Plant City Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Plant City, Florida with this comprehensive travel guide that includes all the best things to do, places to stay, and local tips and insights.


Introduction to Plant City

Plant City is a charming small town located in Hillsborough County in the Tampa Bay Area of Florida’s West Coast. Known as the “Winter Strawberry Capital of the World,” this quaint city is home to several strawberry farms, and an annual Strawberry Festival that attracts visitors from all over the nation. Apart from its famous strawberries, Plant City is also home to several historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and mouth-watering food. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway with small-town charm and a lot to see and do, Plant City is the perfect destination for you.

List of Places to Visit in Plant City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Plant City Historical Society and Train Depot Museum

The Plant City Historical Society & Train Depot Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of Plant City and its famous train depot. The museum is home to several artifacts and memorabilia, such as old train schedules, maps, photos, and much more. Open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

2. Bing Rooming House Museum

The Bing Rooming House Museum is a historic African-American boarding house that dates back to the 1920s. It was a popular place for musicians and performers during segregation. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing the history of the boarding house and its role in the community.

Natural Attractions of Plant City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park

Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park is a beautiful park featuring several hiking trails, a river, and a rope bridge to cross the river. The park is a perfect place for families and outdoor enthusiasts, and there’s even a picnic area.

2. Upper Tampa Bay Trail

The Upper Tampa Bay Trail is a 7.5-mile paved trail that’s perfect for biking, running, and walking. The trail runs through several parks and preserves, and the scenery is simply breathtaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Plant City

1. Lakeland Highlands Scrub Preserve

The Lakeland Highlands Scrub Preserve is a protected natural area that’s perfect for hiking and biking. It features several trails that offer stunning views of the preserve’s natural beauty, including scrub habitat, hardwood hammocks, and wetlands.

2. Fort Fraser Trail

The Fort Fraser Trail is a 7.6-mile trail that runs from Bartow to Lakeland. It’s a perfect place for biking and walking, and there are several benches along the way where you can stop and take in the scenery.

Best Things to Do in Plant City: Activities and Tours

1. Florida Strawberry Festival

The Florida Strawberry Festival is held annually in Plant City and draws visitors from all over the world. It features a variety of entertainment such as concerts, carnival rides, a parade, and of course, all things strawberry.

2. Keel and Curley Winery

Keel and Curley Winery is a perfect place for wine tastings, tours of the winery, and live music. They specialize in fruit wines and beers, and the blueberry wine is a must-try.

Week-Long Itinerary for Plant City

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Plant City Historical Society and Train Depot Museum, have lunch at Johnson BBQ, and explore the city’s historic downtown.
Day 2 Go on a guided tour of one of the strawberry farms in the area, have lunch at Parkesdale Farm Market, and spend the afternoon at Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park.
Day 3 Explore the natural beauty of Lakeland Highlands Scrub Preserve and have lunch at Cherry’s Bar and Grill.
Day 4 Take a day trip to nearby Tampa Bay for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Day 5 Visit the Bing Rooming House Museum, explore the area’s scenic drives, and have lunch at Fred’s Market Restaurant.
Day 6 Go on a guided tour of the Keel and Curley Winery, have lunch at 1916 Irish Pub, and spend the afternoon at Upper Tampa Bay Trail.
Day 7 Spend the day at the Florida Strawberry Festival, enjoying live music, carnival rides, and, of course, lots of strawberries.

Food and Drink Scene of Plant City

Must-Try Dishes

1. Ruben Cuban Sandwich

The Ruben Cuban Sandwich is a must-try dish in Plant City. It’s a mix of two famous sandwiches, the Cuban and the Ruben, with thinly sliced pastrami, ham, and Swiss cheese, layered between Cuban bread.

2. Strawberry Shortcake

No trip to Plant City is complete without trying some of the locally grown strawberries. Strawberry Shortcake is the perfect dessert, with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a flaky biscuit.

Local Beverages

1. The Blueberry Wine from Keel and Curley Winery

The Blueberry Wine from Keel and Curley Winery is a must-try for wine lovers. It’s a refreshing, light wine that pairs perfectly with the local cuisine.

2. The Strawberry Milkshake from Parkesdale Farm Market

The Strawberry Milkshake from Parkesdale Farm Market is a delicious treat that perfectly captures the essence of the area’s quintessential fruit.

Where to Stay in Plant City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

1. Hampton Inn Plant City

Hampton Inn Plant City offers comfortable rooms and convenient amenities such as a fitness center, pool, and complimentary breakfast.

2. Knights Inn Plant City

Knights Inn Plant City offers affordable accommodations with easy access to the area’s attractions.

What to Buy in Plant City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

1. Locally grown strawberries

Don’t leave Plant City without taking home some locally grown strawberries. Look for them at roadside stands or the farmers’ market.

2. Sunflowers

Plant City is famous for its sunflowers. Take some home and brighten up any room with their vibrant colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Plant City

Plant City is a small town with strong family values and a friendly community. The locals take pride in their heritage and celebrate it with events such as the Strawberry Festival and the Bing Rooming House Museum.

Best Time to Visit Plant City

The best time to visit Plant City is from late February to early March when the Strawberry Festival is in full swing. The weather is mild, and the skies are clear, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Plant City

Do:

  • Do try some of the locally grown strawberries and delicious local cuisine.
  • Do take the time to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the parks and preserves.
  • Do participate in the local culture and attend events such as the Strawberry Festival.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural beauty of the area.
  • Don’t forget to respect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Plant City

Plant City is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take basic safety precautions such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables in sight.

Health in Plant City

Visitors should drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and protect themselves from mosquito bites. If you’re allergic to strawberries, be sure to avoid them.

Getting to Plant City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Plant City

Tampa International Airport is the closest airport to Plant City, located approximately 35 miles west.

Bus Stations Near Plant City

Greyhound Bus Station is located in downtown Tampa, approximately 25 miles west of Plant City.

Other Options

Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi from the airport or bus station to Plant City.

How to Get Around in Plant City

Visitors can get around Plant City by car, bicycle, or on foot. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, and taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Plant City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

1. Tampa

Tampa Bay is just a short drive from Plant City and offers visitors plenty to see and do, including Busch Gardens, the Tampa Riverwalk, and the Florida Aquarium.

2. Orlando

Orlando, home to Disney World and Universal Studios, is located approximately 90 miles east of Plant City and makes for a great day trip.

Conclusion

Plant City is a charming small town with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or just relaxing with some delicious food and wine, Plant City has something for everyone. Plan your trip today, and fall in love with this hidden gem of Florida’s West Coast.

City hall City hall