When visiting Tampa, few neighborhoods combine convenience, comfort, and connection like the University of South Florida (USF) area. This vibrant pocket of North Tampa is surrounded by world-class medical facilities, family attractions, dining, and entertainment—making it one of the city’s most desirable zones for short-term and mid-term stays.
Whether you’re a visiting medical professional, traveling family, or guest attending an event at the university, the USF area provides everything you need for a relaxing and efficient stay.
Central Location in the Heart of Tampa
The University of South Florida district sits in a prime location—just far enough from downtown to offer peace and space, yet close enough to reach Tampa’s top destinations with ease.
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Tampa International Airport – only 15–20 minutes away
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Downtown Tampa – a quick 20-minute drive for business meetings, concerts, or dining
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Ybor City – 25 minutes to nightlife, art, and history
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Tampa’s Riverwalk – just minutes away for quick access anywhere in the Bay area
For guests who value convenience, this area makes traveling effortless. You can start your morning with a jog through campus, spend your day exploring, and return home to a peaceful, residential retreat—all without the stress of long commutes or heavy downtown traffic.
Roller coaster track at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a top attraction near the University of South Florida.
Anchors That Draw Visitors Year-Round
The University area of Tampa isn’t just about academics—it’s a thriving hub of learning, healthcare, and entertainment that attracts thousands of visitors each month. Its steady flow of students, professionals, and families keeps the neighborhood active year-round. Local venues, parks, and events create a lively atmosphere that feels both welcoming and convenient.
University of South Florida (USF)
Home to over 50,000 students, USF is one of Florida’s most dynamic universities. When parents, guest speakers, or alumni come to visit, they often seek short-term rentals nearby that feel more like home than a standard hotel stay.
Moffitt Cancer Center
Located adjacent to campus is Moffitt Cancer Center, a world-renowned research and treatment facility. Families and medical professionals visiting Moffitt often prefer mid-term stays where comfort and privacy are essential. Having a furnished home nearby allows for flexible schedules and quiet evenings between appointments.
Many guests searching for Moffitt Cancer Center lodging choose to stay in the University area because it offers comfort, convenience, and privacy close to the hospital.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Just minutes from USF, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay stands out as one of the city’s most popular attractions, offering world-class roller coasters, live shows, and animal encounters. Families, students, and visiting professionals often spend the day exploring the park’s African-themed landscapes and thrilling rides before returning to a relaxing home nearby. The convenience of being so close allows guests to enjoy the excitement of the park without the hassle of long commutes or hotel crowds.
Adventure Island & ZooTampa
For outdoor fun, Adventure Island, Tampa’s popular water park, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park are both within easy reach, offering exciting entertainment for families, students, and visitors of all ages. These attractions, along with Busch Gardens and Moffitt Cancer Center, help keep the University of South Florida area vibrant year-round. Whether guests come for leisure, learning, or medical care, the steady stream of visitors ensures the neighborhood remains lively, welcoming, and full of convenient options for every type of stay.
Local Dining, Bars & Entertainment
What makes the University area of Tampa so appealing is its lively atmosphere and endless dining and entertainment options. Whether you want a casual lunch, a night out, or something in between, you’ll find it here.
Restaurants & Bars
The University area of Tampa offers a diverse mix of restaurants and bars that showcase the city’s culture. Along Fowler Avenue, guests can enjoy Caribbean dishes at Jerk Hut Island Grille or bold flavors at Tikka Masala. Familiar favorites like Olive Garden and local spots such as World of Beer are also nearby. The dining scene is vibrant and varied, with Latin, Indian, and Mediterranean options minutes from the USF campus. After dinner, Topgolf Tampa and Main Event offer fun social experiences and lively entertainment close to home.
Entertainment Venues
At the heart of the University area’s entertainment scene is the Yuengling Center, located directly on the USF campus. It hosts concerts, basketball games, family shows, and community events throughout the year. The venue attracts visitors from across Tampa Bay and beyond. Its central location makes it popular with locals and travelers staying nearby. The Yuengling Center captures the energy and spirit of the University area. Nearby neighborhoods like Carrollwood and New Tampa offer more shopping, dining, and family entertainment options for guests to enjoy.
Perfect for Short-Term and Mid-Term Stays
Whether you’re in town for a few days or a few months, the USF area offers properties suited for every type of guest.
Short-Term Guests
For visitors planning a quick trip, the University of South Florida area offers a convenient and central location. It’s close to top attractions like Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, and ZooTampa. Downtown Tampa and the airport are also just minutes away. The area is perfect for weekend getaways, family vacations, or short business trips. Guests enjoy spacious, fully furnished homes in safe residential neighborhoods. Each property provides comfort, privacy, and a place to relax after exploring Tampa.
Mid-Term Guests
For guests staying longer, the University of South Florida area offers both comfort and convenience. It’s close to major hospitals, the USF campus, and nearby business centers. This makes it ideal for visitors needing more than a weekend stay. Traveling nurses, Moffitt patients, university faculty, and corporate professionals all appreciate the area’s accessibility and comfort. Kong Vacation Homes provides flexible mid-term rentals designed to feel like home during extended stays.
These furnished properties include:
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Full kitchens for convenient meal prep
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Private workspaces for remote professionals
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Secure smart entry and quiet surroundings
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Pet-friendly options for extended stays
Downtown Tampa Bay skyline at sunset overlooking the water near USF and Riverwalk.
Easy Access to Tampa’s Best
Whether you’re flying in for work, treatment, or relaxation, the University area provides the perfect middle ground between peace and accessibility. Staying near USF gives you the flexibility to experience the best of Tampa without being caught in downtown congestion. In less than 30 minutes, guests can reach:
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Raymond James Stadium – home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Amalie Arena – concerts, NHL games, and special events
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Tampa Riverwalk – scenic trails, museums, and dining
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Ybor City – Tampa’s historic and cultural nightlife district
Final Thoughts
The University of South Florida area blends the energy of an academic hub with the comfort of a residential retreat. With nearby hospitals, entertainment, and quick access to downtown, it’s easy to see why this neighborhood remains one of Tampa’s best spots for short-term and mid-term rentals.
Whether you’re seeking a quick weekend getaway or planning an extended stay in Tampa, the University area offers the perfect home base. Kong Vacation Homes proudly offers guests a home base in the heart of it all—where convenience meets comfort and every stay feels like home. Our Tampa portfolio includes properties like Sun Villa, USF Hideaway, and Seminole Manor, each designed for privacy, comfort, and easy access to the city’s key destinations.