Communities and Neighborhoods in Tampa, FL

The Waterfront property, so popular around the world, hasn't escaped Tampa. Once a commercial seaport, the city has begun to recreate its seaside area as an entertainment and tourism district, complete with attractions, restaurants and shopping. Previously developed properties in the area include the Garrison Seaport Center, the Florida Aquarium, the Ice Palace and the Convention Center. Meanwhile, the exclusive Shops at Channelside and Radisson Hotel Riverwalk Tampa bring a bit of style and panache to the waterfront area.

Hyde park is Cuban fisherman first inhabited a historic district of Tampa, which lies west of the Hillsborough River, in the late 1700s. It wasn't until the latter part of the 19th century that the area gained prominence, when O.H. Platt acquired property and named it after his hometown in Illinois. From that point on, the district became a favored address, and affluent residents built homes in a range of architectural styles. Today, that eclectic ambience still exists, and many of the original homes are being renovated. The established neighborhood now entertains unique shops and restaurants, many of which are located in Old Hyde Park Village, a recently added complex.

Ybor City is another historical district, named after a 19th-century cigar maker, lies northeast of downtown and is pronounced "Ee-bore" City. Latin culture and historic architecture endow it with grace; the nightclubs and restaurants that line its streets give it energy and character. Perhaps the liveliest part of the city, Ybor is pedestrian-friendly, especially along Seventh Avenue, and club-goers often hit the streets until the wee hours on weekends. The district is also a great place to buy cigars, listen to jazz, and get a feel for the heartbeat of Tampa. Centro Ybor, a one-stop entertainment venue at the junction of Seventh Avenue and Nineteenth Street, attracts crowds with upscale restaurants, clubs and shopping.