Temple Terrace, FL
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sports and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Temple Terrace is a historic city in Florida, founded in 1925 as one of America's first planned golf course communities. Nestled along the Hillsborough River, this "Tree City USA" is known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture, scenic parks, and strong ties to the University of South Florida.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: City of Temple Terrace .
- Administrative Role: Temple Terrace is an incorporated city and the third-largest municipality in Hillsborough County, after Tampa and Plant City. It operates under a Council-Manager form of government .
- Country and Region: The city is located in the state of Florida, within the United States. It is part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, commonly known as the Tampa Bay area . Hillsborough County is a major economic and population center on Florida's Gulf Coast, home to the Port of Tampa Bay and MacDill Air Force Base.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Official Nickname: "The Terrace" .
- Motto: "Amazing City, Since 1925" .
- Other Designations: The city is a designated "Tree City USA" by the Arbor Day Foundation, recognized for its commitment to urban forestry and its abundant sand live oak trees .
Founding Date and Age
- Founding and Incorporation: The area was founded in 1920 and officially incorporated as a city on May 28, 1925 . As of 2026, the city is 101 years old.
- Founding Vision: The city was developed from a portion of the former Riverhills hunting preserve owned by Chicago socialite Bertha Palmer. Developers envisioned a Mediterranean-style golf course community to attract wealthy northern settlers .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 28°02′07″N 82°23′21″W (28.03528, -82.38917) .
- Positioning and Waterways: Temple Terrace is located in northeastern Hillsborough County, directly adjacent to the city of Tampa. It is situated along the Hillsborough River, which provides much of its scenic beauty . The city is known for its rolling, terraced terrain that slopes toward the river .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 18 meters (59 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Temple Terrace functions primarily as a residential suburb and is an integral part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area. Its economy is closely linked to its role as a historic community and its adjacency to major institutions:
- Historic Residential Community: It is one of the first planned golf course communities in the United States, a feature that still defines its character .
- University-Oriented: The city shares a deep connection with the University of South Florida (USF) , whose main campus is located directly adjacent to Temple Terrace. Many students, faculty, and staff live in the city, contributing to a highly educated population .
- Educational Hub: It is home to Florida College, a private liberal arts college occupying several of the city's historic buildings .
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, the city has a population of 26,690 residents .
- Classification: Temple Terrace is a small city. It is the smallest of the three incorporated municipalities in Hillsborough County .
- Demographic Note: The city enjoys one of the highest education levels per capita in Florida, a direct result of its symbiotic relationship with the University of South Florida .
City's "Business Card"
Temple Terrace is a historic enclave in the heart of the Tampa Bay area, known as one of America's first planned golf course communities. With its scenic bluffs along the Hillsborough River, a rich collection of Mediterranean Revival architecture, and the title of "Tree City USA," it offers a unique blend of small-town charm and suburban convenience, all while sharing a deep, synergistic bond with the University of South Florida.
Geography
Water Features
- Hillsborough River: The defining natural feature of Temple Terrace is the Hillsborough River, which flows along the city's western and southern borders. The river provides scenic vistas, opportunities for kayaking and fishing, and is integral to the city's history, from early Spanish exploration to the development of its golf course community . Riverfront parks like Riverhills Park offer public access to its banks.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Temple Terrace has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , characteristic of west-central Florida. It is characterized by hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and mild, drier winters. The city enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
The climate is warm year-round. The table below shows the average maximum (day) and minimum (night) temperatures in degrees Celsius :
| Month | Avg. Max Temp (°C) | Avg. Min Temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 21 | 11 |
| February | 23 | 13 |
| March | 25 | 14 |
| April | 28 | 18 |
| May | 31 | 21 |
| June | 31 | 24 |
| July | 31 | 25 |
| August | 31 | 25 |
| September | 30 | 24 |
| October | 28 | 20 |
| November | 25 | 16 |
| December | 23 | 13 |
- Hottest Months: June, July, and August are the warmest, with average daytime highs of 31°C (88°F) and nighttime lows around 24-25°C (75-77°F) .
- Coolest Month: January is the coolest, with average daytime highs of 21°C (70°F) and nighttime lows of 11°C (52°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: Temple Terrace receives approximately 914 mm (36 inches) of rain per year .
