Seniors living in Citrus Park and the surrounding Tampa area never have a shortage of fun things to do. One great example is taking a day trip to Tampa’s historic Ybor City.
Ybor City gives visitors a taste of the culture, customs, and architecture of the Spanish, Cuban, Italian, and Eastern European immigrants who settled here and helped shape the region a century ago.
Known as the Cigar City, Tampa’s history is richly intertwined with the cigar trade, and Ybor City is the perfect place for seniors to experience that history firsthand.
Start your day in Ybor City at the Visitor Information Center located at the Centro Ybor complex along with the Ybor City Cigar Museum. At the information center, you can learn about the history of Ybor City, find out more about local attractions, and even sit in a replica cigar roller’s chair.
When you are ready to begin exploring Ybor City, be sure to hit these senior-friendly highlights:
Ybor City Museum
Located in the heart of Tampa’s most historic district, the Ybor City Museum State Park shares the story of the immigrants who settled here and created the colorful, unique community of Ybor City. The museum includes its main exhibits, which are housed in the Ferlita Bakery building; a beautiful Mediterranean-inspired garden; and a replica of a cigar worker’s house, or casita.
Centennial Park
Centennial Park is an ideal spot for stopping and relaxing during your day trip to Ybor City, or shopping for local art and gourmet treats at the popular Saturday Market. Spend some time wandering through the park to see the many plaques and statues commemorating those who helped build Ybor City. Be sure to check out the shops and art galleries housed in the casitas bordering the park.
Restaurants
Whether you are looking to grab a Cuban coffee in a cafe or you’d like to settle in for a multicourse, chef-inspired dining experience, Ybor City’s restaurants do not disappoint. From Al’s famous barbecue to Columbia Restaurant’s “1905 Salad,” there is something to please every palate.
Special Events
There is always something going on in Ybor City, so plan your trip around one of these upcoming events, or check out its calendar to see what other senior-friendly events are coming down the pike.
March 5
Buildings Alive! Ybor City Architecture Hop
Catch a ride on a rubber-wheel trolley or walk at your own pace as you go on a behind-the-scenes tour of some of Ybor City’s most interesting and historic buildings and sites. Along the way, “hoppers” are invited to sample some of the local food and drinks.
March 29
9th Annual International Cuban Sandwich Food and Art Festival
Ybor City and Cuba are forever linked in history, so come and celebrate their shared culture during this celebration of Cuban food, music, and art. This free family- and senior-friendly event features live bands, vendors, and Cuban sandwich competitions.
Getting Around Ybor City
Walking is the easiest and best way to see the sights of Ybor City, but arguably the most fun way to traverse the area is aboard one of the TECO Line Streetcar System’s replica trolleys. These retro electric streetcars are climate controlled and wheelchair accessible. You can view a map of the Ybor City streetcar route here.
If you do plan to drive around Ybor City, there are several parking options, including garage parking, city lots, private lots, and even valet parking services. Find out everything you need to know about public parking in Ybor City here.
Need Help? Just Ask!
If you have questions about a landmark or need directions to your next destination, look for an Ybor City Ambassador. These friendly guides are highly knowledgeable about Ybor City and are happy to help you find your way or learn about one of the many historic buildings or events in the area.
