MacDill Air Force Base Guides
Jump to a Guide
- MacDill AFB Housing Guide
- Things to Do Near MacDill AFB
- MacDill AFB Financial Guide
- Local Businesses Offering Military Discounts
MacDill AFB Housing Guide
If you’re considering living off-base, Tampa offers a variety of housing options, ranging from suburban neighborhoods to urban settings, all within a reasonable commute to MacDill AFB.
Popular Off-Base Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Average Home Price | Overview | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Tampa | $400,000 | Urban living, close to downtown and base. | Short commute, vibrant community |
| Westshore | $350,000 | Suburban feel with proximity to shopping. | Access to malls, parks, restaurants |
| Hyde Park | $500,000 | Historic homes, high walkability. | Close to restaurants, shops, schools |
| Riverview | $300,000 | Family-friendly, suburban, affordable. | Great schools, affordable homes |
| Brandon | $325,000 | Suburban area with easy base access. | Family-friendly, good schools |
Key Considerations for Off-Base Housing:
- Commute Time: Consider traffic and proximity to MacDill AFB.
- Schools: Many families prefer neighborhoods within top-rated school districts.
- Community Amenities: Parks, shopping, and dining options contribute to quality of life.
Off-Base Rental Options
Renting off-base is ideal for those who need flexibility. Below are some popular rental properties near MacDill AFB.
| Rental Property | Location | 1-Bedroom Price | 2-Bedroom Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Westly | South Tampa | $1,300/month | $1,700/month | Modern units, pool, fitness center |
| Camden Preserve | Westshore | $1,400/month | $1,900/month | Gated community, pet-friendly |
| Palms at Ballast Point | South Tampa | $1,350/month | $1,850/month | Close to base, modern amenities |
| The Marq at Westshore | Westshore | $1,500/month | $2,000/month | Pet-friendly, resort-style pool |
| Vintage Lofts at West End | Hyde Park | $1,600/month | $2,200/month | Urban living, walkable to shopping |
Temporary Lodging at MacDill AFB
For those awaiting permanent housing, MacDill AFB and the surrounding area offer several temporary lodging options.
| Lodging | Location | Price Range per Night | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The MacDill Inn | On base | $95 – $130 per night | Pet-friendly, on-base convenience |
| Hampton Inn Tampa Airport | Westshore | $120 – $150 per night | Complimentary breakfast, near base |
| Candlewood Suites | South Tampa | $110 – $140 per night | Extended stay options, kitchenettes |
| Airbnb in Tampa | Various locations | $90 – $160 per night | Fully furnished, flexible stays |
Schools Near MacDill AFB
Families living near MacDill AFB have access to several highly rated schools.
| School | Type | Location | Grades |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robinson High School | Public | South Tampa | 9-12 |
| Ballast Point Elementary | Public | South Tampa | K-5 |
| Coleman Middle School | Public | Westshore | 6-8 |
| St. John’s Episcopal School | Private | Hyde Park | K-8 |
| Tampa Preparatory School | Private | Downtown Tampa | 6-12 |
Homebuyer Programs
There are several homebuyer assistance programs available for veterans and military families.
| Program Name | Description |
|---|---|
| VA Home Loan | No down payment, low interest rates for veterans. |
| Florida Housing’s Military Heroes Program | Offers reduced mortgage rates for military families. |
| First-Time Homebuyer Program | State program offering down payment assistance. |
Senior Living Options Near MacDill AFB
For retirees or seniors, there are several living options that cater to older adults in the Tampa area.
| Senior Living Community | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay | St. Petersburg | Waterfront living, senior activities |
| Horizon Bay Lutz | Lutz | Assisted living, memory care |
| Aston Gardens | South Tampa | Independent living, resort amenities |
| The Bristol at Tampa | Tampa | Assisted living, close to healthcare |
| Brookdale Bayshore | South Tampa | Pet-friendly, assisted living |
Things to Do Near MacDill AFB
This guide highlights various activities, attractions, and services tailored for veterans and their families near MacDill AFB.
