Top 10 Things to Do in Tampa Bay for New Residents

Published On: December 3, 2023|Categories: Blog, Hillsborough County, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Things to Do|Tags: Clearwater Beach, Florida Aquarium, Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Shopping International Plaza and Bay Street, Tampa Bay Buccaneers game, Tampa Bay History Center, Tampa Riverwalk, Tampa waterfront restaurants, Top 10 Things to Do in Tampa Bay, Visiting Busch Gardens, Ybor City|

As a new resident of the Tampa Bay area, you’re about to discover the vibrant lifestyle and diverse attractions this area offers. From exploring nature to enjoying cultural events, there’s something for everyone. This guide dives into the top 10 things you should do to get the full Tampa Bay experience.

Top 10 Things to Do in Tampa Bay for New Residents

This guide covers:

Visiting Busch Gardens
Exploring the Tampa Riverwalk
Enjoying Ybor City
Relaxing at Clearwater Beach
Discovering the Florida Aquarium
Attending a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game
Experiencing the Gasparilla Pirate Festival
Delving into history at the Tampa Bay History Center
Dining at waterfront restaurants
Shopping at International Plaza and Bay Street

Here’s a closer look at each.

Visiting Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is a must-visit for new residents. This African-themed amusement park offers thrilling rides, live entertainment, and animal encounters. It’s a fantastic place for families, thrill-seekers, or anyone looking to enjoy a day full of fun and excitement.

Exploring the Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a picturesque path that snakes along the Hillsborough River. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or jog. Along the way, you’ll encounter parks, restaurants, and cultural venues, making it a great way to explore the city.

Enjoying Ybor City

Ybor City, known for its rich history and vibrant nightlife, is a cultural hotspot. You can stroll through its historic streets, visit unique shops, indulge in delicious cuisine, and experience the energetic nightlife.

Relaxing at Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach, with its soft white sand and clear waters, is an ideal spot for relaxation. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or try water sports, this beach has it all. It’s also a great place to enjoy stunning sunsets.

Discovering the Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a fantastic place to learn about marine life. With exhibits ranging from wetlands to coral reefs, it offers an educational and fun experience for all ages.

Attending a Tampa Bay Buccaneers Game

If you’re a sports fan, attending a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game is a thrilling experience. The energy at Raymond James Stadium is contagious, and it’s a great way to bond with fellow residents over local sports.

Experiencing the Gasparilla Pirate Festival

The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is a unique Tampa tradition. It’s a fun-filled event with a pirate invasion, parades, and live entertainment. It’s a fantastic way to dive into Tampa’s local culture and meet new people.

Delving into History at the Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center offers a deep dive into the area’s rich history. From indigenous cultures to modern developments, it’s an enlightening experience for history enthusiasts.

Dining at Waterfront Restaurants

Tampa Bay’s waterfront restaurants offer diverse culinary experiences with stunning views. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh seafood and other local delicacies while taking in the scenic beauty of Tampa Bay.

Shopping at International Plaza and Bay Street

For shopping enthusiasts, International Plaza and Bay Street offer a range of high-end stores and boutiques. It’s a perfect destination for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

FAQ About Living in Tampa Bay

Here are some frequently asked questions about living in Tampa Bay. If you don’t see the answers you’re looking for here, please call our office. We’re here to help.

What Outdoor Activities Are Popular in Tampa Bay?

Tampa Bay offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, golfing, and beachgoing. The area’s parks and nature reserves also provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.

How Is the Cultural Scene in Tampa Bay?

Tampa Bay boasts a rich cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, museums, and music venues. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts and the Tampa Museum of Art are among the popular cultural attractions.

Are There Family-Friendly Activities in Tampa Bay?

Absolutely! Tampa Bay is filled with family-friendly activities. From amusement parks like Busch Gardens to educational experiences at the Florida Aquarium, there’s no shortage of fun things to do for families.

What Are Some Popular Local Events in Tampa Bay?

In addition to the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Tampa Bay hosts various events, including the Florida State Fair, Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival, and many cultural, music, and art festivals throughout the year.

Can You Recommend Any Local Eateries for New Residents?

Tampa Bay is known for its diverse culinary scene. Local favorites include Ulele, known for its native-inspired cuisine, and Bern’s Steak House, famous for its fine dining and extensive wine collection.

