrooms. Detailed accessibility information is available on the TPA website.
- Currency Exchange: Travelex Currency Services is available on Level 3 of the Main Terminal for international travelers needing currency exchange.
- Animal Relief Areas: Service animals are permitted throughout the airport. Pet relief areas are located post-security in each airside terminal, and pre-security just outside the Main Terminal on the Baggage Claim level and at the Blue Express Arrivals area. More details can be found on the airport’s website under “Animals at TPA.”
- Additional Amenities: Includes water bottle refilling stations near restrooms in all airside terminals, mothers’ nursing rooms, a non-denominational chapel in the Main Terminal, and a Marriott hotel connected directly to the airport.
Contact Information for Tampa St. Pete International Airport
For any further inquiries or assistance, please use the following contact details:
- Address: 4100 George J. Bean Parkway, Tampa, Florida 33607
- Phone: (813) 870-8770
- Website: www.tampaairport.com
Tampa St. Pete International Airport is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Whether you’re starting your Florida vacation or heading home, TPA’s facilities and services are designed to make your journey as pleasant as possible.
