Hillsborough County Precinct Map
If you’re planning a trip to Hillsborough County, Florida, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful region is home to a diverse array of attractions, from stunning beaches and mountains to vibrant nightlife and cultural landmarks. In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Top Attractions
There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Hillsborough County. Some of the top attractions include Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a thrilling amusement park with roller coasters and exotic animal exhibits, and the Florida Aquarium, which features over 20,000 aquatic animals. For a taste of history, check out the Henry B. Plant Museum, a stunning former hotel that now serves as a museum showcasing the region’s past.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten path, Hillsborough County has plenty of hidden gems to discover. One such spot is Lettuce Lake Park, a nature preserve with hiking trails, a scenic boardwalk, and opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing. Another is the Tampa Bay History Center, which offers interactive exhibits and immersive experiences that bring the region’s past to life.
Food Scene
Hillsborough County is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants and culinary experiences to choose from. Some of the must-try dishes include Cuban sandwiches, seafood chowder, and key lime pie. For a truly unique experience, check out the Columbia Restaurant, a Tampa institution that’s been serving up Spanish and Cuban cuisine since 1905.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem. Hillsborough County has plenty of affordable attractions and activities to enjoy. Many of the region’s parks and nature preserves offer free admission, and there are plenty of low-cost dining options, such as food trucks and local markets. Additionally, many of the area’s museums and cultural landmarks offer discounted admission on certain days of the week.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Hillsborough County is the perfect destination. From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, there are countless opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some of the top spots for outdoor adventures include Alafia River State Park, which offers challenging mountain biking trails, and Hillsborough River State Park, which features scenic hiking trails and opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.
Historical Landmarks
Hillsborough County is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks and sites to explore for those interested in the region’s past. One must-visit spot is the Tampa Bay Hotel, a stunning Victorian-era hotel that’s now part of the University of Tampa. Another is Ybor City, a historic district with a rich cultural heritage that’s home to a variety of museums, restaurants, and shops.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? Hillsborough County has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Some of the top spots include the Glazer Children’s Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids of all ages, and Adventure Island, a water park with slides, pools, and other aquatic attractions.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, Hillsborough County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. One such spot is the Florida Railroad Museum, which offers train rides and exhibits showcasing the history of rail travel in the region. Another is the Tampa Theatre, a stunning movie palace that dates back to the 1920s and features a variety of films, concerts, and other events.
Natural Wonders
From beaches to mountains, Hillsborough County is home to a wide range of natural wonders. Some of the top spots include the Hillsborough River, which is ideal for kayaking and canoeing, and Fort De Soto Park, a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Hillsborough County comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. From dive bars and jazz clubs to rooftop lounges and dance clubs, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top spots for nightlife include the Ybor City Historic District, which is home to a variety of bars and clubs, and the Tampa Riverwalk, which offers stunning views of the city skyline and plenty of dining and drinking options.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of local flavor, be sure to check out one of Hillsborough County’s many local markets. The Tampa Bay Farmers Market is a must-visit spot for fresh produce and artisanal goods, while the Hyde Park Village Farmers Market offers a variety of locally sourced foods and crafts. Additionally, the Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market is a popular spot for foodies and craft enthusiasts alike.
Beaches and Mountains
Whether you prefer sand or snow, Hillsborough County has something for everyone. The region’s beaches are among the best in the state, with clear waters and pristine sand. For outdoor enthusiasts, the region’s mountains offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and skiing, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, Hillsborough County won’t disappoint. From museums and art galleries to festivals and events, there are countless ways to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage. One must-visit spot is the Tampa Museum of Art, which features a variety of exhibitions and collections showcasing art from around the world.
Art and Music Scene
Hillsborough County is home to a vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and concert venues to explore. Some of the top spots include the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, which offers a variety of shows and events throughout the year, and the Tampa Bay History Center, which features exhibits showcasing the region’s musical heritage.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to see Hillsborough County is on foot. The region offers a variety of walking tours, ranging from historical tours of Ybor City to nature walks through the region’s parks and preserves. Some of the top tours include the Tampa Riverwalk Walking Tour, which offers stunning views of the city and its landmarks, and the Tampa Theatre Tour, which takes visitors behind the scenes of this stunning movie palace.
Architectural Marvels
Hillsborough County is home to a variety of architectural marvels, from stunning historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers. One must-visit spot is the University of Tampa, which features a variety of stunning buildings dating back to the early 20th century. Another is the Tampa Bay Hotel, which is renowned for its stunning Moorish architecture and lush gardens.
Historical Sites
For history buffs, Hillsborough County offers plenty of fascinating sites and landmarks to explore. Some of the top spots include the Tampa Bay History Center, which offers a variety of exhibits and collections showcasing the region’s past, and the Plant City Train Station, which dates back to the early 20th century and now serves as a museum showcasing the history of rail travel in the region.
Biking Routes
Hillsborough County is a biking paradise, with a wide range of routes and trails to explore. Some of the top spots include the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, which offers scenic views of the region’s wetlands and wildlife, and the Pinellas Trail, which runs for over 40 miles through the region and offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and recreation.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to unwind and recharge, Hillsborough County has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Some of the top spots include the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, which offers a variety of spa treatments and wellness programs, and the Saddlebrook Resort, which features a world-class spa and fitness center.
Adventure Sports
Hillsborough County is an adventure sports enthusiast’s dream come true, with plenty of opportunities for adrenaline-pumping activities. Some of the top spots include the Alafia River State Park, which offers challenging mountain biking trails, and the Clearwater Beach area, which is renowned for its parasailing and jet skiing opportunities.
With so much to see and do, Hillsborough County is the perfect destination for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing getaway, this beautiful region has something for everyone.