Tampa
reflects the mosaic of different cultures and influences that made it the
dynamic urban center it is today. The coexistence of the quaint historic
villages with sleek skyscrapers is evidence of this rapidly growing city's
success at reconciling its rich history with modern-day development. The
kaleidoscope of activity ranges from its bustling port brimming with
shrimp boats, banana barges and cruise ships, to its festive marketplaces,
and its multi-ethnic restaurants and shops.
Be sure to stop by historic Ybor
City, where 100 years of decayed elegance has been restored to antique
splendor. Vicente Martinez Ybor and Cuban immigrants established this
"city within a city" in the 1800s, building it on the cigar
industry. Stroll the quaint streets and breathe in the aroma of freshly
baked Cuban bread drifting out of the local bakeries and restaurants.
Visit Ybor Square where Cuban cigar makers demonstrate their ancestors'
craft. At night, La Séptima (Seventh Avenue), the main stretch, is shut
off for pedestrians as revelers fill the streets of Ybor, club hopping at
the many trendy nightspots. Eclectic art galleries, mom-and-pop stores,
wrought iron balconies and brick sidewalks enhance this delightful glimpse
at Tampa's Cuban culture.
Busch
Gardens Tampa Bay is listed among the nation's top four zoos. Besides
exotic animals, Busch Gardens also features live shows and a variety of
thrilling rides including their newest attraction, Gwazi, the Southeast's
largest double wooden roller coaster. The water park Adventure
Island offers exciting flumes and slides as well as a leisurely tubing
trail.
For more family fun, stop by Lowry
Park Zoo or the Museum
of Science and Industry, which offers interactive educational exhibits
as well as an IMAX theater. The Florida
Aquarium, set along the picturesque waterfront, displays marine life
and natural Florida habitats in an educational and entertaining fashion.
The Henry B. Plant Museum (now the University
of Tampa), is one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in
the Western Hemisphere. The Tampa Museum of Art and the Tampa Bay
Performing Arts Center offer rotating exhibits and a stunning season of
performing arts. If you enjoy spectator sports, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
(football), the Tampa Bay Lightning (hockey), Tampa Bay Devil Rays
(baseball), Tampa Bay Storm (arena football), Tampa Bay Downs and Tampa
Greyhound Track offer a wide variety of excitement.
Tampa's restaurants reflect its cosmopolitan character. Spanish,
Southwestern, Italian, Asian, continental and seafood restaurants abound.
Shopping can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Old Hyde Park Village,
nestled in one of the city's oldest neighborhoods off picturesque Bayshore
Boulevard, is an elite shopping area with exclusive boutiques and cafés.
Brandon
is home to a large shopping district and mall. Tampa is surrounded by
several notable communities including Dover, Hamilton, Plant City,
Riverview, Ruskin, Apollo Beach and Thonotasassa.
