Exploring East Lake-Orient Park, Florida

East Lake-Orient Park is a beautiful community located in the eastern part of Hillsborough County, Florida. With breathtaking natural attractions and a thriving cultural scene, it’s an ideal destination for travelers looking to soak up Florida’s sunny ambiance. Here are ten places to visit and five places to avoid in East Lake-Orient Park.

Places to Visit

1. Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for marine lovers. From interactive exhibits featuring sharks to educational presentations by marine biologists, the aquarium offers an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

2. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

If you’re looking for some thrill and entertainment, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the place to be. With roller coasters, live shows, and a variety of exotic animals, this 335-acre amusement park promises an unforgettable experience.

3. Lettuce Lake Regional Park

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll fall in love with Lettuce Lake Regional Park. This 240-acre park is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and a vast array of bird species. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and hiking along the park’s trails.

4. Ybor City

Ybor City is a historic district that showcases the cultural heritage of Tampa’s immigrant population. With its cobblestone streets, cigar factories, and vibrant nightlife, Ybor City offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past and present.

5. Lowry Park Zoo

Rated as the best zoo in the US, Lowry Park Zoo is home to over 1300 animals, including endangered species from around the world. With interactive exhibits, educational programs, and fun activities for children, this zoo is a perfect family day out.

6. Hillsborough River State Park

Located along the scenic Hillsborough River, this state park is a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors can hike, fish, and camp amidst the lush vegetation and observe the awe-inspiring wildlife, including otters, turtles, and deer.

7. Straz Center for the Performing Arts

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue for concerts, plays, and dance performances. With its state-of-the-art facilities and acclaimed productions, this center is a cultural hub that attracts visitors and locals alike.

8. Tampa Riverwalk

Stretching 2.4 miles along the Hillsborough River, Tampa Riverwalk is a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its waterfront views, public art displays, and trendy restaurants, the Riverwalk creates an urban oasis for visitors to enjoy.

9. Henry B Plant Museum

The Henry B Plant Museum is a glimpse into the Gilded Age of Florida’s history. It’s located in the famous Tampa Hotel, which was built by railroad magnate Henry Flagler in the late 1800s. Visitors can explore the opulent hotel and get a sense of the state’s past through its exhibits.

10. Davis Island Dog Beach

If you’re traveling with your furry friend, Davis Island Dog Beach is an ideal spot to take a break. With a white sandy beach and emerald waters, this dog-friendly beach allows your pet to have fun and cool off in the Tampa Bay waters.

Places to Avoid

1. Tampa Heights

Tampa Heights has a high crime rate, and visitors should avoid wandering around the city’s streets after dark

2. Sulphur Springs

Sulphur Springs is known for its rundown buildings and high crime rate. It’s best to avoid this area of the city altogether.

3. River Oaks

Located in East Lake-Orient Park, River Oaks has a high rate of theft and other crimes, so visitors should venture with caution in this area.

4. USF Area

The USF Area has a high crime rate, especially car theft, so visitors should take extra care when exploring this area of Tampa.

5. Robles Park

Robles Park is known for its drug activity and crime, making it an area to avoid in East Lake-Orient Park.

Overview of East Lake-Orient Park