Located on Florida's Gulf Coast, Tampa is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning coastal landscapes, and a dynamic cultural scene. Known for its diversity, warm climate, and welcoming atmosphere, Tampa offers a wide range of activities for all visitors, including those who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters. From historical sites to modern attractions, the city ensures accessibility in many of its public spaces, making it an ideal destination for tourists with mobility issues. In this guide, we will explore Tampa's history, attractions, and services, with a special focus on accessibility.
Brief History of Tampa
Tampa’s history dates back thousands of years, originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Tocobaga. The city began to take shape in the 19th century when Spanish explorers arrived in the region. Tampa’s strategic location and access to the Gulf of Mexico made it an important port city, especially after the U.S. Civil War. In 1883, the discovery of a phosphate mine boosted its economic growth, and later, the tobacco industry, with the creation of the historic Ybor City, cemented its significance.
Throughout the 20th century, Tampa evolved into a cultural and economic hub in the region, known for its Cuban, Spanish, and Italian heritage. The city also became an important military center, especially during World War II.
Today, Tampa is a modern metropolis that balances its rich history with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, attracting tourists from around the world.
Tampa offers many activities and places accessible for people with reduced mobility. Below, we present some of the best options, and later, we will explore some of them in more detail.
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens is one of Florida’s most famous theme parks, known for its roller coasters, shows, and animal habitats. The park is fully adapted for people using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. It has ramps and accessible pathways in most areas of the park. Additionally, it features a special program called the Ride Accessibility Program (RAP), which helps visitors with disabilities enjoy the attractions safely. There are also accessible restrooms, rest areas, and scooters and wheelchairs available for rent at the entrance.
- Tip: If you’re planning a visit, it’s advisable to arrive early and request the RAP at the entrance to facilitate access to the attractions.
- Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 4-kilometer pathway that follows the edge of the Hillsborough River. It’s an ideal place for a stroll, offering stunning views of the city skyline and several points of interest, such as museums and parks. Best of all, the Riverwalk is fully accessible, with a smooth, wide surface suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Along the walkway, you’ll find benches to rest, as well as ramps that provide access to other points along the route. There are also accessible restrooms in nearby areas, ensuring a comfortable experience.
- Tip: It’s a great spot for watching sunsets and taking a break while enjoying the river breeze.
- Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)
MOSI is one of Tampa’s most interactive museums, ideal for visitors of all ages. The museum is designed to be accessible for people with reduced mobility. It has elevators, ramps, and wide pathways that make it easy to navigate all its exhibits. It also has adapted restrooms and accessible seating in rest areas.
Among its most popular exhibits are the IMAX Theater, the planetarium, and the interactive science and technology experiences.
- Tip: If you’re interested in science and technology, MOSI offers interactive activities that are both accessible and educational.
- Ybor City
Ybor City is Tampa’s historic Cuban district, known for its rich history and vibrant nightlife. Despite some cobblestone streets that may present a challenge for wheelchairs, many areas of Ybor City have been adapted to ensure accessibility. The main museums, shops, and restaurants have ramps and wide entrances.
Among the highlights is the Ybor City Museum State Park, where you can learn about the history of Cuban, Spanish, and Italian immigrants who shaped the neighborhood. Additionally, Ybor City is famous for its cigar factories and restaurants serving traditional Cuban cuisine.
Tips for Tourists with Reduced Mobility
Tampa is working to become an increasingly inclusive city. Here are some tips for tourists visiting the city in a wheelchair or with reduced mobility:
- Accessible Public Transportation: Tampa has accessible buses operated by HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit), all equipped with ramps and reserved seating for people with disabilities. Additionally, the streetcar connecting downtown Tampa with Ybor City is also accessible.
- Accessible Taxis: Tampa has several taxi companies offering adapted vehicles. It is advisable to book in advance, as accessible taxis may be limited in number.
- Accessible Accommodation: Most hotels in the Tampa area offer rooms adapted for people with reduced mobility, with spacious bathrooms and barrier-free access. Some recommended options include the Marriott Tampa Water Street, The Westin Tampa Waterside, and Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa/Ybor City.
