By Olivia Fleming
Do you like shopping and exploring the city of Tampa?
The city of Tampa offers so much for its residents; whether it’s a sunset paddle board, a walk on Bayshore, or a trip to Davis Island Dog Beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you are new to Tampa, you may have yet to learn about the fantastic selection of monthly markets. The Sunset Market, Heights Night Market, Ybor Saturday Market, The Market at Water Street, Second Sunday Market, and the Fresh Market are some of the most commonly known.
Are you looking for a weekly market to attend? The Ybor Saturday market takes place every Saturday at 1901 N 19th St. The outdoor market is known for having some of the best locally produced goods.
The market offers an assortment of vendors selling all types of goods, such as handmade jewelry, art, candles, and soaps—the endless variety of vendors spread across Centennial Park in Ybor City. Known as the longest-running outdoor market in Tampa Bay, the Ybor City market has occurred for almost 25 years. The market features 75 vendors and has become one of Tampa’s largest. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, this is your kind of place.
Want to get into health and wellness? The Market at Water Street is your place to be! Taking place every third Sunday of the new month, this market has been a staple for those interested in culinary delights, health and wellness products, and unique art. Located on Water Street in Downtown Tampa, this market supports over 90 local vendors. Water Street is the perfect place to stroll and admire the beautiful scenery. This has become a popular spot in Tampa for housing well-known restaurants such as The Edition and Boulon.
Sunset Market in midtown occurs every first Thursday of the new month. Located at 15526 N Florida Ave., the market features over 40 local vendors. This market offers a unique aspect, as it takes place in the evening. It’s the perfect way to end the day, and who doesn’t love shopping to relieve stress? Artists, jewelry, cocktails, and live music are all things you can expect to see while strolling through this market.
Armature Works is one of the best tourist attractions in the Tampa area. People from all over love to explore the upscale food court in a historic building that once served as a repair and storage facility for the Tampa Electric Street and Railway Company dating back to 1910. Armature Works holds two best markets: Heights Night Market and the Second Sunday Market. Located at 1910 N Ola Ave., Armature Works is the perfect place for a market. With beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor seating, it’s worth visiting.
Heights Night Market takes place every second Wednesday of each month. Located on the South Lawn facing the Hillsborough River, this market features artisans, unique pieces, jewelry, boutique pop-ups, and many food options. While the market is lined with food trucks, shoppers can also look inside the building, which has over 14 local eateries.
The Second Sunday Market, also located on Armature Works property, occurs inside the building. This market happens every second Sunday of the new month inside The Gathering. If you want to buy some art, this is your place. What to expect when attending this market is homemade goods, clothing, jewelry, and unique artwork. Outside, under the western awning, is all the artwork sold by local artists.
A fan favorite is the Fresh Market, most commonly known as the Hyde Park Market. Walk around the circle of Hyde Park Village and try different food samples from some of the best local vendors. This market features a wide selection of fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and plants.
These markets are pet-friendly and the perfect place to walk if you live in Tampa Bay. Enjoy delicious food and cocktails while shopping for a friend lover, or treat yourself!