Are you looking for the perfect place to call home in Tampa or Melbourne, Florida? Look no further than the charming apartment communities from Garden Communities Florida. These properties offer a unique and inviting atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
In Tampa, Compton Place and The Landings at Cypress Meadows provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. These properties offer a peaceful and serene setting that will make you feel like you are in your own private oasis. In Melbourne, Harvard Apartments offer a similar sense of tranquility and beauty. Picture yourself enjoying your morning coffee on a cozy patio overlooking a meticulously landscaped garden.
The best part about these garden communities is their close proximity to the festivals and farmers markets we will cover. You can easily access these vibrant cultural experiences while enjoying the serenity of your own garden oasis. Whether you are exploring the local art scene at a festival or shopping for fresh produce at a farmers’ market, you will have the perfect home to return to at the end of the day. So don’t live like a local, be a local with Garden Communities Florida!
Tampa, Florida
Tampa, Florida is a city bursting with charm and character. From its vibrant downtown to its historic neighborhoods, there is so much to discover and explore. The best ways to uncover the charm of Tampa like locals do is by taking in some popular festivals that light up the city in their own unique ways, supporting local artisans at farmers markets, and simply taking a stroll in famous Ybor City or Hyde Park!
Gasparilla Music Festival
The Gasparilla Music Festival is a non-profit organization that hosts a yearly music festival to support music education programs. Held in Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, which is a short 20-minute drive from both The Landing at Cypress Meadows and Compton Place, locals enjoy listening to music spanning many different genres. This music is truly a celebration and support of local vendors. All food and beverage offerings are provided by local restaurants and breweries like Big Ray’s Fish Camp, Cafe Hey, and Coppertail Brewing Co.
Gasparilla Pirate Festival
The Gasparilla Pirate Festival takes place every year to reenact the historic pirate invasion of Tampa by Jose Gaspar. Was Mr. Gaspar real? The world may never know, but Tampa locals sure love to deck themselves out in their pirate best and participate in the invasion reenactment. The Mayor of Tampa even surrenders the city’s key to “Jose Gaspar” at the end of the invasion every year! The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is truly a spectacle only Tampa, Florida can host. Strap on your sword and eye patch and come join the swashbuckling fun.
Plant City’s Strawberry Festival
Plant City’s Strawberry Festival is a local must-do every spring. Locals and tourists alike come to the festival’s grounds to celebrate the harvest of everyone’s favorite red and juicy fruit while also supporting local farmers and artisans (Plant City is home to more than 10,000 acres of strawberries planted each year and 2,800 farms that contribute to their growth and harvest). In under an hour’s drive from Garden Communities Florida’s Compton Place and The Landing at Cypress Meadows apartments you will get to experience this quaint slice of Americana.
Take a stroll
One way to definitely live like a local is to take a stroll through Tampa’s charming neighborhoods. Each one has its own unique personality, from the historic Ybor City with its cigar factories, vibrant nightlife, and wild chickens to the quaint and picturesque Hyde Park with its tree-lined streets and charming bungalows. Posie’s Fower Truck can be found in Hyde Park’s village circle every Wednesday and Friday for those looking to build their own bouquets. Do not miss Fresh Market on the first Sunday of every month with its numerous vendors selling produce and hand-made goods.
Visit Riverwalk
Of course, no trip to Tampa would be complete without a visit to its stunning waterfront. The Tampa Riverwalk offers a 2.6-mile pedestrian walkway with breathtaking views of the city skyline and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Along the way, you will find parks, public art installations, and waterfront dining options, making it a wonderful spot to relax and soak in the beauty of Tampa.
Melbourne, Florida
When it comes to hidden gems, Melbourne, Florida has plenty to offer. This charming city on Florida’s Space Coast is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, but those in the know understand that Melbourne is a treasure trove of unique experiences and attractions.
Visit Downtown
One hidden gem in Melbourne is the Historic Downtown District. Located just a short 12 minute drive from Harvard Apartments, this picturesque area is filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and over 40 delicious eateries. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street and you will find yourself transported back in time, surrounded by historic buildings and charming storefronts. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Henegar Center for the Arts, where you can catch a live performance or browse the ever-changing art exhibits.
Brevard County Farmers Markets
In Melbourne, the choice of farmers markets to attend is as plentiful as the produce sold. Highlighting just one of the markets would be a crime. Any of these markets are a must-visit for anyone seeking fresh and flavorful produce with certified organic farmers in attendance as well. The vendors are friendly and knowledgeable, and you will have the opportunity to learn about their farming practices and taste samples of their delicious products.
Eau Gallie Arts District
For those seeking a taste of local flavor, make sure to visit the Eau Gallie Arts District. This vibrant neighborhood is filled with local art galleries, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. You can spend hours wandering through the district, discovering hidden treasures at every turn, and feel good you are contributing to the preservation of South Brevard’s oldest riverfront community.
Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival
This film festival is a celebration of local filmmaking talent. Held annually in October, this festival showcases a variety of short films created by independent filmmakers from the region. It is a fantastic opportunity to discover emerging talents and support the local film community.
Space Coast Music Fest
Although postponed temporarily in 2023 due to construction in the Eau Gallie Arts District, for music lovers, the Space Coast Music Fest is a must-attend event. This festival features a lineup of up to nearly 100 local and regional musicians performing in various genres, from rock and blues to jazz and classical. Did we mention it was free? Whether you are a fan of live music or simply enjoy soaking up the festival atmosphere, this event is not to be missed.
Come and See for Yourself!
Whether you are a foodie looking for the best ingredients or simply enjoy being a part of a local festival, Tampa and Melbourne are the perfect places to live. So, come and live in the Sunshine State and enjoy the vibrant and lively atmosphere of these beloved southern cities.