Bring your TRAVELER'S notebook and document as you discover the dynamic destination of Tampa Bay. These spots will leave you feeling inspired and refreshed. We hope you enjoy our hometown favorites...
The vibe of Tampa Bay …
The first thing that travelers to Tampa Bay comment on is our natural beauty. The second is the friendly, laid-back vibe. Hues of green and blue dominate the landscape. Tropical palm trees and the long, twisted branches of live oaks dripping with Spanish moss create a canopy of green, shading visitors from the bright Florida sun. The most beautiful of all is the blue water that surrounds everything.
Locals and tourists mingle as they stroll along the waterfront of Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard, the world’s longest uninterrupted sidewalk, as they marvel at the historic homes on one side and the playful porpoises and manatee splashing in the waters of Old Tampa Bay on the other.
A winding river runs through the city, several miles of which are developed as the Tampa Riverwalk; a walkable, bikeable, Segway-able path connecting cultural and entertainment along the downtown waterfront.
Close by are crystal clear, spring fed rivers that stay a constantly 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 °C) year-round for cooling off as you lazily float or paddle along the tree-lines shores.
Maybe the most spectacular of all, are our white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. It is here where travelers love to dig their toes into the soft, white quartz powder that we lovingly call sugar-sand.
After the lush scenery, Tampa Bay is known for a vibrant, eclectic culture. It blends traditions of the Spanish, Italian, Greek and Caribbean Island people who founded this area. The result is delicious food (authentic Tampa Cuban eats), historic architecture and friendly folks of Ybor City.
Two jewels of architecture include The Tampa Theater, a 1925 movie theater, and the Henry B. Plant Hotel, which is now home to the University of Tampa and a splendid museum. Both are on the National Register of Historic Places.
We have world class art (The Salvador Dali Museum and the Chihuly Gallery) and entertainment (Busch Gardens, MOSI, Children’s Museum, nightlife etc.) The Southern charm, mix of eclectic cultures and plenty of outdoor living makes Tampa Bay a dynamic destination.
We also have several winning sports teams: The Lightning (NHL Hockey) just won the Stanley Cup for the third time, and The Buccaneers (NFL Football) won the Super Bowl last year.
We have found that quite a few people who seek out our studio are from larger markets, they specifically search for independent stationery stores. And ask for recommendations on other creative businesses to get a flavor of the city. We love being an ambassador to our tropical oasis.
It's a good day to be in Tampa Bay.