Hillsborough County Flood Map

Hillsborough County Evacuation Routes for Hurricane Irma Tampa Bay

Introduction

Hillsborough County Flood Map is a beautiful place to explore with its natural wonders, historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and adventure sports. This travel guide covers the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Hillsborough River State Park

Explore the natural beauty of the Hillsborough River State Park with its crystal-clear water, scenic views, and hiking trails. The park offers camping, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing activities.

Tampa Bay History Center

Learn about the rich history of Tampa Bay at the Tampa Bay History Center, which includes interactive exhibits, artifacts, and displays of the region’s history.

Busch Gardens

Experience thrilling rides, exotic animals, and live entertainment at Busch Gardens. The theme park offers a variety of attractions for all ages.

Hidden Gems

Ybor City

Explore the historic neighborhood of Ybor City, which is known for its Cuban and Spanish influence, architecture, and cigar-making history. The area has a vibrant nightlife, with many restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Brooker Creek Preserve

Discover the natural beauty of the Brooker Creek Preserve, which is a 8,700-acre wilderness area with hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Tampa Theatre

Watch a classic movie or live performance at the Tampa Theatre, which is a beautifully restored 1926 movie palace. The theater is known for its elaborate architecture and decorative details.

Food Scene

Columbia Restaurant

Experience authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine at the Columbia Restaurant, which is the oldest restaurant in Florida. The restaurant has been serving customers since 1905 and is known for its paella, sangria, and flamenco dancing.

La Segunda Central Bakery

Try the famous Cuban bread at La Segunda Central Bakery, which has been operating since 1915. The bakery also offers sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.

Ulele

Experience contemporary Florida cuisine at Ulele, which features fresh seafood, craft beer, and a waterfront view. The restaurant is located in the historic Tampa Heights neighborhood.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Things to Do

Explore the city’s parks, museums, and outdoor activities, which are often free or low-cost. Some popular options include the Tampa Riverwalk, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, and the Tampa Museum of Art.

Happy Hour Deals

Take advantage of happy hour deals at local bars and restaurants, which often offer discounted drinks and appetizers. Some popular options include Fly Bar & Restaurant, The Refinery, and Cigar City Brewing.

Public Transportation

Save money on transportation by using the city’s public transportation system, which includes buses and trolleys. The HART system offers day passes and discounted fares for seniors, students, and disabled riders.

Outdoor Adventures

Kayaking and Canoeing

Explore the Hillsborough River by kayak or canoe, which offers scenic views and wildlife sightings. Several local outfitters offer rentals and guided tours.

Biking

Discover the city’s bike-friendly routes and trails, which include the Tampa Riverwalk, Bayshore Boulevard, and the Upper Tampa Bay Trail. Several local bike rental companies offer hourly and daily rentals.

Fishing

Try your luck at fishing in the Hillsborough River, Tampa Bay, or Gulf of Mexico. Several local fishing charters and guides offer half-day and full-day trips.

Family-Friendly Activities

Glazer Children’s Museum

Explore the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities at the Glazer Children’s Museum, which is designed for children ages 0-10. The museum also offers camps, classes, and special events.

Lowry Park Zoo

See over 1,300 animals from around the world at the Lowry Park Zoo, which is known for its conservation efforts and education programs. The zoo also offers rides, shows, and special events.

Adventure Island

Cool off in the Florida sun at Adventure Island, which is a water park with slides, pools, and attractions for all ages. The park also offers cabana rentals and food options.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Big Cat Rescue

Visit the Big Cat Rescue, which is a sanctuary for exotic cats that have been rescued from abusive situations. The sanctuary offers guided tours and educational programs.

Henry B. Plant Museum

Step back in time at the Henry B. Plant Museum, which is located in the former Tampa Bay Hotel and showcases the hotel’s history and architecture. The museum also offers tours and exhibits.

Florida Aquarium

Discover the underwater world at the Florida Aquarium, which features over 7,000 animals and plants from around the world. The aquarium also offers behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.

Natural Wonders

Hillsborough Bay

Take a scenic drive along Bayshore Boulevard, which is known for its views of Hillsborough Bay and the downtown skyline. The boulevard also offers parks, bike paths, and walking trails.

Bayshore Linear Park Trail

Explore the Bayshore Linear Park Trail, which is a 4.5-mile trail that runs along Bayshore Boulevard and offers views of the bay and downtown. The trail is popular for walking, jogging, and biking.

Honeymoon Island State Park

Escape to Honeymoon Island State Park, which is a barrier island with white sand beaches, nature trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park also offers camping and picnic areas.

Vibrant Nightlife

SoHo

Experience the nightlife of South Howard Avenue, which is known as SoHo and offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. The area is popular with young professionals and college students.

Ybor City

Discover the historic nightlife of Ybor City, which offers a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The area is known for its Latin and jazz music scene.

Channelside

Explore the waterfront nightlife of Channelside, which offers a variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. The area is popular with tourists and locals.

Local Markets

Tampa Downtown Market

Browse the local vendors and artisanal goods at the Tampa Downtown Market, which is open on Sundays and offers a variety of food, crafts, and gifts.

Ybor City Saturday Market

Experience the lively atmosphere of the Ybor City Saturday Market, which is open on Saturdays and offers local produce, arts, and crafts. The market also features live music and food trucks.

Hyde Park Village Farmers Market

Shop for fresh produce and handmade goods at the Hyde Park Village Farmers Market, which is open on Sundays and offers a variety of vendors and food options.

Beaches and Mountains

Clearwater Beach

Relax on the white sand beaches of Clearwater Beach, which is known for its crystal-clear water and beachfront activities. The area also offers restaurants, shops, and hotels.

St. Pete Beach

Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of St. Pete Beach, which is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The area also offers restaurants, bars, and hotels.

Mount Dora

Escape to the mountains of Mount Dora, which is a charming town with a historic downtown, art galleries, and antique shops. The area also offers scenic views and outdoor activities.

Cultural Immersion

Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival

Celebrate African-American culture and history at the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, which features live music, food, and art. The festival is held in January and February.

Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival

Experience LGBTQ+ culture and cinema at the Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, which showcases independent films and documentaries. The festival is held in October.