Moving to Tampa or Gainesville?
Moving can be a stressful. On top of all the packing and planning, you probably have felt a little anxious moving to a new area. It takes time to get a adjusted to a new home and a new neighborhood.
We want to make moving easier for you. That’s why we’re making lists of all the neighborhoods in Tampa and Gainesville that make them great cities to live in. We’ll be keying you in on the hot restaurants, attractions and all the things that make these neighborhoods awesome.
Know Your Neighborhood: Brandon
Long known as Tampa’s bedroom community, Brandon has been cultivating an identity of its own. It’s increasingly becoming a desirable location in its own right for families and young professionals.
With an emerging food and drink culture and a dose of country charm, Brandon is a great place to move. Living in Brandon has the convenience of being near all the amenities of Tampa, while keeping a small-town feel.
Here are some things to know about the neighborhood if you’re planning on moving to Brandon.
Food and Drinks
Brandon has a burgeoning food-and-drink scene. Here are some of our favorites:
Stein & Vine
This is one gastropub you won’t want to miss. They’ve got an extensive drink list of taps and bottles and a killer menu that changes daily (that’s right… daily). It’s not just your typical pub fare either. The kitchen whips up fresh takes on comfort food classics (buffalo-tossed duck gizzards, anyone?). It’s endlessly innovative, sometimes absurd and always delicious.
Stein & Vein is a favorite local spot, for good reason. You’ll feel right at home with the friendly staff, good beer and great food.
Windmill Taphouse/Chuck’s Natural Fields Market
Chuck’s Natural Market has been a name in organic and health-wise groceries in the Tampa area since 1992, but the Brandon location is unique. Complementing the regular market is a special kind of taphouse.
In it you’ll find what you’d expect: a good selection of local, craft brews but you’ll also find something else. Taking notes from a growing west-coast trend, the Windmill Taphouse also features select kombucha brews on-tap, for the health-conscious. If you’ve never tried kombucha, the Windmill Taphouse is probably a good place to start.
Recipe Box Family Diner
Nothing beats a good diner: homey atmosphere, good food and friendly service. And you better believe Recipe Box has all three. Whether its breakfast or lunch you’re in the mood for, Recipe Box has it all. You can get your fill of all the comfort food classics.
It’s a perfect go-to place for families and a popular spot for locals. You’ll find it bustling most any time of the week with patrons who keep coming back for the great food and great service.
Recreation
Living in Brandon offers a lot in terms of outdoor activities. From golfing to canoeing and hiking, Brandon provides a scenic backdrop for outside recreation.
Lithia Springs Park
Did you know that living in Brandon, you’re only a short distance from one of the area’s only public, natural springs? Lithia Springs is a 2nd magnitude spring, with crystal clear water flowing year-round at 72 degrees.
Lithia Springs Park is only a 10-20 min. drive from most anywhere in Brandon and offers all-day entertainment. From the spring, to hiking trails, to picnic areas, families love spending the day at this beautiful slice of old-Florida.
Alafia River
Want more of old-Florida? Then get out on the Alafia River, which winds its way through Brandon.
The river meanders along through old-growth cypress and oak hammocks, offering plenty of scenic beauty and opportunity for wildlife sightings.
There are public boat ramps available, or you can launch from the Alafia River State Park, not to for away.
Welcome Home!
We hope this gives you a small taste of what’s waiting for you in your new neighborhood! You can check out the Brandon Chamber of Commerce website for more info on community events or to learn how you can get more involved.
