Brandon

Welcome to Brandon

Hip and active suburb just minutes away from Downtown Tampa

Located just outside of Downtown Tampa, Brandon is conveniently nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city but is still close enough to get in on all the fun. One of Florida’s best-kept secrets, Brandon’s great location is what draws people to live here. The community is positioned 10 miles east of Tampa Bay and is only an hour away from the Gulf of Mexico, making it the perfect home base for day trips to beautiful waterside locations in the Sunshine State. Within this happening, growing, and highly connected suburb, the streets are brimming with vivacious restaurants featuring an array of cuisine, small and unique businesses, great entertainment options, things to do both indoors and outdoors for the whole family, and highly-rated schools. With small and large homes ranging from one-story dwellings to two-story residences, there’s something for everyone. Brandon is close to all of the action and is a wonderful place to call home.

What to Love

History & Heritage

Brandon, Florida, is a vibrant and growing suburb located just east of Tampa. Its history dates back to the late 19th century when it was founded by John Brandon in 1857. Brandon, originally from Mississippi, was drawn to the area by its fertile land and promising prospects for agriculture. He purchased 40 acres of land in what is now downtown Brandon and established his homestead.

John Brandon's initial settlement was modest, with only a handful of families living in the area. However, the construction of the Florida Central and Peninsular Railroad in the late 1800s marked a significant turning point for Brandon. The railroad connected Brandon to larger markets, facilitating trade and attracting more settlers. By the early 1900s, Brandon had a thriving community, with schools, churches, and businesses beginning to take root.

Brandon remained a small, rural community until the mid-20th century. The post-World War II era brought significant changes as returning veterans and their families sought new places to settle. Brandon's proximity to Tampa made it an attractive option for those looking to escape the city's congestion while still enjoying its amenities. The construction of major highways, such as Interstate 75 and the Selmon Expressway, further spurred growth, making Brandon easily accessible to commuters.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Brandon experienced a suburban boom. Residential developments, shopping centers, and schools sprang up rapidly, transforming the area into a bustling suburban community. The Brandon Town Center, opened in 1995, became a focal point for shopping and entertainment, solidifying Brandon's status as a key suburban hub.

Today, Brandon is a thriving suburban community known for its excellent schools, diverse dining options, and family-friendly atmosphere. Its population has grown to over 100,000 residents, making it one of the largest unincorporated communities in Florida. The area continues to evolve, with ongoing developments in residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

People & Lifestyle

Brandon is twenty-nine square miles in area and has a population of 100,000. Close in proximity to Tampa, the neighborhood attracts many commuters who work in the city and are looking for a short drive or bus ride in. The area is full of young and affluent professionals and their families. Although work is important to residents, so is play. Many locals love to get out and about, whether to one of the community parks or a beloved local restaurant.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

In Brandon, there are a number of local spots that are great for spending time with friends and family, having a conversation over a refreshing beverage, or enjoying an amazing meal. At Mellow Mushroom, you can enjoy creatively savory calzones and innovative and delicious stone-baked pizzas in a funky, art-filled environment. They offer an impressive collection of craft beers that can’t be beat, and their pizzas can be made gluten-free or vegan. For good food and great company, visit the nearby Dave & Busters or TopGolf. Dave & Busters is a family-friendly chain that doubles as a sports bar dining room with tasty eats and a vibrant arcade with games for everyone. For a swanky view as well as excellent eats and libations, spend an evening or afternoon at the popular TopGolf entertainment venue, which features a high-tech driving range and personal lounges where you can be served food and drink.

For shopping and entertainment opportunities in town, head to Westfield Brandon Town Center. This well-known and beloved destination contains big-name clothing and department stores like Express and Guess, as well as cherished chain restaurants such as The Cheesecake Factory and California Pizza Kitchen—in addition to a full food court. You can spend all-day entertaining the kids at the mall’s arcade, jumping trampoline, merry-go-round, and playground. We can’t forget about outdoor and water lovers; they can get their fix over at the massive and all-encompassing Bass Pro Shop.

Things To Do

There’s lots to do in the area—especially if you love to get outside in the nice Florida weather for a breath of fresh air. Over at Saladino Park, the options are endless. You can play a game on the baseball field or basketball courts, or walk the shaded walkways and open green lawn. There’s even a dog park and picnic pavilions for a day of fun. The same goes for All Persons Rotary Park, which has green space with a fenced-in universal playground and a splash pad.

