In case you need more reasons to visit the Bay area, Tampa International Airport is getting a historical makeover and a huge expansion with the opening of 69 new shops and restaurants. We've been given a private tour, and all we have to say is that it's amazing!

Tampa International Airport is proud to feature up to 40 of Tampa's own local businesses throughout including favorite fashion brands like Bourbon and Boweties and Spanx, founded by Tampa native Sara Blakely, who chose the perfect travel pieces tailored for this store. Getting your summer gear from the The Shoppes at Bayshore gives West Palm Beach vibes and is sure to be a true delight carrying the latest in American and European-style resort wear to ensure local and traveling guests reach their destinations in style.

The guys weren't forgotten since the Shoppes brings menswear including Tommy Bahama and Runway for athleisure. The Shoppes at Bayshore would not be complete without a Tampa Sport store for the BuccaneersRays, or Lightning fans plus collegiate wear from the University of South Florida, University of Central Florida, and University of Florida. Not to forget, you can treat yourself or a loved one with beautiful home decor by Magnolia Market or a unique gift from the Pop Up featuring an array of items made by local artisans. 

This is just the beginning! Hundreds of non-flying guests will come to the airport just to see the products and get a taste of the food, so in late spring of this year, visitors will be able to sign up for special access reservations to Airside C and F terminals. Each terminal is now home to high-end brands like Gucci, Tumi, Swarvoski, and Seventh Avenue Apothecary.

 

Plenty of family-friendly eateries at the airport serve breakfast including Kawa Coffee, Buddy Brew Coffee, and La Segunda Bakery and Cafe', all of which are from the Tampa Bay area. Never catch a flight on an empty stomach or just have a night out in new restaurant installments like Mise En Place, Ulele, and Chef Marty's. Then grab cocktails at Gasparilla Bar-themed after our famous Gasparilla Festival.

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Need some relaxation after the business trip? Visit the new Terminal Getaway Spa designed with the traveler in mind offering walk-up chair services starting at 10 minutes. They've thought of everything, yet more is still to come at Tampa International Airport in summer 2019. Due to the 21 million passengers who came through the airport in 2018, Tampa International Airport has become an industry leader, so this great expansion was both necessary and welcomed as it benefits our local economy, small businesses, and create hundreds of jobs.  

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Photos courtesy of author