Tampa, Florida, is one of the most vibrant and fastest-growing cities in the U.S., so it makes sense that there are plenty of things to do in the Tampa Bay area. Tampa is one of the best places to retire, with many amenities and year-round sun! Tampa has many senior care communities that cater to your active lifestyle. Whether it’s golfing, fishing, or playing cards, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting or have lived here your whole life, check out these fun Tampa facts to learn why so many retirees choose to call it home.
Longest Continuous Sidewalk in the World
The walkway started in 1925, runs alongside Bayshore Boulevard, and is often referred to as the world’s longest continuous sidewalk. It’s more of a path since much of it is separated from road traffic by landscaping or guardrails, but one thing’s for sure—it’s longer than any other.
Temperature in Tampa
Tampa’s central location and near-perfect climate make it an ideal destination for those who want a warm and sunny home without extreme heat. The city’s average high temperature in summer is 89 degrees, which means hot days feel far more bearable than other areas of Florida. There’s also virtually no humidity, making it one of the driest cities in America. That, coupled with its waterfront parks and picturesque downtown area, makes for a great active retirement. You can bike around town on many beautiful bike trails or hit up one of four golf courses nearby—like Trump National Golf Club—for extra fun.
Bird Watching
Bird watching is a passion of retirees; in fact, one in ten bird watchers is over 60 years old. So, if you’re looking for a new hobby after retiring and want something healthy and relaxing, consider exploring birdwatching activities like:
- Attending workshops and classes.
- Attending field trips.
- Identifying birds in Tampa.
- Reading books.
All these fun activities can help you learn more about birds while staying active and having fun at any age.
Best City for Coffee Lovers
If you’re a coffee-lover, you’ll be happy to know that Tampa Bay is one of America’s most important hubs for artisanal coffee production. According to Zagat, Floridians love their coffee, and Tampa lives up to its reputation. Many locations have multiple roasters offering different roasts and blends, such as Curtis Park in Ybor City or Downtown in West Central.
The Largest Port in Florida
The Port of Tampa is ranked among one of Florida’s largest ports, third only behind Miami and Port Everglades. It means you’ll have direct access to an array of import/export opportunities if you live in or around Tampa.
Lightning Is a Common Phenomenon
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data, Florida experienced 28.4 thunderstorms per square mile of land in a year. That’s a lot of frequent storms—enough so that every three out of four days brings an afternoon thunderstorm.
Attractions in the Region
There are 1,811 square miles of land within Hillsborough County, which makes it Florida’s second-largest county by area. If you like discovering new cultures or like different styles of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Tampa Bay has something for everyone. And if you’re an active person who loves animals, gardening, or bird watching, check out Manatee County, located just north of Tampa Bay.
