Hey there! I’m John—welcome to The Local Tampa.
I’ve lived in Tampa for over 10 years, and I started this site because I kept finding cool places, great food, and awesome people that most folks—visitors and locals—never hear about. I wanted a space to share it all, the way a friend would: no fluff, no tourist traps, just the real stuff that makes Tampa amazing.
🌿 Hidden Gems
Tampa’s full of surprises. We’re talking secret gardens tucked into the city, cozy coffee spots where the regulars know your name, and historic buildings with stories that go way back. I’ll show you the side of Tampa most people miss.
🍽️ Food Finds
From devil crabs to late-night Cuban sandwiches, Tampa’s food scene is legit. I’m always on the lookout for new bites, underrated joints, and the stories behind the people who make it all happen. If it tastes good, I’m there.
🎭 Local People & Culture
Tampa isn’t just a place—it’s the people. Artists, musicians, shop owners, community leaders… I’ll introduce you to the folks making moves and keeping this city full of life and heart.
🎉 Events & Festivals
There’s always something going on here. Whether it’s Gasparilla, a rooftop movie night, or a random food truck rally, I’ll keep you in the loop with what’s worth checking out (and what you can probably skip).
🌱 Going Green
Tampa’s growing—and so is its green side. From local eco-friendly shops to beach cleanups and park projects, I’ll share the good stuff happening behind the scenes.
💬 Why This Site Exists
At the end of the day, I just want to help you love Tampa a little more—whether you’re new here or you’ve lived here forever. If this site helps you find your new favorite taco, meet a cool artist, or just feel more connected to the city, then I’ve done my job.
✉️ Let’s Keep in Touch
I’d love to have you along for the ride. Sign up for the newsletter, follow on Instagram, or just poke around the site. There’s plenty to explore—and it’s only just getting started.
Final Thought
This isn’t just a blog. It’s Tampa, through my eyes—and I hope it feels like a local showing you around. Let’s go discover something awesome.