Tampa, Florida, is known for its waterfront skyline and sunny beaches, but if you’re visiting for work, don’t overlook Ybor City, a historic district just minutes from downtown. With its rich history, diverse culture, and incredible food, Ybor City offers a refreshing break from boardrooms and conference calls.
I recently visited Tampa for a work trip, and while my days were packed with meetings, I made it a priority to explore this vibrant neighborhood whenever I could. If you’re in town for business, here’s how to make the most of your time in Ybor City—whether you have an hour, an afternoon, or an evening to spare.
A Quick Look at Ybor City’s History
Ybor City was founded in 1885 by Vicente Martinez-Ybor, a Spanish entrepreneur who moved his cigar empire here from Key West. He transformed Tampa into the Cigar Capital of the World, attracting immigrants from Cuba, Spain, and Italy.
By the early 1900s, Ybor City had over 200 cigar factories producing 500 million cigars annually. The workers, known as torcedores (cigar rollers), were highly skilled artisans, and each factory employed a lector—someone who read newspapers and literature aloud to keep workers entertained and informed.
However, the Great Depression and the rise of cigarette smoking led to the industry’s decline. Ybor City fell into hardship but has since been revitalized, preserving its history while embracing modern culture. Today, it remains one of the few places in the U.S. where cigars are still rolled by hand.
If you have some free time during your work trip, take a break from the conference room and step into this living piece of history.
Must-Do Activities in Ybor City (Even on a Work Trip!)
1. Start at the Ybor City Visitor Center
📍 1600 E. 8th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
If you have only 30 minutes to spare, make this your first stop. The Ybor City Visitor Center is a great place to grab a free map, chat with locals, and get a quick introduction to the area.
I watched a short seven-minute film about how Vicente Martinez-Ybor moved his cigar empire here, shaping Tampa’s industrial history. A friendly staff member, Steve, even shared insider tips—including where to find the best Cuban coffee (which I’ll get to later).
2. Take a Walking Tour Through Ybor’s Landmarks
If you have an hour or two between meetings, take a self-guided stroll or join a walking tour. Ybor City is full of historic sites, including:
✅ Jose Marti Park – A tiny piece of land that technically belongs to Cuba. It was gifted to the Cuban people to honor José Martí, a national hero who once gathered support for Cuba’s independence here.
✅ The Cuban Club – Built in 1917, this club was once a social hub for Cuban immigrants. If you ring the doorbell, you might even get a quick tour inside.
✅ El Pasaje Building – This gorgeous brick building once housed a cigar factory and later became a speakeasy during Prohibition.
✅ Centennial Park & Ybor State Museum – Want a deeper dive into history? The museum ($4 entry) offers a 20-minute film and a tour of a restored casita (small cigar worker’s home).
Exploring on foot felt like stepping into a different era, surrounded by buildings that have over a century of stories.
3. Tour the J.C. Newman Cigar Factory
📍 2701 N 16th St, Tampa, FL 33605
If you can spare an hour, don’t miss this tour. J.C. Newman Cigar Company is the last remaining cigar factory in Tampa and the oldest operating cigar manufacturer in the U.S. (established in 1895).
Walking inside felt like entering a living museum. I watched skilled artisans hand-roll cigars just as they have for over a century. The mix of antique machines and old-world craftsmanship was fascinating, even though I don’t smoke.
Beyond cigars, J.C. Newman is committed to preserving Tampa’s heritage through education and local partnerships. Whether you’re a cigar lover or not, this is a must-see piece of history.
4. Spot the Famous Ybor City Chickens
One of the quirkiest things about Ybor City? The free-roaming chickens.
These birds have been strutting around the neighborhood for over a century, descended from those raised by early immigrants. Tampa law protects them, so don’t be surprised if you hear a rooster crow while sipping your café con leche.
5. Have Dinner at the Columbia Restaurant
📍 2117 E. 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
If you have one free evening, treat yourself to a meal at The Columbia Restaurant—Florida’s oldest restaurant (established in 1905) and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world.
The ambiance is breathtaking, with hand-painted tiles, antique chandeliers, and historic photos that transport you back in time. Our waiter, Chris, even prepared our sangria tableside while sharing stories about his Filipino roots.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔️ 1905 Salad – Tossed tableside with ham, Swiss cheese, and their legendary garlic dressing.
✔️ Gambas al Ajillo – Garlicky shrimp sizzling in olive oil.
✔️ Lobster Cannelloni – Stuffed with lobster and baked in a creamy sherry sauce.
✔️ Empanadas & Black Bean Soup – A Spanish feast isn’t complete without these.
And if you’re there on a flamenco night, stay for the show—it’s mesmerizing.
6. Grab a Cuban Coffee at Café con Leche
📍 1607 N 22nd St, Tampa, FL 33605
Need an afternoon pick-me-up between meetings? Head to Café con Leche for a dulce de café—a sweet, creamy Cuban coffee that instantly wakes you up.
Coffee culture runs deep in Ybor City, thanks to its strong Cuban influence. Whether you go for a café con leche (Cuban espresso with steamed milk) or a colada (super strong espresso meant for sharing), you won’t be disappointed.
7. Try a Classic Cuban Sandwich at Flan Factory
📍 1718 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
If you only have time for one meal in Ybor City, make it a Cuban sandwich. Tampa takes serious pride in being the birthplace of this iconic sandwich, and Flan Factory makes one of the best.
The combination of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on crispy Cuban bread was simply perfection. Every bite made me wonder, Why haven’t I had this sooner?
Bonus: Ride the Free TECO Line Streetcar
📍 Runs between Ybor City and Downtown Tampa
Before heading back to my hotel, I hopped on the TECO Line Streetcar—a free, vintage-style trolley that connects Ybor City to downtown Tampa. With its wooden seats and historic charm, it was the perfect way to end my adventure.
Final Thoughts
Even if you’re in Tampa for work, Ybor City is worth exploring. Whether you have an hour or a whole evening, you can experience a slice of history, grab amazing food, and see a side of Tampa that’s full of life and culture.
Short on time? Here’s your work-trip-friendly guide:
⏳ 30 minutes – Grab a Cuban coffee and take a quick walk through Centennial Park.
⏳ 1 hour – Tour J.C. Newman Cigar Factory or visit the Ybor City Visitor Center.
⏳ Evening free? – Dinner at Columbia with a flamenco show is a must.
So next time you’re in Tampa, take a break from the boardroom—Ybor City is calling. 🚀
