Element by Marriott Tampa Midtown

For a work trip, the location was a big plus: lots of quick food options nearby, and close enough to the highway while still feeling like a walkable little pocket. It took only about 15 minutes to get to the airport in rush-hour traffic. My room was huge, with lots of thoughtful touches. I used the valet out front, which made coming and going easy. Needing a key to reach the floors also gave me a stronger sense of safety as a woman traveling alone. The gym looked well equipped, and breakfast in the morning is complimentary.

Anthony at the valet stand at Element Midtown Tampa made a lasting impression. He welcomed everyone with a friendly attitude and kept arrivals running smoothly, even when things got busy. He was calm, organized, quick, and careful with the vehicles, while making sure guests felt noticed and valued. His genuine care and professionalism are the kind of hospitality that bring people back and lead them to recommend a hotel. Anthony’s work ethic and service deserve recognition. Thanks for going above and beyond and making my experience at Element Midtown Tampa so good.

Michael at the front desk was patient and helpful with his guidance, and Yanela and Isel made breakfast a friendly, easy experience. They spoke both English and Spanish very well and were happy to talk with me in either language. They also accommodated my request for only egg whites and an all-vegetarian breakfast without any fuss. The staff, service, and location are all reasons I’d recommend this hotel. Parking was the one thing that kept this from a five-star stay. It was my first visit, and I usually use valet, but I like having the option to park myself. I had trouble finding the hotel and parking area. Once I found the garage across from the hotel, I was relieved, only to learn at check-in that I had to use valet or my car would be towed after 11 pm. I don’t understand why I couldn’t leave it in that garage for a daily fee. That’s the sole reason for my four-star rating.

There’s a lot to like here. The plaza, hotel, and surrounding area were very clean, with shops, places to eat and drink, and a nice lawn with artwork where they sometimes show movies. It’s also walkable to Raymond James Stadium. The hotel looks great, and the free breakfast runs from 6:30 to 9:30 with loads of choices. They even had gluten-free bread, eggs cooked by a staff member, avocado toast with tomatoes and cheese, and a cute Chobani yogurt bar. The top-floor pool is simple, but has a shallow area with bubble jets and seats all around where you can sit with a drink. You walk through the pretty restaurant to get there, and drinks are allowed in the pool. The parking setup was frustrating. They call it valet only, but you actually park the car yourself in the garage using a QR code and pay with that code. There’s little nearby parking by the highway, and the parking is temporary, with overnight stays subject to towing. A DJ at the restaurant was playing fun 90s and 00s songs. I would’ve liked to hear BTS since it was a big weekend for them in Tampa and the town was lit purple, but the employees were all so nice that I wasn’t too bothered. It’s a sustainable hotel, with refillable water bottles and water at the end of each hall. The pillows had cute messages about relaxing and meditating. My room also had a microwave, a decent-sized fridge, and a sink with soap and a sponge for dishes. It was an ADA room for guests with hearing impairments, with a doorbell. I was impressed and had a wonderful time. I booked because I could walk to Raymond James Stadium, and I’m glad I did.