In summary, Tampa is a dynamic and welcoming city, with a wide range of accessible activities for people with reduced mobility. From its rich history in Ybor City to the modern attractions of Busch Gardens and the Riverwalk, Tampa ensures that all tourists, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, can fully enjoy the city. With its combination of accessibility, culture, and history, Tampa stands out as an inclusive destination on Florida’s coast.
- Tourist Information Office at Tampa International Airport
Tampa International Airport has a tourist information desk that provides maps, recommendations on local attractions, events, and assistance in finding accessible transportation. The airport is fully designed for accessibility, including wheelchair rentals, adapted restrooms, and barrier-free routes for easy access to all areas.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and barrier-free pathways for wheelchair users.
- Adapted restrooms: Available in all main areas of the airport.
- Contact information:
- Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center
Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, the Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center is ideal for obtaining information on local attractions, events, and restaurants. The center is designed to be accessible for people with reduced mobility, featuring wide entrances and adapted restrooms.
- Accessibility: Accessible routes for wheelchair users, with ramps and clear areas to facilitate movement.
- Adapted restrooms: Available on-site.
- Contact information:
- Visit Tampa Bay – Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Visit Tampa Bay office provides essential information for tourists, including recommendations on accessible attractions and accommodations. They can also help plan itineraries adapted for people with reduced mobility.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible, with services adapted for wheelchair users.
- Adapted restrooms: Available on-site.
- Contact information:
- Tampa Bay History Center – Tourist Information Desk
Inside the Tampa Bay History Center, there is a tourist information desk that provides details about local history and recommendations for nearby attractions. The center is fully accessible, with elevators and ramps, allowing barrier-free access for everyone.
- Accessibility: Features ramps, elevators, and wide pathways.
- Adapted restrooms: Fully accessible.
- Contact information:
Tampa Bay CityPASS
Tampa offers a tourist pass called the Tampa Bay CityPASS, which allows visitors to access five of the city's top attractions at a significant discount. This pass is ideal for those planning to explore multiple attractions during their visit, as it offers savings of up to 54% on regular admission fees.
What does the Tampa Bay CityPASS include?
The pass includes entry to the following attractions:
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: One of the region's largest theme parks, known for its roller coasters and animal habitats.
- The Florida Aquarium: A renowned aquarium housing a variety of marine species and offering interactive exhibits.
- ZooTampa at Lowry Park: A zoo featuring a wide range of species and educational programs.
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Home to rescued animals like dolphins and sea turtles.
- Choice between:
- Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) or
- The Tropics Boat Tours (dolphin or sunset cruise).
Prices
- Adults (12+): $144 USD
- Children (3-11): $129 USD
The pass is valid for 9 consecutive days from the first visit to one of the attractions, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Is it accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Most of the attractions included in the CityPASS are adapted for people with reduced mobility:
- Busch Gardens and The Florida Aquarium have accessible routes, wheelchair rentals, and adapted restrooms.
- ZooTampa also offers full access for wheelchair and scooter users, with accessible restrooms and suitable pathways.
While the CityPASS does not specifically cover parking at each attraction, most facilities have accessible parking areas.
Where to buy it?
You can purchase the CityPASS online and receive the tickets by email or download them directly to your mobile device. This digital format is convenient and easy to use when arriving at each attraction.
More information and purchase on the official website: https://es.citypass.com
Tampa International Airport (TPA):
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is one of the most accessible airports in Florida and is committed to providing an inclusive service for all its passengers. If you travel in a wheelchair or use a mobility scooter, TPA offers a wide range of services and facilities designed to make your experience comfortable and barrier-free.
Entrances and Exits
The airport’s entrances and exits are fully adapted for people with reduced mobility. Automatic doors and ramps allow easy and safe access to both arrivals and departures areas. The airport is divided into several terminals, all connected by wheelchair-accessible hallways and pathways.
