Hyde Park Village

Sunday, September 07, 2008

Tampa's Fun to Do

Location	-	One mile SW of Downtown Tampa
Features	-	Ann Taylor, Pottery Barn, William Sonoma, Wine Exchange, Southside Bistro, Boutiques, and Shops
Area Activities	-	Dine, Shop, Walk, Sightseeing, Cocktails
Parking	-	Free Parking
Kid Friendly	-	Yes
Map It	-	Detailed Map & Directions
Address	-	1509 West Swann Avenue, Tampa FL 33606
Phone	-	813-251-3500
Extras	-	Near Bayshore Boulevard
Conditions Now	-	Fair, and 77°

Hyde Park Village

Perfect for meeting up with friends, this gem hosts an ongoing series of events to mingle and meet other locals.

What a harmonious setting is Hyde Park Village, a blend of shops and eateries all oriented around a grand fountain and public square. Developers did a nice job of mixing together homes, condominiums, with retail outlets and restaurants. You can meet with friends for breakfast, shop, and walk around in an outdoor park-like setting, a contrast to "The Mall". The village square is a nice place, as this modern urban mini-town has become a top destination fun-to-see-and-do.

Shop and Dine

You will love the pleasant shopping area, and it is easy strolling while checking out each storefront. Expect smaller crowds and easy-in easy-out access to shops and unique boutiques. Hyde Park Village features a mix of neat retailers including: Ann Taylor, Pottery Barn, and William Sonoma. There are a variety of nice places to get a bite or sip, including the Wine Exchange, Indigo Coffee, and Southside Bistro.

Summer Concert Series

Be sure to check out the free Live Music Series held monthly at Old Hyde Park Village. From March to October on the last Wednesday of the month, enjoy live music in this grand outdoor setting. Each month a new group is featured, with beverage (beer) sales revenues used to benefit a charitable foundation.

Just Around the Corner

Bayshore Boulevard Park

Another fun-to-see-and-do, Bayshore Boulevard Linear Park is a wonderful 4.5-mile long waterfront scenic sidewalk leading into downtown Tampa, proclaimed as of the world's longest sidewalk. This is the place where the locals go for jogging, walking, people watching, and rollerblading. It is located very close to the popular Howard Avenue strip, a hot spot for some of the best places in Tampa to eat and party.

Florida Aquarium

Just about a mile away is the Florida Aquarium, which is a fun and educational family attraction. You will see sharks, manatees, sea horses, and tropical fish galore. If you want to see and learn about sea critters, it is good fun that the whole family will enjoy.