- Wettest Month: August is the wettest month, with an average of 149 mm (5.9 inches) of rain. The summer months (June-September) are distinctly wetter, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms .
- Driest Months: The late fall and winter months, particularly November and December, are the driest, with average rainfall around 37-38 mm . The chance of rain in December is only about 14% .
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Temple Terrace for pleasant outdoor activities is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) . During these months, temperatures are warm but not excessively hot (25-31°C / 77-88°F), and humidity is lower compared to summer. The chance of rain is also significantly reduced, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and historic districts .
Landmarks
Historic Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club
This private country club is the historic heart of the city. The golf course, designed by renowned architect Tom Bendelow in the early 1920s, is considered one of the first master-planned golf course communities in the nation. It is virtually unchanged since its design and is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places . It hosted the Florida Open in 1925 and 1926 . The course holds particular significance as the place where evangelist Billy Graham received his calling in the late 1930s while a student at the Florida Bible Institute (now Florida College), which he described as happening "on the 18th green" .
Historic Mediterranean Revival Architecture
Temple Terrace boasts a significant collection of historic homes and buildings in the Mediterranean Revival style, reflecting its original 1920s development plan.
- M. Leo Elliott (1921): Noted Tampa architect M. Leo Elliott designed the initial houses and public buildings. The city retains 15 of his houses, the largest collection of his work anywhere .
- Dwight James Baum (1926): Renowned New York architect Dwight James Baum (architect of John Ringling's Ca' d'Zan in Sarasota) also designed over 35 residences in the city, thought to be the largest collection of his work in the southeastern United States .
Florida College Campus
The campus of Florida College, a private liberal arts college, is a landmark in itself. It occupies several of the community's oldest buildings, most notably Sutton Hall. Originally the clubhouse for the Temple Terrace Golf and Country Club, this building was purchased by the Florida Bible Institute in the late 1930s and remains a cherished part of the college . The campus grounds are a part of the city's historic fabric.
Riverhills Park
Located at the site of a 1757 Spanish exploration, Riverhills Park is a key public space along the Hillsborough River. A historic marker and a replica of a cross erected by the Spanish explorer Don Francisco Maria Celi commemorate his visit. He named the area "El Pinal de la Cruz de Santa Teresa" (The Pine Forest of the Cross of Saint Theresa) .
Billy Graham Memorial Park
Situated on the east side of the 18th green of the historic golf course, along the Hillsborough River, this small park honors the legacy of the famous evangelist and his connection to Temple Terrace .
Transport
Main Highways
Temple Terrace enjoys a highly strategic location with excellent connectivity. The city is situated just north of Tampa and is bordered by three major interstate highways, providing direct access to the entire Tampa Bay region and beyond :
- Interstate 75 (I-75): A major north-south artery running along the eastern edge of the city, connecting to northern Florida and points south to Naples.
- Interstate 4 (I-4): Located just south of the city, this is the primary east-west corridor linking the Tampa Bay area directly to Orlando and Daytona Beach.
- Interstate 275 (I-275): Located west of the city, this interstate loops through the Tampa Bay area, connecting to St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
Nearby Airports
While Temple Terrace does not have its own commercial airport, it is conveniently located near major air travel hubs:
- Tampa International Airport (TPA): Located approximately 20-25 minutes west of Temple Terrace via I-275, TPA is the primary airport serving the Tampa Bay area, offering numerous domestic and international flights .
- St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE): Located approximately 30-40 minutes west, this airport is a major hub for several low-cost carriers.
Public Transportation
Public transportation in the area is provided by the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) . Several bus routes serve Temple Terrace, connecting it to the University of South Florida, downtown Tampa, and other parts of the county. Key routes in the area include the 6 (56th Street) and 48 (Temple Terrace) buses . Walkability varies by neighborhood, with some areas being very walkable .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Temple Terrace itself is a residential suburb, its dining scene is a delightful reflection of the greater Tampa Bay area's diversity, offering a mix of American classics and international flavors.
American Bar and Grille (The American Bar and Grille)
A local staple for classic American comfort food is The American Bar and Grille. Located on Temple Terrace Highway, this casual spot is popular for its extensive menu of burgers, sandwiches, and hearty dinners . It's the kind of place where you can find a perfectly cooked burger or a satisfying Caesar wrap, making it a favorite for everyday dining and a true taste of local, unpretentious American cuisine .
