I will always remember my trip to Tampa Bay. It was a Wednesday, just a week before Christmas. As I left New England, I was wearing shorts and a fleece pullover. Am I a little crazy? Maybe. But I was on my way to Florida! The weather at my airport was cold but pleasant and sunny, with no significant winter storms in sight. Upon arriving in Tampa Bay, it felt like I had stepped into a summer day back home, with a warm, sunny temperature of 85 degrees! During my drive to the hotel in this heat, I noticed Christmas lights and trees decorating people’s yards, which felt quite surreal compared to my usual chilly December experiences. It would cool off to more “fall-like” temperatures later that week but nonetheless, it was a welcome breather from the cold winter that was now firmly established up north. Christmas can be celebrated in so many different ways—whether it’s snowy or on a sunny beach. As for me, I chose to spend Christmas in Tampa Bay exploring its rich history at the Tampa Bay History Center and Ybor City, learning about the early days of the circus through the former winter home of one of the Ringling brothers, visiting a big cat rescue in Sarasota, and finally, checking out a Florida-style Christmas village at the St. Petersburg Pier.
This post was originally published on December 9, 2024.
Learn About Tampa Bay’s History at the Tampa Bay History Center
I typically begin my travels by exploring a local history center, as I enjoy understanding the development and construction of the area. Tampa’s evolution is particularly fascinating. Located in downtown Tampa along the Tampa Riverwalk, the Tampa Bay History Center features four floors filled with both permanent and temporary exhibits ranging from treasure seekers and pirates to black history and agriculture. It’s a terrific history center with colorful displays and interactive exhibits. After purchasing my ticket, I first visited the Florida’s First Peoples exhibit and then proceeded to the theater to watch a short film about the conflicts between the First Peoples and the Spanish Conquistadors. Following the film, I explored galleries dedicated to European exploration and their confrontations with the Seminole tribes, ultimately arriving at the Cigar City exhibit. The aftermath of these conflicts and the Civil War paved the way for Tampa’s reconstruction and resurgence.
The Tampa Bay History Center is located adjacent to the Tampa Riverwalk on 801 Water Street in Tampa, FL. Check the website for details on parking, transportation, hours and admission fee. If you’re a NARM (North American Reciprocal Museum) Association Member, the Tampa Bay History Center is FREE to visit!
Walk Through the Ybor City Neighborhood and District
The modern city of Tampa traces its origins back to the railroad and cigar manufacturing sectors. In the 1880s, Ybor City emerged as the center of cigar production when operations moved from Key West to Tampa. To accommodate the influx of Cuban and Spanish workers, a “factory town” was created in Ybor City, featuring numerous residential buildings. Subsequently, a new wave of Italian and Jewish immigrants arrived, establishing businesses to serve the expanding community. Tampa eventually gained the title of the “Cigar Capital of the World,” but this success brought significant challenges, particularly for the labor force. This period marked the height of Ybor City, which faced the impacts of industrialization and the Great Depression. Today, Ybor City celebrates its historical heritage, preserves its architectural beauty, and is gradually transforming into a revitalized entertainment district.
I am a strong proponent of exploring neighborhoods, as I believe it’s a fantastic way to begin any journey and ignite interest in both solo and group travel. Take Ybor City, for example; it pays homage to its historical roots while using them as a foundation for future growth and development. However, during my visit, the area seemed a bit neglected, which made me question whether I would feel safe visiting at night. Still, it’s definitely worth taking a walk through the area and patronizing a local café or restaurant. My first trip to Tampa was in 2016, specifically to Ybor City, where I discovered my favorite sandwich—the Cuban Sandwich. This delicious creation consists of pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard, all melted together between two slices of Cuban bread, which has a crunchy yet chewy texture with a hint of sweetness. Authentic Cuban bread is primarily found in Florida, especially in the Tampa and Miami areas. While the sandwich itself is outstanding, I believe the bread truly enhances the experience. After spending a day exploring the history of Tampa and Ybor City, I treated myself to a cocktail and a Cuban Sandwich as a well-deserved reward.
See Big Cats at the Big Cat Habitat in Sarasota, FL
I have a profound admiration for what is known as the “big cats”, such as cougars, cheetahs, tigers, and lions. These magnificent animals possess striking beauty and complex personalities that deserve to be appreciated from a respectful distance. My passion extends to big cat sanctuaries, which play a vital role in offering a safe and natural environment for these extraordinary creatures, many of whom have been rescued from abusive situations, illegal trafficking, or poor living conditions in captivity. These sanctuaries create spacious, enriched habitats that closely mimic the animals’ natural surroundings, providing essential medical care, rehabilitation, and a permanent refuge, allowing them to live peacefully. I visited the incredible Big Cat Habitat in Sarasota, where I had the chance to observe these beautiful animals up close, making it one of the most enjoyable experiences of my journey. This sanctuary is home to not only lions and tigers but also ligers (which I was surprised to discover actually exist!), African Caracals, Himalayan Bears, lemurs, monkeys, tortoises, and sloths. The facility offers ample space for exploration, with large enclosures that enable the animals to roam freely and thrive in a more natural setting.
Big Cat Habitat is located at 7101 Palmer Blvd in Sarasota, FL. Hours vary depending on the time of the year, so check the website for admission fee and hours of operation.
