If you’re planning to visit Tampa, odds are that a trip to the beach is on the itinerary. Perhaps you’re thinking about heading out to some of the other popular destinations in the area as well, such as Busch Gardens. But you might be looking for experiences that are unique to Tampa, and places that you will see nowhere else. If that’s the case, be sure to make some time in your schedule to check out some of the relics of Tampa’s past.

Many historic sites are located in the downtown area as well as in Ybor City, with one of the best known being Plant Hall on the University of Tampa campus. This building is much more than a component of one of the city’s universities; it is also an emblem of the city itself. Originally completed in 1891 as a hotel fit for high-society guests, Plant Hall has a distinctive Moorish Revival theme as seen in its well-known minarets. Today, the south wing of the building has been changed into museum detailing the history of railroad magnate Henry B. Plant’s jewel of a hotel, with furnishings and decor dating back to the Gilded Age. You can stop by during any season to take a trip into the past, but the museum is particularly popular in December, when it is festively decorated for its Victorian Christmas Stroll.

In the heart of Downtown Tampa, you’ll find another historical gem that’s tailor-made to please anyone with a love of the silver screen. The Tampa Theater has been showing films since it opened its doors in 1926, and today the film selection consists mostly of independent films, as well as the summertime showings of classic movies such as Gone with the Wind and Casablanca. The charm of the impressive Wurlitzer organ is hard to ignore as it combines with the beautiful interior architecture to whisk visitors away on a memorable journey, just as it has for decades.

Even with all of the beautiful architecture and monuments to Tampa’s past that Downtown has to offer, the wise traveler will also venture north to explore Ybor City. Although widely known for its raucous nightlife, during daylight hours, this neighborhood provides a glimpse into the Tampa of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the city was dominated by the boxy brick edifices of the cigar factories. Many of these factories are still standing, with some converted into office buildings and others undergoing restoration. Throughout the area, you’ll see brick streets, wrought-iron lamp posts, and row after row of old-fashioned rectangular houses originally built to house factory workers. More than a century ago, immigrants from Cuba, Spain, and Italy ended their trek here, and their imprint can be seen and heard throughout these streets. It can also be tasted, if you stop into a local restaurant and order up a Cuban sandwich or deviled crab, two of Tampa’s most beloved foods.

These suggestions are just jumping-off points: There are so many unique sites to explore in and around Tampa. Happy travels!

Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel.

Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel. http://www.laserspinelocations.com/tampa/

Author Bio: Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel.

Category: Travel
Keywords: Tampa, Tampa travel, Tampa history, Tampa attractions