Plant City, situated between Lakeland and Tampa in West Central Florida, is a small town full of family-friendly things to see and do, from the ever-popular Florida Strawberry Festival in winter to its many parks and green spaces. Its proximity to Tampa Bay offers visitors a laid-back, small-town experience with easy access to some of Central Florida’s biggest attractions, including Busch Gardens and other major theme parks.
The nation’s biggest producer of midwinter strawberries, Plant City celebrates its most famous crop with the Florida Strawberry Festival in late winter, which lasts more than a week and includes concerts, midway rides and amusements, agricultural shows, free entertainment, and plenty of fresh strawberries and strawberry-based treats.
Plant City’s parks and playgrounds make it easy for families to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot birds and other animals from the 30-foot observation tower and hiking trails at McIntosh Preserve, which is home to bald eagles, red-shouldered hawks, alligators, and deer. At Edward Medard Conservation Park, visitors can canoe, boat, and fish the 700-acre reservoir, hike the nature trail, and camp. Scenic Hillsborough River State Park in nearby Thonotosassa, home to Class II river rapids, offers camping, glamping, fishing, paddling, hiking, and more.
In Downtown Plant City, linear McCall Park stretches four blocks through the walkable downtown and hosts a food truck rally on the last Friday of every month as well as several events throughout the year. Among Plant City’s popular restaurants are Fred’s Market Restaurant and Smokin’ Aces BBQ & Steakhouse. At Keel Farms, about five miles from downtown Plant City, guests can indulge in upscale pub food, tour the farm, and taste blueberry and fruit-fusion wines from Keel & Curley Winery.
Plan your trip at Visit Tampa Bay and the city of Plant City.
FAMILY FUN
Visit the dinosaur-themed park and city playgrounds.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Check out the museums and see local art.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Explore the parks and nature preserves.
BEACHES
Plant City is less than 60 miles from the beaches of Fort DeSoto Park and St. Pete Beach.
ACCESSIBILITY
Check out the area’s accessible attractions and events.
DINING
Tour a winery and visit the tasting room and fill up at a classic Southern buffet.
SHOPPING
Browse the stores downtown and check out the popular flea market.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Visit Plant City’s pet-friendly parks and restaurants.
PLACES TO STAY
Book a stay at a Plant City hotel.
