Welcome to Tampa
Tampa has it all, from beautiful coastal scenery to amusement parks and an endless array of shopping avenues
Tampa is the county seat of Hillsborough County and the largest city on Florida's West Coast. Outdoor pursuits, amusement parks, and delicious dining options abound for locals and tourists in Tampa. The city features world-class shopping outlets and a host of thrilling water activities located on some of the most beautiful coastal beaches in the world. Tampa boasts beautiful single-family homes, modern contemporary condos, and lavish beachfront properties surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery. The area’s exciting yet peaceful and laid-back vibe makes Tampa a great place to live.
What to Love
- Home to great sports teams and the iconic Busch Gardens
- Walkable downtown
- Beautiful coastal scenery
- Warm weather year-round
Local Lifestyle
The city of Tampa caters to every age and lifestyle. On any given day, locals can participate in outdoor activities, watch a professional sports game, indulge in fine dining, and experience world-class wine tastings. Some of the nation’s best beaches are just a short drive away, and natural areas like Lettuce Lake Park and Hillsborough River State Park in nearby Thonotosassa are just two of the many parks in and around Tampa where residents may go hiking, biking, paddle boarding, and birdwatching. Tampa is a great destination to live, work, and play, thanks to its unique blend of historical and modern architecture, cultural heritage, thriving business districts, and beautiful waterways.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Tampa has several notable shops and eateries. Delightful farmers' markets, fun concerts, and a pleasant outdoor atmosphere are just some of the reasons why Hyde Park Village is so well-loved. This Tampa outdoor shopping center is a utopia for style-conscious tourists and locals alike. International Plaza and Bay Street is the crown jewel of shopping on the West Coast. This beautiful, high-end shopping center has a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options in the middle to upper price ranges.
Cafes, mom-and-pop joints, and swanky establishments make up the Tampa dining scene. Some of the finest meats and steaks in town are found at Bern's Steak House. Everything used in the kitchen is fresh and either grown locally or supplied by Bern's Farm. Armature Works is an open-air marketplace where acclaimed chefs sell their wares to the general public. Designed in the style of a public plaza, it is the ideal location for a culinary odyssey. Head to Gourmet Pizza Company for the best pizza in the city. House specialties like The Mellow Yellow and the Cajun Crawfish are customer favorites. Ocean Prime, Tampa Bay Brewing Company, American Social, and Al's Finger-Lickin' Good Bar-B-Que are also excellent restaurants in the area.
Baseball fans will love watching the Tampa Bay Rays play a game at Tropicana Field. Included in a tour of this stadium is the Rays Touch Experience, where you can get up close and personal with a tank full of rays. Raymond James Stadium is a must-see for any sports fan in Tampa, as the venue hosted Super Bowl LV in 2021 and is home to the Tampa Buccaneers.
Things to Do
Tampa's Ybor City is a must-visit. This sprawling neighborhood in Tampa is known for its rich history and vibrant local culture. You will find a new selection of stores, boutiques, nightclubs, microbreweries, and food trucks at every turn. Grab the family and head to Busch Gardens. The amusement park offers various unique activities, such as safaris, guided adventure tours, shows, rides, and attractions designed specifically for children.
Bayshore Boulevard is one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the country and offers around 4.5 miles of breathtaking views of Tampa Bay. Take a scenic walk here or use the on-road bike lane for a fun ride along Tampa’s picturesque streets.
Embark on a memorable adventure at Port of Tampa Bay, the area’s departure point for major cruise liners. The port also offers educational tours.
Schools
The Hillsborough County Public Schools District serves Tampa. Tampa is home to numerous top-rated schools like:
- The University of South Florida
- Bryant Elementary School, Grades PK-5
- Chiles Elementary School, Grades PK-5
- Coleman Middle School, Grades 6-8
- Brooks Debartolo Collegiate High School, Grades 9-12
