Hillsborough County Travel Guide

Discover Hillsborough County, Florida with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Hillsborough County

Located in the Tampa Bay Area on Florida’s West Coast, Hillsborough County is a vibrant destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions. The county encompasses Tampa, the largest city in the region, and several smaller towns and communities that offer unique experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Hillsborough County

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there are many attractions in Hillsborough County to discover. The following is a list of some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tampa Museum of Art: Featuring contemporary and classical art, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
  • Henry B. Plant Museum: Located on the campus of the University of Tampa, this museum is housed in a 19th-century hotel and showcases the history of the region.
  • Ybor City Museum State Park: Learn about the history of this immigrant community and the cigar industry that made it famous.
  • Tampa Bay History Center: This museum explores the history and culture of Tampa Bay through interactive exhibits and displays.

Natural Attractions of Hillsborough County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hillsborough River State Park: This park is home to several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a refreshing swimming hole.
  • Alafia River State Park: Known for its mountain biking trails, this park also boasts scenic views and opportunities for fishing and kayaking.
  • Apollo Beach: Relax on the white sand beach and spot manatees in the nearby waters.
  • Lettuce Lake Regional Park: Enjoy a canoe or kayak ride through the cypress swamp, or hike the scenic trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hillsborough County

For outdoor enthusiasts, Hillsborough County offers a diverse range of hiking and biking trails. Some of the best routes include:

  • Withlacoochee State Trail: This 46-mile trail winds through scenic areas and wildlife habitats.
  • Bayshore Boulevard: This urban path offers stunning views of Tampa Bay and the downtown skyline.
  • Upper Tampa Bay Trail: This 7.5-mile trail crosses through wetlands and forests and is perfect for birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Hillsborough County: Activities and Tours

In addition to the attractions listed above, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Hillsborough County, such as:

  • Tampa Riverwalk: Stroll along the scenic riverfront and enjoy shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
  • Cruise Tampa Bay: Take a scenic boat tour of Tampa Bay and catch a glimpse of dolphins and other marine life.
  • Big Cat Rescue: Observe endangered big cats up close and learn about conservation efforts.
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: This amusement park features thrilling rides and animal exhibits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hillsborough County

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Hillsborough County, consider the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore Tampa’s cultural attractions such as the Tampa Museum of Art, Henry B. Plant Museum, and Ybor City.
  • Day 2: Take a walking tour of downtown Tampa and visit the Tampa Theatre and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.
  • Day 3: Spend the day at one of the area’s beautiful beaches such as Apollo Beach or Clearwater Beach.
  • Day 4: Go kayaking or hiking at Lettuce Lake Regional Park or Hillsborough River State Park.
  • Day 5: Bike the Tampa Riverwalk and visit the Florida Aquarium and Tampa Bay History Center.
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
  • Day 7: Visit Big Cat Rescue and shop for souvenirs in Ybor City.

Food and Drink Scene of Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County’s food and drink scene is a melting pot of diverse cuisines, with influences from Latin America, the Caribbean, and the southern United States. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuban Sandwich: A Tampa Bay classic! This sandwich is made with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
  • Grouper Sandwich: Fresh grouper is a local seafood specialty and is often served on a sandwich with lettuce and tomato.
  • Conch Fritters: A Caribbean-inspired dish made with conch meat and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Cigar City Brewing: This local brewery is known for its unique, Tampa-inspired beer flavors.
  • Freshly squeezed orange juice: Florida is famous for its oranges, so be sure to try a glass of freshly squeezed juice.
  • Cuban Coffee: A strong, sweet espresso drink made with sugar and served in small cups.

Where to Stay in Hillsborough County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or a budget-friendly option, Hillsborough County has a variety of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to choose from. Some of the best options include:

  • The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club: This historic hotel offers a luxurious experience with stunning views of Tampa Bay.
  • Epicurean Hotel: This boutique hotel in Tampa’s Hyde Park neighborhood features culinary-inspired decor and amenities.
  • Hostelling International Tampa: For budget-conscious travelers, this hostel offers clean, comfortable accommodations in the heart of downtown Tampa.

What to Buy in Hillsborough County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Hillsborough County, consider the following:

  • Cigars: Ybor City is known for its fine hand-rolled cigars.
  • Orange Marmalade: Made from fresh Florida oranges, this spread makes a tasty souvenir.
  • Key Lime Pie: Though not originally from Hillsborough County, this iconic Florida dessert is a must-try.

Local Culture and Customs of Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Native American, Spanish, and Cuban cultures. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting cultural or religious sites.
  • Be mindful of local laws and regulations, particularly when drinking alcohol or smoking.
  • Be aware of the Cuban influence in the region and try some of the delicious Cuban food and coffee.

Best Time to Visit Hillsborough County

The best time to visit Hillsborough County is from March to May when temperatures are mild, and there are fewer crowds. The summer months can be hot and humid, but they also offer some of the best outdoor activities and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hillsborough County

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Hillsborough County, consider these do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Try the local food and beverages.
  • Respect local customs and cultures.
  • Take precautions against the hot Florida sun.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural or cultural sites.
  • Ignore warnings about wildlife and natural hazards.
  • Drink excessively or engage in risky behavior.

Safety and Health

Hillsborough County is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take common-sense precautions such as locking car doors and staying in well-lit areas at night. As with any destination, travelers should also be mindful of their health and take proper precautions such as using sunscreen and staying hydrated in the hot Florida sun.

Getting to Hillsborough County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hillsborough County can be easily accessed via several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Hillsborough County

  • Tampa International Airport: Located in the heart of Tampa and offering domestic and international flights.
  • St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport: Located just outside Tampa and offering flights to several domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Hillsborough County

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in downtown Tampa and offering bus service to several destinations throughout the United States.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Several Amtrak routes stop in Tampa each day, offering rail service to several destinations throughout the country.
  • Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport: Located approximately an hour south of Tampa and offering flights to several domestic destinations.

How to Get Around in Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County offers several transportation options for getting around, including:

  • Car: Renting a car is a popular option for travelers, and there are several rental agencies located at airports and throughout the county.
  • Bus: HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) offers bus service throughout the county and to neighboring areas.
  • Trolley: Tampa’s historic streetcars offer a fun and unique way to explore downtown Tampa and Ybor City.

Where to Go Next from Hillsborough County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time to explore Florida’s Gulf Coast, consider visiting the following nearby destinations:

  • St. Petersburg: Just across Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg is known for its beautiful beaches, arts scene, and museums.
  • Clearwater: A popular beach town with white sand beaches and water sports activities.
  • Sarasota: A cultural center with galleries, museums, and the beaches on the Gulf Coast.

Conclusion

Hillsborough County is a destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions to delicious cuisine. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of Florida.



    Brandon
    Plant City
    Tampa