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Is it just me, or did October fly by? Our month was very busy, and I think we spent most of it running around Tampa Bay – except for when we were hunkered down at home during the storm. Even in the craziness, we had a ton of fun. Here are the highlights from last month:
Top 3 Places
- Arbors Playground in Land O’ Lakes is definitely a hidden gem! We’ve been going for a while now, as it’s a great central spot for our friends and family in the ‘burbs to meet up with the kiddos. Their shady cover did take a hit during the storm, but it’s a huge selling feature to have a covered playground – I’m sure it’ll be patched in no time.
- This was our first time attending Storytime in the Patch with Mother Boo in Hyde Park, and we could barely tear our son away. They had laid out blankets to listen to the books – there were probably about eight that Mother Boo went through – and we got to take pictures at the end. This was totally cute, and we’ll definitely go back.
- My in-laws recommended meeting up at The Rollin’ Mullet for dinner one night in Seminole Heights. The food was solid, but it was honestly the energy that made for a fun experience. It was super family-friendly, with a huge lawn full of kids playing. They had a performer come out, so it did get quite loud, but I think it’s worth a visit to hang out with friends.
Top 3 Activities
- The Home Depot Kids Workshop is always worth a pop in! On the first Saturday of the month, they have a free craft available for kids. Be sure to get there early (it runs 9-12) because they do sell out. The activity for October was a “build your own fire truck” – our son was very, very excited. We actually picked up the November craft this weekend, but haven’t built it yet!
- On the Saturday before Halloween, the whole family went to Trick or Treat Spooktacular at KRATE, and it was a ton of fun, with many of the businesses participating. Plus, when the kiddos were done trick or treating, we could wrap up our evening at the playground over by the stage. We’ve done this a couple times, and I’d absolutely recommend it.
- Guppyween at the Florida Aquarium was such a hit last year, so we knew we should go for round two this year – this time, with two kids in tow! I love that they give out non-candy (the favorite item this year was a fish tattoo), and the underwater pumpkin carving is very cool to watch. Plus, the aquarium did a great job of pulsing visitors, so it never felt too crowded.
Top 3 Restaurants
- We probably average a visit to Pasta di Guy once every two weeks, but what can I say? It’s one of our favorites. They have a few locations in the Tampa Bay area, but we usually hit up the one in Wesley Chapel. I love their chef’s pasta with pesto. They occasionally run BOGO deals with Uber Eats, but you’re better off ordering directly and earning points with them. 😉
- I’ve lived in the area for almost ten years now, and I just went to Miguel’s Mexican Seafood and Grill for the first time as a belated birthday celebration with my in-laws. What a great spot! Our service was great, and the food was really good. We had a ton of leftovers; I’ve only heard good things, so I can’t believe it took me so long to visit!
- Lee’s Grocery is tucked away in Tampa Heights, and it’s a really easy spot to meet up with the family. It’s also possibly our son’s favorite restaurant – he loves their pizza! It can get a little pricey, depending on your topping preferences, but you’ll have pizza for days. I recommend bringing friends and planning to share. Plus, on a Friday night, the atmosphere is so fun.
Looking for past Tampa Bay highlights?