Cheap Flights from Chicago (CHI) to Tampa International (TPA)

Fly from Chicago to Tampa International Airport

Flying from Chicago to Tampa International Airport (TPA) will let you enjoy the tropical atmosphere of Florida's Gulf Coast. From Clearwater Beach to Treasure Island, the Tampa Bay area has plenty of beachfront communities along the Gulf of Mexico. The Bush Gardens Tampa Bay and Florida Aquarium also make Tampa a great destination for animal lovers.

American Airlines and United Airlines operate direct flights from Chicago to Tampa International Airport (TPA). A nonstop flight from the Windy City to TPA typically takes just under three hours.

Facilities at Tampa International Airport

Consisting of four airsides and a central terminal, Tampa International Airport (TPA) has a unique layout that's designed to ease traffic flow. Airside C and Airside F are mostly used by Southwest Airlines, which is one of the airport's busiest carriers. Airside A is also served by domestic low-cost carriers such as Silver Airways and Spirit Airlines. Airside E hosts Delta Air Lines, Air Canada and JetBlue Airways. You can use an automated people mover to get from any of the airside facilities to the Main Terminal.

The second level at the Main Terminal includes ticket counters for all of the airlines that serve Tampa International Airport (TPA). In addition to featuring the baggage claim carousels, the first level of the Main Terminal provides access to car rental facilities. Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) buses also stop just outside the first level of this terminal. A bus ride from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to downtown Tampa takes about 30 minutes. Taxis are available as well. A cab fare to downtown Tampa will cost about $25.

Things to Do Near Tampa International Airport

Situated along the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island are lined with beachfront hotels and resorts. After dipping in the turquoise water of the Gulf of Mexico, you'll be eager to visit the Florida Aquarium in Tampa's Channelside District. Sharks, predatory fish, sea turtles and peaceful seahorses swim in this aquarium.

To spot some exotic land mammals, you'll need to visit the Lowry Park Zoo and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Located just outside downtown Tampa, both of these venues are home to creatures from Africa, Asia and other corners of the world. Featuring more than a dozen wild feline species, the Big Cat Rescue is another popular attraction for animal lovers.

Hints and Tips for Tampa International Airport

You should wear lightweight clothing on flights from Chicago to Tampa International Airport (TPA). Temperatures in the Tampa Bay area rarely fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, so you'll have the chance to swim and sunbathe year-round. Even if you fly from Chicago to Tampa International Airport (TPA) in the winter, you can still enjoy major outdoor events. Held in February each year, the Florida State Fair is one of the biggest festivities in the Tampa Bay area. Featuring classic carnival-style rides and eclectic entertainment, this fair attracts large crowds from the entire Sunshine State. In Tampa, you’ll find great restaurants serving fresh seafood and local favorites like Cuban sandwiches. A dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant will cost about $45.