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How Taylor Swift Is Helping The Tampa Bay Community

Author Jen Glorioso

Whether you love her or not, this is a pretty classy move from Taylor Swift. The Mastermind is playing three sold out shows at Raymond James Stadium on Thursday, April 13, Friday April 14, and Saturday April 15. Tampa Bay can expect over 225,000 “swifties” to be in town to “Shake It Off.” The concert is expected to help the community in a number of different ways. The biggest concerts of the year are expected to bring in millions of dollars in revenue. Many local businesses will be benefiting from the shows, just off parking alone!

Taylor decided to do something big for Tampa. The city has honored her by making her Mayor for a day and gave her a key to the city, she also wanted to give back. Instead of saying “You’re On Your Own Kid,” Taylor Swift left a very generous donation to Feeding Tampa Bay. They announced on their social media that the star’s contribution will place over 125,000 meals on tables for families in need. That should be some great Karma for Tay Tay!

Want to follow in Taylor’s footsteps? You can donate to Feeding Tampa Bay here. Going to the show? Check out our tips to know before you go!

[Source: News Channel 8]

 

Jen was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. She’s been with Beasley Media Group since 2022. In her spare time, you can find her at Tampa Bay Lightning games, Tampa Bay breweries, or the beach. Catch up on Jen’s content about the highest-rated restaurants/bars in Tampa, things-to-do around the area, and upcoming concerts.

5 Restaurants Near Raymond James Stadium For The Eras Tour

We are counting down the minutes till Taylor Swift brings her Eras Tour to Tampa. The first show is taking place on Thursday, April 13 with two more shows after that. With 3 sell-out crowds that means that roughly over 225,000 people will be around the Raymond James Stadium these days. Also, don’t forget her merch bus opens outside of Ray Jay on April 12. Need ideas on where to pregame before the show? We have a list of 5 great restaurants near Raymond James Stadium.

Doors to the show open at 4:30. We recommend getting to Ray Jay around that time if you want plenty of time to buy merch, head to the bathroom, or grab a couple beverages before the show. A nice tip we’ve seen on social media is to head to the highest level and check out the merch stands there. They may not have everything like the ones in the ground level will, but if you head there first the lines should be shorter. You can also skip the hassle and buy merch from Taylor’s website, but shipping will take about a month. Also, be aware of Raymond James’ bag policy. Swifties in other cities have been turned away at the front of security line because their bag is either too big or not clear. Read more about parking and security tips here.

So where should you go to eat before the show? There’s plenty of great restaurants by Raymond James to choose from. Know that you may not be able to leave your car there, even if it’s walking distance. But it may make your Uber price cheaper to get picked up from these places instead or waiting at the drop off area at the stadium. We went to Yelp to see the highest rated places and added a few of our own favorites.

Here are 5 restaurants near Raymond James Stadium for the Eras Tour

  • Kona Grill

    If you’re going to the show Thursday or Friday, Kona Grill is a great option to eat before the show. If you plan on making it to Ray Jay by the time doors open, you’ll be able to take advantage of Kona’s happy hour. Plus it’s about a 15-20 minute walk to Ray Jay, so you could even save yourself the Uber if you’re wearing comfy shoes.

  • Riveters

    Riveters is probably the closest sit-down restaurant to Raymond James Stadium. It’s only 1 mile away so it could be a short Uber drive or 20 minute walk.

  • Brick House Tavern

    Brick House Tavern & Tap is a great option on Dale Mabry. It’s about 1.7 miles away from Raymond James so it’s up to you if you can make the 30 minute walk or take a chance with Uber.

     

  • The Boozy Pig

    If you’re going to the show on Friday or Saturday, we highly recommend checking out The Boozy Pig. They are one of the most underrated restaurants in Tampa.

  • Miller's Ale House

    Miller’s is another close option to Raymond James. It’s only about a 20 minute walk from here to the stadium. Or could be a super cheap Uber, compared to getting picked up/dropped off at the stadium.

  • Honorary Mention: Two Shepherds Tap Room

    Two Shepherds is even hosting a Tay-gate pre party for some of the biggest Swifties! There will be dance party, themed photo areas, a costume contest, and various other fan activities. The only issue is Two Shepherds doesn’t have a kitchen, they will have a food truck starting at 6p for all of the late stragglers.

     

  • Check Out The Surprise Songs That's Made It To The Eras Tour (So Far)

    The Surprise Songs That Made It On Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Setlist

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Author Jen Glorioso
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