Even if you're not in town for a film screening or performance, visitors highly recommend a stop at the beautifully ornate Tampa Theatre. When it was built in 1926, the theater was considered one of the world's most elaborate theaters. Designed by architect John Eberson, the interior features a 900-pipe Wurlitzer organ and was constructed to look like a Mediterranean garden with flowers and gargoyles. Take a look at the ceiling and you'll spot 99 bulbs meant to resemble stars in the night sky. If you can't attend a show here, consider taking a tour instead. 

The venue offers a 90-minute "balcony to backstage" tour, which includes a demonstration of the Wurlitzer theater organ and details about the stories, art and architecture that earned this movie palace a spot on the National Register of Historic Places and Tampa City Landmark status. Tours take place on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. Adult tickets cost $7.50; children ages 2 to 12 tour for $5. Check the theater's website for show times and tour dates and times.