America’s favorite airport is now our oyster. Tampa International Airport (TPA) announced it has brought back the hugely popular All Access program, which allows visitors to access any airside beyond the security gates, without needing a ticket.
Visitors simply have to register in advance, and the All Access pass allows them passage through security and into whichever airside they choose. For those of us old enough to remember, it brings back the experience of being able to welcome fliers at the gate the moment they step off the plane.
There are few things that make me happier than seeing my mom when she lands in Tampa. Now I can carry her bag for her on the way out.
Of course, the upside goes far beyond just helping with suitcases. By its nature (and design), TPA is one of the best dining and shopping destinations in all of Tampa Bay, and this gives locals access to all those experiences without having to buy a plane ticket to London.
“We’re thrilled to bring back our popular TPA All Access program, giving the entire community a chance to once again shop, dine and relax at Tampa International Airport without requiring a boarding pass,” CEO Michael Stephens said. “Our guests have been eagerly asking for this special perk to return, and we’re proud to reinstate the program as part of TPA’s ongoing commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience.”
Tampa Bay’s biggest mall is hidden inside an airport
Now we can explore an entire region under one roof. In addition to popular chains like P.F. Chang’s, Hard Rock Cafe, and the only Goody Goody location in Tampa Bay, TPA is home to dozens of our favorite local spots. You can pick up prints from St. Pete’s Dali Museum, enjoy craft beer from Tampa breweries, and even dine on fresh-caught local fish, all while kicking back and watching the planes come in.
The shopping includes everything from luxury accessories, everyday fashion, and athletic apparel, to new books and magazines, perfumes and colognes, toys, and tons of locally-made gifts and goodies.
With All Access, you can come solo or with a group for an afternoon of fun, or you can tie it around loved ones coming and going. Just reserve your time slot for the appropriate gate, and you can welcome arrivals right off the tarmac and then walk them right back to the jet bridge when it’s time to leave. If you plan well, you can have a Cuban sandwich and a cortado from Columbia Cafe together before they take off. One last taste of Tampa.
All Access visitors are limited to one airside per visit, so be sure to check where your travelers need to be or where your favorite restaurant is before you register. Pro tip: The Gasparilla Bar and Mise en Place are both in Airside F.
Each All Access visitor will choose a two-hour window for entry, but once through security, you can stay all day. We should also note that TPA All Access users are subject to the same TSA security screening regulations as passengers boarding a plane.
How to get your TPA All Access pass:
- Register online in advance for an available two-hour window to enter the airside of your choice at the reservation site here.
- Pick up your pass with a photo ID at the Information Desk on Level 3 in the Main Terminal between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. on the day you’re visiting.
- Go through the TSA security screening checkpoint for the airside you selected with your pass and ID like you’re catching a flight, then you’re good to go!