Accessible Parking
TPA has reserved parking areas for people with reduced mobility in all of its parking facilities (short-term and long-term). These spaces are located near elevators and ramps, allowing direct access to the terminals. Additionally, the airport offers a shuttle service with accessible buses to move between remote parking areas and the terminals.
Special Assistance
The airport provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility from the moment they arrive. You can request assistance to be accompanied by staff from the parking lot or airport entrance to the boarding gate. This service must be requested in advance through the airline or by contacting the airport directly. Furthermore, TPA staff is trained to help passengers pass through security checkpoints quickly and safely.
Adapted Restrooms
The airport has fully adapted restrooms in all terminals and levels. These restrooms offer ample space for maneuvering wheelchairs, support bars, and sinks at a height suitable for people with reduced mobility. There are also family restrooms available, which can be helpful for passengers requiring additional assistance.
Information and Help Desks
There are several information and help desks throughout the airport, all of which are accessible to wheelchair users. At these counters, you can obtain maps, information about boarding gates, flight schedules, and receive additional assistance if necessary.
Waiting Areas
TPA’s waiting areas are designed to be accessible. Seats are arranged to allow wheelchair users to sit comfortably next to their companions. There are also accessible-height power outlets for charging mobile devices. Some VIP lounges within the airport, such as the American Airlines Admirals Club, also offer access for people with reduced mobility, providing a more comfortable environment while waiting for your flight.
Pet Relief and Service Areas
For passengers with service animals, the airport offers several designated areas for pets to relieve themselves. These areas are adapted for easy access by wheelchair users.
Airport Transportation
SkyConnect
The airport has a train system called SkyConnect, which connects the terminals with the economy parking lot. This train is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility, with elevators and ramps allowing easy access to the train cars.
Restaurants and Shops
All restaurants and shops within the airport are accessible for wheelchair users. Restaurant tables are arranged to allow easy movement, and the shops have wide aisles to ensure comfortable navigation. Additionally, staff in each establishment are trained to assist people with special needs.
Tampa Airport Contact Information
If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact the airport through the following means:
- Address: 4100 George J. Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA
- Phone: (+1) 813-870-8700
- Email: TPAwebmaster@tampaairport.com
- Website: www.tampaairport.com
Tampa International Airport is designed to ensure that all passengers, regardless of their mobility needs, enjoy a safe and comfortable travel experience.
Transport from the Airport to Downtown
If you are traveling from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to downtown Tampa and have reduced mobility, there are several accessible transportation options. Below are the available options, including buses, adapted taxis, and other transportation services.
- Public Buses (HART)
Tampa's public transportation network, known as HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit), offers accessible services on most of its buses, which are equipped with ramps and space for wheelchairs.
- Line 30: This is the main bus route connecting the airport to downtown Tampa.
- Frequency: Approximately every 30 minutes.
- Travel time: Around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Fare: $2.00 USD per trip.
- Accessibility: All HART buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and space for mobility devices.
- HART Contact Information:
- Adapted Taxi
Tampa offers several taxi services with vehicles adapted for people with reduced mobility. These taxis have ramps and enough space to accommodate wheelchairs. It is recommended to book in advance.
- Yellow Cab of Tampa:
- United Cab of Tampa:
- Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)
Both rideshare platforms, Uber and Lyft, offer accessible services with adapted vehicles under the Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles) option. Wait times may vary, but it is possible to book in advance through their mobile apps.
- Uber WAV:
- Accessibility: Vehicles with ramps and space for wheelchairs.
- Fares: Vary based on demand, but the trip from the airport to downtown Tampa typically costs between $20-$30 USD.
- Lyft Access Mode:
- Similar to Uber WAV, this option offers accessible vehicles.
- Private Transportation (Shuttles)
Some private companies offer accessible transportation services from the airport. These services usually come at a higher cost but provide convenience and personalized assistance.
Additional Tips:
- Parking: If you are traveling in your own car or a rental, the airport has parking lots with reserved spaces for people with reduced mobility. These spaces are located near the main entrances and connected by ramps and elevators.
