Ybor City
Ybor City, Tampa Bay’s famous historic Latin quarter, has deep roots that can be seen, felt, and tasted, from the chickens that still freely roam the streets to iconic restaurants, sidewalk cafes, and old brick cigar factories that bring visitors back to the early days of the Cigar Capital of the World.
The district is best explored on foot, and visitors can opt for a historic walking tour to see important landmarks and learn about Ybor’s past. The museum at Ybor City Museum State Park is housed in the historic Ferlita Bakery building, which once produced hundreds of loaves of Cuban bread every day. A 10-minute walk from the museum, visitors can set foot on Cuban ground — no passport required — at Parque Amigos de Jose Marti, a memorial to the writer and leader of Cuban independence, which is located on a tiny piece of land donated to Cuba in the 1950s.
Today, only one of the area’s original cigar factories remains in operation: J.C. Newman Cigar Co., the country’s oldest family-owned premium cigar maker. The company offers tours of its factory, El Reloj, as well as classes for cigar rolling and tobacco tasting.
No trip to Ybor City is complete without eating at the iconic Columbia Restaurant, which has been a fixture there since 1905 and is still owned and operated by the original family. The restaurant, located on historic 7th Avenue, now spans an entire city block, making it the largest Spanish restaurant in the world, and guests can explore the Spanish and Cuban flavors the eatery is known for and see flamenco shows at dinnertime. A variety of restaurants and stores can be found at the dining, shopping, and entertainment hub of Centro Ybor, and the Ybor City Saturday Market is one of Tampa’s top shopping destinations for local goods.
Through the years, Ybor City has also become known for its trendy bars and exciting nightlife. Bad Monkey Ybor, The Ritz Ybor, Madame Fortune Dessert Room & HiFi Parlor, and Sterling Cigar Lounge & Bar can all be found along 7th Avenue.
Plan your trip at Visit Tampa Bay.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & CULTURE
Explore Ybor City’s history and art scene.
- Ybor City Museum State Park
- Tampa Baseball Museum
- Gallery114
- Ybor Art Studio
- More arts and culture
- Events
NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.
- Bad Monkey Ybor
- The Ritz Ybor
- Madame Fortune Dessert Room & HiFi Parlor
- Sterling Cigar Lounge & Bar
- SpookEasy Lounge
- Funny Bone Comedy Club
DINING
Dine at Ybor’s iconic eateries.
- Columbia Restaurant
- La Terrazza Ristorante Italiano
- Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que
- Al’s Finger Licking Good Soul Food
- Tampa Bay Brewing Company
- Centro Ybor
- Cigar City Cider & Mead
- BarrieHaus Beer Co.
- More places to eat and drink
SHOPPING
Shop the Saturday market and the stores of Ybor.
FAMILY FUN
Discover kid-friendly events and attractions.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Visit the parks and spend time outdoors.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Take your four-legged family member along to dog-friendly parks and breweries.
PLACES TO STAY
Book a stay in Ybor City.
- Hotel Hoya Ybor City
- Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor City/Downtown
- Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District
- Holiday Inn Express and Suites Tampa East- Ybor City
- More places to stay
ACCESSIBILITY
See Tampa Bay’s accessible attractions.
BEACHES
Ybor City is within driving distance of popular Gulf beaches.
Quick Facts
Historic district known for nightlife
Nearest Airport
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT YBOR CITY
Q. Where is Ybor City, Fla., located?
A. Ybor City is a historic neighborhood located in Tampa, Fla. It is situated just east-northeast of downtown Tampa and is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife. Ybor City is easily accessible from major highways, making it a convenient destination for visitors exploring the Tampa Bay area. The neighborhood is a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience its unique blend of history and modern attractions. Here’s where you can see it on a map.
