If you’re looking for the perfect mix of an urban lifestyle and picturesque grandeur, look no further than the much sought-after historic Hyde Park neighborhood.

Offering upscale dining, shopping, and entertainment in the midst of some of the most gorgeous homes in the entire Tampa Bay area, the Hyde Park neighborhood is one of the best neighborhoods to build a custom home in Tampa.

Bordered by the breathtaking waterfront views of the Hillsborough Bay on the east, the convenience of access to Kennedy Boulevard and Armenia Avenue to the north and the west, and the beautiful and famous Bayshore Boulevard to the south, Hyde Park is in the heart of one of the most up-and-coming areas of South Tampa.

Hyde Park History

First subdivided and developed in 1886 by O.H. Platt, and named after his hometown in Illinois, the historic Hyde Park neighborhood truly began to boom after the first Hillsborough River bridge was constructed at the roadway that is now known as Kennedy Boulevard in 1888 by Henry B. Plant.

The bridge was built to draw visitors into Plant’s Tampa Bay Hotel, and the development of the Hyde Park neighborhood continued to grow over the next several decades as the area became more popular with residents, both old and new, of the Tampa Bay area.

Architecture

Hyde Park Tampa is one of the best custom home neighborhoods in Tampa Bay, due to the convenience and luxury of living nearby premium shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as the gorgeous and upscale home designs that are found in the historic neighborhood.

Some of the most popular architectural styles that can be found in Hyde Park include the simple and harmonious Craftsman style, the symmetrical and classic Colonial Revival style, and the more contemporary and eclectic Vernacular style. Specific home types vary from bungalows to mansions, single family homes to condominiums.

Neighborhood Character/Lifestyle

The Hyde Park area has always been a magnet for both families and professionals, due to the beautifully historic architecture and the one-stop-shop convenience for shoppers and diners.

Hyde Park draws in those that enjoy beautiful home designs, upscale shopping and dining, and the Florida outdoor culture. The Historic Hyde Park neighborhood is a delightful mix of people of all ages and professions, and everyone takes pride in the community and keeping it friendly and engaging.

Schools

The Hyde Park area offers quick access to some of Tampa’s finest schools. Your children will receive a first-rate education from nearby schools, such as Gorrie Elementary School, Wilson Middle School, and St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School.

You can discover more about local education by visiting the Hillsborough County Schools Locator.

Dining and Shopping

The shopping and dining on offer at Hyde Park has always been a draw to homeowners in the Tampa Bay area, and it continues to attract people with its upscale shops, fine restaurants, and urban vibe.

Hyde Park Village has recently undergone some impressive renovations, with an eye on creating a mix of locally owned boutiques, world-class dining, and an open-air and walkable atmosphere for shoppers and diners.

One of the most prestigious restaurants in Tampa, Bern’s Steak House has been a favorite of local residents since it opened in 1956, and offers diners a “unique culinary experience.”

MacDinton’s Irish Pub is also a local favorite, offering “traditional Irish fare with a twist,” as well as daily food and drink specials.

Things to Do

Art lovers can learn new skills with classes offered at the Hyde Park Art Center, while those that enjoy the great outdoors can visit the world’s longest sidewalk along Bayshore Boulevard and take part in 4.5 miles of smooth pavement for jogging, biking, or dog walking.

Historic Hyde Park is also near many of Tampa’s biggest and best attractions, such as the Florida Aquarium for a fun and educational family outing, the Henry B. Plant Museum to learn more about local history, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for world-class rides and animal exhibits.

If Hyde Park sounds like the right neighborhood for your custom home building project, use the handy button below to set up a free consultation with us to learn more about the neighborhood and our expertise in building custom homes in this neighborhood. You can also learn more about schools in the area using the school locator button.