Shiver me timbers: Tampa's Gasparilla Pirate Festival coming soon, a flight away from Fresno

The citizenry of Tampa are readying for pirates to descend upon their fair city for its annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival and Parade of Pirates.

Founded in 1904 (originally as a promotional stunt), the festival honors Jose Gaspar, Tampa's "patron rogue". Gaspar, also known for his courtly manners and as the "last of the Buccaneers," is said to have terrorized the waters off the city, and may have left buried treasure somewhere along the coast.

The celebration kicks off along downtown Tampa's Riverwalk on Jan. 26, and will feature the 102nd Gasparilla Invasion and Parade presented by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. Pirates aboard the Jose Gasparilla and accompanied by its festive flotilla, sail the Seddon Channel as they take over Tampa.

After the "krewe" successfully captures the city (yet again), the pirates celebrate with a victory parade at Bay to Bay and Bayshore boulevards, with more than 100 floats, marching bands, krewes and more.

It's more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Fresno to Tampa in that time frame, and the prices aren't too shabby.

So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list.

(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)

Cheapest Tampa flights

Currently, the cheapest flights between Fresno and Tampa are if you leave on January 24 and return from Florida on January 30. Frontier Airlines currently has roundtrip, nonstop tickets for $233.

If you fly out of Fresno on January 24 and return from Tampa on January 29, Frontier Airlines can get you there and back for $268 roundtrip.

Top Tampa hotels

To plan your stay, here are some of Tampa's top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do, and customer satisfaction.

The Safety Harbor Resort and Spa (105 N. Bayshore Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, consider The Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. The hotel has a 4.7-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $95.

The Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club (501 Fifth Ave. NE)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

A pricer alternative is The Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club. Rooms are currently set at $199/night.

This St. Petersburg spa hotel is near the Renaissance Vinoy Golf Club, the St. Petersburg Museum of History and The Pier. Additional attractions include the Sunken Gardens -- a botanical paradise situated in the heart of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Sailport Waterfront Suites (2506 N. Rocky Point Drive)

If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, try Sailport Waterfront Suites. The 4.6-star hotel has rooms for $83/night.

Top picks for dining and drinking

Don't miss Tampa's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.

The Columbia Restaurant (2117 E. Seventh Ave.)

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to The Columbia Restaurant, which has an average of 4.8 stars out of 29 reviews on Skyscanner.

"A visit to Columbia in Ybor City is a must, " wrote visitor Harold. "Florida's oldest restaurant delivers on great food and atmosphere. Although the restaurant is massive, it manages to maintain its charm."

Bern's Steak House (1208 S. Howard Ave.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is Bern's Steak House, with 4.7 stars from 27 reviews.

400 Beach Seafood and Tap House (400 Beach Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House.

"Good customer service and outdoor or inside seating makes it very flexible for different social situations, " wrote Aya. "Great food, amazing location and the early specials (3-6 p.m.) three course meal menu makes it a good deal."

Parkshore Grill (300 Beach Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's Parkshore Grill.

"Upscale dining at an affordable price, " wrote Nicolas."If you like mussels this is the place to get them as an appetizer. Save room for the filet mignon (probably the best in town). For lighter appetites, the avocado crab salad is fantastic as a main course."

Top Tampa attractions

To round out your trip, Tampa offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.

Busch Gardens (10165 N. McKinley Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is Busch Gardens.

"My favorite park, " wrote visitor Claire. "The best roller coasters and the queues are much less than Orlando. It's worth the drive. The gardens and safari are great."

Ruth Eckerd Hall (1111 McMullen Booth Road)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Ruth Eckerd Hall is another popular destination.

"Check the schedule for current performances, " wrote visitor Matthew. "This intimate venue is a great opportunity to experience many amazing artists."