19 Fun Things To Do In Ybor City Tampa
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There are so many things to do in Ybor City, and it’s one of my favorite day trips in Tampa. This historic Tampa neighborhood is packed with rich culture, unique architecture, and tons of charm. Known for its Cuban influence and vibrant history, Ybor City is the perfect spot to explore, with its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings giving off major old-world vibes.
While it might get a bit of a bad rap for its nighttime scene, I think Ybor City shines during the day. Whether you’re strolling through historic sites, enjoying local shops, or grabbing a bite at one of the cool cafes, there’s so much to love about this eclectic part of the city. Trust me, it’s worth spending some time here!
Best Things to Do in Ybor City
1. 7th Avenue
7th Avenue is rich with history, unique architecture, and a sense of community that you won’t find anywhere else. It has a New Orleans vibe mixed with some Floridian charm, making it a must-see spot while you’re in the area. Whether you’re window shopping or people watching, there’s always something interesting happening here.
2. Centro Ybor
While you’re in the area, be sure to stop by Centro Ybor, which is home to over 20 retailers, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to take a break and grab something to eat or drink. It’s also a great spot to pick up a unique souvenir or just wander around and enjoy the atmosphere of Ybor City.
3. Funny Bone Comedy Club
Looking for a good laugh? Head over to the Funny Bone Comedy Club, located on 8th Avenue in Ybor City. This place is known for hosting big names in comedy on the weekends, but if you want to get in on the action yourself, check out open mic night every Thursday.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Tampa at night, this is a great option!
*All shows are 21+.
4. See a Show at The Ritz
For something a little more high-energy, The Ritz is a venue known for hosting concerts, special events, and nightclub evenings. I personally love the EDM nights on Fridays—they bring in some of the best DJs, and the vibe inside is always on point. It’s definitely one of my favorite spots for a night out in Ybor City!
5. Enjoy a Cuban
If you’re looking for delicious things to do in Ybor City, you can’t visit the area without trying a Cuban sandwich! These delicious sandwiches were born in the cafes that served the Cuban immigrant communities working in the cigar industry. With layers of ham, pork, cheese, pickles, and mustard, they’re a Tampa classic.
La Segunda is a popular spot to grab one, but honestly, you can find amazing Cuban sandwiches all around the area. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed no matter where you get yours!
6. Get Tipsy Off Of Some Locally Distilled Rum
If you’re into rum, you’re in luck! Ybor City is home to one of Tampa’s oldest rum distilleries, the Tampa Bay Rum Company. This pirate-themed distillery is a must-visit spot for rum lovers.
They offer tours and tastings, where you can try all kinds of rums, from spiced and coconut to silver, butterscotch, and lime. Walk-ins are welcome, so definitely stop by for a fun time and maybe a few shots!
Check out other fun distilleries in Tampa!
7. Markets in Ybor City
If you’re into local shopping and want to snag something unique, make sure to hit up one of Ybor City’s markets. The Ybor City Saturday Market is one of my favorites—it’s full of fresh fruits, veggies, eggs, honey, and handmade goods from local artists. It’s a great way to spend a morning, and you might even find a special souvenir. It’s one of my favorite farmers’ markets in Tampa!
Another fun Tampa market to check out is the Indie Flea Market, which features vintage items, jewelry, art, and more. Plus, pets are welcome, so it’s a super chill vibe. I can never resist buying something when I go! It’s one of my favorite things to do in Tampa Bay.
8. Show Your Competitive Side at GameTime
If you’re in the mood for some friendly competition, GameTime Tampa in Centro Ybor is where it’s at! This spot is one of my favorite arcades in Tampa—it’s got something for everyone.
With over 120 games to choose from, 60+ TVs, 4 lanes of mini bowling, and multiple pool tables, you’ll never be bored!
9. Visit Florida’s Oldest Restaurant
You can’t talk about Ybor City without mentioning Columbia Restaurant. Not only is it Florida’s oldest restaurant, but it’s also the world’s largest Spanish restaurant! The food here is delicious (they’re known for their paella), but it’s the experience that really makes it special.
On Tuesdays, you can enjoy a Flamenco show, and Fridays and Saturdays are all about live music with the Dick Rivers Band. I personally can’t resist their mojitos and the famous “1905” Salad, which is made tableside. It’s definitely a spot to savor when you’re in town!
10. Grab Some Cigars
Ybor City’s cigar history is seriously cool, with the first hand-rolled cigar company opening up here back in 1886. Over 200 cigar factories popped up, turning Tampa Bay into the epicenter of cigar production.
If you’re into cigars or just curious about the process, a tour is a fun way to dive into the local history. Places like Tabanero Cigars, JC Newman Cigar Co, La Farona Cigar Factory, and King Corona Cigar Bar offer amazing tours that show you the ins and outs of how these iconic cigars are made.
11. Better Yet, Roll Your Own Cigars
Ever wondered how to roll your own cigar? Well, now’s your chance! Head over to the JC Newman Cigar Factory and take a hands-on class where you can learn the art of cigar rolling. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total newbie, you’ll leave with a personalized souvenir—and a new appreciation for the craft. It’s one of the more unique things to do in Ybor City!
12. Go Line Dancing
Yeehaw! If you’re in the mood to dance, check out Saddlebags! This country bar in Tampa is where Southern charm meets city nights. The music is always lively, and you’ll definitely want to get in on the line-dancing action.
