Tampa International Airport TPA is a commercial airport located about 6 miles west of the Tampa city center. It is the 31st busiest airport in the United States moving just shy of 17 million passengers annually. Originally named Drew Field it opened in 1928 and like many airports eventually was used by the United States Army Air Corps which modernized the airport greatly. By 1950 Drew Field was renamed Tampa International Airport and started accepting commercial flights again.
Located just off the Memorial Highway and I-275, TPA Airport has several parking options including economy, garage, short-term, long-term and valet.
Tampa International Airport consists of one main terminal and four Airsides (A, C, E, F), which are similar to concourses, with 62 gates. All airsides are connected via an APM (automated people mover) similar to an elevated train system. Southwest Airlines has the largest presence with 19 other airlines flying to 73 non-stop international and domestic destinations.
As far as retail goes Tampa International Airport offers a wide variety of options from Author’s Bookstore to Swaroski. If one is looking to dine there are fast food options as well as sit down restaurants like Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
Getting to and from the Tampa Airport is fairly simple. Public transportation wise there is the HART (Hillsbourough Area Regional Transit) located near Belt #15 in Baggage Claim. Additionally, rental cars, taxis, shuttles and limousines are available. Tampa International Airport hotels include over 20 options from the on site Marriott Hotel Tampa Airport to the Grand Hyatt Hotel Tampa less than 2 miles away.