Tampa, FL Getaway
We took a much-needed getaway and ended up in Brandon, FL, located just outside of Tampa. Let me tell you, we serve an amazing God. Although our trip was cut short by an emergency that arose, we still had some fun.
As I drove South, we decided that the perfect ingredients for our trip would include seafood, sightseeing and relaxation. We used Google, Siri and highway billboards for inspiration.
First stop: Buc-ee’s (pronounced Buck-ee’s), located off I-75, near Fort Valley, GA. Buc-ee’s is an amazing place. It has over 100 gas pumps and is anchored by a store that is the size of a super Wal-Mart. You’ll find an array of all kinds of goods, food stations galore, souvenirs, even clothing. We were there for over an hour taking in the sights and enjoying the wonderful aromas of the food stations. I was hoping to meet Buc-ee, the costumed beaver mascot for whom the chain gas station plaza is named, but staff members say appearances are not scheduled. The beaver just kind of shows up. Maybe next time, we’ll get to meet Buc-cee.
After Buc-cee’s, we pressed on to the Florida state line, arriving in Brandon, FL late Saturday night. We got a hotel room, had dinner and settled in. We ventured out to explore on Sunday and Monday. On Tuesday, we were forced to end the trip. Didn’t have the chance to finish our itinerary or visit relatives as we had planned. We thank God, though, for our safe return and the fun we did have during the trip.
Highlights of the trip:
Tampa’s Riverwalk
Sparkman Wharf
Sail Plaza
Bahama Breeze
La France vintage clothing and accessories
Salt Shack On the Bay Seafood Restaurant
Columbia Restaurant
We really enjoyed Columbia Restaurant. The food and service were excellent at this historic gem in Ybor City. Established in 1905, it touts itself as Florida’s oldest restaurant and the world’s largest Spanish restaurant.
We took selfies with Casey Gonzmart, Jr., fifth generation descendent of the restaurant’s founder. He was so excited to tell us about his family and how they grew their business. He spent a good bit of time with us.
Tip: If you’re going to the Columbia Restaurant, ask to be seated in the main dining room. We didn’t have reservations but you might want to call ahead to see if you need one. We went during lunch and were seated promptly without a reservation. Lunch dress is casual or business.
Let me know in the comments section if you’ d like more tips about the restaurant and other things to do in the Tampa Bay area, and your thoughts about this post. Don’t forget to subscribe below to BestLifeGlenn for more inspo. Let’s live our best life!
