Historic Ybor City Self Guided Audio Tour
Drives & Detours
5
Mark_R
29 days ago
Doing self guide was very convenient as I was able to move at the pace that suited me. It was a good walk and all flat and the guide was clear and provided very good information, details I would not have known if I’d just walked around aimlessly. 10/10 recommend.
Discover the vibrant history of Tampa’s Ybor City, known as Cigar City, through a self-guided audio tour. This immersive experience takes you through a neighborhood rich in immigrant stories and cultural diversity, showcasing its evolution from a cigar-manufacturing hub to a thriving community. Explore the significance of mutual aid societies, savor the aroma of fresh Cuban bread, and uncover the stories behind historic landmarks. This tour highlights Ybor's unique blend of cultures and its ongoing commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future. — Self-guided audio tour allows you to explore at your own pace — Learn about the diverse immigrant communities that shaped Ybor City — Experience the culinary delights, including the famous Cuban sandwich — Engage with the rich history and vibrant culture of this historic district
Departure Point
- The meeting point is in front of the Tribute to Immigrants Memorial Statue on 9th Avenue. This is between Angel Oliva Senior Street and North 19th Street.
Return Details
- Columbia Restaurant is found on East 7th Avenue, between North 21st Street and North 22nd Street. It is across the road from the Columbia Centennial Museum.
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes - 2 hours
Languages Available
- Audio guide - English
- Printed guide - English
- Audio guide - Spanish
- Printed guide - Spanish
Points of Interest
Stop At: East 7th Avenue
East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL
Walk Ybor’s lively main street, where historic buildings, shops, and cafés capture the neighborhood’s unique energy. Brick sidewalks and wrought-iron balconies make every block a glimpse into the past.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Centro Asturiano De Tampa
1913 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, Florida
This stately clubhouse once offered healthcare, education, and social life to Tampa’s Asturian immigrants. The ornate design of the building reflects the pride and perseverance of the community.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Centro Ybor
1600 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
Today’s Centro Ybor blends modern entertainment with history, built on the site of one of Ybor’s earliest Spanish social clubs. It’s a reminder of how old and new meet in the district.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: The Cuban Club
2010 N Avenida Republica de Cuba, Tampa, Florida
A gathering place for Tampa’s Cuban community, the Cuban Club hosted dances, plays, and political meetings. Some say its echoing halls are still alive with the spirits of the past.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Ybor City Museum State Park
1818 E 9th Ave, , Tampa, Florida
Set in a former bakery, this museum tells the story of immigrant life and cigar-making in Ybor. The surrounding garden offers a peaceful pause amid the neighborhood’s bustle.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Italian Club of Tampa
1731 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
Founded in 1894, the grand hall of the Italian Club anchored Tampa’s Italian community with healthcare, celebrations, and solidarity. Its elegant design reflects the pride of its founders.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Jose Marti Park
1303 E 8th Ave, Tampa, Florida
A small but meaningful green space, this park is dedicated to Cuban independence hero José Martí. The park dedicated to him honors the ties between Ybor City and Cuba’s struggle for freedom.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
1711 East 11th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
This church has long served Ybor’s diverse immigrant communities, offering both worship and community connection. Its graceful façade speaks to the enduring role of faith in the neighborhood.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Centennial Park
1800 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
At the heart of Ybor, Centennial Park hosts markets, festivals, and community gatherings. This is a great place to pause and soak in the district’s local rhythm.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Columbia Restaurant
2117 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
Florida’s oldest restaurant, the Columbia, has been serving Cuban and Spanish dishes since 1905. The tilework and décor of the courtyard are as much a draw as its rich history and excellent food.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: La Segunda Bakery and Cafe
2512 North 15th Street, Tampa, FL 33605
Famous for its Cuban bread, La Segunda has been baking since 1915. Stop in to experience one of Tampa’s tastiest traditions.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: King Corona Cigars Cafe and Bar
1523 E 7th Ave, , Tampa, Florida
Part cigar lounge, part café, King Corona Cigars captures the spirit of Ybor’s cigar culture. Sip a coffee or smoke a hand-rolled cigar in a setting filled with local character.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: The Castle
2004 North 16th Street, Tampa, FL 33605
A gothic nightclub housed in a historic building, The Castle has been a Ybor institution for decades. Its dramatic décor and whispered ghost tales give it an otherworldly charm.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: L'Unione Italiana Cemetery
North 26th Street, Tampa, FL 33605
The historic L'Unione Italiana Cemetery tells the stories of Tampa’s Italian community through names, symbols, and monuments. Some visitors say its stillness carries an uncanny presence.
Duration: 5 minutes
Additional Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
- GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
- Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
- Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time
- Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
- Audio Guide
- App and Tour Download
Exclusions
- Smartphone (bring your own)
Redemption Instructions
IMPORTANT – YOUR ACCESS CODE IS: SPF143 - PLEASE READ STEPS BELOW - To access your tour, you’ll need the Drives & Detours App. We recommend downloading the tour in advance in case cell service is unreliable.
