Freshman finds: top spots around campus to eat, shop, and explore

Brooke Brinker, Staff Writer

Freshman, there is a journey here at Saint Leo University filled with opportunities to explore and enjoy the vibrant local scene. During breaks or even on weekends, there is so much to see around campus. Just go check it out!

A standout café is Bloom, in San Antonio. They serve a delightful selection of Acai Bowls, colorful teas, coffee, shakes, and waffles. 

Bloom has amazing service, and it is only a five-minute drive. They are open Monday through Saturday and would love to serve the many students at Saint Leo University. 

This is a quiet place, making it a great study location while you sip delicious coffee. Take a break from being on campus, change the scenery during study time, and visit Bloom.

If you cannot go to the options outside campus, there is also Benedicts coffee shop right on campus. 

Lily Glasgow, a sophomore majoring in nursing, said, “Bennys is a great place to go to get a drink with a friend, and study.”  

For a nice meal instead, only two minutes away is Pancho Villa, a Mexican restaurant known to be a thriving location with amazing quesadillas and tacos.

Right beside Pancho Villa, there is Al’s Pizza, a restaurant with an exciting menu filled with delicious pizzas. Both establishments are within walking distance from campus.

Ari, a junior majoring in criminal justice, said, “There is Al’s Pizza, Bloom, and Chick-fil-A. There are many options.” 

Dade City is a fun place to explore. One can find antique shops and fantastic coffee and lattes. Moreover, it offers charming tearooms, outdoor study spaces, and aesthetic bookshops that make it a delightful destination.

The Tampa outlets are a spectacular weekend spot, with a range of stores from Ross to Vera Bradley. It is a great place to buy back-to-school clothes and check out the home stores for dorm supplies.

Tampa outlets also have multiple dining options such as Crumbl Cookie, BJ’s, Charley Philly Steaks, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, and Starbucks. 

A hidden gem of a store is also placed within walking distance of campus, located across the street from Panchos Villa. They have cute items such as cards, design cups, clothes, and much more. There is even a hair salon at the back of the store, and the owner beams with joy when a customer walks in. 

There is so much to offer in the community around the Saint Leo campus for freshmen. Invite friends to explore the town! Overall, getting familiarized with one’s college town can create a sense of home in this new environment.

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