When the temperatures start to drop, some people get excited for cozy sweaters, apple picking, and decorating for the holidays. For snowbirds, the seasonal routine is flocking to a warmer destination to experience a new place and enjoy their favorite kind of weather.
Whether you're planning your first seasonal getaway or you're already familiar with the snowbird lifestyle, finding the right place to stay can make a big difference in your experience. Tampa, Florida, and Phoenix, Arizona, offer two distinct winter experiences, from waterfront walks and coastal activities to desert trails and endless sunny days. This guide highlights what each destination has to offer and how a furnished apartment can provide a comfortable and convenient place to call home during an extended stay.
What Is a Snowbird?
A snowbird is someone who spends part of the year in a warmer location, typically heading south during the colder winter months and returning home when the weather warms up.
While snowbird living has often been associated with retirees, the lifestyle can appeal to anyone looking for a change of scenery during the winter. Remote workers, empty nesters, frequent travelers and those who want to spend more time near family may all find seasonal living appealing.
Snowbird living can look different for everyone. It could mean spending several months somewhere warm, splitting your time between two cities or simply taking an extended break from winter.
Enjoy Winter Along Tampa's Waterfront
For snowbirds looking to trade cold temperatures for sunshine, Tampa offers a warm and vibrant setting for a seasonal stay. Mild winter weather makes it easy to spend more time outdoors, while the city's dining, entertainment and coastal location provide opportunities to experience a different side of Florida.
Tampa’s waterfront is a major part of the city’s appeal. The Tampa Riverwalk connects downtown with restaurants, parks and local attractions, while nearby Gulf Coast beaches offer another way to enjoy the warmer weather. From a morning walk along the water to an afternoon at the beach, the season can be spent enjoying the outdoors.
Winter is also a popular time to experience Tampa’s local events and entertainment. Gasparilla season brings parades and celebrations throughout January and February, while popular destinations like Raymond James Stadium and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts offer even more ways to enjoy the city’s sports, entertainment and arts scene during a longer stay.
AVE Tampa Riverwalk offers flexible-stay furnished apartments in the heart of downtown Tampa, with everything you need to feel at home from day one. Each apartment comes stocked with cookware, dinnerware and glassware, making it easy to cook your own meals without packing or purchasing the essentials. An in-residence washer and dryer keeps laundry simple, luxury bed and bath linens are provided, and all utilities are included, featuring high-speed WiFi. When you're not out exploring the city, you might start your morning at the 24/7 fitness center, spend the afternoon at a flexible workspace or relax by the resort-style pool. Community events throughout your stay are a great way to meet neighbors and settle in.
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