Lake Magdalene - Tampa, FL

Lake Magdalene, a section of Hillsborough County, Fla., officially became a suburb in 1888, when the Lake Magdalene post office was established in the growing community. The town was named after the surrounding Lake Magdalene, which at first was believed to be named after Jesus Christ's follower, Mary Magdalene, but later documents suggested that the lake may actually be named after a Native American interpreter named Magdalena. In 1895, the United Brethren Church was established, followed by rapid residential growth in the 1960s.

While there are no museums within the immediate community, Lake Magdalene's neighboring community of Carrollwood houses the Carrollwood Cultural Center, a local establishment that provides art and theater classes for Tampa residents, as well as hosts ongoing art exhibits featuring work of local and renowned artists. The center also hosts Arts in the Park, an annual event that features arts and crafts, live music and multiple vendors.

The Lake Magdalene community houses a wide variety of popular eateries and bars, with many establishments located just a mile or two away on and around North Dale Mabry Highway and North Florida Avenue.

When locals crave a tasty sub, they head over to Bearss Sandwiches on North Florida Avenue. This popular neighborhood establishment has been around for decades, with regular loyal customers who can't say enough about Bearss' delicious food and friendly, welcoming staff. Locals recommend the chicken cordon bleu and the egg salad sandwich, however the egg salad runs out quickly, so you better get there early.

For authentic Thai cuisine served in a cheery dining room with a welcoming atmosphere, check out Jasmine Thai Restaurant on North Dale Mabry Highway. Locals rate the fare here some of the best in Tampa, especially must-try items such as the Tornado Shrimps, a signature dish of grilled jumbo shrimp smothered in green curry and served with mixed veggies and eggplant.

If you've got a craving for authentic Mexican fare, Lake Magdalene locals suggest Vallarta's Mexican Restaurant on North Dale Mabry Highway. With $1 tacos on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, a massive lunch buffet, and signature items such as the California burrito filled with eggs and bacon, Vallarta's has got something for everyone.

If you're looking for a neighborhood pub with a cozy atmosphere and delicious food and drink, check out the Tampa Tap Room on North Dale Mabry Highway. With a wide selection of craft beer on tap, pool tables, wide-screen televisions, and signature pub food such as jalapeno mac 'n' cheese and fried green tomatoes, you're definitely in for a satisfying evening.

For a fun evening of drinks, live jazz music and authentic New Orleans fare, locals recommend TACE Lounge, also located on Dale Mabry Highway. TACE Lounge features amazing local jazz musicians playing on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as a vast menu with some of the best Creole cuisine around. Local patrons rave over the signature sangria, as well as the decadent chocolate bread pudding.

The residential streets in Lake Magdalene are lined with sidewalks, making the area safe for walkers. Cyclists can bike through the neighborhood safely, as long as they remain to the right of street traffic. Cyclists also have access to over 40 miles of bike lanes outside of the community, provided by the City of Tampa.

Interstate 275 can be accessed via Busch Boulevard and Fletcher Avenue, allowing for convenient commuting. Drivers can park on residential streets where parking is permitted, but it is important to only park within the permitted hours posted on the neighborhood parking enforcement signs to avoid parking tickets or potential tows. Drivers also have access to paid parking meters in certain areas with heavy street traffic.

Cabs do not circulate the neighborhoods for hailing, and ride services such as Lyft and Uber are not legally available in Tampa; however, individuals in need of transportation can easily schedule trips through Yellow Cab of Tampa, as well as catch Hillsborough Area Regional Transit buses at various stop locations in the immediate vicinity, including Fletcher Avenue and Florida Avenue.

The Lake Magdalene community and neighboring Carrollwood community house multiple parks provided by the Tampa Parks and Recreation Department.

Surrounded by five beautiful lakes, Lake Park on North Dale Mabry Highway provides visitors with amenities such as canoe rentals, a BMX bike track, walking paths, archery fields, playground equipment and picnic areas, making it a great option for families and fitness and sports enthusiasts.

Dog owners enjoy taking their furry friends to West Park Dog Park on North Occident Street, as it provides multiple amenities that include 5 acres of open space, fenced-off areas for smaller dogs, running water, wading pools and waste receptacles.

The Tampa Parks and Recreation Department oversees several community events throughout the year, including the annual Tampa Bay Veg Fest, a vegetarian food festival in Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park on Old Water Street, as well as the Straub Park Art Festival at South Straub Park on Bayshore Drive.

The cost of living in Lake Magdalene exceeds the Tampa average by approximately 1 percent. Lake Magdalene residents pay approximately $741 per month for one-bedroom residences and between $1.50 and $2 for one-way public transportation into the city center. Local pubs typically charge between $3.75 and $7 for domestic and imported beers; however, many establishments promote drink specials on certain nights of the week, so prices can fluctuate. Lake Magdalene residents pay approximately 4 percent more for a gallon of gas when compared to the national average.

Lake Magdalene and neighboring Carrollwood house a wide variety of grocery stores, retail stores and specialty shops, with several options conveniently located along North Dale Mabry Highway and North Florida Avenue.

For groceries, local shoppers have several options to choose from, including Walmart Supercenter and Save-A-Lot, as well as Whole Foods Market and The Fresh Market, all located along North Dale Mabry Highway. Fresh veggies and fruits can be purchased every Saturday at the North Tampa Market, located in the parking lot of the Carrollwood Cultural Center on Lowell Road.

If you're looking for fashions at affordable prices, check out Blissfully Yours, an exclusive consignment boutique on North Dale Mabry Highway, specializing in clothing, bags and shoes by top designers such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

For the perfect accessories and jewelry for any occasion, local shoppers recommend La Joya Boutique on West Village Drive. In addition to one-of-a-kind earrings, bracelets and necklaces, La Joya also features a nice selection of hard-to-find party and holiday dresses.

Lake Magdalene doesn't house any high-end merchandisers in the immediate vicinity, however, several popular luxury retailers can be found just a few miles away at the International Plaza and Bay Street shops on North Westshore Boulevard. High-end shops within the plaza include Gucci, specializing in fine leather bags, fashion couture and accessories, Neiman Marcus, specializing in exclusive fashions, and last but definitely not least, the Apple Store.