Making the Most of your Mama Time in Tampa Bay: A List of Local Hotspots and Activities for Your Next Get Together

It used to be so easy to get together with for a drink at ladies night, or spend a lazy Sunday poolside with the girls. But as we have gotten older and added more and more children to our group of gal pals, our girls night outs are becoming more like family barbecues or a quick bite to eat so we can be home in time to catch up on some sleep. When we are able to coordinate a block of time together, however, it’s fun to do something a little different and make some great memories enjoying each other’s company.

Looking for something unique to do with your girlfriends around town? Check out these activities and local hotspots that are perfect for your moms’ day or night out!

For a fancy affair – because sometimes it’s just nice to get done up and into your little black dress as opposed to your spit-up covered yoga pants.. check out:

Ciro’s Speakeasy – Make sure you find out the password before heading over to this stylish spot for food and spirits in South Tampa. Reserve a table in one of their private booths and draw the curtains so you and your friends can feel extra vip in this vintage, prohibition-era lounge.

Blue Martini – It’s a well know spot in International Plaza (and a chain with many other locations), but it attracts an older crowd and lends itself to dressing up and dancing to cool beats when some unique musical acts take their stage.

For an athletic outing where you combine fit, friends, and fun… check out:

Pole Dancing Class- Flava Fitness Studio hosts several fun fitness classes for all levels, but one in particular that would make for a memorable mama outing is their pole dance fitness class. Bring out your sexy side or your silly side, whatever is more you. You do not have to be a member of the studio to take their classes although they do have membership packages. Individual classes average about $8-10 and they have a calendar of all of their classes on their website.

Top Golf – this entertainment and event venue with fun point-scoring golf games for all skill levels, upscale bar food and drinks, music, and more, is fairly new to the Tampa Bay area (located near Brandon). For some friendly competition with your favorite ladies, this is the spot.

For a good laugh with the ladies… check out:

Side Splitters Comedy Club – Located in Carrollwood, this comedy club is centrally located with ample parking, and they have a variety of acts including local comedians, well-known comedians, and even hypnotists. They serve food and have a full bar, or there are several restaurants located nearby for a pre or post-show meal.

The Improv – The larger and chain-comedy club located in Ybor City has a variety of performers including some of the most famous comedians. It’s a good idea to look at the calendar well ahead of time to purchase tickets as they can sell out for more popular acts.

For a night where you can let your creative juices flow, as well as other kinds of juices.. like wine… check out:

Painting with a Twist – There are several locations in the Tampa Bay area. Painting with a Twist involves “instructional art with friends, wine and a lively instructor to produce individual works of art”. You can choose which painting you would like based on the calendar on their website. Classes average $35.00-$45.00 and wine is complimentary.

The Potter’s House – This locally owned paint-your-own-pottery studio is a hidden gem in the South Tampa area.

For a casual, flip flops and tank tops, local bar scene.. check out:

Pete’s Place – Located in South Tampa, Pete’s Place is a hold-in-the-wall bar with friendly people and some very talented karaoke singers. The drinks are cheap, the service is friendly, and you can practically wear pajamas and be overdressed. Win.

Other options – Good Time Charlie’s in central Tampa; O’Maddie’s in Gulfport/South St. Petersburg; Jimmie B’s in St. Pete Beach

To find some zen with your favorite women..check out:

Yoga in the Park – Sponsored by the Downtown Tampa Partnership, this class happens every Sunday from 6:00-7:00pm at Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa. Although the class is free, they suggest a $5.00 donation to help the program continue running. What a great way to meet up with girlfriends while enjoying the beautiful views of the museums, UT skyline, and waterfront of downtown.

Private yoga – Did you know some yoga instructors will arrange a private group lesson that fits in to your schedule for you and your friends? Consider hiring someone like Kerin Monaco, a local yoga and meditation instructor and fellow mom, to meet at your home, a local park, beach, etc. Individual sessions are only $100 for up to 5 people. Visit her website for more information.