Tampa Bay History Center
Travel & Recreation $ | Closed
Hours | Closed
| Days | Time | | Mon | 10:00 am - 05:00 pm |
| Tue | 10:00 am - 05:00 pm |
| Wed | 10:00 am - 05:00 pm |
| Thu | 10:00 am - 05:00 pm |
| Fri | 10:00 am - 05:00 pm |
| Sat | 10:00 am - 05:00 pm |
| Sun | 10:00 am - 05:00 pm |
Description
One of Tampa’s premier cultural venues, the Tampa Bay History Center has three floors of exhibit galleries covering 12,000 years of Florida’s history.
Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a Smithsonian Affiliate, the waterfront museum on 801 Water Street includes a 60-foot 1700s-era replica sailing ship and the only cartographic center in the southeastern United States.
Dine in the Columbia Cafe, a branch of the world-famous Columbia Restaurant featuring Spanish and Cuban-inspired dishes that made the 116-year-old restaurant famous. Get to know Tampa Bay History Center
The History Center's permanent galleries take you on a fascinating voyage through centuries of recorded history, showcasing the diverse aspects of the region's past. You'll explore the impact of Spanish exploration, gain insights into Seminole life, witness the waves of immigration and the thriving cigar industry, and immerse yourself in the stories of pioneer and rural Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Tickets are available online or at the History Center’s Visitor Services desk. Visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org to purchase tickets online.
Q: How long will I spend touring the museum?
A: Give yourself plenty of time to visit. Generally, you should plan to spend a minimum of 2 to 3 hours viewing the exhibits; however, you can easily spend the day visiting the galleries, shopping in the Museum Store, and having a delicious meal at the Columbia Cafe.
Q: Can I bring food and drinks inside the galleries?
A: Please do not bring any food or drinks into the galleries. Water fountains are available on the second, third and fourth floors near the restrooms. The Columbia Cafe is open every day for lunch and dinner from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Enjoy favorites from the restaurant’s flagship location in Ybor City, like Cuban sandwiches, chicken and yellow rice and the 1905 Salad. Indoor and outdoor waterfront seating is available.
Q: Are service animals allowed in the History Center?
A: The Tampa Bay History Center follows the guidance provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Only trained service animals that perform specific tasks for an individual with a disability are allowed into all public areas and galleries of the History Center.
Q: Where can I secure my bags and luggage?
A: Large bags/backpacks (those that exceed 11×15) are not permitted in the galleries. Lockers are available free of charge for storing these items. Keys can be requested at Visitor Services. If you have a personal situation requiring you to carry a bag, please speak to a visitor services associate.
Q: How should I dress?
A: The temperature in the galleries is maintained at a cool 72 degrees. Consider bringing a sweater in case you get chilly.
Q: What's outside?
A: The History Center is situated at the beginning of the Tampa Riverwalk next to Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park. The park includes a sand play area and splash park for children, picnic tables, a dock (with 8 tie-ups) and lots of green space. Consider bringing comfortable shoes and walking the Riverwalk after visiting the museum.
Q: Are photography and videography allowed?
A: You are welcome to bring your camera; however, flash photography and videography are prohibited. Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use only. Commercial photography, including filming of any kind, must be coordinated and approved before your visit. Contact the marketing department for more information. If you are a member of the press and need photos of the History Center for publication purposes, please visit our press page.
Q: Where is the lost and found?
A: Lost and found is located at the Visitor Services desk on the second floor. You can also call Visitor Services at (813) 228-0097, option 0.
Q: How do I book a group visit or field trip?
A: Visit our group tours or field trips pages for their corresponding signup forms.
Tampa Bay History Center Photos
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