It’s been a marathon of a hockey season, but the National Hockey League finally crowned their 19-20 season champion! The Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Dallas Stars in 6 games, to bring the Stanley Cup back to Tampa, Florida. While the season was unique, to say the least, the Lightning’s victory is the perfect bolt of positive energy for the city and for the team.
Although the Lightning have been to the playoffs in almost half of their 27-season history, bringing home the championship is what matters. With the Stanley Cup in hand, the team returned to sunny Tampa Bay to celebrate alongside fans and supporters. As is Stanley Cup tradition, the Cup trophy will remain in the champion’s possession for the next 100 days.
So just where should the cup be on display? As Tampa Bay residents and Bolts fans ourselves, we’ve compiled a list of suggested locations across the city that the Cup should visit – and provided a few Threshold Virtual Tours™ as a preview!
#1: Home Sweet Home
First things first. Let’s bring the back Cup to the Bolt’s home, Amalie Arena. The Lightning have been playing in the “bubble” and have not been on their home ice in some time.
#2: Raise a Glass
A popular spot for watch-parties and fans alike, the next location we suggest is Armature Works. Situated along the Hillsborough River, this modern “food hall” offers extensive dining options, great cocktails, and cool spaces to hang out.
#3: Down to the Riverwalk
After visiting Armature Works, the Cup can take a stroll down the scenic Riverwalk. Here joggers and outdoor enthusiasts will be able to pause and admire the Stanley Cup amongst the backdrop of the scenic river.
#4: No Reservation Needed
After working up an appetite again, the Stanley Cup would look great on display at Tampa’s legendary restaurant Bern’s Steakhouse. Fun fact – the trophy has actually been used to eat and drink from by various winners, including the Kentucky Derby Horse, Go-to Gin.
#5: Takin’ it to the Bay
To inspire a bit of family fun, and give Tampa Bay’s beautiful marine life a chance to view the Cup, we suggest displaying it at the Florida Aquarium. Onlookers will include dolphins, turtles, fish, alligators and many other local marine and land species.
#6: Celebrating Around Town
What’s a party without a cigar and a bit of fun out on the town? For the next location, we select Ybor City where Lord Stanley himself would be happy to join in on the festivities.
#7: Let the Party Continue
And finally, we suggest returning the Stanley Cup back to Bolts fans. Another popular watch party location has been Sparkman Wharf, where fans celebrated the championship win together.