No experience? No problem! They offer free line dancing classes every Friday night from 7-9 PM—so whether you’re a pro or a total beginner, you’ll have fun learning the moves. And if you’re feeling bold, there’s always the mechanical bull to try your hand at. It’s the ultimate test of cowboy (or cowgirl) skills!
13. Visit a Speakeasy
For a totally different vibe, check out Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour. Hidden inside Roast on 7th, this speakeasy has all the mystery and sophistication you could ask for.
The flavors here are unreal—think signature lemon pepper honey turkey flats and a must-try lemon blueberry icebox cake. Plus, the drinks are just as impressive as the food. You’ll want to follow their Instagram for the weekly password (trust me, it adds to the whole secretive fun vibe). If you’re in the mood for something a little more low-key and chic, Madame Fortune is your spot!
14. Ghost Tour
If you’re into the spooky side of things, you HAVE to take the famous Ybor City Ghost Tour. It’s a two-hour adventure where you’ll learn all about the paranormal history of the area while visiting some of the most haunted spots in Tampa. Perfect for a little thrill during your visit, and who knows—you might even feel a ghostly presence along the way!
👻Ready for a spooky good time in Ybor City👻
Click herе to book your tour15. Visit the Spookeasy Lounge
For a more eerie vibe, head to the Spookeasy Lounge! This speakeasy-style kava bar is super fun year-round, but it’s especially fun around Halloween.
Sip on a Jekyll & Hyde or a Vampire Blood and soak in all the spooky vibes. It’s an alcohol-free lounge, so you can enjoy botanical teas, kava, coffee, and more while the spooky atmosphere sets the mood. Check out my Reel for a closer look at this awesome spot!
16. Try Some Local Brews
If you’re more into local craft brews, Ybor City has plenty of breweries to explore, and the best part is, most are just a short walk away from each other! A few of my top picks:
- Tampa Bay Brewing Co. – This place is known for its hop-heavy IPAs, crisp APAs, and fruit-forward Florida-Weisse. They even offer tours, and the patio is perfect for a chill vibe while sipping your beer. Be sure to check out their location in Westchase as well!
- Barriehaus Beer Co. – Known for having the largest downtown Biergarten, this brewery is great if you’re looking to hang with friends or bring your dog along for the fun! They also offer brewery tours, so don’t miss out.
- Coppertail Brewing – With a 20-beer lineup and a 100-year-old building, it’s the perfect spot for some tasty brews and a fun food menu to match.
If you are really into the craft beer scene these are just a handful of the many awesome breweries in Tampa!
17. Visit a Meadery
If you’ve never tried mead, now’s your chance! Cigar City Cider & Mead is the perfect place to give it a go. Mead is made by fermenting honey and water, sometimes with added flavors, and it’s surprisingly strong.
They have a variety of flight options so you can sample all the meads they have on hand, and trust me, you’ll be feeling a buzz after just a few small pours! My personal favorites? The Rose and Kiwibee!
18. Ride the Streetcar
Getting around Ybor in style is easy with the historic TECO Line Streetcar! This streetcar has been around since the late 1800s and runs 2.4 miles, connecting downtown Tampa, the Channelside District, and, of course, Ybor City’s Historic District.
It’s a fun, scenic way to explore the area without worrying about parking!
19. Experience One of Ybor’s Amazing Restaurants
After all the exploring, you’re definitely going to work up an appetite. Ybor is packed with amazing restaurants, so here are a few that I love:
- Los Chapos Tacos – If you’re in the mood for Mexican, this counter-service spot is great. The birria tacos are their claim to fame, but they’ve got everything from burritos to quesadillas that’ll hit the spot.
- 7th + Grove – This warm and welcoming restaurant and lounge serves up all your comfort food favorites. Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or just a chill social hour, this spot is fire.
- Casa Santo Stefano – Housed in a former macaroni factory, this Sicilian spot pays homage to the immigrants who helped shape Ybor City. If you’re craving Italian, you can’t go wrong with their calamari, lasagna, or their rooftop bar for a romantic evening.
- Sushi House – For all my sushi lovers, Sushi House is a must. Their volcano and firecracker rolls are my absolute go-to, and don’t forget to start with the sweet and spicy edamame!
And when you’re ready to satisfy that sweet tooth, grab dessert at Chill Bros, one of the best ice cream shops in Tampa. It’s the perfect way to end your Ybor City adventure!
Where to Stay in Ybor City
Hotel Haya is easily the best place to stay in Ybor City! It’s absolutely stunning—honestly, I could spend all day just admiring the design! The pool area is gorgeous, and if you’re visiting during the right season, they even throw some fun pool parties.
It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. They also have a great on-site restaurant and cafe, so you’re covered when you’re ready to grab a bite. Plus, its location couldn’t be more perfect—it’s right in the middle of all the action, so you’re just steps away from all the fun things to do in Ybor City!
Are you ready to experience the best things to do in Ybor City?!
As you can see there are plenty of fun things to do in Ybor City! From strolling down 7th Avenue and exploring historic spots, to grabbing a Cuban sandwich and sipping on local brews, it’s a neighborhood full of charm, culture, and history. I hope this guide gave you all the inspiration you need to make the most of your trip to Ybor City! Let me know in the comments what you’re most excited to check out!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:
Best restaurants in Seminole Heights
Waterfront restaurants in Tampa
