Inner Central Peninsula Largo, FL

Established in 1905, the inner central peninsula was once inhabited by the Tocobaga Indians. The tribe faltered due to diseases brought over by European settlers, who then took over the area. The land was then used for farming and growing citrus trees. After World War II, the area grew rapidly and a variety of manufacturers moved into the area. This attracted new residents. The inner central peninsula remains one of the most populated areas in the state.

For a neighborhood rich in history, the inner central peninsula provides its residents a lively cultural arena. The Heritage Village in Pinellas County features a 21-acre living history museum with 28 restored historic structures strategically placed in their native landscape. Visitors learn how people used to live in early Pinellas County. Each year the museum holds a country jubilee with holiday crafts, gifts, food and booths from a variety of vendors.

Some of Florida's best-kept dining secrets call the inner central peninsula their home. From traditional fast food restaurants to international fare, this region has an eclectic blend of home-cooked meals and tried-and-true favorites.

The Thai Bay and Sushi Restaurant serves up authentic Thai cuisine in a casual atmosphere. With Asian-inspired decor and intimate table settings, this restaurant remains perfect for friendly outings or small luncheons with clients. For something a little different, order the crispy frog legs or the flavorful lobster. Duck also remains a popular menu choice, as well as the sweet-and-sour snapper.

For classic American fare, the Acropol Family Restaurant serves up hearty portions from the pleasant and courteous staff, and the restaurant's interior looks modern and new. This establishment features a popular hot breakfast with freshly cooked omelets and steak. You should also sample one of the gyro sandwiches or the classic cheeseburger with onion rings.

Residents in the inner central peninsula neighborhood enjoy an active nightlife, whether it means driving to the city for action or having drinks with friends at a local bar. Mako's On the Rocks provides live music from local bands, a spacious dance floor, a full-service bar and you will find big screen TVs to watch the big game. From the neon-lit bar to the casual decor, this hotspot provides an excellent place to network or hang out with friends.

The Amorama Nightclub provides a wonderfully decorated space with a small dance floor, an excellent DJ and friendly staff. This hangout always has pumping music and a smoke-free atmosphere, and the crowd features the upwardly mobile from the area.

Commuting provides a way of life regardless of what city you live in, and the inner central peninsula neighborhood remains no different. Most residents use their own vehicles for traveling back and forth to work and shopping. The area has easy access to the major roadways of Seminole Boulevard and U.S. 19, Gulf to Bay Boulevard and Interstate 275, which make traveling in the area convenient. You can also find free parking easily throughout the area, regardless of whether you need to go shopping or run errands.

While the neighborhood lies outside of the Uber service area, if you need public transportation, you can contact a local cab company to schedule a pickup. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) also provides bus rides into the city and along various stops in the district. Bike and pedestrian paths are available for recreational use.

Outdoor activity plays an important role to the residents of the inner central peninsula neighborhood. The area offers a variety of parks and activities for all fitness levels.

Central Park was once the home of the former fairgrounds in the central peninsula area. Located in downtown Largo, Central Park lies on 31 acres and features spacious flat areas for organized sports, a landmark clock tower, fountains, a children's playground and picnic pavilion all available free of use.

For those with pets, the Enterprise dog park in Clearwater features walking and agility trails for your pooch and the park doesn't require a leash, so your pet can run and play.

Each year in April the city of Largo holds the annual Turtle Trot — a 5K run that benefits the friends of Largo nature parks. The run offers prizes, concessions and T-shirts and medals for those who complete the race.

Like most areas in Florida, living in the inner central peninsula can be quite affordable for those wishing to relocate. The cost of living lies around 8 percent lower than the cost of living in Tampa and about 6 percent lower than St Petersburg. The rent of a one-bedroom apartment runs around $730 a month.

Catching a bus to downtown usually requires a flat fee of $2 per trip, and if you will be commuting by car, gas prices hover around 1 percent lower than the national average. A glass of beer costs at least $3 at a local pub.

Whether visiting the inner central peninsula or planning on moving to the neighborhood, you can expect to find a variety of shops, malls, discount chains and boutiques for every occasion.

For girly fashions and frilly gifts, Warren's remains the place to go for something special. The shop carries everything from stylish handbags, modern jewelry styles and unique gifts to suit even the most finicky person on your shopping list. Find brand names such as Vera Bradley, Sorrelli and Chamilia all at excellent prices with friendly service.

Just to the west in Dunedin, Kina Kouture has a selection of exquisite fashions for nearly any occasion. Whether you want to shop for your high school prom or your best friend's wedding, you can find what you need. Specializing in 40s and 50s fashions, Kina Kouture can ensure your wardrobe will be elegant and classy. The owners opened the doors in 2007 to bring an eclectic style to the Tampa Bay area. For years, the pair would browse the racks in the area looking for something special only to come up empty handed. They created this shop to fill that void.

If you want a change in your wardrobe, Patching features a collection of active wear, casual outfits and accessories that will please even the most discriminating tastes. The shop also provides online shopping, and you can purchase gift certificates for that hard-to-buy-for friend.

For grocery shopping, the inner central peninsula provides several options, including Publix, the Walmart Supercenter, the International Food Mart and Save-A-Lot. If you would rather purchase locally grown organic items to support local growers, Tampa has several farmers markets. The Sanwa Farmers Market sells hard-to-find ethnic foods and spices along with many varieties of peppers and mushrooms. The Sweetwater Organic Community Farm can even help you get started growing your own produce at home.