Tampa Bay History Center

We loved the self guided tour and learned lots about Tampa Bay history. The kids had a great time! There is a dress up section that's super cute. We spent about 1.5 hours and really took our time. The short history films are also excellent.

My love of history compelled me to check out this museum while in the Tampa area. It is not a hidden gem, but it is indeed a gem in downtown Tampa. It has multiple floors - each filled with great, interactive exhibits and films. There was so much to learn that my husband and I were wishing for more time as the attraction closed for the day. The exhibits cover just about all of Tampa's long, rich history. We both had a great time and it was certainly worth the price of admission. It is a large museum, so plan to spend at least 3 hours here if you don't want to feel rushed.

The exhibits are incredibly well-curated, blending history, culture, and local flavor. I loved the interactive displays and the way they brought Florida's past to life, from indigenous peoples to pirates and modern times. The waterfront location adds to the charm, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. A highlight for me was the Columbia Cafe—delicious food with a view! This is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone wanting to learn more about Tampa Bay's rich heritage.

Today I had the pleasure of visiting the Tampa Bay History Center, and it exceeded every expectation I had — so much so that I immediately purchased a family membership before leaving. The staff made the experience even more memorable; each team member I interacted with was incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about sharing Tampa Bay’s rich story. Their kindness and professionalism set a tone of warmth and genuine pride that resonated throughout the entire visit. I spent several hours exploring the galleries, and it quickly became clear that the Tampa Bay History Center offers far more than a typical museum visit — it’s an immersive journey through centuries of fascinating history. From the deeply moving exhibits on Florida’s indigenous peoples to the vibrant and detailed displays about the cigar industry that helped shape Ybor City, every gallery was thoughtfully curated and beautifully presented. The pirate exhibit on the top floor was an absolute standout. It was not only visually stunning but packed with captivating stories and artifacts that brought the legends of Florida’s privateers and pirates vividly to life. It’s an experience that both children and adults can truly appreciate — adventurous, educational, and just downright fun. Another highlight of my visit was stepping onto the outdoor balconies. The views overlooking the Garrison Channel are simply breathtaking, offering a peaceful moment to reflect while enjoying the gorgeous Tampa Bay skyline and waterfront. What I truly appreciated about the Tampa Bay History Center is how thoroughly and authentically it tells the story of our region. From the early native cultures to Spanish exploration, Seminole history, the cattle and citrus industries, and even modern growth into a vibrant international city, the Center weaves it all together seamlessly. Every exhibit is engaging, rich with original artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that make history accessible and exciting for all ages. The museum itself is stunning — a beautiful three-story waterfront building located in the heart of Tampa’s Water Street District, adjacent to the Tampa Riverwalk. It’s incredibly easy to combine a visit with a day downtown, whether you’re heading to Sparkman Wharf, Amalie Arena, or simply strolling along the riverfront. If you are a local resident or a visitor to Tampa Bay, I cannot recommend the Tampa Bay History Center highly enough. It offers not only a deep appreciation for where we’ve come from but a beautiful glimpse into what makes this area so special today. I am already looking forward to returning again (and again) — there is truly too much history, pride, and inspiration here to experience in just one visit.

I only visited the ground floor, where there is an exhibition about Indian peoples. Excellent, modern, interesting! With two films in theaters and one documentary. An excellent description of the life and beliefs of mainly the Seminole tribe.

I wanted to show friends from out of town the essence of Tampa Bay and it’s history with pirates and tobacco. This museum was the ultimate. In Incorporated both was easy to get through so you didn’t spend an entire day here and they had the infamous Columbia restaurant attached as a satellite locationto enjoy Cubans and their 1905 salad. Price was right as well.

Very nice and informative museum. Great location. Absolute day trip because you got sparkmans wharf and the street car to ride on down to ybor city.

This museum provides an enriching experience, thanks to its friendly and welcoming staff who genuinely care about sharing knowledge. We were deeply touched by the stories of Tampa's evolution from a small town into a vibrant metropolis, highlighting its role as a refuge for countless immigrants seeking a better life. It’s remarkable to think that at one time, Tampa’s Ybor City produced more than 500 million cigars annually, earning it the affectionate title of Cigar Capital of the World. We also discovered that this history center proudly houses the second-largest collection of maps in the United States. Visitors are invited to engage with a rich tapestry of historical narratives through thoughtfully curated exhibits and visual presentations, making it a truly heartfelt journey through time.