Explore the Circus Museum at The Ringling in Sarasota, FL
After visiting the Big Cat Habitat, I headed to The Ringling in Sarasota, which was once the winter home of John and Mabel Ringling. This couple played a crucial role in acquiring extensive real estate along Sarasota Bay, ultimately amassing a significant portion of land that forms the estate we see today. At one point, the Ringlings owned an astonishing 25% of Sarasota’s real estate. The name may sound familiar, as John Ringling was one of the famous Ringling Brothers, who later partnered with Barnum & Bailey to establish the legendary Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. This collaboration united the talents of two iconic circus families, resulting in a dazzling display of diverse performers and unforgettable acts that enchanted audiences for generations. Today, the estate is a sprawling complex with various attractions, including the Museum of Art, the Bayfront Gardens, the Historic Asolo Theater, the Ca’ D’Zan, and the Circus Museum. I have to admit, I didn’t plan my visit very well and totally underestimated how much time I’d want to spend there! That’s the tricky part about planning—sometimes you just get it wrong!
I began my tour at the Circus Museum, starting in the front lobby and exploring the poster gallery, central gallery, and rotunda. This museum is filled with intriguing details, featuring a diverse collection of artifacts, colorful posters, and interactive exhibits. You can even try your hand at balancing on a real tightrope or fit yourself into an authentic clown car! Additionally, there’s a wagon room where you can view historic circus wagons, and to cap it all off, you’ll delve into the fascinating history of the Ringling family.
The Circus Museum at The Ringling showcases an impressive miniature replica referred to as the World’s Largest Circus Model. This detailed representation vividly illustrates the vastness and complexity of the circus, allowing visitors to witness the remarkable scale at which these “tented cities” would emerge during their tour stops. Far from being insignificant, this model captivates the imagination and offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of circus life.
My visit was graced with delightful weather, showcasing clear blue skies and a refreshing autumn-like chill in the air. I was compelled to take pictures of the beauty of the Ca’ D’Zan’s exterior, as well as the intricate architectural details of the various buildings on the estate. Even though my ticket didn’t grant me access to the inside of the Ca’ D’Zan, I thoroughly enjoyed wandering the grounds and admiring the breathtaking exterior design of this remarkable location.
The Ringling is located on 5401 Bay Shore Rd in Sarasota FL. It is roughly 90 minutes south of Tampa but is worth the drive! Tours are available but you can also explore on your own as well, check the website for details on tours, admission and hours of operation. The Ringling is FREE to visit for NARM members (I used this benefit myself!), and from Memorial Day to Labor Day, they participate in the Blue Star Museums program providing free admission to active military and veterans.
Walk through the Winter Wonderland Christmas Village at St Pete Pier
While I was there, I decided to spend an evening at the St. Pete Pier, where I had dinner and took a leisurely walk along the waterfront enjoying the pleasant weather. This lively entertainment district covers 26 acres and offers a diverse range of amenities, such as a picturesque walkway, beautiful parks, and numerous bars and restaurants. The nearby surrounding area is also bustling with various dining and drinking options, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. It wouldn’t be Christmas in Tampa Bay without a proper Christmas village, even surrounded by palm trees. The pier is especially magical during the Christmas season, decorated with bright lights that create a festive mood, which truly lifted my spirits as I wandered around. One of the unique highlights of this location is the awesome sight of palm trees transformed into life-size candy canes, adding a distinctive Floridian charm to the festive atmosphere.
Things to Do in Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay presents a wealth of opportunities for exploration and relaxation throughout the year. If you’re seeking additional experiences beyond my guide, I suggest looking into the Tampa Bay CityPASS, which provides access to five attractions of your choice within a 9-day period. The attractions feature the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens, and ZooTopia, along with two other exciting options.
If you reserve using the link below, I get a kickback and that helps keep the lights on!
Places to Stay in Tampa Bay
The Tampa Bay area offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from luxurious beachfront resorts, charming boutique hotels, and affordable motels, all providing easy access to the region’s attractions. Whether one seeks a vibrant urban experience in downtown Tampa or a tranquil retreat near the picturesque beaches of St. Petersburg, the area caters to diverse needs, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.
The map below displays hotels and vacation rentals in the Tampa area, and can be zoomed in or out to see options in other parts of the Tampa Bay area, depending on where you want to visit. You can book direct from the map below, and if you do so, I get a nice kickback – so thank you in advance!
Why You Should Experience Christmas in Tampa Bay
Christmas is a time of reflection, appreciation, and most of all, resilience. In late September and early October of 2024, the region faced the catastrophic impact of back to back major hurricanes, Helene and Milton, which struck with a formidable force. Nevertheless, Florida has earned a reputation for its remarkable resilience and swift recovery in the face of adversity. Fortunately, the affected areas have managed to withstand the hurricanes’ severe effects and have resumed normal operations but the scars remain. Tampa Bay, with its rich history of overcoming challenges, exemplifies this spirit of perseverance. The Tampa Bay History Center showcases the early struggles and transformations of various communities, ultimately leading to its development as a manufacturing hub that has now transitioned into a vibrant tourist attraction. The Big Cat Habitat utilizes the region’s warm climate to provide a sanctuary for these majestic animals, ensuring their survival. Meanwhile, the Circus Museum at The Ringling preserves a historical narrative of the era when these creatures were part of entertainment spectacles. Lastly, it wouldn’t be Christmas in Tampa Bay without the Christmas festivities at the St. Pete Pier that reflect the unique ways Floridians embrace the holiday season, offering a warm and inviting celebration that resonates with similar traditions observed worldwide. We all celebrate this most wonderful time of year in our way, and Tampa Bay is a unique place to spend around Christmas.
I leave you with this lasting memory of mine as I walked around a corner heading back to the parking garage from my stop at the Tampa History Center, and saw this glorious Christmas tree. I had to stop and stare at it for a while.
This article offers a unique perspective on celebrating Christmas in Tampa Bay, highlighting its rich history and diverse attractions. It’s a great guide for those seeking a warm and sunny holiday experience.