Outdoor Activities
| Business Name | Details | Phone | Veteran Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bayshore Boulevard | Scenic path for walking, biking, jogging. | 813-274-8615 | No discount listed |
| Cypress Point Park | Beach, trails, picnic areas. | 813-274-8615 | No discount listed |
| Ballast Point Park | Fishing pier, playground, scenic views. | 813-274-8615 | No discount listed |
| Picnic Island Park | Beach, trails, picnic spots. | 813-274-8615 | No discount listed |
| E.G. Simmons Regional Park | Camping, kayaking, beach. | 813-671-7655 | 10% off camping for military |
Dining Options
| Business Name | Details | Phone | Veteran Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ulele | Waterfront dining, locally sourced food. | 813-999-4952 | 10% off for military |
| Bern’s Steak House | Upscale, aged steaks, extensive wine list. | 813-251-2421 | 10% off for veterans |
| Columbia Restaurant | Spanish-Cuban cuisine. | 813-248-4961 | 10% off for veterans |
| Datz Tampa | Gourmet comfort food. | 813-831-7000 | 10% off for military |
| The Sail Pavilion | Outdoor waterfront bar. | 813-274-7778 | No discount listed |
Entertainment
| Business Name | Details | Phone | Veteran Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa Theatre | Historic theater, films, concerts. | 813-274-8286 | Discounts on select shows |
| Busch Gardens Tampa | Rides, animal exhibits, live shows. | 813-884-4386 | Free for military and families |
| The Florida Aquarium | Marine life exhibits, tours. | 813-273-4000 | 10% off for military |
| ZooTampa | Wildlife encounters, educational exhibits. | 813-935-8552 | 10% off for military |
| Amalie Arena | Sports, concerts, events. | 813-301-6500 | Discounts on select events |
Family-Friendly Activities
| Business Name | Details | Phone | Veteran Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glazer Children’s Museum | Interactive learning for kids. | 813-443-3861 | 10% off for military families |
| Busch Gardens Tampa | Rides, animals, kid-friendly shows. | 813-884-4386 | Free for military families |
| The Florida Aquarium | Marine exhibits, touch tanks. | 813-273-4000 | 10% off for military |
| Croc Encounters | Reptile sanctuary, educational tours. | 813-217-4400 | Discounted admission for veterans |
| AirHeads Trampoline Arena | Trampoline park, foam pits, dodgeball. | 813-247-4323 | 10% off admission for military |
Shopping & Retail
| Business Name | Details | Phone | Veteran Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyde Park Village | Outdoor shopping district, boutiques. | 813-251-3500 | Various store discounts available |
| International Plaza | Upscale mall, national retailers. | 813-342-3790 | No discount listed |
| South Tampa Trading Co. | Local boutique, clothing, accessories. | 813-839-2056 | 10% off for military |
| Beer and Brownies Boutique | Artisan products, clothing, home goods. | 813-839-2100 | 10% off for military |
| Tampa Bay Sporting Goods | Sports equipment. | 813-254-1884 | 10% off purchases for military |
Veteran Resources and Discounts
| Business Name | Details | Phone | Veteran Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| VFW Post 4321 | Support, advocacy, social space. | 813-839-2678 | Free for active-duty military |
| American Legion Post 138 | Veteran support, advocacy, social events. | 813-831-1249 | Discounted membership |
| MacDill AFB Military & Family Support Center | Counseling, transition, family services. | 813-828-2721 | Free services for military |
| USAA Financial Center | Insurance, banking, investment services. | 800-531-8722 | Discounts on insurance and banking |
| Wounded Warrior Project | Support for wounded veterans. | Online | Free services for veterans |
Events and Community Services
| Business Name | Details | Phone | Veteran Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| MacDill AFB Air Show | Airshow, military performances. | 813-828-2721 | Free for all attendees |
| Gasparilla Pirate Festival | Annual parade, festival. | 813-251-8844 | No discount listed |
| Tampa Bay Veterans Day Parade | Parade honoring military service. | 813-274-8615 | Free for veterans |
| Tampa Riverfest | Music, food, entertainment on Riverwalk. | 813-221-3686 | No discount listed |
| Goodwill Job Connection | Job placement, resume-building services. | 813-623-4444 | Free services for veterans |
MacDill AFB Financial Guide
This guide provides essential resources for veterans and their families transitioning to life near MacDill Air Force Base. It includes information on financial advisers, local banks, healthcare services, legal assistance, and other helpful resources, as well as veteran-specific discounts offered by local businesses.
