Lifestyle in Tampa

Prospective residents pondering their relocation to the Sunshine State city of Tampa won’t be disappointed when it comes to the lifestyle opportunities on offer. From world-class museums and art galleries to hiking trails and lush green parks, there is something for everyone here.

Tampa’s nightlife scene is a lot of fun, and getting out and about for an evening is a great way for new arrivals to mingle with the friendly locals. Eating out in Tampa is also an awesome experience, with a wide range of restaurants and eateries that’ll suit various tastes and price points.

Shopping in Tampa

Whether you're hunting for a bargain or exclusive designer pieces, Tampa has it all. Newcomers who favour luxury shopping experiences will love Hyde Park Village. The shopping centre has an open-air layout that features a garden and fountain area, with many local and designer stores, making it the ideal destination for a day of shopping and entertainment.

Similar to Hyde Park Village, International Plaza and Bay Street is home to more than 200 designer and brand-name stores. This mall is located close to Tampa International Airport and has 16 restaurants, which are the perfect place for a break between the retail therapy.

For the essentials, head to Westfield Citrus Park or The Shops at Wiregrass. These family-friendly malls also provide plenty of fun activities to keep the children entertained. Treasure hunters who are looking for more rustic and antique pieces can explore the Oldsmar and Fun-Lan Flea Markets.

Nightlife in Tampa

Of course, Tampa is famous for sunshine, but newcomers looking for a good time will be pleased to learn that the city comes to life at sunset too. Tampa boasts everything from down-to-earth Irish pubs and trendy microbreweries to sophisticated cocktail lounges and sleek martini bars. Revellers will never need to look far for opportunities to let their hair down and get acquainted with the locals.

Arts and culture in Tampa

New arrivals in Tampa passionate about arts and culture won’t be disappointed. Tampa boasts an array of cultural gems mingled with a history that will interest even the most discerning culture vultures. From historic artefacts to modern art, the scene in Tampa is eclectic.

Particular highlights include the Tampa Bay History Center and the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. For theatre, musicals, and comedy shows, newcomers should head to the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, which boasts a full calendar of entertainment offerings.

Sports and outdoor activities in Tampa

Tampa is a real treat for the avid sports fan. From the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the NHL Tampa Bay Lightning and the MLB Tampa Bay Rays, the city’s sports calendar is pretty packed. Then there is the fact that the New York Yankees head to Tampa every spring season for training. There is also a range of semi-pro and collegiate teams worth keeping track of too.

For those who prefer participating in sports rather than watching from the sidelines, Tampa provides plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors in the Florida sun pursuing a range of sporting pursuits. From deep-sea fishing to golf, cycling, and hiking, Tampa residents score big when it comes to sports.

See and do in Tampa

New Tampa residents will enjoy getting acquainted with the city through its wealth of attractions. From scenic parks to historic buildings and fascinating museums, there is plenty to see and do in Tampa. Those relocating to Tampa with children will be pleased to find that there is an abundance of attractions that accommodate the whole family.

Here is our list of some of Tampa's top attractions to get new arrivals started.

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

Opened in 1987, the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge connecting St Petersburg to Terra Cela across Lower Tampa. The structure itself is quite spectacular, and the views are breathtaking. Those who fear heights might be in for a challenge, but it’ll certainly be a fun and rewarding experience.

Tampa Theatre

Dating back to 1926, the Tampa Theatre is one of the city’s most prominent historical attractions. Impressively, it is still fully operational today. Visitors can be transported back in time as they purchase tickets at the vintage glass booth before settling into plush velvet seats. Here, cinema-goers can view a great selection of documentaries and art films.

Tampa Bay History Center

Travel back in time through 12,000 years of Florida’s history. From the conquistadors to the Cuban cigar rollers of Ybor City, visitors are treated to some wonderful insights into the state's storied past. With hands-on exhibits and an immersive theatre experience, the Tampa Bay History Center is always a hit with the kids.

The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

At the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMOPA), visitors can explore contemporary life and culture through the medium of photography. With collections and exhibits featuring both historical and contemporary works by nationally and internationally renowned photographers and graphic artists, a visit to FMOPA never disappoints.

Tampa Museum of Art

The Tampa Museum of Art is among Florida’s largest museums and features everything from Greek and Roman antiquities to modern photography. It is driven by a commitment to providing Florida residents with innovative public arts programmes. With a dynamic schedule of exhibitions, new arrivals will need to visit this attraction more than once to truly do it justice.

What's on in Tampa

Newcomers to Tampa will quickly learn that locals love to have a good time. This is evident in the city's packed and exciting events calendar.

With festivals of all kinds, including fireworks, parade floats, live bands and fabulous food vendors showcasing their fare, there is no shortage of fun to be had. Whether it's food, cocktails, art or family-friendly fun that new arrivals are after, Tampa won’t disappoint.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival (January)

Described as ‘the Mardi Gras but with pirates’, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival is one of Tampa’s favourite events. Dating back to 1904, the Parade of the Pirates is a highlight, when sea-faring buccaneers invade the bay of a giant pirate ship and take to Bayshore Boulevard. An illuminated children’s parade also takes place in Ybor City.

Florida State Fair (February)

Each February, the annual Florida State Fair takes place in Tampa. Visitors are treated to live performances by local musicians, food stalls and art exhibits, and children have plenty of fairground rides to keep them entertained. It's an especially good opportunity for new arrivals to meet other local residents and get acquainted with the area’s culture.

Taste of South Tampa (March)

Held at the Tampa Garden Club, this has become one of Florida’s premier food festivals over the last few decades. Ticket holders can have their fill with unlimited food and drink samples from some of the state’s best restaurants, as well as up-and-coming eateries. Plenty of live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere.

Tampa Pride (March)

Join the crowds of Tampa residents as they take to the streets to celebrate the LGBTQ community. Over two days, Tampa Pride raises funds for various programmes that support these underrepresented communities. The event is bright, colourful, and noisy and features a wide range of art exhibits, photo displays, and musical performances.

Tampa RiverFest (May)

This free event takes place along the Tampa Riverwalk and features several stages showcasing music acts. Encompassing the best of Cigar City’s food, culture, and music, this is an event for the whole family. Many museums also offer discounts, so be sure to pop in. Without a doubt, the hot air balloon glow is a RiverFest highlight.