Here are 8 spots you probably never knew existed at TPA
From a jail cell to resort-style swimming pool, even TPA frequent flyers may not know about these interesting spots around the Airport.
Frequent flyers who can find all six Starbucks locations within the Airport and know the four Airside terminals well may think they know every square inch of TPA. But Tampa International Airport is like a mini-city, complete with hidden gems, lesser-known amenities and other fun-fact areas. We came up with a list of cool and unusual spots that many passengers might not know exist unless you've had the pleasure – or the misfortune – of ever visiting them.
TPA Archive Rooms
Tampa International Airport maintains several rooms that contain historical records, contracts, important documents and even some of the original design plans for the current Airport. The most important documents are stored in a fireproof vault, while others are stored on microfilm. History buffs: Mark your calendars! Portions of TPA’s archive collection will be on display to the public during a special TPA history event coming up on July 17.
Landside Baggage Control Room
Ever wonder how your checked bags get from the ticket counter all the way out to your plane? Just below the ticketing level is a complex system that includes hundreds of miles of automated conveyer belts to transport passenger baggage from the Main Terminal out to one of our four Airsides for loading onto flights. At the center of the operation is the Landside Baggage Control Room, where staff monitor the complex network of belts, detect any blockages or bag jams and reroute bags to alternate locations when needed.
TPA Holding Cell
What happens when someone gets arrested at TPA? They go to jail, of course. Tampa International Airport has its own fully accredited police department with 140 sworn officers, traffic specialists and support personnel who work every day to help keep the public safe, enforce the laws of Florida and provide customer service and assistance to our passengers. When someone commits a crime at TPA, they can be taken to one of the Airport Police Department's holding cells before being transported to Hillsborough County’s Orient Road Jail.
Swimming Pool
Feel like taking a quick dip between flights? You can find a resort-style swimming pool at the Tampa Airport Marriott, which connects directly to the Main Terminal. The pool is the perfect spot to catch some rays or relax before or after a long flight. And while it's only available to registered guests, passengers can purchase a day pass to use the hotel’s facilities, which include a fitness center, convenient luggage storage, and dining options.
Emergency Operations Center
Located directly across from the Airport Operations Center, Tampa International maintains a full-scale Emergency Operations Center that is activated during Airport emergencies and major events. Whether it’s a major hurricane or the arrival of Air Force One, the Airport EOC has stations for key Aviation Authority departments to quickly share information and take action when an urgent situation arises.
The Airport Chapel
Located near the Airside F shuttle in the Main Terminal, TPA's chapel offers a peaceful spot for worshippers of all faiths to pray, meditate or rest before or after a flight. It’s open 24 hours and features beautiful glass art adorning the entryway door and interior wall, titled “Light Passage” by artist Yvonne Barlog.
TPA Bike and Walking Trail
In the mood for a little outdoor exercise? Tampa International Airport offers a bicycle and walking trail that is used by employees, nearby neighborhood residents and visitors to the Airport. Access the 1.5 mile trail by taking the SkyConnect train to the Rental Car Center and then crossing the sky bridge to the SkyCenter One office building. You can easily connect to the Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail and the Veterans Memorial/Skyway Park Trail, which runs directly under the south approach of Runway 1L, offering an amazing vantage point for plane spotting with aircraft soaring overhead just seconds before touching down. A separate bike and walking path runs along Airport Cargo Road on the east side of the Airport, connecting Tampa Bay Boulevard to Hillsborough Avenue.
TPA Zen Garden
Looking for a quiet place to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy Airport? Enjoy some peace and tranquility within our TPA Zen Garden, located just outside the ticketing level near the Southwest Airlines counter. The garden features lush landscaping, a fountain and seating areas for guests and employees. It’s a calm and relaxing spot to read, enjoy a cup of coffee or have a conversation with friends.