20 Best Things To Do in Ybor City Tampa: Top Activities in 2025

Ybor City is a special place in Tampa, Florida, full of stories, flavors, and fun things to do. This historic neighborhood was built by immigrants who came to work in the cigar factories many years ago. Today, it’s a lively spot where you can learn about the past, eat good food, and have fun. This article will take you through the best things to do in Ybor City, from history to Nightlife. Whether you’re here for a day or longer, Ybor City has something for everyone. For more ideas on what to do in the area, check out this guide to the best things to do in Ybor City.

Best Things To Do in Ybor City Tampa

Exploring Ybor City: A Guide to History, Culture, and Fun

History and Culture

Ybor City is famous for its unique blend of cultures and rich history. In the 1800s, people from Spain, Italy, Cuba, and other places came here to work in the cigar industry. Their culture still survives and is felt in the museums and architecture throughout Ybor City. It is a place where you can enjoy the old and the modern at the same time.

Visit the Ybor City Museum State Park

Ybor City is known for its history and mix of cultures. In the late 1800s, people from Cuba, Spain, Italy, and other places came here to work in the cigar industry. Their traditions and stories are still alive in the streets, buildings, and museums of Ybor City. Exploring this area is like stepping back in time while also living in the present.

Ybor City Museum State Park

One of the best places to learn about Ybor City’s past is the Ybor City Museum State Park. This museum is located in an old bakery building called the Ferlita Bakery, which has been turned into a history-sharing space. Inside, you’ll find displays about the cigar industry, which made Ybor City famous, and the lives of the immigrants who worked here. You can also walk through a beautiful garden with colorful plants and see a small house that shows how cigar workers lived long ago. The museum is a great way to understand what makes Ybor City so special.

Visit the Tampa Baseball Museum

Walking through Ybor City’s historic district is like flipping through a history book. The streets are made of red bricks and many buildings have fancy iron balconies that look like they’re from another time. You can join a guided tour where a local expert will tell you about the area’s architecture and the people who live here. If you prefer to explore on your own, you can get a map or guide from the Ybor City Museum. Either way, you’ll love the old buildings and learning about the Cuban, Spanish, and Italian influences that shaped this neighborhood.

Tampa Baseball Museum

Baseball lovers will enjoy the Tampa Baseball Museum located in the childhood home of Al López the first Tampa native to play in the Major Leagues. This museum covers 130 years of baseball in the area with exhibits on local teams, players and moments. It’s a small but cool place to visit if you like sports or want to learn more about Tampa’s baseball history.

See the Wild Chickens in Centennial Park

One of the cutest things in Ybor City is the wild chickens in Centennial Park. These are the descendants of chickens that lived with the early residents and have become a part of the neighborhood. The chickens are protected, so you’ll see them roaming around freely. Centennial Park is a great place to sit and watch these feathered locals strut by.

Food and Drink

Ybor City is a foodie’s paradise with restaurants, cafes, and breweries serving up flavors from around the world. From Cuban sandwiches to craft beer, there’s something for everyone. The food here tells the story of the immigrants who brought their recipes to this neighborhood. To dive deeper into the area’s food scene, check out this list of the best restaurants in Ybor City.

Dine at the Columbia Restaurant

The Columbia Restaurant is a must-see in Ybor City. It’s the oldest restaurant in Florida and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. Since 1905, it’s been serving up Cuban and Spanish dishes like the famous “1905 salad” made tableside and Cuban sandwiches with roasted pork and pickles. The restaurant is beautiful, with colorful tiles and a warm atmosphere. On weekends, you can watch flamenco dance shows while you eat, making it a fun and memorable experience. For more Cuban options, check out the best Cuban restaurants in Tampa.

Take a Food Tour

Want to try a little bit of everything? Join a guided food tour in Ybor City. These tours take you to different restaurants and cafes where you can try local favorites like Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and desserts. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the food and the people who make it. It’s a tasty way to explore the neighborhood and learn about its history.

