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.

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$669,000 Active

8326 Praise Drive Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,035 SqFt 0.140 Acres

The opportunity you have been waiting for! A refreshed home with charm and character, freshly painted throughout, new luxury vinyl flooring for a seamless transition from the living room with tray ceiling and indirect lighting to the open kitchen with new custom cabinets, granite counters, farmhouse sink, new stainless steel appliances (including washer and dryer in garage) and dining area which leads to a Florida room like never before seen with it's very own brick oven ready for your culinary creations. This home has three spacious bedrooms with large built in closets and is placed on an almost half acre lot with gorgeous oaks and mature landscaping creating a sense of adventure and separation from the bustling city just minutes down the highway. The added BONUS to this property is a "pool house" ready for you to breath new life, it has the bare bones for a kitchenette and a full bathroom with a one car garage of its own. The potential and possibilities are endless for those who can dream the dream, including a possible division of the lot to provide for another SFH to be built or sell it as land (proposal has been sent to the city to get this process started by the current owner). Not to mention the serene location sitting across the street from Druid Park, a waterfront park on Hillsborough River and located just 13 miles to Tampa International Airport, 7.4 miles to University of Tampa (UT), 2.6 miles to Tampa General Hospital and 6.7 miles to Armature works.

$420,000 Active

1630 E Mulberry Drive Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 1 Baths 1,522 SqFt 0.470 Acres

Beautiful, well-maintained, and one of the few houses on the market with direct lake access and a stunning view of the lake. It has a sought-after 24-hour guarded gate at Cory Lake Isles in New Tampa. With 3 large bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, no carpets, a tiled roof, and many more upgrades, this home is a must-see! You will notice the breathtaking ski-size lake view through the pocket slide door from the large great room leading to a screened lanai with brick pavers. The kitchen in this elegant home has granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, an eat-in space, 18" tile flooring, 42" maple wood cabinets, a closet pantry, and a breakfast bar. The master bedroom has a walk-in closet and tray ceiling. The master bathroom has a double vanity with maple wood cabinets, a granite countertop, a garden tub, and a separate shower. Resort-style community with pocket parks, pool with slide, sandy beach and beach club, boat dock and ramp, playgrounds, fitness, tennis and basketball courts and so much more. Easy access to I-75, USF, Moffitt Center, VA, Wiregrass Mall, Tampa Premium Outlets, and Nature Trails. CDD included on Taxes.

$549,900 Active

18024 Java Isle Drive Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,917 SqFt 0.180 Acres

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$470,000 Active

3217 Hoedt Road Tampa, Florida

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,626 SqFt 0.460 Acres

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