Outback Steakhouse
For a taste of an American culinary export that has become a global phenomenon, residents and visitors head to Outback Steakhouse. Known for its Australian-themed décor, this chain restaurant is famous for its steaks, blooming onions, and casual, hearty meals, representing a popular strand of American dining culture .
Carrabba's Italian Grill
Temple Terrace also offers well-regarded Italian-American cuisine. Carrabba's Italian Grill provides a menu of classic dishes like pasta, grilled meats, and chicken, all prepared with a focus on robust flavors and wood-fired grilling . It’s a popular choice for family dinners and gatherings, reflecting the strong Italian-American culinary tradition prevalent in the U.S.
Vallarta Restaurant
For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, Vallarta Restaurant is a go-to spot in the community. Located on North 56th Street, it offers a menu full of traditional Mexican dishes, from tacos and burritos to more elaborate plates, providing a flavorful and festive dining experience .
Flavors Indian Cuisine
Adding to the area's diverse culinary landscape is Flavors Indian Cuisine. This restaurant, located on Telecom Drive, serves a variety of traditional Indian dishes, including many vegetarian and healthy options . It’s a great representation of the global flavors that have become an integral part of the food scene in the Tampa Bay area, allowing residents to explore the rich and complex spices of Indian cooking.
Acropolis Greek Taverna
A short drive from Temple Terrace into Tampa, the Acropolis Greek Taverna is a highly recommended spot for experiencing Greek cuisine . Known for its lively atmosphere and authentic dishes like gyros, souvlaki, and fresh seafood, it offers a taste of the Mediterranean and is a favorite for those seeking a vibrant dining experience .
Museums
While Temple Terrace itself is primarily residential, it is perfectly situated near a wealth of world-class museums in the Tampa Bay area. The city's location provides easy access to an incredible range of art, history, and science exhibits.
Henry B. Plant Museum
Located just a short drive away in Tampa, the Henry B. Plant Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel, a stunning Moorish Revival architectural masterpiece, the museum preserves the opulence of the Gilded Age . Visitors can explore the lavish hotel, which is now a National Historic Landmark, and learn about the pivotal role of railroad magnate Henry B. Plant in transforming Tampa into a tourist destination .
The Dalí Museum
For art lovers, a trip to St. Petersburg is essential to visit The Dalí Museum. This museum houses an unparalleled collection of works by the renowned surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, spanning his entire career . The collection includes masterpieces in various media and is widely considered one of the finest collections of Dalí's art outside of Europe, making it a true cultural gem of Florida .
Museum of Fine Arts
Also in St. Petersburg, the Museum of Fine Arts offers a journey through 5,000 years of art history . Its permanent collection features everything from ancient Greek and Roman artifacts to European masterpieces and contemporary American art. The museum's diverse and ever-changing exhibitions ensure there is always something new to discover .
John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Further south in Sarasota, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is a sprawling complex that serves as the State Art Museum of Florida . The museum's core is the impressive art collection amassed by circus magnate John Ringling, housed in a magnificent Venetian Gothic-style building. The site also includes the historic Ca' d'Zan mansion, Ringling's opulent waterfront home, and a circus museum, offering a full day of exploration .
Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
For a hands-on, family-friendly experience, the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) in Tampa is a top destination. Located not far from Temple Terrace, MOSI features interactive exhibits on everything from hurricanes and physics to health and innovation, making learning fun for kids and adults alike .
FloridaRAMA
For a more contemporary and immersive art experience, FloridaRAMA in St. Petersburg (formerly Fairgrounds St. Pete) is a unique arts and entertainment destination. It features large-scale, interactive installations from local, national, and international artists, creating a playful and highly Instagrammable environment that is distinctly Floridian .
Sports and Sports Legends
Temple Terrace is home to its own collegiate athletic programs and is just minutes away from the heart of professional sports in Tampa, offering residents and visitors a vibrant sports culture.
Florida College Falcons
Based in the heart of Temple Terrace, Florida College fields its own athletic teams, known as the Falcons. Competing in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), the Falcons offer a variety of sports, including men's and women's soccer, basketball, cross country, golf, and track & field, as well as volleyball and cheerleading . The college's athletic program is a point of community pride, and their home games provide local entertainment .
