DecoPavers

Explore the past at the Tampa Bay History Center. Get lost in the powerful stories about the places, people, and events that shaped the Tampa Bay area, including the cigar industry and Spanish conquistadors. Dine at the historic and critically acclaimed Columbia Restaurant's first Columbia Café and take a piece of history home from the museum store.

Where's the beef? It's at the Florida State Fair, held annually at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. You'll be attending the official state fair where the Sunshine State shows off its agricultural might. For 11 days, there's a corral full of indoor and outdoor exhibits, rides, craft shows, musical acts and wild foods like chocolate-covered bacon to taste. You won't want to miss this experience.

Tour a city built by dreamers and schemers at Ybor City Historic Walking Tours. You'll meet guide Lonnie Herman, spinner of tall tales about the city's shady past, colorful characters and sunny future. Tours depart weekdays, or by appointment, in front of the Vicente Martinez-Ybor statue at Centro Ybor.