With all these accessible options, you can comfortably travel from Tampa International Airport to the city center.
Port:
The Tampa Cruise Port, located at Port Tampa Bay, is a bustling port offering services for several cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. For passengers with reduced mobility, the port provides a range of services and adapted access to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience. Below are all the necessary details, considering a person in a wheelchair or with reduced mobility.
Accessibility at the Port of Tampa
- Port Access:
- The Tampa cruise terminals are fully adapted for people with reduced mobility. The terminal entrances are equipped with ramps and automatic doors to facilitate access for wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
- The sidewalks around the terminals and routes to the entrances are level and paved, ensuring easy movement.
- Accessible Parking:
- Port Tampa Bay offers accessible parking near the cruise terminals. These spaces are reserved for people with reduced mobility and are located close to elevators and access ramps.
- Additionally, the port provides valet parking services, where drivers can assist passengers with reduced mobility by getting as close as possible to the building entrance.
- Adapted Restrooms:
- All cruise terminals have accessible restrooms, designed with wide doors, support bars, and enough space to facilitate wheelchair movement.
- Assistance with Boarding:
- Cruise lines operating at the Port of Tampa usually offer assistance to passengers with reduced mobility during the boarding and disembarking process. This includes help with luggage, the use of elevators to avoid stairs, and assistance to board the ship safely.
- Cruise companies also allow the request of onboard wheelchairs (it is recommended to contact the cruise line in advance to reserve this service).
- Adapted Transportation:
- If you need transportation to or from the port, Tampa offers accessible taxis and rideshare services like Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles) and Yellow Cab. These vehicles are equipped with ramps and sufficient space for wheelchairs.
- The port is also well-connected to the HART bus service, which is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Cruise Lines and Accessible Services
- Carnival Cruise Line:
- This cruise line is committed to accessibility. Its ships offer adapted cabins, accessible restrooms, and assistance during boarding and disembarking for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Royal Caribbean:
- Royal Caribbean provides accessibility services with adapted cabins, accessible common areas, and assistance during boarding. They also offer accessible shore excursions at certain destinations.
- Norwegian Cruise Line:
- NCL also has adapted cabins and assistance services. Additionally, most public areas on their ships are accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get to the Tampa Cruise Port with Accessible Public Transport
- HART Buses: Tampa's HART bus system offers several lines connecting downtown Tampa with the port. All buses are equipped with automatic ramps and have reserved spaces for wheelchairs. You can use lines 8 and 19, which will take you near the port.
- TECO Line Streetcar: The TECO Line Streetcar is another accessible option. This historic streetcar connects downtown Tampa with the Channelside area, where the port is located. It is fully adapted for people with reduced mobility.
Tampa Cruise Port Contact Information
- Address: Port Tampa Bay, 1101 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
- Phone: (+1) 813-905-7678
- Email: info@porttb.com
- Website: https://www.porttb.com
The Tampa Cruise Port is a modern and well-adapted facility for people with reduced mobility. From the access points and restrooms to parking and boarding, all facilities are designed to offer a comfortable, barrier-free experience for all passengers.
Transportation within the City
Getting around the city of Tampa is accessible and convenient for people with reduced mobility thanks to several adapted transportation options. Here are the different options available within the city:
- Public Buses (HART)
Tampa’s bus network, HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit), offers accessible buses equipped with ramps and space for wheelchairs. HART is one of the best options for getting around the city, with routes that connect most neighborhoods and major tourist spots.
- Accessibility: All HART buses have automatic ramps and reserved areas for wheelchairs.
- Main Routes:
- Line 1: Connects downtown Tampa with various shopping areas.
- Line 30: Connects Tampa International Airport with downtown.
- Line 8: Connects downtown Tampa with Ybor City, a historic neighborhood.
- Fare: $2.00 per trip or $4.00 for a daily pass.
- HART Contact Information:
- Tampa Historic Streetcar (TECO Line Streetcar)
The TECO Line Streetcar is a historic streetcar that connects downtown Tampa with Ybor City. This streetcar is a unique and accessible way to explore key areas of the city.
