Tampa city guide: Key information for Leeds United supporters

Raymond James Stadium is the venue for Leeds United's opening pre-season fixture of the 2026-27 campaign, when the Whites take on Wrexham on Saturday, 25 July.

The match is part of TEG Sport's 2026 Summer Soccer Series, which also features Liverpool and Sunderland across multiple US cities over nine days.

Tampa is a lively Gulf Coast city with strong Cuban and Latin influences, excellent food and a thriving nightlife, giving Leeds fans plenty to enjoy before and after the match.

With the match taking place in late July, supporters should expect hot and humid conditions, as temperatures often remain above 30°C (86°F) well into the evening, so lightweight clothing and plenty of water are strongly recommended.

What else is there to do in Tampa?

Tampa has plenty to offer beyond football, and Leeds fans spending a few days in the city will find no shortage of attractions.

Ybor City

Tampa's historic Latin Quarter should be at the top of every visitor's itinerary. The district grew around Tampa's cigar industry in the late 19th century, when the city became known as the cigar capital of the world.

Today, East 7th Avenue (La Septima) is lined with independent bars, restaurants, live music venues and beautifully preserved brick buildings. 

Free-roaming chickens remain one of Ybor City's most recognisable features, while the Saturday Market on 8th Avenue is worth a visit for local food, crafts and entertainment.

Ybor City is around a 20-minute drive from Raymond James Stadium and can also be reached using the free TECO Line Streetcar from downtown Tampa.

Tampa Riverwalk

Stretching 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River, the Tampa Riverwalk links many of the city's leading attractions, including parks, museums, restaurants and waterfront bars.

The Florida Aquarium sits at the southern end of the route, while the Tampa Bay History Center and Armature Works food hall are among the highlights further north.

 An evening walk along the Riverwalk offers excellent views of Tampa's skyline and is a relaxing way to spend a few hours before heading to the stadium.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Busch Gardens combines some of Florida's best roller coasters with one of North America's largest zoological collections, making it an excellent day out for families and thrill seekers alike.

The park covers more than 300 acres and is around seven miles north-east of downtown Tampa.

Hyde Park Village

Hyde Park Village offers a quieter atmosphere than Ybor City, making it an excellent place to enjoy lunch, coffee or a drink before the match. The neighbourhood is known for its boutique shops, independent restaurants and stylish cocktail bars, all within easy walking distance of one another.

Bayshore Boulevard

Running for around 4.5 miles along Tampa Bay, Bayshore Boulevard is home to the longest continuous pavement in the United States. It is a popular place for walking, jogging and cycling, while also providing excellent views across the bay, particularly at sunset.

Where to eat and drink near Raymond James Stadium and beyond

The area immediately around Raymond James Stadium has relatively few restaurants and bars, as the venue sits in a mainly commercial part of the city. 

Leeds fans looking to enjoy a proper pre-match atmosphere should instead spend time in Ybor City or downtown Tampa before making the short journey to the stadium.

Near the stadium

Two Shepherds Taproom 

Around a 10-minute drive from Raymond James Stadium, this craft beer bar is a popular meeting place before sporting events. It offers a wide range of local beers in a relaxed setting and is a good place to enjoy a couple of drinks before heading to the ground.

La Teresita (3248 W Columbus Dr) 

One of Tampa's best-known Cuban restaurants, La Teresita has been serving traditional dishes for decades. It is famous for generous portions, authentic Cuban food and excellent value. The Cuban sandwich, ropa vieja, and black beans and rice are all highly recommended.

Ybor City and downtown Tampa 

Columbia Restaurant (2117 E 7th Ave, Ybor City) 

Founded in 1905, Columbia is Florida's oldest restaurant and remains one of Tampa's most famous dining destinations. It serves classic Spanish and Cuban cuisine, while the famous 1905 Salad is prepared at your table and remains one of the restaurant's signature dishes. Flamenco performances take place on selected evenings, so booking ahead is advised.

Maloney's Local (1120 E Kennedy Blvd) 

A popular meeting place for football supporters, with plenty of large screens showing live sport throughout the day. The menu includes Irish-inspired pub favourites alongside American classics, making it a good option before kick-off.

James Joyce Irish Pub (1724 E 8th Ave, Ybor City) 

A traditional Irish pub with a welcoming atmosphere, quality pub food and an extensive drinks selection. It offers a quieter alternative to some of Ybor City's busier bars.

Yeoman's Cask and Lion (202 N Morgan St)

An English-style pub with a modern sports bar feel, featuring indoor golf simulators, plenty of large screens and a wide food and drinks menu. One of the city's most distinctive venues for football supporters.

Tampa Bay Brewing Company (1600 E 8th Ave, Ybor City)

One of Tampa's best-known craft breweries, serving a wide selection of locally brewed beers alongside classic American food in a relaxed setting with outdoor seating.

Bern's Steak House (1208 S Howard Ave, Hyde Park)

One of the most celebrated steakhouses in the United States, Bern's is famous for its enormous wine collection, one of the largest restaurant wine cellars in the world. Reservations should be made well in advance.

Getting to Raymond James Stadium

Raymond James Stadium is located at 4201 North Dale Mabry Highway, approximately four miles north-west of downtown Tampa. However, it is important to note that there is no rail service to the stadium, so most supporters travel by car, taxi or rideshare.

By rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

For most Leeds fans, Uber or Lyft is the easiest way to reach the stadium.

Journeys from downtown Tampa or Ybor City usually take between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic. After the match, surge pricing is common, so waiting 30 to 40 minutes before booking your return journey can often save money.

By car

Around 25,000 parking spaces are available around Raymond James Stadium, with all payments made electronically.

Parking should be booked in advance through the stadium's official parking provider, as demand is expected to be high. Roads around North Dale Mabry Highway become heavily congested during the final 90 minutes before kick-off, so arriving early is recommended.

By bus

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) operates bus services across Tampa, with several routes stopping close to Raymond James Stadium.

There is no dedicated matchday shuttle, and services can be slower than travelling by car or rideshare, particularly before major events. Supporters planning to travel by bus should check the HART website or app before setting off to confirm routes and timetables.