Top 10 Things to Do in Tampa Bay for New Residents

Top 10 Things to Do in Tampa Bay for New Residents

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.

TODAY’S NEWEST HOMES FOR SALE IN TAMPA BAY

Stunning Florida Home in Gated West Hampton  – A True Gem

Welcome to your dream home in sought-after West Hampton. This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom + large bonus room home boasts 3,086 sq. ft. of heated living area and a spacious 3-car garage, offering both elegance and functionality. With its thoughtfully designed 3-way split floor plan, this home offers ultimate privacy and room for everyone.

Upon entering, you'll be captivated by the rich wood and tile flooring throughout, seamlessly blending with the home’s tasteful finishes. The expansive kitchen opens to the family room & features stainless steel appliances, wood cabinets, breakfast-bar, pantry closet, a built-in desk, and plenty of space for family meals or entertaining. The heart of the home flows effortlessly into the open living and dining areas, making it perfect for gatherings of all sizes. Escape to the alluring primary bedroom & ensuite featuring dual walk-in closets & vanities, separate water closet, large shower and a relaxing soaking tub. 

Upstairs, you’ll find a huge bonus room — an ideal space for a media room, playroom, or home office. The possibilities are endless!
The private fenced yard offers a tranquil retreat, with a covered lanai and lush tropical landscaping surrounding the space. Whether you're enjoying the Florida sunshine, hosting a barbecue, love to garden, have kids (to include fur babies), this backyard is perfect for outdoor and low maintenance living. 

Recent upgrades including a 2023 Roof, and 2024 AC system & Paint ensure peace of mind for years to come.
In addition to the home's impeccable features, this West Hampton community offers a range of amenities perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Take a stroll along the sidewalks, explore the scenic walking trails, or relax by the tree-lined tranquil pond with a fountain and park bench. Kids will love the nearby playground, and nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife sightings — deer, turkeys, hawks, and even eagles are frequent visitors to this beautiful setting.

Convenience is key with Top-Rated schools, Shopping, World Renowned Beaches, Tampa Bay Downs, Local Breweries, Theme Parks, Elev8, Culinary Diverse Cuisines for the Foodies, Ice Hockey & Skating rink, TIA, Fishing, Skiing, Boating, Kayaking/Canoeing nearby and the 36-hole Eagles Golf & Country Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf and more wildlife encounters.

This home offers an unparalleled combination of comfort, luxury, location, and peace of mind. A smart choice with NO CDD fees & NOT in a flood or evac zone. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make this West Hampton beauty yours & schedule your tour today! $749,800 Active

12801 Stanwyck Circle Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 3 Baths 3,086 SqFt 0.23 Acres

Outstanding home in the Carrollwood area with over half an acre!  This 5BR & 3BA pool home includes an enormous flex room for a multitude of living options!  Entertain & host away - with a huge center kitchen island, a gas range, large cabinets, exhaust, & an open floorplan design.  Your family room overlooks impressive pavers, a covered lanai area, & a private pool.  The deep lot offers privacy & a paver fire pit & sitting area too.  This split plan design is perfect for families & also an in-law design (if needed).  No carpet here.... the main living areas & bedrooms have gorgeous (wood style) tiled floors.  Seldom do you have the opportunity to have all this space & be in the heart of Carrollwood!  Close to everything convenient to the Carrollwood area & minutes from shopping centers, dining, parks, & easy access routes for commuting!  Come see how private & spacious this lot & home feel & why you'll value the incredible location!  This home has a whole house water filtration system, a newer roof ('23), water softener system, & propane for selected home functions.  A portion of the garage was enclosed for additional living area.  Currently a functional oversized 1-car garage with ample storage.  A home and location like this does not come on market often!  Schedule to view and see what makes this home so special! $1,050,000 Active

3906 Floyd Road Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 3 Baths 3,787 SqFt 0.57 Acres

Under contract-accepting backup offers. Amazing 3BR/2.5BA/1 Car Garage home for sale in the perfect location of West Tampa!  RECENT UPGRADES: ROOF 12/24, CRAWLSPACE ENCAPSULATION & FILTER SYSTEM 11/24, EXTERIOR PAINT '25, INTERIOR PAINT '25, NEW CARPET '25, & Newer first floor laminate.  X Zone: Non-Required/Optional Flood Insurance & high elevation (estimated 30ft)! This 2-Story home has newer luxury plank vinyl throughout the main floor, open family room concept, stainless steel appliances, half bathroom (downstairs), a great front patio under shingle, & plenty of storage space! Upstairs, you'll find a large master suite with walk-out balcony, large walk-in closet & private bath. Additionally, 2 bedrooms share a full bath (Jack and Jill layout) & washer/dryer set-up (in main upstairs hallway area). Enjoy a high seer rated A/C unit system ('18). Lastly, there is alley access to a 1 car attached garage, long driveway, & fully fenced yard (complete with manual roller/gate)! Great location & home!  The West River expansion of the RIVERWALK/ARMATURE WORKS/Hillsborough River is rapidly expanding on the west-side of the river & this home is in the heart of it all!  Close to downtown, U. of Tampa, Channelside, Hyde Park, The Heights, Riverwalk, Armature Works, NOHO, SOHO, Channelside, and much more!  Come see this home today!  See attached tours and website! $465,000 Pending

2130 W Spruce Street Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,518 SqFt 0.06 Acres

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