- Accessibility: All streetcar cars are adapted for wheelchair users, with ramps at the stations.
- Routes: The main line connects downtown Tampa, the Channel District, and Ybor City.
- Fare: Free for all users.
- Operating Hours: The service runs from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (with variations depending on the day).
- Website: www.tecolinestreetcar.org
- Adapted Taxis
Tampa has several taxi services adapted for people with reduced mobility. These taxis are equipped with ramps and sufficient space for wheelchairs.
- Yellow Cab of Tampa:
- United Cab of Tampa:
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Ridesharing platforms such as Uber and Lyft offer adapted services for people with reduced mobility. The Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles) option and Lyft Access Mode are ideal for moving around Tampa without complications.
- Uber WAV:
- Vehicles with ramps and space for wheelchairs.
- Prices vary depending on demand, but typically range between $10 and $25 within the Tampa metropolitan area.
- Lyft Access Mode:
- Similar to Uber WAV, offering accessible vehicles on demand.
- Paratransit Transportation Services (HARTPlus)
HARTPlus is an on-demand transportation service for people with disabilities who cannot use regular HART buses. This service offers door-to-door transportation and is available within the Tampa metropolitan area.
- Requirements: You must qualify through an application and certification process.
- Fare: Generally $4.00 per trip.
- Phone: (+1) 813-254-4278
- Website: HARTPlus Paratransit
- Adapted Public Bicycles
Coast Bike Share, Tampa’s public bike-sharing service, offers some accessible bicycles adapted for people with reduced mobility. Although a less common option, if you’re interested in exploring by bike, you can check with Coast Bike Share for the availability of adapted bicycles.
Tampa and its surroundings offer several accessible beaches for people with reduced mobility. Below are some of the most important ones, with information about adapted access points, assistance services, restrooms, and how to get there via accessible public transportation from downtown.
Ben T. Davis Beach
Ben T. Davis Beach is one of the closest beaches to downtown Tampa and is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and sunsets. The beach is located along the Courtney Campbell Causeway and is popular with both locals and tourists.
- Accessible access: The beach has ramps from the parking lot to the sand, allowing easy access for people in wheelchairs. Paved pathways make it easier to move around the main areas.
- Assistance services: While there is no direct assistance for entering the water, park staff can help with logistics on the beach.
- Adapted restrooms: Nearby restrooms and changing facilities are adapted for people with reduced mobility, with wide doors and support bars.
- Special equipment: Ben T. Davis Beach does not offer beach wheelchairs, but access to the sand is easy.
- How to get there by public transport:
- HART Bus: Line 30 connects downtown Tampa to Ben T. Davis Beach. This line has buses adapted for wheelchair users.
- Transport accessibility: Buses are equipped with ramps and have reserved spaces for wheelchairs.
Clearwater Beach
Located about 30-40 minutes by car from Tampa, Clearwater Beach is one of the region’s most famous beaches and has numerous accessible facilities.
- Accessible access: Clearwater Beach has ramps that lead from the boardwalk to the beach. Additionally, there are wooden walkways to make it easier for wheelchair users to access the beach.
- Assistance services: Clearwater Beach has staff available to help in certain areas and provide information about accessibility.
- Adapted restrooms: The beach has fully accessible restrooms and changing facilities, with spacious areas, support bars, and accessible showers.
- Special equipment: In the public beach area, free beach wheelchairs are available (though it is recommended to reserve in advance), allowing people with reduced mobility to enjoy the water.
- How to get there by public transport:
- HART Bus Line 60LX: From downtown Tampa, you can take Line 60LX to Clearwater Beach. The buses are accessible and equipped with ramps.
- PSTA Buses: Once in Clearwater, the local PSTA transport network offers accessible buses that connect various parts of the beach.
Davis Islands Beach
Davis Islands Beach is a small, quiet beach located near downtown Tampa. It is popular with locals and has a relaxed atmosphere.
