Cove Communities has many locations surrounding Tampa as it is a hub for entertainment, relaxation, and fun! Our highly-rated locations near Tampa include The Meadows, Sun Valley, and River Vista RV Park & Resort. But with so much choice, it can be hard to pick a winning spot. So we’ve narrowed it down to ten things you should do while in the Tampa Bay area!
1. A Cuban You Can’t Forget
Take a trip to The Columbia restaurant and order a Cuban sandwich as it is known as the birthplace of this lunchtime favorite. This culmination of Swiss cheese, smoked ham, pork loin, thinly sliced salami, decadent mustard, and pickle spears in between their homemade Cuban bread will make your taste buds dance.
Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
2. Shuckin’ Good Oysters
There is a world-class music venue just down the street at Skipper’s Smokehouse. This iconic restaurant was established in 1980 and has an award-winning restaurant and oyster bar to keep you company while listening to the local, national and international musicians that come year-around. This landmark has a Top Gun style history as it was bought by three Air Force buddies who met while stationed in Alaska and just wanted to escape the frozen tundra. They grew this takeout joint into a full-service restaurant with a world-class music venue while maintaining that “Old Florida” charm!
Address: 910 Skipper Rd, Tampa, FL 33613
3. Head To Bayshore For More
If you are looking for a place to walk off the oysters and Cuban sandwiches, then make sure to cruise along the Bayshore Boulevard. This beautiful four-mile stretch of sidewalk goes from one bay to another with the most spectacular view of the water throughout the entire walk. There is something for everyone on this boardwalk including a dog play area for our pet lovers, a spectacular drive (frequently compared to Nice, France), and fishing areas for anyone looking for sport on a beautiful day. If you are looking to be active or experience Florida’s vibrant downtown and water views, Bayshore Boulevard is the place for you.
Address: 312 Bayshore Boulevard Tampa, FL 33611
4. Discover A Mixed Bag
Calling all shoppers! If you are interested in a day of fun, entertainment, shopping, and eating, Hyde Park Village is beckoning for you. This historic yet updated shopping center was established in 1905 and has become a Tampa destination for just about everything. There are also events going on every week at Hyde Park Village in case you want to mix it up. One weekly event includes free Sunday Yoga at the Lululemon.
Address: 1602 W Snow Cir, Tampa, FL 33606
5. The Zoo And I
If you are a true animal lover then you would probably love to feed a giraffe at ZooTampa at Lowry Park. This zoo is a 63-acre nonprofit zoo which was voted the #1 Family Friendly Zoo in the US. This extraordinary place is also recognized as the main center for Florida wildlife conservation and biodiversity. ZooTampa is also famous for having one of the most tropical and stunning zoological settings in the world. A visit will bring together visitors and nature for a truly unforgettable experience.
Address: 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604
6. ‘Sea-ze’ The Day
When someone typically thinks of Florida, they might conjure images of majestic whales and sleek dolphins dancing through the beautiful blue water. But it is quite difficult and expensive to spot these sea mammals on any given day. To guarantee spectacular sightings and interactions with these amazing animals, we highly recommend a trip to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This nonprofit aquarium does its’ part to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine life back to in the ocean.
Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767
7. Freedom at Weedon
Weedon Island Preserve has been quoted as, “a place to remember” by many visitors. This 3,190-acre natural area located on Tampa Bay is comprised of hundreds of native plants and animals. This is the perfect place to observe nature, fish, hike, and canoe. If you love the outdoors, then we are convinced that you will absolutely love this slice of heaven on Earth. Who could say no to free admission to an island paradise?!
Address: 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33702
8. Sacrifice Sun for Slots
Looking for a fun way to escape the sun? Then you should go and try your luck at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. This vibrant spot has everything you could ever need with high stakes tables, thousands of slot machines and world-class dining options. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is also known as one of the most successful and largest casinos in the world!
Address: 5223 Orient Rd, Tampa, FL 33610
9. Beers You’ll Cheers To
Calling all beer lovers! Beer sampling at Cigar City Brewing Company will electrify your taste buds with handcrafted beers steeped in Florida history. These refreshing beverages push boundaries with deliciously unique beer made to enjoy! There are also food trucks at the brewery seven days a week for those looking to grab a bite with their brew. Last but not least, they offer brewery tours which include a collectible tasting glass, beer sampling along the way, and extensive knowledge of the brewing process and the history of Cigar City Brewing.
Address: 3924 W Spruce St, Tampa, FL 33607
10. Make It a Movie Night
Tampa Theatre is a city landmark in Tampa which features a wide range of many films daily. This landmark was named to the National Register of Historic places in 1978 and radiates Florida history and charm like no other. A trip to the Tampa Theatre is also an amazing place to impress a date to make the evening even more memorable.
Address: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
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