Zip Code Map Of Hillsborough County Travel Guide
Introduction
Located in the heart of Florida, Hillsborough County is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this place has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. So, get ready to explore the Zip Code Map of Hillsborough County and discover its hidden treasures.
Top Attractions
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a must-visit attraction for adventure seekers and animal lovers. This 335-acre theme park features thrilling roller coasters, live shows, and up-close animal encounters. You can also enjoy the Serengeti Safari, where you’ll get a chance to see giraffes, zebras, and other African animals up close.
Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is a scenic walkway that stretches 2.6 miles along the Hillsborough River. This waterfront promenade features stunning views of the city skyline, parks, museums, and restaurants. You can also rent a bike, take a guided tour, or enjoy a sunset cruise along the river.
Hidden Gems
Ybor City
Ybor City is a historic neighborhood in Tampa that’s known for its vibrant nightlife, Cuban cuisine, and cigar factories. This colorful neighborhood is the perfect place to explore on foot and soak up the local culture. You can also visit the Ybor City Museum State Park to learn more about the area’s rich history.
Apollo Beach
Apollo Beach is a hidden gem that’s located south of Tampa. This quiet beach is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and tranquility. You can also go fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters of Tampa Bay.
Food Scene
Columbia Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant is a Tampa institution that’s been serving up delicious Spanish-Cuban cuisine since 1905. This historic restaurant is a must-visit for foodies and history buffs alike. You can also enjoy live flamenco dancing and a pitcher of sangria while you dine.
Ulele
Ulele is a trendy restaurant that’s located on the Tampa Riverwalk. This restaurant specializes in native Florida cuisine, such as gator tail, smoked mullet, and fresh seafood. You can also enjoy craft beer and cocktails while taking in the stunning views of the Hillsborough River.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Museums
Hillsborough County has several free museums that are perfect for budget-conscious travelers. The Tampa Museum of Art offers free admission on Fridays after 4 pm, and the Henry B. Plant Museum is free on the first Sunday of every month. You can also visit the Tampa Bay History Center on the first Saturday of every month for free.
Outdoor Activities
There are plenty of free outdoor activities to enjoy in Hillsborough County, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. You can explore the Hillsborough River State Park or the Alafia River State Park for free, or rent a bike and ride along the Tampa Riverwalk.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Florida Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction that’s located in downtown Tampa. This aquarium features over 14,000 animals, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. You can also enjoy interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and a 4D theater.
Glazer Children’s Museum
The Glazer Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum that’s designed for children ages 0-10. This museum features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a rooftop playground. Your kids will love exploring the firefighter’s pole, the pirate ship, and the giant kaleidoscope.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Big Cat Rescue
Big Cat Rescue is a nonprofit sanctuary that’s dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating big cats. This sanctuary is home to over 80 cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards. You can take a guided tour and learn more about the sanctuary’s mission to end the abuse and exploitation of big cats.
Manatee Viewing Center
The Manatee Viewing Center is a unique attraction that’s located in Apollo Beach. This center offers a free viewing platform where you can see manatees up close in their natural habitat. You can also enjoy interactive exhibits, nature trails, and a butterfly garden.
Natural Wonders
Hillsborough River State Park
The Hillsborough River State Park is a natural wonder that’s located just north of Tampa. This park features over 7 miles of hiking trails, a freshwater swimming area, and a scenic river that’s perfect for kayaking and canoeing. You can also enjoy picnicking, fishing, and camping in the park.
Alafia River State Park
The Alafia River State Park is another natural wonder that’s located in southeastern Hillsborough County. This park features over 20 miles of mountain bike trails, hiking trails, and equestrian trails. You can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, and camping in the park.
Vibrant Nightlife
SoHo
SoHo is a trendy neighborhood in South Tampa that’s known for its vibrant nightlife. This neighborhood is home to several bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. You can also enjoy live music and comedy shows at the Improv Comedy Theater or the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.
The Ritz Ybor
The Ritz Ybor is a historic theater that’s been renovated into a popular concert venue. This theater features a variety of musical acts, from indie rock to hip hop. You can also enjoy a drink at the theater’s bar or dance floor.
Local Markets
Ybor City Saturday Market
The Ybor City Saturday Market is a weekly farmers’ market that’s held in Centennial Park. This market features local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and jewelry. You can also enjoy live music and street performers while you shop.
Hyde Park Village Farmers Market
The Hyde Park Village Farmers Market is another popular market that’s held every Sunday. This market features over 70 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal cheese, and handmade crafts. You can also enjoy live music and a pet-friendly atmosphere.
Beaches and Mountains
Honeymoon Island State Park
Honeymoon Island State Park is a beautiful beach that’s located north of Clearwater. This park features a pristine white sand beach, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. You can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and hiking in the park.
Mount Dora
Mount Dora is a charming town that’s located in Lake County, north of Hillsborough County. This town is known for its stunning mountain views, quaint shops, and beautiful parks. You can also enjoy hiking, biking, and boating in the nearby Lake Dora.
Cultural Immersion
Tampa Theatre
The Tampa Theatre is a historic theater that’s located in downtown Tampa. This theater features a mix of classic films, independent films, and live shows. You can also enjoy the theater’s stunning architecture, which features a Mediterranean-style courtyard, a starry ceiling, and a Wurlitzer organ.
Tampa Bay History Center
The Tampa Bay History Center is a museum that’s dedicated to preserving the history of Tampa Bay. This museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs. You can also enjoy a scenic boat tour along the Hillsborough River.
Art and Music Scene
Tampa Museum of Art
The Tampa Museum of Art is a modern museum that’s located in downtown Tampa. This museum features a collection of contemporary art, as well as traveling exhibitions. You can also enjoy the museum’s beautiful outdoor sculpture garden.
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class performing arts center that’s located in downtown Tampa. This center features a variety of musical acts, theater productions, and dance performances. You can also enjoy a pre-show dinner at the center’s restaurant, Maestro’s.
Walking Tours
Ghost Tour of Tampa
The Ghost Tour of Tampa is a spooky walking tour that takes you through the city’s haunted history. You’ll visit historic