Historic Ybor City Self Guided Audio Tour
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Historic Ybor City Self Guided Audio Tour

Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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

Available options

Historic Ybor City Self Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
Audio Guide
App and Tour Download

Detailed itinerary

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

9

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.

10

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.

11

Famous for its Cuban bread, La Segunda has been baking since 1915. Stop in to experience one of Tampa’s tastiest traditions.

12

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.

13

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.

14

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.

What's not included

Smartphone (bring your own)

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time

Meeting point

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 notes

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

About Tampa

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.

Top Attractions

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

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.

Theme Park Full day Moderate to Expensive ($80-$120 per person)

Tampa Bay History Center

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.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate ($15-$20 per person)

Ybor City

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.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore (dining and attractions vary)

Tampa Riverwalk

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.

Scenic 1-2 hours (walking) Free

Clearwater Beach

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.

Beach Half day to full day Free (parking and activities vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuban Sandwich

A classic Cuban sandwich features ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, pressed and grilled to perfection.

Lunch Contains pork and gluten

Grouper Sandwich

A popular seafood dish in Tampa, featuring fresh grouper fish on a bun, often with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.

Lunch Gluten-free options available

Key Lime Pie

A tangy and sweet dessert made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, served in a graham cracker crust.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Stone Crab

A Florida specialty, stone crab is served chilled with a mustard-based dipping sauce. The season runs from October to May.

Dinner Gluten-free and low-carb

Popular Activities

Kayaking Paddleboarding Ziplining Skydiving Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Meditation

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the best time to visit Tampa, with pleasant weather and fewer rain showers. It's ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.

15-27°C 60-80°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

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.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps

Getting there

By air
  • Tampa International Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center
By train

Tampa Union Station

By bus

Tampa Downtown Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

HART operates a network of buses covering the Tampa area. The system is affordable and covers most major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Tampa Ybor City Channelside Hyde Park SoHo (South Howard Avenue)

Day trips

St. Petersburg
35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

St. Petersburg is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, world-class museums, and vibrant downtown area.

Clearwater
30 km (18 miles) • Half day to full day

Clearwater is a popular beach destination known for its white sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Sarasota
70 km (43 miles) • Full day

Sarasota is a charming city known for its beautiful beaches, world-class museums, and vibrant arts scene.

Festivals

Tampa Bay Margarita Festival • March Tampa Bay Beer Week • March Guavaween • October

Pro tips

  • Visit during the off-peak season (June to September) for fewer crowds and lower prices, but be prepared for hot and humid weather.
  • Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and attractions.
  • Try local specialties, such as the Cuban sandwich, stone crab, and key lime pie.
  • Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including buses, streetcars, and bike shares.
  • Stay in a central location, such as Downtown Tampa or Channelside, for easy access to attractions and amenities.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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