Explore Tampa

Ybor City

Ybor City was historically an area where cigar factor workers of Cuban & Sicilian decent lived. It epitomized the American Dream where a family (particularly of Latin descent) could buy a home for their family, belong to a mutual aid organization to cover their medical, social, and funeral needs, and have a wonderful life.

Today, this area of town is where the action happens. There are numerous clubs, bars, restaurants and cigar shops. Whether your interest is sipping beers at a brewery, partying at a club, going on historical
organized crime tours, or even going to the arcade, Ybor will have something for you.

J.C. Newman Cigar Factory

J.C. Newman Cigar Factory is one of Tampa’s oldest standing, and still functional, cigar factories. The building acts as both a factory and a museum, showcasing the factory, and Tampa’s history and taking you through the different steps in the cigar-making process and the changes over the years since the factory first opened. Even for non-smokers, it’s an incredibly interesting tour that also gives insight into the history of Tampa and it’s people.

Armature Works

Sparkman's Wharf

Or if you prefer more outdoor seating, the other best place to go when your group can’t decide what to eat is Sparkman’s Wharf. It has a very Food Truck-like atmosphere, where you can walk up, order your food, and then sit together in one of the many tables available or on a grassy lawn, right by the water. A perfect place to sit back and relax while eating or drinking on a nice day out.

The Riverwalk

Connecting Armature Works and Sparkman’s Wharf is the Tampa River Walk. With a parking garage available also at Curtis Hixon Park, the River Walk snakes along the Hillsborough River, with lovely views of the University of Tampa and the downtown area. Great for jogging, walking dogs, or just a leisurely walk, this is a great way to get a slice of Tampa and what the downtown area has to offer.

Tampa Theatre

If you like classic movies, check out the Tampa Theater, Tampa’s historic movie palace. Built in 1926, the Tampa Theatre is a work of art with velvet seats looking at Greco-Roman styled décor and below a blue ceiling with small lights as stars. Complete with an organ for silent films, a trip to the Tampa Theatre is a truly unique experience you won’t forget. It is also located in Tampa’s downtown near many bars, restaurants, and the River Walk.

St. Pete Pier

Dali Museum

If you love Art or just want a nice indoor day, come explore the largest private collection of works by Salvador Dali! Not only is the art spectacular but there are also affordable self-guided audio tours telling you the history and hidden meanings within each work. Additionally, there is a regularly changing exhibit showcasing other artists who were either influenced or were influenced by Salvador Dali. It is also a convenient walking distance from St. Petersburg’s downtown.

Beach (Clearwater, St. Pete, Treasure Island, Madeira, & Indian Rocks)

And of course, you are in FLORIDA so a trip to the beach is a must! Tampa Bay has many gorgeous beaches with white sands and gentle waves. If you are looking for lots of activities and restaurants or bars for some day drinking, try Clearwater or St. Pete Beach. If you’d like a quieter chance to relax, try Treasure Island, Madeira, or Indian Rocks Beach. Each beach has their own vibe and there is something for everyone!