Carrollwood

Carrollwood is a premier family-oriented community with a prestigious country club, beautiful lakes, and waterfront properties.

About Greater Carrollwood, Florida Real Estate

Carrollwood is a well-established upscale community with beautiful homes, manicured lawns, and streets bordered by gorgeous mature oaks. The community offers a variety of home styles, from cozy starter homes to luxurious waterfront estates, including one and two-story single-family homes, villas, townhouses, and condominiums. Located about 20 minutes south of Odessa and 10 minutes west of Lake Magdalene, Carrollwood is just a short drive from Tampa and has easy access to major highways.

 

Carrollwood is a vibrant and family-friendly community. The area has several pristine parks, a community recreation center, and a Cultural Center. This peaceful yet bustling community is home to a variety of popular events and festivals, including the Blues & BBQ Festival, the Jim Burge Jazz Festival, and the Food & Folk Art Festival. The community is also home to the prestigious Carrollwood Village Golf and Country Club, lakes, and the popular White Sands Beach.

 

What to Love

  • Houses with great character
  • Lovely mature trees and landscaping
  • Family-friendly community with wonderful activities and amenities
  • Close to shopping, restaurants, and Downtown Tampa
  • The prestigious Carrollwood Village Golf and Country Club

 

Carrollwood, FL History

Carrollwood, FL, located in Hillsborough County, is a vibrant and well-established community with a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century. The development of Carrollwood began in the 1950s when visionary developer Matt Jetton of Sunstate Builders sought to create a master-planned community that combined the tranquility of suburban living with the convenience of urban amenities. This vision led to the creation of one of the first planned communities in the Tampa Bay area.

 

The community’s development officially kicked off in 1959 with the establishment of Original Carrollwood, now known simply as Carrollwood. This neighborhood was meticulously planned with winding streets, spacious lots, and a variety of home styles, attracting families looking for a serene and family-friendly environment. The development was designed around Lake Carroll, a 210-acre lake that provided recreational opportunities and picturesque views for residents. Lake Carroll quickly became a focal point of the community, offering boating, fishing, and other water activities.

 

One of the significant milestones in Carrollwood’s history was the construction of the Carrollwood Country Club in the early 1960s. The country club became a central social hub for the community, featuring a golf course, tennis courts, and various dining and event facilities. It helped establish Carrollwood as a desirable and upscale place to live.

 

As the Tampa metropolitan area continued to grow, so did Carrollwood. In the 1970s and 1980s, new subdivisions such as Carrollwood Village and Carrollwood Meadows were developed, further expanding the community’s reach and appeal. These developments included modern amenities like parks, recreational facilities, and shopping centers, enhancing the quality of life for residents.

 

Throughout the years, Carrollwood has maintained its reputation as a well-planned and attractive community. The neighborhood has continued to evolve, blending its historical charm with contemporary conveniences. Today, Carrollwood is known for its lush landscaping, mature trees, and well-maintained homes. The community's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and fostering a strong sense of community has made it one of the most sought-after residential areas in the Tampa Bay region.

 

Carrollwood’s history is also marked by its residents' active involvement in community affairs. The Carrollwood Civic Association plays a crucial role in organizing events, maintaining common areas, and addressing the needs of the community. Annual events such as the Carrollwood Village Annual Holiday Parade and the Carrollwood Cultural Center's Arts and Crafts Fair bring residents together and strengthen the community spirit.

 

In summary, Carrollwood, FL, has a rich history that reflects the vision of its founders and the dedication of its residents. From its early days as one of Tampa’s first planned communities to its current status as a thriving and desirable neighborhood, Carrollwood has successfully combined suburban tranquility with urban amenities, making it a unique and cherished place to live.

 

Local Lifestyle

Although it is technically considered a suburb of Tampa, Carrollwood has a personality all its own. Carrollwood is vibrant and welcoming, with a friendly and relaxed vibe. The neighborhoods are lush and green, and the locals take pride in their close-knit community. This quiet community is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still has plenty to offer in terms of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Residents enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle by taking advantage of hiking and biking trails, golf, tennis, fishing, boating, and watersports.

 

Weather & Climate

Carrollwood, FL, enjoys a subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, pleasant winters. This climate makes it an attractive location for those who appreciate warm weather and outdoor activities year-round.

  • Summer: Summers in Carrollwood are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (30-35°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are common, providing temporary relief from the heat. These storms can be intense but usually pass quickly.
  • Winter: Winters are mild and comfortable, with average high temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (15-25°C). Frost and freezing temperatures are rare, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and events.
  • Spring and Fall: Spring and fall are transitional seasons with warm temperatures and lower humidity. These periods are often considered the best times to enjoy outdoor activities, as the weather is typically sunny and pleasant.
  • Rainfall: Carrollwood receives an average annual rainfall of about 50 inches (127 cm), with the wettest months being June through September. During this time, afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, contributing to the overall rainfall. The dry season extends from November to April, with significantly less precipitation.
  • Hurricane Season: Carrollwood, like much of Florida, is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly from June to November. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather forecasts and have preparedness plans in place during this period.

 

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Carrollwood is an excellent spot for "foodies." Noble Crust features gourmet pizzas, handmade pasta, and fresh seafood in a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a special night out with friends or family. The very popular Sacred Pepper gives its unique twist to seafood specialties and traditional Italian and American cuisine. They also have an extensive wine list, fabulous specialty cocktails, and tasty made-from-scratch desserts. 