- Accessible access: Although the beach is small, it has paved access to reach the sandy area and the water, allowing people in wheelchairs to easily get close.
- Assistance services: There is no formal assistance service, but the area is well-equipped for visitors with special needs.
- Adapted restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available at the entrance to the beach.
- Special equipment: No beach wheelchairs or special equipment are available, but access to the beach in a wheelchair is easy.
- How to get there by public transport:
- HART Bus Line 19: From downtown Tampa, you can take Line 19 to Davis Islands. All HART buses are accessible.
Sand Key Park (Clearwater)
Sand Key Park is located south of Clearwater Beach and is another excellent option for visitors seeking an accessible beach.
- Accessible access: The beach has ramps and accessible walkways that allow wheelchair users to easily move between the parking lot, picnic areas, and the beach.
- Assistance services: Sand Key Park has staff available to assist people with reduced mobility and provide information about access.
- Adapted restrooms: Accessible restrooms and showers are available at the park’s entrance and near the beach.
- Special equipment: Sand Key Park offers free beach wheelchairs for visitors who want to go into the water. It is recommended to call in advance to confirm availability.
- How to get there by public transport:
- HART Bus: From Tampa, you can reach Clearwater Beach via Line 60LX, then take an accessible taxi or a PSTA bus to Sand Key Park.
Conclusion
Tampa and its surroundings offer several accessible beaches for people with reduced mobility, each with adapted facilities and services to ensure a full beach day experience. From Ben T. Davis Beach to Clearwater Beach, all of these beaches offer accessible restrooms, walkways, and in some cases, beach wheelchairs to make accessing the water comfortable and safe for everyone.
An Accessible Tour of Ybor City in a Wheelchair
Ybor City is a fascinating destination for visitors to Tampa, filled with history, Cuban culture, and vibrant urban life. Below, I propose a tour specifically designed for someone using a wheelchair. All the points mentioned in this tour are accessible, and the routes are designed to ensure a comfortable stroll through this iconic neighborhood.
- Start of the Tour: TECO Line Streetcar
Begin your visit to Ybor City by taking the TECO Line Streetcar, which is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility. This streetcar takes you directly to the heart of Ybor from downtown Tampa and other nearby areas, with stops at key locations in Ybor. From here, you can comfortably move around the neighborhood.
- Accessibility: The streetcar has ramps and reserved spaces for wheelchairs.
- Recommended Stop: Get off at the Centro Ybor station, the ideal starting point for your walking tour.
Once here, we recommend a visit to Centro Ybor, located in the heart of Ybor City. Centro Ybor is a mix of entertainment, shops, and restaurants. This complex is the perfect place to explore some local shops and enjoy a meal before starting your historical tour.
- Things to do: Explore local craft shops, visit a bookstore, or simply enjoy a drink at one of the cafés.
- Accessibility: The entire complex has ramps and elevators for moving between levels, and the restaurants and shops are designed with wide doors and clear spaces to facilitate mobility.
From here, you can continue the tour to the Ybor City Museum State Park, which tells the story of how this neighborhood was founded by immigrants, primarily Cuban, Spanish, and Italian. The museum is located in a former bakery and offers exhibits highlighting the tobacco industry that shaped Ybor’s growth.
- Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible, with ramps at the entrance and adapted restrooms. The exhibits are also easy to access without obstacles.
- What to see: The museum features an interesting display on the history of cigar making and life in the workers’ "casitas."
After the museum, take a stroll through the nearby José Martí Park, a small park honoring Cuban hero José Martí, a key figure in Cuba’s independence. The park is a peaceful place where you can relax for a while, surrounded by the rich history that characterizes Ybor.
- Accessibility: The park is accessible, with paved paths that are easy to navigate in a wheelchair.
- Things to do: Enjoy an outdoor break and learn about the historical relationship between Ybor City and Cuba.
No visit to Ybor City would be complete without dining at the famous Columbia Restaurant, the oldest restaurant in Florida, founded in 1905. It is known for its Cuban-Spanish cuisine and flamenco show. The food is spectacular, and the place is full of history.
