HYDE PARK. South of downtown, in one of Tampa's oldest neighborhoods, is perhaps the city's most upscale shopping destination. Its village-like environment offers outdoor pathways and seating and is a fantastic place to people-watch or while away the afternoon. Some of its prominent tenants are Restoration Hardware, Anthropologie, Illuminations, Brooks Brothers, Tommy Bahama Fashions and a Pottery Barn Design Studio. You'll also find restaurants, a movie theater and a Jacobson's department store in the vicinity.

SOHO. Trendy SoHo is far more than a "restaurant row." Indeed, it's the main drag, which runs from West Kennedy all the way down to the water, features a wide range of independent boutiques, art galleries and other specialty shops to complement its many gathering spots and stylish townhomes. Much of South Howard was designed to be pedestrian-friendly and features palm-lined sidewalks and diverse storefronts.

YBOR CITY. This historic district, named after a 19th-century cigar maker, lies northeast of downtown and is pronounced "Ee-bore" City. Latin culture and historic architecture endow it with grace; the nightclubs and restaurants that line its streets give it energy and character. Perhaps the most lively part of the city, Ybor is pedestrian-friendly, especially along Seventh Avenue, and club-goers often hit the streets until the wee hours on weekends. The district is also a great place to buy cigars, listen to jazz, and get a feel for the heartbeat of Tampa. Centro Ybor, a one-stop entertainment venue at the junction of Seventh Avenue and Nineteenth Street, attracts crowds with upscale restaurants, clubs and shopping.