University of South Florida Bulls
Adjacent to Temple Terrace is the University of South Florida (USF) , whose teams, the Bulls, compete at the NCAA Division I level. USF is a major force in college athletics, and their football team plays home games at the NFL's Raymond James Stadium, sharing the venue with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers . Bulls basketball and other sports offer a high-energy, collegiate sports experience just minutes from Temple Terrace .
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
Just a short drive from Temple Terrace, Raymond James Stadium is the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers . The Buccaneers are a iconic NFL franchise, and their recent Super Bowl LV victory, led by legendary quarterback Tom Brady, has cemented their place in modern football history. Game days in Tampa are a major city-wide event, with fans flocking to the stadium from all over the region, including Temple Terrace .
Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)
Downtown Tampa's Amalie Arena is the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning . Since its establishment, the Lightning have become a modern NHL dynasty, winning multiple Stanley Cup championships. Known for their passionate fan base and high-energy games, attending a Lightning game is a premier sports and entertainment experience in the region .
Nearby Golf
For those who enjoy the links, the Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club is a local landmark. The area is also home to numerous other golf courses, catering to players of all skill levels and offering a pleasant way to enjoy Florida's outdoor lifestyle .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Temple Terrace is uniquely positioned as a hub for higher education, hosting its own private college and sitting adjacent to one of Florida's largest public universities.
Florida College
Located right in the city at 119 N. Glen Arven Avenue, Florida College is a private, non-denominational college founded in 1946 . This four-year institution focuses on undergraduate education, offering associate and bachelor's degrees to a small, close-knit student body of around 650 . Florida College is known for its liberal arts focus and its student-athletes, the Falcons, who compete in the NJCAA .
University of South Florida (USF)
Literally bordering Temple Terrace, the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa is a major public research university and the third-largest university in Florida . With a main campus enrollment of nearly 50,000 students, USF is a powerhouse of academics and research, classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" . It is renowned for its programs in public health, business, engineering, and the arts. The university is also a major economic driver for the entire region, including Temple Terrace.
The University of Tampa
A short drive from Temple Terrace, The University of Tampa is a private university located in the heart of downtown Tampa . Its campus is dominated by the historic Plant Hall, a stunning Moorish Revival building that once housed the Tampa Bay Hotel and now serves as the university's signature landmark . The University of Tampa is known for its strong programs in business, the sciences, and the arts, offering a more intimate private education in an urban setting .
Nearby Colleges and Community Colleges
The area surrounding Temple Terrace is rich with other higher education options. Hillsborough Community College is a large public institution with multiple campuses, providing accessible two-year degrees and workforce training . Other private institutions like Saint Leo University and Eckerd College are also within a reasonable commuting distance, offering even more choices for students in the region .
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
As a residential community, Temple Terrace is well-served by a network of local clinics and is in close proximity to major hospitals and specialist centers in the Tampa Bay area.
Local Primary and Urgent Care
For everyday medical needs, residents of Temple Terrace have access to numerous primary care clinics and urgent care centers throughout the city. Facilities like Just Medical Care and Superior Medical Clinics LLC on North 56th Street, and Florida Urgent Care Partners, provide essential healthcare services, from routine check-ups to treatment for common illnesses and minor injuries . These local clinics form the front line of healthcare for the community .
Nearby Specialist Care
Temple Terrace is also home to some specialized medical practices. For example, Advanced Neuro Corp on Arbor Isle Drive offers neurology services within the city limits . For more comprehensive or specialized hospital care, residents have easy access to a vast network of world-class medical facilities in the greater Tampa area.
Major Hospitals in Tampa
Just minutes from Temple Terrace, Tampa is home to several major hospitals. These include Tampa General Hospital, a leading academic medical center and the region's only level I trauma center, and AdventHealth Tampa, part of a large nationwide healthcare system known for its comprehensive services in cardiology, oncology, and neurosciences.
Healthcare in the Greater Region
The broader Tampa Bay area is a major healthcare hub. Institutions like Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg are nationally recognized for pediatric care. In nearby Bradenton, facilities like Manatee Memorial Hospital and Lakewood Ranch Medical Center offer a full range of services, ensuring that residents of Temple Terrace have access to specialized care, from cardiology to neurosurgery, within a short driving distance .