Brandon also celebrates the community with a number of local events and gatherings. The historic Saladino Baseball Tournament has been held annually for over 40 years, as well as their famous golf tournament. This suburb also does holidays big, especially on Independence Day with their Fourth of July fireworks.

Parks and Recreation

Brandon, FL, offers a variety of parks, recreational facilities, and outdoor activities that cater to residents of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, engage in sports, or enjoy family-friendly activities, Brandon has something to offer.

Local Parks

• Paul Sanders Park: Known as "Tree Tops Park," Paul Sanders Park is a favorite among locals for its shaded playground, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The park is ideal for family outings and offers a peaceful retreat with its large oak trees providing ample shade.
• Brandon Parkway Trail: This multi-use trail is perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. Stretching for several miles, it offers a scenic route through Brandon, connecting various neighborhoods and parks. The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Bertha and Tony Saladino Park: Named after local baseball legends, this park features baseball and softball fields, making it a hub for local sports leagues. The park also includes a playground and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families to spend an afternoon.
• Limona Park: A smaller, neighborhood park that offers a playground, picnic shelters, and open green spaces. It's a great place for a quiet afternoon with the family or a casual game of frisbee.

Recreational Facilities

• Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center: This comprehensive facility offers a variety of programs including swimming, diving, tennis, and gymnastics. The center is known for its high-quality coaching and training programs, catering to both recreational athletes and competitive swimmers.
• Bloomingdale Golfers Club: For golf enthusiasts, Bloomingdale Golfers Club offers a challenging 18-hole course set in a beautiful landscape. The club also features practice facilities, a pro shop, and a clubhouse with dining options.
• Westfield Brandon: While primarily a shopping mall, Westfield Brandon also offers a range of recreational activities, including an indoor playground for children and regular community events that bring families together.

Outdoor Activities

• Fishing and Boating: Nearby lakes and rivers, such as the Alafia River, provide excellent opportunities for fishing and boating. The Alafia River State Park offers boat ramps and fishing piers, making it easy for residents to enjoy water-based activities.
• Hiking and Nature Trails: The nearby Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve offers hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, from scrubland to wetlands. It's a great spot for bird watching and enjoying Florida's natural beauty.
• Sports Leagues: Brandon boasts a variety of youth and adult sports leagues, including soccer, baseball, softball, and basketball. These leagues provide opportunities for both recreational play and competitive sports.

Cultural Scene

Brandon, FL, has a vibrant cultural scene with a range of museums, theaters, galleries, and cultural events that enrich the community.

Museums

• Brandon Historical and Genealogical Society: Located in the heart of Brandon, this museum offers a glimpse into the area's past with exhibits on local history, artifacts, and genealogical records. It’s a great place to learn about the founding families and significant events that shaped Brandon.
• Cracker Country: Located a short drive away in Tampa, this living history museum depicts rural Florida life in the late 19th century. It offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that are popular with families and school groups.

Theaters and Performing Arts

• Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association: This local cultural hub offers art classes, workshops, and performances. The center also hosts art exhibits, theater productions, and community events, fostering a vibrant arts scene in Brandon.
• The Florida Academy of Performing Arts: This academy provides opportunities for all ages to engage in the performing arts, including theater, music, and dance. It hosts regular performances and showcases that highlight local talent.
• The Regent: This state-of-the-art venue hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibits. It’s a key location for community gatherings and cultural celebrations in Brandon.

Galleries

• Artistic Endeavors Gallery: This gallery features works from local artists and offers rotating exhibits throughout the year. It’s a great place to discover the diverse artistic talent in the Brandon area.
• Center Place Art Gallery: Part of the Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association, this gallery showcases local and regional artists, providing a platform for emerging talent and established artists alike.

Cultural Events

• Brandon Fourth of July Parade: A long-standing tradition, this parade features local bands, floats, and community groups. It's a major event that brings the community together to celebrate Independence Day.
• Brandon Balloon Classic: Held annually, this event features hot air balloons, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. It’s a unique and exciting event that draws visitors from across the region.
• Taste of Brandon: This food festival showcases the diverse culinary scene in Brandon, with local restaurants offering samples of their best dishes. It’s a popular event for foodies and families alike.
• Winterfest: A holiday celebration that includes a tree lighting ceremony, holiday market, and performances by local choirs and bands. It's a festive event that brings holiday cheer to the community.

Browse Real Estate in Brandon, FL

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Schools

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Brandon’s public school districts have several highly-rated schools and educational facilities of note, including: