Why we love Downtown Tampa
“Hi, I’m Malaika Hollist, and I’m taking you neighborhood by neighborhood to discover the art, culture, and local character of the Greater Tampa Bay.
Downtown Tampa is never the same, and I love that! There’s always something new to discover, while some of my favorite Tampa staples are still right there. From The Straz to the University of Tampa, there is so much I love! Get a bite, hit a bar, or find a hidden new space. You can see where the day takes me.
PERRY HARVEY SR. PARK
Park featuring artwork, honoring local black history and culture.
Read About The Park
With new items arriving regularly, every visit offers a unique shopping experience, making it a favorite for collectors and anyone looking for one-of-a-kind pieces.
This mother-daughter duo turned their love for restoration, antiquing, and vintage finds into a colorful shop filled with unique portraits, paintings, home décor, and plenty of unexpected treasures. You really can find that perfect piece that speaks to you. I once purchased vintage fabric here that I later sewed into decorative pillows for my couch! I also had the pleasure of interviewing Kayda and her mom, Sophie. Learn more about them below.
HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM
A museum of the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel
About Henry B. Plant
If you’re looking for a place to get creative, I recommend checking out Yellow Bird Studio. This Tampa arts and crafts studio is a fun spot for both kids and adults, with plenty of supplies for painting, building, sewing, and bringing your newest creations to life. They also offer classes, camps, parties, and special events, making it a great place for artists of all ages to explore their creative side.
OXFORD EXCHANGE
Restaurant, bookstore, store, coworking space, design studio and event venue in Downtown Tampa
About Oxford Exchange
Haley is a fourth-generation Floridian who has worked with their hands across the state. They focus on making things that last and teaching others how to do the same.
What I love is that it requires patience—you never quite know whether your decisions will create something beautiful or something unexpected. This studio offers a grounded, welcoming space for beginners and experienced makers alike, with no pressure to be perfect. Come by, get your hands in some clay, learn something new, and create your next piece.
Come to the space to learn and make your newest piece.
TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART
Modern, contemporary art, as well as Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities art museum.
About Tampa Museum of Art
You can't come to Tampa without visiting ZooTampa located in Lowry Park. As one of the country's most acclaimed zoos, it offers visitors the chance to see more than 1,000 animals while also supporting important conservation and wildlife rehabilitation efforts. What makes the zoo especially unique is its location in the heart of Seminole Heights. Nestled within one of Tampa's oldest neighborhoods, ZooTampa has been a community landmark for decades, creating the rare experience of stepping into lush animal habitats just minutes from the city's bustling streets. It's a reminder of how Tampa has grown around one of its most beloved attractions, making wildlife and conservation accessible to locals and visitors alike.
The Bay Blend host, Sky Lebron, and I recently had the opportunity to visit ZooTampa and take part in both a stingray and snow leopard encounter. Learn more about our experience here!
THE TAMPA THEATER
Tampa's Non-Profit Movie Place
About Tampa Theater
Microgroove is one of my favorite little finds in Seminole Heights. This independent, genre-less record store has been part of the neighborhood for the last 15 years, and while it may only be 625 square feet, it’s tiny but mighty. Inside, you’ll find a curated selection of new and used vinyl—mostly used—along with CDs, cassettes, and the occasional piece of audio gear.
I especially love Microgroove’s focus on community and supporting local artists. Whether you’re a longtime collector or just looking for something new to listen to.
Owned by a music enthusiasts who never loses focus on community and promotion local artists, Microgroove is a great place to find the next piece for your collection.
Find More Neighborhoods
More arts neighborhoods in the Greater Tampa Bay