Visit a Brewery

Ybor City has a growing craft beer scene, and visiting a brewery is a great way to relax. Tampa Bay Brewing Co. is a popular spot with a big patio and beers like hoppy IPAs that beer lovers enjoy. Coppertail Brewing is another great choice, located in a historic building with 20 different beers to try. Both breweries have a fun vibe and are perfect for hanging out with friends or family. For a full guide to local brews, check out this article on the best breweries in Ybor City.

Tour the Tampa Bay Rum Company

For something different, tour the Tampa Bay Rum Company, a pirate-themed distillery. On the tour, you’ll learn how rum is made and get to taste different types of rum, from sweet to spicy. The guides make it fun by sharing pirate stories and the history of rum in Florida. It’s a unique experience to add to your Ybor City visit.

Unique Experiences

Ybor City has one of a kind activities you won’t find anywhere else. From watching cigars being made to laughing at a comedy show, these experiences make your visit extra special.

Watch Cigar Rolling

Cigars are a big part of Ybor City’s history and you can see them being made by hand at places like Tabanero Cigars. Watching a skilled artisan roll a cigar is fascinating as they carefully shape the tobacco leaves into a perfect cigar. You’ll learn about the tradition that put Ybor City on the map and maybe even buy a cigar to take home.

Visit the Funny Bone Comedy Club

If you love to laugh, head to the Funny Bone Comedy Club. This club hosts big name comedians and local performers as well as open mic nights where new talent try out their jokes. It’s a great place to go out with friends.

Shop and Dine at Centro Ybor

Centro Ybor is an entertainment complex where you can shop, eat and have fun. It has stores with everything from clothes to souvenirs, plus restaurants serving all kinds of food. You can also catch a comedy show at the Tampa Improv or a movie at the theater. Centro Ybor is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.

Visit the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

Art lovers will enjoy the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, which features beautiful photographs from the past and present. The exhibits change often, so there’s always something new to see. It’s a quiet place to visit if you need a break from the busier parts of Ybor City.

Check out the Ybor City Saturday Market

Every Saturday, the Ybor City Saturday Market brings together local vendors selling handmade crafts, fresh food, and other goods. It’s a fun place to browse, try local snacks, and buy a unique souvenir. The market has a friendly vibe and is a great way to support small businesses.### Hang Out

Relax at a Cigar Lounge

For a relaxed vibe, go to a cigar lounge like King Corona Cigars. You can choose from handmade cigars, order a drink from the bar, and sit back in a comfy setting. It’s the perfect way to soak up Ybor City’s cigar culture and unwind.

Nightlife in Ybor City

When the sun goes down Ybor City comes alive. Nightlife here is hot with music, dancing and places to hang for every kind of visitor.

Experience the Nightlife on 7th Avenue.

7th Avenue is the heart of Ybor City’s Nightlife. You can listen to live music at The Ritz, dance to electronic music at a club, or see a concert at one of the many venues. The street is hopping at night with people at the bars, restaurants and entertainment. It’s a fun place to explore and see what Ybor City is like after dark.

Visit the GaYbor District

The GaYbor District, along 7th Avenue, is a welcoming area with LGBTQ friendly bars and clubs. It’s a vibrant part of Ybor City where you can dance, meet new people and enjoy the atmosphere. GaYbor District is a great place to experience the neighborhood’s inclusivity.

Outdoor Activities

Ybor City isn’t just about history and food – it also has outdoor activities to enjoy the Florida sun and see the area in a new way.

Stroll Along the Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is just a short trip from Ybor City and offers a scenic walk along the Hillsborough River. You’ll see beautiful views of the water, boats, and downtown Tampa. The Riverwalk is a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors while still close to Ybor City. If you’re hungry after your walk check out some great restaurants along the Riverwalk with this guide to restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk.

Take a Ride on the TECO Line Streetcar

The TECO Line Streetcar is a free service that connects Ybor City to downtown Tampa and the Channelside District. The streetcar is a fun and easy way to get around with stops at popular spots. Riding it gives you a chance to see more of Tampa while enjoying a bit of history as the streetcar is styled like the old ones.