 

The Maple Street Biscuit Company is a local favorite for breakfast. The biscuits are made fresh, and the menu changes daily, so there's always something new. The casual atmosphere is perfect for families, and there's a patio where you can enjoy the Florida weather. For a more formal date night, make a reservation at the award-winning Bern's Steak House. Bern's is known for its dry-aged beef, seafood, decadent desserts, and extensive wine list.

 

Carrollwood is just minutes from the bustling nightlife scene of Tampa Bay, where there are many fantastic venues for great drinks, music, and dancing. A favorite entertainment in Carrollwood is the Side Splitters Comedy Club. For more family-friendly entertainment, Carrollwood is close to four excellent movie theaters, several bowling alleys, two skating rinks, and less than ten miles from Busch Gardens.

 

Carrollwood offers fantastic upscale shopping. The International Plaza and Bay Street has high-end stores like Armani, Ann Taylor, Coach, and Gucci. Other nearby and popular shopping and entertainment venues include Carrollwood Village Center, Centro Ybor, and West Shore Plaza. Of course, Carrollwood is also just a short drive from the exclusive shops and boutiques in downtown Tampa Bay.

 

The Carrollwood Market is the perfect place to find fresh, local produce. The market offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The market also features a selection of prepared food, including sandwiches, soups, and pastries. Shoppers can also find locally made crafts and gifts. The market is held every second Saturday at the Carrollwood Cultural Center. There's also a Whole Foods Market and a Sprouts Market in Carrollwood. 

 

Things to Do in Carrollwood, FL

Carrollwood is a beautiful, serene suburb offering an abundance of outdoor activities. Golfers will love teeing off at the Carrollwood Country Club. The club offers a 27-hole championship-level golf course, Har Tru tennis courts, dining and social events, and a fitness center. The club also has a heated and cooled junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, a Splash Pad playground for small children, and a poolside cafe. 

 

Carrollwood Recreation District is an excellent place for water sports and recreational activities. White Sands Beach has fishing, boating, kayaking, jet-skiing, swimming, and picnics. The Recreation District also offers tennis courts, several parks (including dog parks!), and a large recreational center. One of the most popular parks in the area is Carrollwood Village Park. This park is great for families, offering dog parks, outdoor fitness equipment, picnic shelters, walking trails, and a skate park.

 

The Carrollwood Cultural Center is a hidden gem offering classes, art exhibits, concerts, and festivals. Some of the most popular events are the Blues & BBQ Festival, the Jim Burge Jazz Festival, the Food & Folk Art Festival, movie nights, theater shows, and the farmers market. Carrollwood also has an annual Halloween parade, Christmas boat parade, New Year's Eve fireworks, a 4th of July Ski Show, beach parties, and an Easter egg hunt.

 

Annual Events & Festivals

Carrollwood, FL, is a community that thrives on its strong sense of camaraderie and tradition, with numerous annual events and festivals that bring residents together and celebrate the neighborhood's vibrant spirit. Some of the major events include:

 

Carrollwood Village Annual Holiday Parade: This festive parade is a highlight of the holiday season, featuring decorated floats, marching bands, and performances by local groups. Residents line the streets to enjoy the spectacle, which culminates in a community gathering with hot cocoa and holiday treats.

 

Carrollwood Cultural Center's Arts and Crafts Fair: Held every spring, this fair showcases the talents of local artists and crafters. Visitors can browse and purchase unique handmade items, including jewelry, pottery, paintings, and textiles. The event also features live music, food vendors, and activities for children.

 

Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration: Carrollwood hosts a spectacular fireworks display each Independence Day. The event includes family-friendly activities such as face painting, games, and food trucks, making it a memorable way to celebrate the nation's birthday.

 

Taste of Carrollwood: This annual food festival highlights the culinary delights of the neighborhood's diverse dining scene. Local restaurants and food vendors offer samples of their signature dishes, allowing attendees to savor a wide range of flavors. The event often includes live entertainment and cooking demonstrations.

 

Halloween Spooktacular: A family-favorite event, the Halloween Spooktacular features trick-or-treating, costume contests, haunted houses, and themed activities. It's a safe and fun way for children and adults alike to celebrate Halloween.

 

Commute & Accessibility

Carrollwood is well-connected and offers convenient commuting options for its residents. The neighborhood is strategically located near several major highways, ensuring easy access to different parts of the Tampa Bay area.

  • Interstate 275 (I-275): This major north-south highway runs close to Carrollwood, providing a direct route to downtown Tampa, which is approximately a 20-minute drive away. I-275 also connects to Interstate 4 (I-4), facilitating travel to Orlando and other central Florida destinations.
  • Veterans Expressway (State Road 589): This toll road runs north-south through the western part of Carrollwood, offering quick access to Tampa International Airport, Westshore Business District, and the northern suburbs. The expressway significantly reduces travel time for commuters heading to various parts of Tampa.
  • Dale Mabry Highway (U.S. Route 41): A major commercial corridor, Dale Mabry Highway runs through the heart of Carrollwood. It is lined with shopping centers, restaurants, and businesses, making it a convenient route for daily errands and commutes.
  • Public Transportation: The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) operates several bus routes that serve Carrollwood, providing an alternative to driving. The HART buses connect residents to key areas such as downtown Tampa, the University of South Florida, and major shopping centers.
  • Bike and Pedestrian Paths: Carrollwood is increasingly becoming pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly, with several bike lanes and walking paths. The Upper Tampa Bay Trail, located nearby, offers a scenic route for cyclists and joggers, connecting to various parks and green spaces.

 

Schools

The community of Carrollwood is served by schools that provide quality education. 

  • Steinbrenner High School
  • Leto High School
  • Carrollwood Day School
  • Carrollwood Elementary

 

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