University Square Tampa, FL

The city of Tampa was first incorporated in 1849. Progress was initially quite slow until the discovery of phosphate and the expansion of the railroad in the 1880's, which propelled the area into a period of economic growth. The establishment of the University of South Florida in 1956 led to a number of small satellite communities developing around campus.

University Park began its inception as a campus suburb which housed students, faculty, staff members and their families. Today, University Park is a busy mini-city unto itself. It takes just a few minutes to drive from this enclave to Busch Gardens, Lowry Park Zoo, Florida Aquarium and Adventure Island. Tampa hosts an annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival, the three-day Metrocon Anime Convention and the world-famous monthly Harbour Island Art Walk.

Restaurants, nightclubs and attractions are not in one central location but can be found within a 10-minute drive in any direction of University Square. Eateries, pubs and nightclubs in the immediate vicinity of USF cater to university students, faculty and staff.

For those who enjoy traditional Japanese food, Sake House on East Fowler Avenue serves authentic cuisine. Order some fresh, chilled seaweed salad to commence your dinner, and ask for a small bottle of hot sake on the side. Move on to some tuna rolls, a veggie roll or a plate of deep fried chicken tempura.The pleasant ambiance and good service are sure to keep you coming back for more.

Stroll over to the Jerk Hut Rhum Bar for a taste of Jamaica without leaving the city. From comfort food, such as oxtail with carrots and butter beans, to a light honey teriyaki grilled salmon, every dish as the Jerk Hut leaves customers satisfied. The restaurant stays open late on the weekends, offering bar appetizers and a variety of drinks. Thursday is ladies night, with $3 Cruzan rum.

For after-dinner activities, stroll out on the dance floor and bust some moves at the Hyde Park Cafe on West Platt Street. Enjoy its state-of-the-art sound and lighting system indoors, or party throughout the night on the cafe courtyard. If you prefer a bit more privacy, sit at one of the VIP tables with your entourage. Hyde Park also hosts bachelorette, birthday and bon voyage parties. Just call in advance for reservations.

There is something for everyone living in the University Park neighborhood. If you have tired of the normal party-scene, then Castle Ybor on North 16th Street is certain to tickle your fancy. Known for its selection of single malt scotches, small batch bourbon, rare tequila, a diverse mix of beers from around the world and wild DJ's, the Castle provides alternative entertainment for nocturnal adventure-seekers. Every Friday at 11:30 p.m., enjoy the Midnight Mass party, and at the same time on Saturdays, return for the Carpe Noctum bash. Cover charges vary based on the event.

Most people in University Park use their private vehicle to commute to work or attend the university. If you do not have a private vehicle, consider using one of the Hillsborough Area Transit (HART) buses. While taxis are difficult to hail in the neighborhood, you have the option of calling Yellow Cab of Tampa or Uber.

The price of public parking in the district depends on the location of the space. Some commercial locations provide free parking to clients. Since I-75 and I-275 run through University Park, hopping on the thoroughfare usually takes less than 10 minutes. Traveling through town on a bike can be hazardous since there are no dedicated cycling lanes. However, smaller roads in the neighborhood do allow for pedestrians and bicyclists to travel about relatively safely.

University Park residents live just a few miles from one of the nicest parks in Florida. Lettuce Lake Park appeals to wildlife fanatics, fishermen, dog-owners families and fitness-buffs, so flock to this verdant oasis to enjoy the great outdoors. Bring your dog along, and prepare to pay a modest $2 entry charge per vehicle (8 people maximum).

Take the kids on a guided tour for just $5 per child, and let them get their fill of snakes, gators and turtles while dad walks the dog or pops the kayak in the lake for a bit of exercise. Hike or jog one of the trails, take the bike for a quick spin or use one of the pavilions to host a birthday picnic. The Audubon Resource Center at Lettuce Lake Park hosts environmental education programs and field trips throughout the year.

Compared to the rest of the city, the cost of living is slightly lower than what one might expect in such a nice neighborhood. The average rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment lists at $672, and you can expect to pay no more than $4 to take a HART bus into the city. A beer in the local pub will set you back 5 or $6, and the price of gas is approximately 15 percent below the national average.

Due to the 'urban sprawl' of the neighborhood, boutiques, shops and high-end stores can be found anywhere. Students and residents often head off to University Plaza on Bruce B Downs Boulevard for shopping, although University Park does have a substantial number of small boutiques.

Ladies who want to spice up their personal lives can visit Lisa's Lingerie on East Fletcher Avenue. This shop caters to women of all sizes and stocks the latest lines and fashions. Georgette's Boutique on S. Dale Mabry maintains a stock of innumerable collections. Whether you need a prom gown or a cocktail dress, Georgette's has your style, size and preference. Choose from Capri, Feriani, Montage, Scala or Terani - just to name just a few.

Most of the locals in the University Park area do their weekly grocery shopping at the University Square Drive Winn Dixie. The grocery store carries a large selection of fresh poultry, produce and meat along with a fantastic selection of baked goods. If you prefer to eat organic, then you have to take a short drive to Sanwa Farmer's Market on 2621 East Hillsborough Avenue. Open seven days a week, this market sells items in retail and wholesale quantities.