Travel Information | National Pavement Expo

Plan your trip to the 2024 National Pavement Expo and Conference

The Tampa Convention Center is surrounded by a diverse assortment of restaurants and options for exciting entertainment and attractions.

Once the world’s Cigar Capital, Tampa Bay is a vibrant region that takes pride in its rich, cultural heritage. Visitors can experience delicious culinary cuisine, miles of dazzling waterfront, laidback craft breweries, thrilling attractions and exceptional shopping and nightlife. Explore by land, air, or sea –adventure awaits in Tampa Bay.

We are excited for your visit January 23-25, 2024!

Getting to Tampa

Airport

Tampa International Airport, located at 4100 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33607, is the closest airport to downtown Tampa and The Tampa Convention Center. It is 7 miles away and a 15–20-minute drive.

Taxis, shuttle buses, rental cars and ride-share transportation options are available at Tampa International Airport.

Driving into Tampa

The Tampa Convention Center is located at 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602, in Downtown Tampa.

From Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, Ft. Myers, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Naples:

Take I-75 North to I-4 West to Tampa I-275 Junction. Exit 45A. Follow signs for Tampa Street. Stay in the middle lane to enter the garage.

From St. Petersburg & Clearwater Airport:

Take I-275 North. Exit 44. Follow signs for Tampa Street. Stay in the middle lane to enter the garage.

From Orlando, Lakeland, Plant City, Daytona, Jacksonville:

Take I-4 West to Tampa to I-275 Junction. Exit 45A. Follow signs for Tampa Street. Stay in the middle lane to enter the garage.

Parking

Click here to view the parking available around the Tampa Convention Center.

Food and Drinks

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Street Car – Hop on the TECO Line Streetcar for FREE and head downtown Tampa to check out all the city has to offer. The streetcar connects Downtown Tampa, Channel District, and Ybor City. Service is FREE seven days a week to 11 covered wheelchair-accessible stations every 15 minutes.

Ybor City – Once the cigar capital of the world, is a vibrant area in Tampa that boasts an exciting nightlife and delicious food. Ybor City has something for everyone, from live music venues to trendy bars and nightclubs.

Sparkman Wharf – Check out this Channelside District outdoor entertainment space with excellent dining options available. Everything from bowling, waterfront views, live music, shopping and the Florida Aquarium just steps away!

Armature Works – Once used as Tampa Electric’s streetcar warehouse, this fully restored building now features a rooftop lounge and a variety of local eateries serving everything from sushi to empanadas to pizzas.

Columbia Restaurant – Located in the heart of historic Ybor City, the Columbia has strong roots being the oldest restaurant in Florida ℠ (est. 1905). Their menu serves up a mix of Cuban and Spanish food, including their original Cuban Sandwich, named the “Best Sandwich in Florida” by Food & Wine Magazine.

Bern’s Steakhouse – A Tampa Bay institution known for its vast collection of wine, perfectly aged steaks and of course, the iconic Harry Waugh dessert room, home to over 1,000 desserts and spirits.

Ulele – Take a walk to the north end of the Tampa Riverwalk to taste the authentic Florida flavors. All menu items are native to local FL waters and farms, including chargrilled oysters, alligator hush puppies, and sensational seafood risotto.

Brewery Scene – Tampa is home to one of the top craft brewing scenes in the country. Brewers in the area add a unique twist to their beers with local ingredients, including citrus and Cuban coffee. Find your happy hour spot with this list of local breweries!

Coffee – Need a quick pick-me-up? Tampa has plenty of coffee spots to pick from. Check out where you can find the best brews.

Looking for something specific when it comes to dining or drinks? Check out the 2023 Best Restaurant List from Tampa Magazine. There is no shortage of top spots to dine while visiting the Tampa Bay area.