05.15.2025

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92º | 10% chance of precipitation

Sunrise 6:39 a.m. | Sunset 8:12 p.m.

Tides | Old Tampa Bay | High: 4:05 p.m.

Clearwater Beach | High: 12:53 p.m. | Low: 6:47 a.m. + 8:40 p.m.

Full Weather Report | Traffic Report

Longer days = more pickleball

A red-haired woman leans down to hit a green ball with a pickleball paddle to toward two men across the outdoor court which is next to multiple courts.

The tennis-esque game is the fastest growing sport in the country. | Photo via City of Tampa

It’s not just a phase: Pickleball is here to stay. So much so that the City of Tampa just repaved a Davis Islands basketball court so it can be used for pickleball too.

City leaders say Tampa’s 64 pickleball courts are becoming its most-used facilities — with 750 to 1,000 players hittin’ the city’s courts every day.

So there’s more courts on the way. The city is also planning resurfacing projects at Duran Park and Plymouth Park — bringing the total up to 68 courts.

As we head into the steamiest months of the year, the Parks and Recreation Department also installed a new shade structure at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park’s courts — which are some of the most frequented in the Cigar City.

Check out our pickleball guide

Asked

Does Tampa Bay have enough pickleball courts?

A. I’d say so
B. Nope, they’re still too crowded
C. We need more indoor ones
D. There’s too many

Share your take

Events

Thursday, May 15

Surreal Nights at The Dalí | 5-8 p.m. | The Dallí Museum | $10-$15 | Roam the renowned museum to the sound of a bumpin’ DJ set + sip on a signature surreal cocktail from Café Gala.

Anabaptists and “The World”: A Historical and Philosophical Exploration | 5:30-7 p.m. | Florida Museum of Photographic Arts | $0-$12 | Listen as an assistant professor of philosophy and religion at the University of Tampa delves into the history, beliefs, and cultural impact of the Anabaptist movement.

Friday, May 16

Beach Dogs Friday | 5:30 p.m. | BayCare Ballpark | $11+ | Tow Fido along to watch some Friday night baseball as the Clearwater Threshers take on the Lakeland Flying Tigers — dogs are paw-mitted on the concourse, berm, and in the seating bowl.

Dining in the Dark: A Unique Blindfolded Experience | 6-7:15 p.m. | Centre Club, Tampa | $64 | Heighten your tastebuds by dining on the secret 3-course menu blindfolded.

Scenes on the Green | 7 p.m. | Crest Lake Park, Clearwater | Free | Pack the lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks for the kids for this outdoor screening of “Dora and the Lost City of Gold.”

Saturday, May 17

Plunge & Pour | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Sparkman Wharf | $23+ | Cycle through 15-minute workouts, cold plunges, and guided sauna sessions all set against the bustling waterfront — bring a towel, yoga mat, and money for Pete’s Bagels.

Painting in the Park 2025 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Museum of Fine Arts St. Pete | Free | Take part in 20 colorful, creative, and messy activities inspired by the artworks inside the museum — register in advance for a free tote bag.

Half Way To Halloween Arts & Crafts Fest | 4-7 p.m. | Florida Mortuary Funeral and Cremation Services, St. Petersburg | Free | Forget Christmas in July, we’re celebrating the six-month countdown to Halloween with themed arts and crafts, live entertainment, and treats.

Sunday, May 18

Chicken Yoga with Yoga Loft Tampa and Ybor Misfits | 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. | Hotel Haya | $15 | Flow into Downward Dog with a chicken atop your back at this guided class benefiting a microsanctuary that cares for local chicken residents — leave the jewelry at home so the chicks don’t get jealous.

Wanda Sykes: “Please & Thank You Tour” | Times vary | Mahaffey Theater | $66 | One of Entertainment Weekly’s “25 Funniest People in America” takes the stage for her latest stand-up set with special guest Keith Robinson.

Plunge into the weekend

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Travel

☀️ Where to stay + play in Lake Murray Country

Presented by Capital City Lake Murray Country

A GIF of outdoor activities in Lake Murray Country.

Lake Murray Country is packed with countless ways to play, from golf and outdoor recreation to world-class attractions. | Photos provided by Capital City Lake Murray Country

Dreaming of a getaway with lake views, outdoor fun, or city vibes? Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing escape, the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region has it all. Think: sunrise paddles, rooftop cocktails, and cozy overnight stays.

Here are some ideas to help you plan your trip:

Supported by DiscoverSC, this area is the perfect spot to stay + play.

Plan the ultimate playcation

News Notes

Sports

Bolts fans will soon be able to watch games for free through Scripps Sports — as long as you have a TV or antenna. The news comes as E.W. Scripps prepares to launch a local independent station called The Spot Tampa Bay on Tuesday, July 1, which will be available on TBAY cable, satellite, and streaming services. (Tampa Bay Times)

Civic

$11 million. That’s how much money Pinellas County is going to spend on storm-hardening 35 traffic signals along major evacuation routes. The county is applying for two state-administered federal grants to pay for $8.23 million of the project — which will replace current signals with sturdy galvanized steel mast arms. (St. Pete Catalyst)

Development

St. Pete Beach City Commission just rejected plans for the Windward Pass Resort. The Gulf Boulevard hotel would have boasted 104-units, two outdoor bars, a lazy river, an arcade, and a mini-golf course. The project required a variance, conditional use permit, and density ordinance. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)

Eat

Don’t be fooled by the name. Small’s Sliders starts slinging burgers later this month in Clearwater. The Drew Brees-backed drive-thru will serve smash burgers, fries, queso, and classic shakes. Mark your calendar for the Wednesday, May 21 opening. (I Love the Burg)

Announced

A new-ish Tampa Union Station is on the way. The city just kicked off a $4-million renovation of the historic train station. The transformation includes a fresh coat of paint and adding new windows and upgrades. What’s more, leaders are planning to add a coffee shop and co-working spaces + host events there. (That’s So Tampa)

Sports

The Rays face unexpected challenges as Yandy Diaz misses the Toronto series due to passport issues. Get game coverage, analysis, insights, interviews, and more from local experts of the Tampa Bay Rays with Locked On’s daily podcasts.

Stat

50%. That’s how many dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer in their lifetime. In addition to lots of tears, pet cancer care can cost you lots of money. Luckily, this pet insurance plan could reimburse you up to 90% on applicable pet care costs.*

Biz

What if building a house could be as simple as building a car? Boxabl is revolutionizing homebuilding by bringing assembly line technology to the outdated industry. Learn how (and how you can join the movement).†‡*

Wellness

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The Buy

Summertime’s humidity + extra time in the sunshine can take a toll on your hair. Add these five essentials to your haircare routine to keep your locks nourished all season long:

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More worth The Buy

The Wrap

I knew (most of) you were my people. Yesterday, I asked “How often do you bike?,” and 50% of folks said they prefer to hoof it. Same.

But if you are one of the readers who likes to cycle regularly, I have some really good news for you.

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