Q. What is Ybor City?
A. Ybor City is a historic district in Tampa, Fla., renowned for its colorful history and cultural diversity. Founded in the 1880s by cigar manufacturers, it became a melting pot of immigrants from Cuba, Spain, and Italy. Today, Ybor City is celebrated for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural events. Visitors can explore its many restaurants, shops, and museums that highlight the area's rich heritage.
Q. What is there to do in Ybor City?
A. Ybor City offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. You can explore Ybor City Museum State Park to learn about the neighborhood's history or take a stroll down 7th Avenue, known for its lively atmosphere and historic buildings. The area is also famous for its nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Don't miss the chance to try some authentic Cuban cuisine at one of the local restaurants.
Q. How far is Ybor City from Busch Gardens?
A. Ybor City is approximately eight miles from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The drive typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Both locations are popular attractions in the Tampa area, making it easy to visit both during your trip. Whether you're interested in the thrill rides at Busch Gardens or the cultural experiences in Ybor City, both offer unique experiences for visitors.
Q. What is the history of Ybor City?
A. Ybor City was founded in the 1880s by Vicente Martinez-Ybor as a cigar manufacturing center. It quickly became a thriving community with a diverse population of immigrants from Cuba, Spain, and Italy. The neighborhood's cigar factories were among the largest in the world, and its cultural diversity led to a rich tapestry of traditions and customs. Today, Ybor City is a National Historic Landmark District, preserving its unique heritage and vibrant history.
Q. What are some popular events in Ybor City?
A. Ybor City hosts a variety of popular events throughout the year. The Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Knight Parade is an annual celebration featuring costumed participants, illuminated floats, marching bands and many of Tampa Bay’s pirate krewes. The Ybor City Saturday Market offers local crafts and food, while the Cuban Sandwich Festival celebrates the area's culinary heritage.
Q. Are there any parks or outdoor spaces in Ybor City?
A. Ybor City offers several parks and outdoor spaces for visitors to enjoy. Centennial Park is a popular spot, featuring open green spaces and a gazebo. Ybor City Museum State Park provides a tranquil setting with gardens and historical exhibits. For a scenic walk, Hillsborough River State Park is about a half an hour drive away, offering hiking trails and beautiful river views.
Q. Is Ybor City family-friendly?
A. Ybor City offers a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions, though during late-night hours it skews adult-oriented. Ybor City Museum State Park provides educational exhibits about the area's history, and the nearby Florida Aquarium is a hit with kids. Families can also enjoy a ride on the TECO Line Streetcar, which connects Ybor City to downtown Tampa and Channelside. With its mix of history, culture, and entertainment, Ybor City has something for visitors of all ages.
Q. What is the best time to visit Ybor City?
A. The best time to visit Ybor City is during the cooler months from November to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the neighborhood's outdoor attractions and events. Many of Ybor City's festivals and cultural events take place during this time, offering visitors a chance to experience the area's vibrant atmosphere. However, Ybor City is a year-round destination with plenty to see and do no matter when you visit.
Q. Are there any trails for biking or hiking near Ybor City?
A. While Ybor City is urban, there are several trails nearby for biking and hiking enthusiasts. The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic trail along the Hillsborough River, perfect for a leisurely bike ride or walk. For more adventurous trails, Flatwoods Wilderness Park offers extensive biking and hiking paths just a half an hour drive from Ybor City. These trails provide a great way to explore the natural beauty of the Tampa Bay area.
Q. What is the nightlife like in Ybor City?
A. Ybor City is famous for its vibrant nightlife, offering a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The neighborhood comes alive after dark, with 7th Avenue being the main hub of activity. . With its eclectic mix of venues, Ybor City provides an exciting nightlife experience for all tastes.
Q. How can I get to Ybor City from Tampa International Airport?
A. Getting to Ybor City from Tampa International Airport is easy and convenient. The airport is approximately 10 miles from Ybor City, and the drive typically takes around 20 minutes. Visitors can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services for a direct trip. Public transportation options include the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) bus service, which connects the airport to Ybor City and other parts of Tampa.