DOWNLOAD THE APP:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506
UNLOCK YOUR TOUR:
1. Open app, tap "Walking Tours", then "Historic Ybor City"
2. Enter Your Access Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
3. Tap "Download Tour" and wait until complete (1-2 minutes)
STARTING THE TOUR:
1. Go to start location in Centennial Park
2. Open app, select your tour
3. Tap “Start Tour”
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Tour is valid for 180 days, no need to reschedule
Questions? TEXT us at 619.324.9920
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Drives & Detours in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Discover the vibrant history of Tampa’s Ybor City, known as Cigar City, through a self-guided audio tour. This immersive experience takes you through a neighborhood rich in immigrant stories and cultural diversity, showcasing its evolution from a cigar-manufacturing hub to a thriving community. Explore the significance of mutual aid societies, savor the aroma of fresh Cuban bread, and uncover the stories behind historic landmarks. This tour highlights Ybor's unique blend of cultures and its ongoing commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future. — Self-guided audio tour allows you to explore at your own pace — Learn about the diverse immigrant communities that shaped Ybor City — Experience the culinary delights, including the famous Cuban sandwich — Engage with the rich history and vibrant culture of this historic district
Departure Point
- The meeting point is in front of the Tribute to Immigrants Memorial Statue on 9th Avenue. This is between Angel Oliva Senior Street and North 19th Street.
Return Details
- Columbia Restaurant is found on East 7th Avenue, between North 21st Street and North 22nd Street. It is across the road from the Columbia Centennial Museum.
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes - 2 hours
Languages Available
- Audio guide - English
- Printed guide - English
- Audio guide - Spanish
- Printed guide - Spanish
Points of Interest
Stop At: East 7th Avenue
East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL
Walk Ybor’s lively main street, where historic buildings, shops, and cafés capture the neighborhood’s unique energy. Brick sidewalks and wrought-iron balconies make every block a glimpse into the past.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Centro Asturiano De Tampa
1913 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, Florida
This stately clubhouse once offered healthcare, education, and social life to Tampa’s Asturian immigrants. The ornate design of the building reflects the pride and perseverance of the community.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Centro Ybor
1600 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
Today’s Centro Ybor blends modern entertainment with history, built on the site of one of Ybor’s earliest Spanish social clubs. It’s a reminder of how old and new meet in the district.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: The Cuban Club
2010 N Avenida Republica de Cuba, Tampa, Florida
A gathering place for Tampa’s Cuban community, the Cuban Club hosted dances, plays, and political meetings. Some say its echoing halls are still alive with the spirits of the past.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Ybor City Museum State Park
1818 E 9th Ave, , Tampa, Florida
Set in a former bakery, this museum tells the story of immigrant life and cigar-making in Ybor. The surrounding garden offers a peaceful pause amid the neighborhood’s bustle.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Italian Club of Tampa
1731 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
Founded in 1894, the grand hall of the Italian Club anchored Tampa’s Italian community with healthcare, celebrations, and solidarity. Its elegant design reflects the pride of its founders.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Jose Marti Park
1303 E 8th Ave, Tampa, Florida
A small but meaningful green space, this park is dedicated to Cuban independence hero José Martí. The park dedicated to him honors the ties between Ybor City and Cuba’s struggle for freedom.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
1711 East 11th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
This church has long served Ybor’s diverse immigrant communities, offering both worship and community connection. Its graceful façade speaks to the enduring role of faith in the neighborhood.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Centennial Park
1800 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
At the heart of Ybor, Centennial Park hosts markets, festivals, and community gatherings. This is a great place to pause and soak in the district’s local rhythm.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Columbia Restaurant
2117 East 7th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605
Florida’s oldest restaurant, the Columbia, has been serving Cuban and Spanish dishes since 1905. The tilework and décor of the courtyard are as much a draw as its rich history and excellent food.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: La Segunda Bakery and Cafe
2512 North 15th Street, Tampa, FL 33605
Famous for its Cuban bread, La Segunda has been baking since 1915. Stop in to experience one of Tampa’s tastiest traditions.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: King Corona Cigars Cafe and Bar
1523 E 7th Ave, , Tampa, Florida
Part cigar lounge, part café, King Corona Cigars captures the spirit of Ybor’s cigar culture. Sip a coffee or smoke a hand-rolled cigar in a setting filled with local character.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: The Castle
2004 North 16th Street, Tampa, FL 33605
A gothic nightclub housed in a historic building, The Castle has been a Ybor institution for decades. Its dramatic décor and whispered ghost tales give it an otherworldly charm.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: L'Unione Italiana Cemetery
North 26th Street, Tampa, FL 33605
The historic L'Unione Italiana Cemetery tells the stories of Tampa’s Italian community through names, symbols, and monuments. Some visitors say its stillness carries an uncanny presence.
Duration: 5 minutes
Additional Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
- GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
- Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
- Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time
- Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
- Audio Guide
- App and Tour Download
Exclusions
- Smartphone (bring your own)
Redemption Instructions
IMPORTANT – YOUR ACCESS CODE IS: SPF143 - PLEASE READ STEPS BELOW - To access your tour, you’ll need the Drives & Detours App. We recommend downloading the tour in advance in case cell service is unreliable.
DOWNLOAD THE APP:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506
UNLOCK YOUR TOUR:
1. Open app, tap "Walking Tours", then "Historic Ybor City"
2. Enter Your Access Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
3. Tap "Download Tour" and wait until complete (1-2 minutes)
STARTING THE TOUR:
1. Go to start location in Centennial Park
2. Open app, select your tour
3. Tap “Start Tour”
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Tour is valid for 180 days, no need to reschedule
Questions? TEXT us at 619.324.9920
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Drives & Detours in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Need To Know Info
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services. Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts. Learn about Strike-Through Pricing and SavingsCustomer Reviews
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Mark_R
Doing self guide was very convenient as I was able to move at the pace that suited me. It was a good walk and all flat and the guide was clear and provided very good information, details I would not have known if I’d just walked around aimlessly. 10/10 recommend.