The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino already cuts a dominant figure as visitors enter Tampa from the east on I-4. It has been the largest casino in Florida for a few years now. After a recent expansion, however, it was computed that the Hard Rock is now the fourth largest casino in the US, outranking quite a few well-known gambling palaces on the Vegas strip and elsewhere. The ranking was computed by simply counting the available seats at slot machines, table games, and the poker room. 

If you're not much of a gambler, there are still plenty of reasons to visit the Hard Rock. First, it is located just across the street from the Amphitheatre. That makes it a great place to base a concert excursion, especially if you are coming from out of town.

The size of the casino is matched by the amenities — Photo courtesy of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

The second reason is the variety of restaurants and bars on the property. There are seven restaurants in the building, including the new Rise Kitchen & Bakery. There are also five different bars and lounges, the best of them being located out by the pool.

Speaking of the pool deck, it's one of the best in the Bay area and a renowned place for the pretty people to congregate, especially during special events and holidays. 

Overall, the Seminole Hard Rock is a destination in itself, more than capable of filling a day's worth of time. This new expansion has only solidified that fact.