Living in or near Tampa, Florida means having access to an incredible variety of activities, attractions, and experiences right at your doorstep. From world-famous theme parks to pristine beaches, cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, the Tampa Bay area offers something for everyone. Whether you're a new resident or considering making Tampa your home, here's your comprehensive guide from our team at Bettencourt Construction to the best things to do in and around this vibrant city.
The Tampa Bay area is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, each offering its own unique charm and activities.
Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in the United States, featuring sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach offers parasailing, jet skiing, and dolphin watching tours, while the nearby Pier 60 hosts nightly sunset celebrations with street performers and local artisans.
St. Pete Beach provides a more laid-back atmosphere with excellent restaurants and bars right on the sand. The Don CeSar Hotel, known as the "Pink Palace," serves as a stunning backdrop for beachside relaxation.
Anna Maria Island offers a charming, old-Florida feel with quaint shops, local restaurants, and beautiful beaches perfect for shelling and fishing.
When you build your custom home with Bettencourt Construction, you can design outdoor spaces that complement your beach lifestyle—think outdoor showers, covered patios for post-beach relaxation, and storage areas for all your water sports equipment.
Tampa's location puts you within easy reach of some of the world's most famous theme parks and attractions.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay combines thrilling roller coasters with one of the country's premier zoos. The park features world-class rides like SheiKra and Tigris, alongside opportunities to see and learn about exotic animals from around the globe.
Adventure Island offers a tropical water park experience with slides, pools, and lazy rivers perfect for cooling off during Florida's warm days.
Just 90 minutes away, Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios in Orlando provide endless entertainment options, making them perfect for weekend getaways or hosting visiting family and friends.
Downtown Tampa has transformed into a vibrant urban center with numerous attractions and activities.
The Tampa Riverwalk stretches 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River, connecting parks, museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It's perfect for walking, jogging, or biking while enjoying beautiful water views.
Amalie Arena hosts the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games and major concerts, providing world-class entertainment throughout the year.
The Tampa Theatre, a historic movie palace from 1926, offers a unique cinema experience with its stunning architecture and classic film screenings.
The Tampa Museum of Art and Glazer Children's Museum provide cultural enrichment for visitors of all ages.
Ybor City, Tampa's historic district, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's past while providing modern entertainment and dining options.
Take a walking tour to learn about the area's cigar-making heritage, visit the Ybor City Museum State Park, or explore the numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs that make Ybor City Tampa's nightlife hub.
The Saturday Market features local artisans, fresh produce, and live music, creating a perfect weekend activity for the whole family.
Tampa Bay is a sports lover's paradise with professional teams in all major leagues.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL) games at Raymond James Stadium create an electric atmosphere, especially during the team's successful seasons.
Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) games at Amalie Arena offer fast-paced hockey action with one of the most passionate fan bases in the league.
Tampa Bay Rays (MLB) play at Tropicana Field in nearby St. Petersburg, providing affordable family entertainment during baseball season.
The Tampa Bay area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Lettuce Lake Park features boardwalks through pristine wetlands where you can spot alligators, birds, and other Florida wildlife in their natural habitat.
Hillsborough River State Park offers hiking trails, canoeing, and camping opportunities just minutes from the city.
The Florida Aquarium in downtown Tampa provides an indoor nature experience with interactive exhibits and an amazing variety of marine life.
Bayshore Boulevard offers a scenic 4.5-mile sidewalk perfect for walking, running, or biking while enjoying views of Tampa Bay.
For more outdoor activities and parks, visit the City of Tampa's recreation website to discover local parks, trails, and recreational programs.
Tampa's culinary scene reflects its diverse population and continues to evolve with new restaurants and food experiences.
Bern's Steak House is a world-renowned dining destination famous for its steaks and extensive wine collection, while Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City serves authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine in a historic setting.
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offers gaming, dining, and entertainment all under one roof.
Local breweries like Cigar City Brewing and Coppertail Brewing Co. showcase Tampa's craft beer scene, while food trucks and farmers markets provide casual dining options throughout the city.
Tampa's central location makes it easy to explore other Florida destinations.
Crystal Springs and Rainbow Springs offer crystal-clear natural springs perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and manatee watching.
Tarpon Springs provides a taste of Greek culture with authentic restaurants, sponge diving demonstrations, and unique shopping opportunities.
Sarasota features beautiful beaches, world-class museums, and the famous Ringling Museum of Art.
St. Augustine, Florida's oldest city, offers historic charm and architecture just a few hours' drive away.
Tampa hosts numerous events throughout the year that celebrate the city's culture and community.
Gasparilla Pirate Festival in January transforms the city into a pirate's paradise with parades, parties, and family-friendly activities.
Tampa Bay Margarita Festival, Oktoberfest, and various food festivals provide opportunities to sample local cuisine and beverages.
The Florida State Fair brings carnival rides, concerts, and agricultural exhibits to the area each February.
Hyde Park Village offers upscale shopping and dining in a charming outdoor setting, while Westshore Plaza provides traditional mall shopping with major retailers.
Channelside and Water Street districts continue to develop with new restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, creating exciting urban experiences.
International Plaza and Bay Street features luxury shopping and dining options near Tampa International Airport.
For comprehensive information about events and activities, go to Visit Tampa Bay for the latest updates on attractions, events, and seasonal activities.
With so many incredible activities and attractions nearby, it's easy to see why Tampa is such a desirable place to call home. Whether you're drawn to the beaches, the urban amenities, the sports teams, or the year-round outdoor activities, Tampa offers a lifestyle that's hard to match anywhere else.
When you're ready to make Tampa your permanent home, Bettencourt Construction is here to help you create the perfect custom home for your Florida lifestyle. Our team understands the unique opportunities and challenges of building in the Tampa Bay area, from designing homes that take advantage of the beautiful weather to incorporating features that enhance your enjoyment of all the area has to offer.
We work with each client to understand how they plan to use their home and what activities matter most to them. Whether you need a home gym for staying active, a large kitchen for entertaining friends after Lightning games, outdoor spaces for year-round enjoyment, or a home office for remote work, we can design and build a custom home that perfectly supports your Tampa lifestyle.
Bettencourt Construction's commitment to quality means your home will be built to withstand Florida's climate while providing the comfort, style, and functionality you need to fully enjoy everything Tampa has to offer.
Ready to start building your dream home in Tampa? Contact Bettencourt Construction today to begin the journey toward your perfect Florida lifestyle. With endless activities and attractions at your doorstep, your new Tampa home will be the ideal base for a lifetime of adventures.