Visit the Cuban Club

The Cuban Club is a Ybor City landmark. It was built as a social club for Cuban immigrants in the early 1900s. The building is beautiful and historic. You can visit to learn about its history and see the theater, ballroom and other spaces. A great stop for anyone interested in Ybor City’s roots.

Tour the J.C. Newman Cigar Company

The J.C. Newman Cigar Company is the oldest family owned cigar maker in America and their Ybor City factory is open for tours. You’ll see cigars being rolled by hand and by old machines just like they did decades ago. The tour also includes a small museum about the cigar industry. A great way to get into Ybor City’s cigar making heritage.

Here are some of the Best Restaurants on 7th Avenue

7th Avenue is the heart of Ybor City’s culinary scene, with a variety of dining options to match its multicultural heritage. For the full list of top restaurants in Ybor City, check out our Ybor City restaurants guide. Here are some of the best restaurants on 7th Avenue:

• 7th + Grove: Upscale Southern restaurant and lounge serving good food, craft beer, and fun. Perfect for dinner or a night out with live music and a lively atmosphere. Entrees $15-$30.
• Carmine’s Ybor is a Ybor institution serving Italian, Cuban, and Spanish flavors. It has big portions, old-school charm, and hearty dishes. Try the devil crab or Cuban sandwich. Meals are $12-$25.
• Flor Fina at Hotel Haya: This fancy spot features a live-fire grill, elegant cocktails, and a sophisticated setting. It’s great for a special night out. Entrees cost $20-$40.
• Shrimp and Co: Seafood lovers’ paradise with Caribbean and New Orleans Cajun dishes and fresh seafood. Shrimp po’boys are a hit. $10-$20 per dish.
• Gaspar’s Grotto: Pirate-themed bar and restaurant with live music, indoor-outdoor dining, and brunch. Burgers or fish tacos are $10-$18.
• Acropolis Greek Taverna: Authentic Greek cuisine with belly dancing and plate smashing on select nights. Gyros and souvlaki are $12-$22 in a festive atmosphere.
• Due Amici Pizza & Pasta Bar: Family-owned spot with handcrafted sauces, homemade dough, and casual Italian vibes. Pizzas and pasta are $10-$20.

These restaurants represent Ybor’s diversity; 7th Avenue is a foodie’s heaven.

Where to Stay in Ybor City

Ybor City has hotels that blend old with new, perfect for the neighborhood. Here are the top 5 hotels in Ybor City, Tampa, based on recent reviews and ratings:

1. Hotel Haya – This boutique hotel captures Ybor’s diversity with chic, retro rooms featuring local artisan decor. Guests love the outdoor pool, Flor Fina restaurant, and it’s right across from The Ritz Ybor. 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor, praised for friendly staff and lively atmosphere. Book at Hotel Haya.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor City/Downtown is a modern hotel with free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. It is rated 4/5 on TripAdvisor for its clean rooms and location near 7th Avenue. Reviewers rave about the staff and quiet rooms despite the lively area. Book at Hampton Inn.
3. Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District – Steps from Ybor’s nightlife, this hotel has an outdoor pool, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. 4/5 on Hotels.com; guests love the big rooms and walkable location. Perfect for those who want to eat in Ybor. Book at Hilton Garden Inn.
4. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa East – Ybor City – Free breakfast and close to the TECO Line Streetcar, this hotel gets 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor. Guests praise the clean rooms, friendly service, and easy access to Ybor attractions. Book at Holiday Inn Express.
5. Casa Julieta – Stunning Ybor Studio – A unique vacation rental above a bagel shop, 4.5/5 on Booking.com. Guests love the quiet location, modern amenities, and pet friendly. Perfect for a local experience. Book at Booking.com.

These hotels have you covered for a great stay while you experience Ybor City.

Final Thought

Ybor City is a place where history, culture, and fun come together. From learning about the cigar industry at the Ybor City Museum to eating a Cuban sandwich at the Columbia Restaurant, there’s so much to see and do. You can walk the historic streets, laugh at a comedy club, or dance the night away on 7th Avenue. Whether you love food, history, or outdoor activities, Ybor City has something for you. Plan your visit to this unique neighborhood and discover why it’s one of Tampa’s most beloved spots.