Since its inception, Tampa Bay has thrived on the strength of its people. From cigar rollers and musicians to waves of individuals who built this community, our history is shaped by those who came before us. Their influence lives on in our festivals, cuisine, and culture, creating a destination where traditions blend into something uniquely welcoming. No matter where you’re from, you’ll find a piece of yourself in Tampa Bay.
From its earliest days, Tampa Bay has thrived on the diversity of its people. Cuban cigar rollers and African-American musicians helped lay the foundation for a modern metropolis that remains a magnet for fortune-seekers from across the country and around the world – newcomers who add their own unique flavors to the mix of local life. Wherever they come from, visitors easily find themselves reflected in the people they meet here. They also experience languages, rituals, and cultures they’ve never known. Simply put, its multicultural charm is Tampa Bay’s greatest treasure.
Discover rich Tampa History and culture with Soulwalk, an arts and heritage trail celebrating the stories of Tampa’s Original communities. Spanning approximately 46 miles across 25 neighborhoods, Soulwalk invites visitors to explore nearly 100 points of interest, including captivating public art, historic landmarks, museums, and more. Experience the heritage, creativity, and resilience that define our destination.
Born in Ybor City in the early 1900s, the Cuban sandwich was created by immigrants who made Ybor their home. Each ingredient reflects a piece of Tampa Bay’s rich history, and more than 100 years later, the community still defends the specific formula that makes it a symbol of its cultural ties.