Tampa Bay History Center
The Tampa Bay History Center is a dynamic learning resource and state of the art historical institution along the Tampa Riverwalk in the bustling Channelside District! This history center strives to inspire a sense of place and pride through interactive educational programs and engaging exhibits and has been recognized as a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum, as well as a Silver Rating U.S. Green Building. By using historic Tampa city bricks to line the drive and also by using 95% recycled material in the building, this institution has reached several different educational, historical, and ecological achievements unreached by many other Florida institutions.
Inside the Tampa Bay History Center, your group will enjoy exploring the three full floors focusing on 12,000 years of Florida history. As one of Tampa’s premier cultural venues, these cutting edge interactive exhibits will provide your group with a unique educational experience. Explore the Touchton Map gallery, consisting of 3,000 maps and charts that visually depict the shape of Florida over 500 years, tales of explorers, and Floridian conflict and change. Head over to the Wayne Thomas gallery to learn more about local history, agriculture, and science afterward. The entire center’s collection will discuss history from Spanish explorers to 21st-century real estate developers. After catching a 45 minute guided tour through Florida’s First People, War Stories, and Tampa Timeline exhibits make sure you check out the museum store or branch of the historic Columbia restaurant, the Columbia Cafe. Here your group will be able to sample exquisite and authentic Spanish and Cuban dishes dating back over 110 years!