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•tampaairport.com; 813-870-8700; staffed weekdays, 8 a.m. — 5:30 p.m.
•Terminal maps
•Current departures
•Current arrivals

Checkpoint savvy

Busiest times: Weekday mornings, 6 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Checkpoint workarounds: Each concourse has its own security checkpoint, so no real workarounds here.

Parking

Parking information: 813-870-8791; 24 hours.

Most convenient: Valet: Blue departure curbside, $25/day. Garage, Levels 4 – 9 of the Landside Terminal Building, $20/day; first hour free.

Least expensive: Economy parking, just south of the Landside Terminal Building, $9/day. Shuttle to terminal. See more options.

Cellphone lot located just south of the Landside Terminal Building (follow signs from airport entrance). Lot has a flight display board, restrooms and free Wi-Fi.

Transportation to/from city

Most convenient: Taxi, $25 flat rate to downtown and the cruise terminal. See more options.

Least expensive: HART Regional Transit (East end of the Red Baggage Claim Curbside by Belt #20.) Route #30 runs between the airport and downtown Tampa, $1.75. See more options.

Wi-Fi and charging stations

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport and in the cellphone waiting lot.

Power outlets: In the Landside Terminal, there are outlets close to telephone banks and seating areas and, on Level 3, at each of the bistro tables. Workstations located on Level 2 of the Landside Terminal by the telephone banks, and at all Airsides.

Go local

Good choice for local gifts: The Florida Shop (Tampa and Florida-themed items), also limited production Tampa clothing and merchandise at Ron Jon Surf Shop and Harley Davidson, all located on Level 3, Landside Terminal. See more options.

Good choice for local food: The View at CK's is a revolving rooftop restaurant at the Marriott Tampa Airport, located in the airport. Other options: Carrabba's Italian Grill (Landside), Jose Cuervo Tequileria (Airside A), Casa Bacardi (Airside E). See more options.

Tips and tidbits

Smoking is allowed at two outdoor smoking patios on Airsides C and E and on the Transfer Level Observation Deck, on Level 3 of the Landside Terminal. There are children's play areas in each airside, an extensive art program with permanent pieces and rotating exhibits. Of special note are the seven restored aviation-themed WPA murals on display in Airside E.

Nearby layover option

WestShore Plaza Mall, 3 miles from the airport, has restaurants, shops and a 16-screen movie theater. Original article >>

Source : http://www.usatoday.com