Tampa Bay History Center

Discover Florida's Rich History at the Tampa Bay History Center

If you're interested in learning more about Florida's first inhabitants, then a stop at the Smithsonian-affiliated Tampa Bay History Center should be on your itinerary. Spanning 60,000 square feet, it is ideally situated on Tampa's waterfront and along the Tampa Riverwalk. The history center showcases 12,000 years of Florida's history through three floors of exhibits, educational films, and interactive displays.

Exhibits and Displays

Learn about 500 years of Black history in the "Travails and Triumphs" exhibit. Additionally, you can brush up on your knowledge of Florida's first European explorers and pirates with a visit to the "Treasure Seekers" exhibit.

Many recent visitors reported being pleasantly surprised by the interactive and informative features at the history center. This includes the short films that accompany many of the exhibits. Travelers also mentioned that the center does a great job appealing to younger visitors thanks to its kid-friendly displays and welcoming personnel. A highlight for many is the 60-foot, 18th-century pirate ship.

Dining Options

Reviewers spoke highly of the on-site eatery, Columbia Cafe. Affiliated with the original Columbia Restaurant in nearby Ybor City, it serves Spanish- and Cuban-inspired dishes.

Getting There

The history center is accessible by the Pirate Water Taxi. If you arrive by your own set of wheels, you can park at nearby garages. Additionally, you can get here via the free TECO Line Streetcar, with the center located between stations No. 8 and 9.

Hours

The center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Tickets

Admission for adults costs $16.95. Seniors and college students can enter for $14.95, children ages 7 to 17 are $12.95, and kids 6 and younger are free. For more information, visit the center's official website.