Perfectly blending its historic past and modern present, Tampa, Florida is a bustling area nestled on the West Coast of Florida perfect for young professionals and families alike. Offering a bustling business downtown area as well as access to beautiful waterways and loads of entertainment, Tampa is the perfect place to work, play and live. Take a peek under Tampa’s surface with Garden Communities Florida and learn ten Tampa Florida fun facts. Who knows? These facts just may sway you to become Tampa’s next resident!
1. Tampa is the Cigar Capital of the World
In its heyday during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tampa’s air was thick with the aroma of freshly rolled cigars, as the city buzzed with the activity of hundreds of cigar factories. Ybor City, a historic neighborhood, was the heart of this booming industry, where artisans crafted cigars that were coveted across the globe. Even now, Ybor City pays homage to this rich heritage, with cigar shops and factories that continue to keep the tradition alive.
2. Birthplace of the Cuban Sandwich
This mouthwatering creation stacks ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all nestled between slices of crisp Cuban bread. Some variations even toss in a slice of salami, a unique Tampa twist! It is not just a sandwich; it is a culinary journey through Tampa’s diverse cultural heritage.
3. Tampa is Host to a Yearly Pirate Parade
Ahoy, mateys! Get ready to walk the plank into Tampa’s most thrilling tradition – the Gasparilla Pirate Festival. This annual extravaganza draws crowds from far and wide, all eager to catch a glimpse of the pirate invasion that sweeps the city. The streets come alive with the sound of cannons, the jolly roger flies high, and swashbucklers abound during the Gasparilla Parade, the centerpiece of the festival.
4. Tampa is Home to Florida’s Largest Port
Tampa harbors the largest port in Florida. That is right, Port Tampa Bay is not just any port – it is a bustling hub of activity, serving as a vital gateway for a myriad of cargo including the exotic fruits that sweeten your smoothies, and the petroleum that fuels your Florida adventures. It is also a departure point for those seeking to explore the high seas with numerous cruise lines setting sail to the Caribbean’s turquoise waters. \
5. An Amusement Park Wonderland
Did you know Tampa is a thrill-seeker’s paradise? Buckle up for an adventure in Tampa’s amusement parks, where the excitement never ends. Busch Gardens offers a wild safari experience alongside heart-thumping roller coasters, while Adventure Island invites you to splash into fun with its exhilarating water slides. It is the ultimate destination for those looking to add a dash of adrenaline to their Tampa visit.
6. Did You know Ray Charles Got His Start in Tampa, Florida?
Yes. Ray Charles was born in Georgia, and he may have a hit about the great Peach State, but did you know that Ray Charles got his musical start in the Sunshine State’s very own area of Tampa Bay? Charles attended the Florida School of the Deaf and the Blind located in St. Augustine and then made his way to Tampa playing in the clubs on Central Avenue. The clubs are long gone, but the Perry Harvey Sr. Park now holds the beautiful memories of musicians past.
7. Manatees Love Tampa Bay
In the winter and spring seasons Manatees flock to the warm waters all around Tampa Florida. From sightings in the Hillsborough River to the warm waters provided by TECO, Tampa’s Electric company, the opportunities to marvel at Florida’s favorite sea animal. TECO built their own Manatee Viewing Center so everyone can observe these gentle animals.
8. Tampa Florida Loves its Beer
Did you know that Tampa also has a rich and hoppy history? Tampa’s first commercial brewery was created in 1896 in Ybor city to serve thirsty cigar makers. Busch Gardens, famously known as one of Florida’s most popular theme parks, started as a brewery and botanical garden in 1959.
9. Tampa, Florida is Home to the World’s Longest Continuous Pedestrian Walkway
On Bayshore Boulevard along Upper Hillsborough Bay in Tampa is a 4.5-mile uninterrupted pedestrian walkway that the Guiness Book of World Records deemed the longest continuous pedestrian walkway. Take a leisurely stroll here with beautiful views of Tampa Bay!
10. Prefabricated Housing Started in Ybor City
With thousands of cigar factory workers requiring housing, Ybor City’s founder Vicente Martinez Ybor needed a fast housing solution. Enter prefabricated “casitas” that were shipped to the Ybor area partially built and quickly assembled in about a week’s time.
Speaking of Housing…Garden Communities Florida Has the Perfect Tampa Home for You
Garden Communities Florida has three beautiful communities that provide homes for young professionals, college students, and families throughout the Tampa area.
With amenities like EV charging stations, in-apartment washer and dryers, community swimming pools, and pet friendly apartments, Garden Communities Florida welcomes you home to Tampa, Florida!