WATERFRONT 3/2/1 on a salt water canal with direct access to Tampa Bay! This centrally located 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is located on a quiet dead-end street with 80 of water frontage. Fish from your private back yard or cruise out via boat/kayak/paddleboard/etc to enjoy the wonderful sunsets just outside the main canal. Bay Crest is a boating centric community where residents also have access to a private community boat ramp and no required HOA. As soon as you enter this stunning home, you'll see the open floor plan, is perfect for entertaining guests and soaking in the peaceful views of the patio and waterfront. Nothing takes your breath away like watching dolphins and manatees frolic from your backyard. The home features vinyl flooring throughout the home. There is a eat in kitchen area for get together. The kitchen is designed with abundant cabinetry and a peninsula overlooking the living room area. Fresh paint throughout, new recessed lighting, updated bathrooms with porcelain tiles, new kitchen cabinets, Quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Don't miss the opportunity to call this stunning residence your own. This home has the meat and bones needed for a new buyer. For those of you who like an open concept, this home brings out the best of each room as they are situated in each of their own quarters The property offers a private retreat while remaining conveniently close to the Tampa International airport, shops, restaurants, beaches, and downtown Tampa. Schedule a showing today and experience the perfect combination of modern design and a prime location in the heart of Town 'n' Country! This home is more than a house; it's a lifestyle !!!

$659,900 Active

8705 Tahiti Lane Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,162 SqFt 0.150 Acres

This charming North Hyde Park 1925 2-bedroom / 1.5-bathroom Bungalow comes with a Mother-in-Law detached dwelling,that is an income producer at $1,000 a month. It is perfectly located just minutes away from I-275,Downtown Tampa,Hyde Park Village,Airport,Bayshore Blvd; and is within walking distance from many trendy restaurants on Howard Ave. It is zoned for the best schools in the state - Mitchell Elementary / Wilson Middle / Plant High school! Not in a flood zone and no HOAs or CDDs! The main house offers an open floor plan with high ceilings,plenty of windows to let in lots of natural light and a real wood-burning fireplace. The kitchen has been beautifully remodeled with white shaker cabinets,stainless steel appliances,beautiful backsplash,trendy pendants and under cabinet lighting. The master bedroom is huge and has an oversized walk-in closet and its own private half bath. The full bathroom has been remodeled as well with beautiful cabinetry,lighting,and a seamless glass shower. Mother-in-Law building features a studio with a kitchenette and a full bath. There is no lawn maintenance required,as the front yard comes with faux grass and the backyard is designed as a lovely courtyard with no lawn… This property can be rented both long-term and short-term.

$520,000 Active

2309 W North B Street Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,152 SqFt 0.110 Acres

$365,000 Active

5015 N 15th Street Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,386 SqFt 0.110 Acres

This 5/4.5 Bayshore Beautiful, Craftsman-style home is a one-of-a-kind combination with a
2800+sf, 4/3.5 main house AND a 540sf, 1/1 guest house, separated by a stunning backyard that will become your outdoor living room/kitchen including pool, spa, and hard-wired gas grill - all kept free from dirt and bugs with a 2-story screened lanai. The main house features a modern kitchen with a large, built-in banquette, an open living/dining area that opens up to the pool, and a great bonus space perfect for a home office/den/playroom/home gym. All four bedrooms as well as the laundry room are upstairs. The primary suite has two huge, his and hers walk-in closets and en suite bath. One of the secondary bedrooms has an en suite full bathroom and the other two bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bathroom. The guest house is one-story, ground-floor with a separate entrance perfect for in-laws or a nanny/au pair. This “casita” includes a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, walk-in custom closet, separate bedroom with built-in cabinets including a desk, and glass enclosed walk-in shower. Both properties have upgraded finishes such as Hardie Board exterior siding, hardwood floors, wainscoting, and lots of custom cabinetry. Well-maintained with upgrades including portable generator with hard-wired gas line, architectural lighting, new HVAC equipment, expanded front yard with improved drainage, new garage door bearings, and new indoor and outdoor ceiling fans. Walk to the South Tampa YMCA, Bayshore Boulevard, neighborhood restaurants like Caffe Paradiso, Pinto Thai, Cheese Please and Mad Dogs or hop on the Selmon just a few blocks away. Downtown Tampa, Amalie Arena, Water Street are a short 10-minute drive. Zoned for top-rated Roosevelt, Coleman, and Plant! Lanai TV is included; all patio furniture including firepit table and chairs are available for sale.

$1,595,000 Active

3401 W Wallcraft Avenue Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 5 Baths 3,374 SqFt 0.160 Acres

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