What are the FOOTPRINT dimensions of the 72" tub? It's important to realize that many tubs have a smaller footprint than the dimensions of the tub at the top.

Also, look for back-to-wall freestanding tubs - they are freestanding but are made to have the back of the tub up against the back wall = no cleaning issues behind the tub. Some have sides that are able to be placed against a wall also which allows more space to be at one end of the tub (making cleaning easier).

You need to make sure that it won't look "squished" into the space - it would be better to have an undermount tub with a built-in surround vs. a freestanding tub if there isn't enough room for the freestanding one.

Floor plan of the entire bathroom with ALL dimensions is really needed to offer any real advice.

My advice before doing anything is to go test getting in and out of a tub you like . They are often awkward even when you are young and as you age darn well awful You have anice space for a drop in tub and a FS one needs at min 12" all around just to be able to clean around it.so at best you could squeeze in a 60" tub and stand on your head to clean behind it . Not IMO a wise choice . We need to see the space in a to scale plan posted here in jpeg format in a comment .Dani' ideas are IMO weird if FS is the plan but honestly I would do a nice drop in or alcove tub if you actually use the tub at all

Uploaded are pics of the actual bathroom (from model home). I think by drop in, the suggestion is to do what is in the model? I can do that too , but I would want to simplify it (e.g. do not like the columns).

This is the tub I found, but I had just started looking. I paused because I wasn’t sure the size to look for.

https://www.fergusonhome.com/signature-hardware-919180-f/s1905187

Do a drop-in with NO step. It's unnecessary and dangerous. Omit the columns.

I love a drop in and with a 48 inch depth, you can make the front edge of a rectangular tub a little wider than the back edge and have a ledge to sit on when getting in or out of the tub.

I have a 72 inch tub and would rather have a 66 inch tub. I like to read and the tub is too long for that kind of reclining! Also, you would have room to put the faucet at the end of the tub.

Your tub looks perfectly fine. I would not spend the money on a free standing tub in a remodel.

My home came with a freestanding tub in the master bath, I’ve never used it in 6+ years. I intend to have it removed put an upholstered bench in it’s place, fortunately I still have the flooring.

Note that it is not a remodel. I am building a new home. I was able to see the bathroom in the builder’s model home and I took pics of it.

Thanks everyone for your advice. I am getting older so I will go with your advice for a drop in style. And get rid of the builder’s “standard design” columns and step.

Good choices!