Financial Advisers
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edward Jones | Financial planning, retirement, and investment advice | Waived setup fees for veterans | 813-282-1234 |
| Raymond James Financial Services | Wealth management, financial planning, and investments | 10% off service fees | 813-281-2100 |
| Thrivent Financial | Financial planning, insurance, and retirement advice | Free consultation, reduced fees | 813-872-1111 |
| Primerica | Financial planning, debt management, and investments | Free financial consultations | 813-228-7600 |
| First Command Financial Services | Financial planning, insurance, investments, and retirement planning | Free financial plan setup | 813-289-0551 |
Local Banks
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navy Federal Credit Union | Military banking, loans, credit cards | Low-interest loans, no-fee checking | 888-842-6328 |
| USAA Bank | Checking, savings, loans, insurance | No-fee checking and savings accounts | 800-531-8722 |
| Regions Bank | Checking, savings, loans, and business banking | Waived monthly fees for veterans | 813-873-0900 |
| Pen Air Federal Credit Union | Military-specific banking, mortgages, and loans | Free checking accounts for veterans | 850-505-3200 |
| Suncoast Credit Union | Personal and business banking, loans, and mortgages | Waived account fees for veterans | 813-621-7511 |
Legal Assistance
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Law Office of Mark Fox | Family law, estate planning, veterans’ legal services | 15% discount on legal services | 813-254-2909 |
| Carr Law Firm | Estate planning, personal injury, legal support | 10% off for veterans | 813-228-7768 |
| The Carlson Law Firm | Personal injury, family law, and veterans’ legal support | 10% off for veterans | 800-359-5690 |
Employment Resources
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Veterans Employment Services | Job placement, resume assistance, career programs | Free employment services | 850-245-7105 |
| Goodwill Job Connection | Job placement and career services | Free job placement services | 813-623-4444 |
| Hire Heroes USA | Job search tools, resume-building, and career planning | Free services for veterans | 866-915-4376 |
Education & Training Programs
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Florida | Undergraduate and graduate programs with GI Bill support | Reduced tuition rates for veterans | 813-974-2011 |
| Hillsborough Community College | Vocational and academic programs with GI Bill support | Reduced tuition rates for veterans | 813-253-7000 |
| Saint Leo University | Online and on-campus programs, veterans’ support | Veteran-specific tuition rates | 813-621-2121 |
Healthcare Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| MacDill AFB Medical Clinic | Primary care, behavioral health, specialty services | Free healthcare for active-duty personnel | 813-828-4000 |
| Tampa General Hospital | General healthcare, surgeries, and veteran care | Discounted medical services for veterans | 813-844-7000 |
| BayCare Health System | Full-service hospital, veteran care | 10% discount for veterans | 813-870-4000 |
| Veterans Affairs Clinic | VA services, primary care, and mental health services | Free healthcare for veterans | 813-972-2000 |
Veterans Organizations
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4321 | Veterans’ support, advocacy, and social space | Free membership for active-duty | 813-839-2678 |
| American Legion Post 138 | Veteran support, advocacy, and social activities | Discounted membership | 813-831-1249 |
| Wounded Warrior Project | Support services, mental health programs, employment assistance | Free services for veterans | Online |
| AMVETS Post 4 | Veterans’ support services, social events, and advocacy | Free membership for active-duty | 813-831-3488 |
Childcare and Family Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| MacDill AFB Child Development Center | Childcare services for military families | Discounted rates for military families | 813-828-3332 |
| La Petite Academy | Full-time and part-time childcare | 10% off for military families | 813-839-5252 |
| Bright Horizons Family Solutions | Full-time and part-time childcare | Military discounts available | 813-876-5437 |
Transportation Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| MacDill AFB Transportation Office | Free transportation for veterans to medical appointments | Free for veterans | 813-828-3332 |
| Hertz | Car rentals | 10% off for military personnel | 813-287-2537 |
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | Car rentals | 5% discount for military personnel | 813-839-1458 |
Counseling and Mental Health Services
| Business Name | Services Offered | Veteran Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vet Centers (VA) | Counseling services for veterans and their families | Free services for veterans | 813-870-4000 |
| BayCare Behavioral Health | Mental health and substance abuse treatment | Reduced rates for veterans | 813-278-7900 |
| Riverside Recovery of Tampa | Counseling, addiction recovery, and family support | Discounted services for veterans | 813-296-0503 |
Local Businesses Offering Military Discounts
MacDill Air Force Base, located in Tampa, Florida, is surrounded by local businesses that offer discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel. This guide provides a list of places offering discounts on dining, entertainment, retail, and services, helping veterans save while enjoying the area.
