When you work hard, you have to play hard – or go to the Hard Rock? (Please indulge my terrible joke. Thanks.) That’s just what I did recently when it became evident that a mandatory vacation from work life was necessary. When Seminole Hard Rock Tampa invited me in for a weekend stay to experience their brand-new multi-million dollar revamp, I almost immediately packed my bags and told Eric to drive north!
You see, we always plan a vacation in early October to celebrate both my birthday and our wedding anniversary, but this year the timing was off and we both had multiple work commitments that kept us from traveling. Needless to say, after what felt like the busiest month of my career, even the thought of a two-day getaway had me giddy.
Following a relatively short 4-hour drive from Miami, we arrived to the Hard Rock Tampa and were ushered into a King Suite in the new 15-story hotel tower. Besides the beautifully appointed room and generous bathroom (with incredible lighting!), our room had floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the massive pool deck. Talk about a view! While we only stayed one night, there was plenty to do and see on property to maximize our time away.
Yes, I packed all this for one weekend. #extra
The hotel’s recently opened wine shop, “The Cellar”, was naturally my first stop. (What’s a vacation without wine?!) Featuring sparkling chandeliers made of wine glasses and wall-to-wall bottles of vino ranging from your run of the mill cabernet to the fanciest of champagne, I knew I was in the right place. Then I confirmed it when I saw the wine “vending machine” (as I called it.) This was actually a wine tap—you know, like for beer, but stocked with wine. I quickly purchased a $2 card that granted me access to purchase delicious liquid gold (aka chardonnay) by the ounce. Heaven.
The rest of our night consisted of a delicious meal at Hard Rock’s newest upscale restaurant, The Rez, where I indulged in oysters (my favorite!), yummy craft cocktails, an entire Snapper (see below,) and most importantly – some romantic solo time with Eric. I loved that there were so many diverse food and drink options under one roof. Having them just a short walk from our room meant we could imbibe as much as we wanted without having to worry about driving or transportation.
We ended the night…where else? The casino! Let’s just say lady luck was not on my side, but I did get some money content for the ‘gram.
Our visit was short and sweet, but we got everything we needed from our getaway – relaxation, great food & drinks, entertainment, and even some time to work on our fitness. With so much to offer, the Hard Rock Tampa can easily be a destination for romance or for a group of friends to let loose; it just depends how you want to roll the dice.
IF YOU GO
Relax at the stunning new Rock Spa & Salon, offering 25,000 sq. ft. of luxe pampering space. They offer an impressive array of treatments ranging from massages and specialized facials (including Hydrafacial and microdermabrasion), to complete salon services like hair, nails and makeup. For the well-groomed gentleman the new barbershop is not to be missed.
Sweat it out at the Body Rock Fitness Center– like we did!—or book a personal training session or YogaFit class.
Indulge your sweet tooth at Constant Grind where you’ll find a coffee bar, gelato, macarons, and decadent pastries that are almost *too* pretty to eat. (The pink couches and pastel hued décor alone are worthy of a visit.)
Lounge poolside at one of the hotel’s three new pools while enjoying a cocktail – or two.
Play at the all-new *smoke-free* VIP gaming area and try your luck at the slots or many table games. Not a gambler? The people watching is just as good. Trust.
Una margarita, por favor! Swimsuit by Self-Portrait
You can follow all the action from Seminole Hard Rock Tampa on social media and stay up-to-date on upcoming events, concerts & more.
