Things To Do
in Westchase
Westchase is a planned suburban community in northwestern Tampa, Florida, known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and ample green space. The area blends residential streets with village centers that host shops, cafes, and casual dining, all designed for walkable living within a larger highway-connected region. It offers easy access to Tampa’s cultural attractions, beaches, and Gulf coast escapes while maintaining a quieter, suburban pace.
Visitors typically use Westchase as a convenient base to explore the broader Tampa Bay area, with plenty of outdoor options and golf to enjoy nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk through Westchase Park, which features beautiful trails and a picturesque pond. Enjoy the tranquility of the morning air while observing local wildlife. Consider bringing a picnic breakfast to savor in the serene surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Westchase Shopping Center for excellent shopping opportunities and delicious dining options. Take your time exploring the various boutiques and stores, or relax at a café with a good book. Don't forget to grab a bite at one of the popular local eateries before heading out.
As the day comes to a close, enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Westchase. Consider dining outdoors to embrace the pleasant evening weather. After dinner, take a stroll around the neighborhood to unwind and soak in the charming atmosphere.
Begin your cultural exploration by visiting the nearby art museum, where a variety of exhibitions await. Spend your morning admiring the stunning artwork and learning about local history through guided tours. Make sure to check the schedule for any special morning workshops or events.
For lunch, explore a nearby café renowned for its local cuisine and unique offerings. Post-lunch, return to the museum or head to a local gallery to continue your art appreciation journey. Engaging with artists and other visitors can enhance your experience significantly.
In the evening, attend a live performance at a local theater, whether it's music, dance, or a play. This vibrant arts scene in Westchase ensures there's always something exciting to witness. Cap off your night with dessert at a popular ice cream shop nearby.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🏠Rent for a one-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,600-2,300/mo |
| 💡Monthly utilities (electric, water, etc.) | $150-260 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe and family-friendly atmosphere
- Strong access to green spaces and parks
- Good base for Tampa Bay attractions and beaches
- Golf and outdoor activities nearby
- Diverse dining options within a short drive
- Limited nightlife directly in Westchase
- Mostly car-dependent layout in neighborhoods
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- Traffic around major highways during rush hours
- Hurricane season requires planning
Places to Visit in Westchase
Visit one of these nice places.
Charming brick walkways, water features, and timber accents provide photogenic streetscapes especially at golden hour.
Spectacular sunsets over the city skyline and open water views along the waterway.
Urban skyline shots, bridges, and river reflections with ample vantage points.
Lush greenery, oak canopies, and river vistas perfect for nature photography.
Food in Westchase
Westchase Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Tampa Bay staple with ham, roasted pork, pickles, mustard on Cuban bread; widely available in Ybor City and local eateries.
Must-Try!
Lightly fried or blackened seafood featuring fresh catches from the Gulf; common in seafood-focused spots along the coast.
Florida’s seasonal delicacy (roughly Oct–May) often served split and chilled with mustard sauce at seafood-centric restaurants.
A classic Floridian dessert featuring tart lime filling and a graham crust; often served with whipped cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets in Westchase and nearby neighborhoods offer local produce, prepared foods, and street-style snacks; great for tasting fresh Florida produce.
A range of global street food options, often clustered around events, the Riverwalk, and popular parks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and brief small talk are appreciated; hold doors for others; address people with courtesy (sir/ma’am when appropriate).
Casual to smart-casual is typical in most venues; sunscreen and light clothing are common in the heat.
Be mindful of quiet residential areas; avoid loud outdoor music late at night in residential zones.
Safety
Tipping in Westchase
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15–20% of the bill before tax is standard; tip more for exceptional service. For bar staff, $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the tab. Rideshares and delivery typically follow standard tipping norms as well.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for some markets and small vendors. Contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common in most shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for morning or late afternoon. Hurricane season runs June through November; stay aware of weather alerts.
Warm days with cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor exploring and outdoor dining; moderate humidity.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler nights; great for outdoor markets, golf, and riverfront walks; occasional cold snaps can occur.
Warm days growing into hot afternoons; lush landscapes, blooming flora, and more outdoor activities available.
Westchase at Night
Hiking in Westchase
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Redeveloped boardwalks and shaded trails along the river; great for day hikes and wildlife viewing.
Paved multi-use trail ideal for biking, running, and easy hikes; connects to parks and scenic overlooks.
Nature preserves with wooded trails and birdwatching opportunities near the Westchase area.
Airports
How to reach Westchase by plane.
Major international gateway located about 20–25 miles from Westchase; easy to reach via I-275 and nearby connectors.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic flights; about 25–30 miles from Westchase; convenient for certain destinations.
Further away but accessible for long-haul or connecting travel; typically a 1.5–2 hour drive depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families seeking good schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods.
Commuters who work in Tampa or nearby business parks; many pick Westchase for a residential base.
Some residents choose Westchase for its quiet, safe atmosphere and slower pace of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Tampa Bay area has a strong golf culture with multiple courses nearby, including public and semi-private options.
Growing youth and adult leagues; local teams and recreational leagues are common in the region.
Numerous public and club courts available for seasonal play and lessons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Westchase.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Tampa-area restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly options; look for veggie bowls, salads, and veggie-forward entrees; ask for meat-free versions of local dishes; when in doubt, request substitution with tofu or beans.