Attractions & Activities Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| The Florida Aquarium | 10% off admission for veterans and military | 813-273-4000 |
| Busch Gardens Tampa | Free admission for active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families (Waves of Honor program) | 813-884-4386 |
| ZooTampa at Lowry Park | 10% off admission for military personnel | 813-935-8552 |
| Tampa Museum of Art | 10% off admission | 813-421-8380 |
| Glazer Children’s Museum | 10% off admission for military families | 813-443-3861 |
Health & Fitness Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Anytime Fitness | 10% off membership | 813-839-0800 |
| Crunch Fitness | 10% off membership for veterans | 813-701-5800 |
| BayCare Fitness Centers | 10% off memberships and personal training | 813-579-6134 |
| CrossFit Tampa | 15% off membership for veterans | 813-412-8610 |
| Orangetheory Fitness | 10% off membership | 813-536-1214 |
Travel Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Hertz | 10% off car rentals | 813-287-2537 |
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | 5% off car rentals | 813-839-1458 |
| La Quinta by Wyndham | 12% off stays for veterans | 813-386-6205 |
| Marriott Hotels | 10% off stays | 813-229-1100 |
| Amtrak | 15% off train tickets for military personnel | 800-872-7245 |
Dining Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Bern’s Steak House | 10% off for veterans | 813-251-2421 |
| Datz Tampa | 10% off for military personnel | 813-831-7000 |
| Columbia Restaurant | 10% off for veterans | 813-248-4961 |
| Haven | 10% off meals | 813-258-2233 |
| Ulele | 10% off meals for military personnel | 813-999-4952 |
Retail Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Hyde Park Village | Various store discounts available for military | 813-251-3500 |
| Posh Tampa | 10% off all purchases | 813-251-7674 |
| Dwell Home Market | 10% off home furnishings | 813-803-2203 |
| South Tampa Trading Co. | 10% off purchases for military | 813-839-2056 |
| Beer and Brownies Boutique | 10% off purchases for military | 813-839-2100 |
Pet Services Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Four Paws Veterinary Hospital | 10% off veterinary services | 813-254-7499 |
| Fetch Pet Care Tampa | 10% off pet care services | 813-533-2940 |
| Paws ‘n’ Rec | 10% off pet daycare and boarding | 813-803-4915 |
| The Modern Paws | 10% off pet supplies | 813-769-3933 |
Home Improvement & Services Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay Handyman Services | 10% off home repairs for military | 813-760-1064 |
| Tampa Bay Roofing Company | 10% off roofing services | 813-283-2521 |
| Servpro of Tampa Bay | 10% off cleaning and restoration services | 813-694-9093 |
| Mister Sparky Electrical | 10% off electrical services | 813-496-5180 |
| Lawn Doctor of Tampa | 10% off lawn care services | 813-867-7595 |
Moving & Storage Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Two Men and a Truck | 10% off moving services | 813-922-1520 |
| Veterans Moving Co. | 10% off moving services | 813-512-0300 |
| Storage Zone | 10% off storage units | 813-885-1922 |
| Big Man’s Moving Company | 10% off moving services | 727-772-3458 |
Sports & Guns Discounts
| Business Name | Discount | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Shooters World Tampa | 10% off range fees and firearms | 813-381-1111 |
| Tampa Gun Show | 10% off entry fees for veterans | 813-546-6905 |
| Florida Firearms Academy | 10% off range fees | 813-221-3473 |
| Gulf Coast Gun Shop | 10% off firearms | 813-282-8625 |
| MacDill Air Force Base Skeet & Trap Range | 10% off shooting range access | 813-828-4005 |