There are many reasons to visit Ybor City, but some of the attractions honestly cannot be missed when making the trip to this historic neighborhood in the heart of Tampa, Florida. Whether you are looking for a night out on the town with some drinks and dancing or a glimpse into the rich culture of a beautiful city, Ybor City has something for everyone. If you want to make the most out of your trip to this area, here are 5 things that you simply cannot ignore.
Ybor City Museum – This museum is a great way to learn about the history of the city for a very low price (currently $4 per person). The museum’s main exhibit space is contained inside the former Ferlita Bakery, which is a historic building that is a perfect example of the architecture of the city. The outside of the museum is a beautiful park, where knowledgeable park rangers provide tours and information about the city’s past. There is also a self-guided walking tour for purchase or rent at the museum that is narrated by local historians and is a great way to see the city at your own pace and learn about the rich history.
Columbia Restaurant – One of the most beautiful and delicious destinations to take in. No trip to Ybor is complete without visiting this historic restaurant. Founded in 1905, the Columbia is the oldest continuously operated restaurant in Florida. Seating more than 1,500 people and taking up an entire city block, it is also one of the largest Spanish restaurants in the world. As the oldest Spanish restaurant in the United States, they serve some of the most authentic dishes anyone could hope to find. The Columbia also features flamenco dancing to entertain their diners and is a show that must be seen by anyone visiting.
Amphitheater Nightclub – If you are looking for a night of drinking and dancing, there are not many places that can compare to Amphitheater. With a sound system unlike any others, the amount of bass is sure to make sure you enjoy every beat that the DJ plays. The main dance floor is mostly made up of a very large rotating platform that is sure to have any patron enjoying themselves. The crowd skews in the 18-30 range and is not recommended if you are not a fan of pulsing electronic music.
Ybor City Saturday Market – If staying in Ybor City for any amount of time, this market is a great opportunity to get some local produce and enjoy a lovely Florida morning in the sun. This market satisfies locals and tourists alike with the farm-fresh produce, fresh baked breads, and local crafts. Not only will you enjoy the wonderful atmosphere, but be supporting the local economy of Tampa as well.
Guavaween Halloween Festival – If there is any event to plan your trip to Ybor City around, that event is Guavaween. This Latin-inspired Halloween celebration is one of the biggest parties you could ever hope to find. The events schedule for the morning and afternoon are family friendly, with many things to do with the little ones. The evening’s festivities are much more adult oriented, with live music and 100,000 people enjoying their favorite beverages while dressed in their creative costumes.