- Accessibility: Columbia has adapted entrances and enough space between tables to maneuver with a wheelchair. They also have accessible restrooms.
- Recommended Dishes: Try the Cuban sandwich or the famous 1905 Salad.
After lunch, take a stroll along the iconic 7th Avenue, the heart of Ybor City. This is the perfect place to admire the historic architecture and enjoy the neighborhood’s atmosphere, with its antique lampposts, cigar shops, and cafés.
- Accessibility: 7th Avenue is a main street with wide, level sidewalks, ideal for moving in a wheelchair. Many shops and cafés along this street also have accessible entrances.
- What to see: Observe the historic buildings dating back to the 19th century and pass by traditional cigar shops.
Lastly, we recommend visiting one of the cigar factories. Ybor City is famous for its cigar factories, many of which are still operating today. If you're interested, you can visit one of the accessible cigar shops to see how cigars are hand-rolled and maybe even take one home as a souvenir.
- Accessibility: Several of the factories and shops have barrier-free access.
- Things to do: Learn about the art of cigar making and purchase local cigars.
End your tour at the Tampa Bay Brewing Company, a craft brewery located in the heart of Ybor. It’s an excellent place to relax with a local beer after a day full of history.
- Accessibility: The brewery is accessible and has adapted restrooms.
- Things to do: Try a local craft beer and relax in a friendly atmosphere
- Ulele
Ulele is a very popular restaurant in Tampa that offers cuisine inspired by local ingredients and the history of Native Americans. It is located along the riverbank and provides spectacular views.
- Accessibility: Ulele is fully accessible, with ramps to access the restaurant and spacious areas between tables.
- Adapted Restrooms: The restrooms are fully accessible and equipped with support bars.
- Signature Dish: One of its most famous dishes is the Ulele Barbacoa Ribs, perfectly cooked ribs with a special barbecue sauce.
- Contact Information:
- Address: 1810 N Highland Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
- Phone: (+1) 813-999-4952
- Email: info@ulele.com
- Website: www.ulele.com
- The Columbia Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant is the oldest restaurant in Florida and is famous for its Cuban-Spanish cuisine. It is located in the historic Ybor City neighborhood and offers a setting rich in history.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible, with ramps at the entrance and adequate space for wheelchairs.
- Adapted Restrooms: The restrooms are equipped for people with reduced mobility, with spacious areas and support bars.
- Signature Dish: Their 1905 Salad is a signature recipe, prepared tableside, and their Cuban sandwich is among the best in the area.
- Contact Information:
- Address: 2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
- Phone: (+1) 813-248-4961
- Email: info@columbiarestaurant.com
- Website: www.columbiarestaurant.com
- Oxford Exchange
Oxford Exchange is a modern and elegant restaurant offering a brunch and lunch menu that combines local ingredients with European touches. The space also includes a bookstore and a design goods store.
- Accessibility: The restaurant is adapted for people with reduced mobility, with barrier-free access and ample space between tables.
- Adapted Restrooms: It has well-equipped, adapted restrooms for wheelchair users.
- Signature Dish: The Chicken Burger is one of the most recommended dishes, served with fries and a special sauce.
- Contact Information:
- Address: 420 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606
- Phone: (+1) 813-253-0222
- Email: info@oxfordexchange.com
- Website: www.oxfordexchange.com
On Swann
On Swann is a contemporary restaurant located in the Hyde Park area that offers seasonal American cuisine. The atmosphere is relaxed yet elegant, making it ideal for both casual and formal dining.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible, with ramps at the entrance and an interior design that makes it easy to move around in a wheelchair.
- Adapted Restrooms: The restrooms are accessible and equipped with adapted facilities.
- Signature Dish: One of the favorites is the Steak Frites, a juicy steak with crispy fries and chimichurri sauce.
- Contact Information:
- Address: 1501 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
- Phone: (+1) 813-251-0110
- Email: info@onswann.com
- Website: www.onswann.com
