Discover the vibrant history of Tampa’s Ybor City, known as Cigar City, through a self-guided audio tour.
This immersive experience takes you through a neighborhood rich in immigrant stories and cultural diversity, showcasing its evolution from a cigar-manufacturing hub to a thriving community.
Explore the significance of mutual aid societies, savor the aroma of fresh Cuban bread, and uncover the stories behind historic landmarks.
This tour highlights Ybor's unique blend of cultures and its ongoing commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future.
— Self-guided audio tour allows you to explore at your own pace
— Learn about the diverse immigrant communities that shaped Ybor City
— Experience the culinary delights, including the famous Cuban sandwich
— Engage with the rich history and vibrant culture of this historic district
Walk Ybor’s lively main street, where historic buildings, shops, and cafés capture the neighborhood’s unique energy. Brick sidewalks and wrought-iron balconies make every block a glimpse into the past.
This stately clubhouse once offered healthcare, education, and social life to Tampa’s Asturian immigrants. The ornate design of the building reflects the pride and perseverance of the community.
Today’s Centro Ybor blends modern entertainment with history, built on the site of one of Ybor’s earliest Spanish social clubs. It’s a reminder of how old and new meet in the district.
A gathering place for Tampa’s Cuban community, the Cuban Club hosted dances, plays, and political meetings. Some say its echoing halls are still alive with the spirits of the past.
Set in a former bakery, this museum tells the story of immigrant life and cigar-making in Ybor. The surrounding garden offers a peaceful pause amid the neighborhood’s bustle.
Founded in 1894, the grand hall of the Italian Club anchored Tampa’s Italian community with healthcare, celebrations, and solidarity. Its elegant design reflects the pride of its founders.
A small but meaningful green space, this park is dedicated to Cuban independence hero José Martí. The park dedicated to him honors the ties between Ybor City and Cuba’s struggle for freedom.
This church has long served Ybor’s diverse immigrant communities, offering both worship and community connection. Its graceful façade speaks to the enduring role of faith in the neighborhood.
At the heart of Ybor, Centennial Park hosts markets, festivals, and community gatherings. This is a great place to pause and soak in the district’s local rhythm.
Florida’s oldest restaurant, the Columbia, has been serving Cuban and Spanish dishes since 1905. The tilework and décor of the courtyard are as much a draw as its rich history and excellent food.
Famous for its Cuban bread, La Segunda has been baking since 1915. Stop in to experience one of Tampa’s tastiest traditions.
Part cigar lounge, part café, King Corona Cigars captures the spirit of Ybor’s cigar culture. Sip a coffee or smoke a hand-rolled cigar in a setting filled with local character.
A gothic nightclub housed in a historic building, The Castle has been a Ybor institution for decades. Its dramatic décor and whispered ghost tales give it an otherworldly charm.
The historic L'Unione Italiana Cemetery tells the stories of Tampa’s Italian community through names, symbols, and monuments. Some visitors say its stillness carries an uncanny presence.
The meeting point is in front of the Tribute to Immigrants Memorial Statue on 9th Avenue. This is between Angel Oliva Senior Street and North 19th Street.
IMPORTANT – YOUR ACCESS CODE IS: SPF143 - PLEASE READ STEPS BELOW - To access your tour, you’ll need the Drives & Detours App. We recommend downloading the tour in advance in case cell service is unreliable.
DOWNLOAD THE APP:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506
UNLOCK YOUR TOUR:
1. Open app, tap "Walking Tours", then "Historic Ybor City"
2. Enter Your Access Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
3. Tap "Download Tour" and wait until complete (1-2 minutes)
STARTING THE TOUR:
1. Go to start location in Centennial Park
2. Open app, select your tour
3. Tap “Start Tour”
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Tour is valid for 180 days, no need to reschedule
Questions? TEXT us at 619.324.9920
Tampa is a vibrant city on Florida's Gulf Coast known for its beautiful beaches, diverse cultural attractions, and thriving food scene. With a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, it offers something for every type of traveler.
Busch Gardens is a world-renowned theme park featuring thrilling roller coasters, animal exhibits, and live entertainment. It's a must-visit for families and thrill-seekers.
This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the Tampa Bay area, from its early indigenous inhabitants to its modern development. It features interactive exhibits and artifacts.
Ybor City is a historic neighborhood known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and historic cigar factories. It's a great place to experience Tampa's diverse history and cuisine.
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.4-mile paved path along the Hillsborough River, offering beautiful views of the city skyline and access to various attractions, parks, and restaurants.
Clearwater Beach is a popular destination known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
A classic Cuban sandwich features ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, pressed and grilled to perfection.
A popular seafood dish in Tampa, featuring fresh grouper fish on a bun, often with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
A tangy and sweet dessert made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, served in a graham cracker crust.
A Florida specialty, stone crab is served chilled with a mustard-based dipping sauce. The season runs from October to May.
This is the best time to visit Tampa, with pleasant weather and fewer rain showers. It's ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.
United States Dollar (USD)
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)
120VV, 60HzHz
Tampa is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Tampa Union Station
Tampa Downtown Bus Station
HART operates a network of buses covering the Tampa area. The system is affordable and covers most major attractions.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
St. Petersburg is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, world-class museums, and vibrant downtown area.
Clearwater is a popular beach destination known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.
Sarasota is a charming city known for its beautiful beaches, world-class museums, and vibrant arts scene.
Price varies by option