20 replies to this topic

[tampasteve]

Tampa is the "Largest Port in Florida." That comes by the amount of cargo tonnage that goes through the port. So, in theory Miami might have more ships going through it ( I do not know if it does or not) Tampa handles more cargo.

When it comes to comparisons though....I am not trying to fuel fires, but Orlando IS one of (maybe the biggest) biggest travel destinations on earth. That gives it some clout for sure; however, if we are comparing on Metro or Urban growth, population and the like than Miami will win in nearly every category. The differnece is that Miami is a world class city, Orlando is a world class destination. If we are comparing things like malls and arenas than surely Tampa, Orlando, Miami and even Jacksonville would come up in the ranks some times. Things like that can be easily gained by building a new stadium or restaurant, building an urban environment with transportation, character and growth takes a long time and many other factors that are not easily measured.

So in my opinion:
Greatest urban environment in Florida: Miami
Greatest Tourist destination in Florida: Orlando

Steve