All About Tampa, FL, Home of Advanced Dental Care of Tampa

History of Tampa, Florida

Archaeological evidence shows that people have lived in what is now Tampa for thousands of years. When the first Spanish explorers arrived in the 1500s, they found natives from the Tocobaga and Calusa tribes, who largely resisted Spanish attempts at creating settlements. However, the arrival of European infectious diseases took a devastating toll, and by 1600, the Tampa area was largely empty. It would remain this way for centuries until American settlers arrived.

The city's modern era began in the 1820s with the establishment of Fort Brooke, which served as a military outpost. Tampa was officially incorporated in 1849, though its government was suspended during the Civil War, as martial law was declared and Tampa Bay became the site of multiple battles between Confederate forces and the Union Navy. The war took a brutal toll on Tampa. Still, its fortunes improved with the arrival of the South Florida Railroad in the late 19th century and the discovery of phosphate, a mineral used in fertilizer, to the southeast. The railroad was used to ship phosphate, and it also enticed Vincente Martinez Ybor, a Key West cigar manufacturer, to move his operation to Tampa. The booming cigar industry earned Tampa the nickname "Cigar City."

As the city evolved, it expanded beyond its industrial roots into a modern urban hub, blending its historic neighborhoods with new business districts, entertainment venues, and a thriving arts scene. Today, Tampa preserves its heritage, a blend of Cuban, Spanish, Italian, and other influences, through landmarks and festivals while embracing innovation and growth that continue to draw people from all walks of life.

Tampa Weather

One of the biggest reasons why people visit and move to Tampa is the weather, which tends to be warm most of the year. The city has a two-season climate; from May to October is the wet season, and the rest of the year is the dry season. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 90s, and afternoon thunderstorms are common at this time of year. Hurricane season runs from June to November, and Tampa weather patterns are often affected by tropical storms, though it's not common for them to make landfall here. Winters are mild and dry, with the average temperature in Tampa typically ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s.

Things to Do in Tampa

There's definitely no shortage of things to do in Tampa, no matter what you're interested in. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, which winds along the Hillsborough River and features parks, public art, and dining spots. For families, the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park offer exciting experiences. History buffs can explore Ybor City, known for its historic buildings and vibrant culture. Depending on the time of year, sports fans might want to catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Lightning, or Rays game.

Where to Eat

Tampa's food scene reflects its multicultural history, and its location on the Gulf of Mexico makes it a great place to enjoy fresh fish and shellfish. Perhaps the most iconic food in Tampa is the Cuban sandwich, invented in Ybor City, which you can find at many local eateries; some of the most highly rated ones are at La Segunda Central Bakery, M & G Cuban Cafe, and Silver Ring Cafe. You also shouldn't visit Tampa without having a meal at the Columbia Restaurant, the oldest restaurant in Florida and the world's largest Spanish restaurant. The Columbia has been serving up Cuban and Spanish specialties for dinner and lunch since 1905, and it's consistently named among the best restaurants in Tampa. But you'll find plenty of other cuisines in this city, too, from elevated Southern fare at 7th + Grove to crowd-pleasing Italian at Bella's Italian Cafe to barbecue at Jimbo's Pit Bar B-Q. And if you're just looking to relax with a drink at the end of the night, there's a great bar in Tampa waiting to welcome you, whether you prefer to have a beer and watch the game at Hattricks or sip on a cocktail and watch the sunset over the bay at M.Bird.

Places to Stay

If you're coming here for a visit, finding hotels in Tampa shouldn't be an issue, as there are plenty of options. If you prefer to stick to popular chains, the Hampton Inn or the Tampa Marriott are safe bets. But if you'd like to stay somewhere with more character, try the Hotel Haya in Ybor City or the Barrymore Hotel on the Tampa Riverwalk. You could also opt to stay somewhere quieter outside of the city; popular hotels near Tampa include the Inn on the Gulf in Hudson and The Hacienda in New Port Richey.

Dental Care Services in Tampa

No matter where you stay or what you do in Tampa, whether you're just visiting or you've decided to make this city your home, you won't have to worry about where to turn when you need a good family dentist. Tampa, FL, locals know that they can rely on Advanced Dental Care of Tampa, and you can count on us, too. Our skilled dentists in Tampa provide high-quality, affordable care, and we offer the full range of dental services, from routine cleanings to extractions and veneers. We can also take care of you if you're having a dental emergency: Just call our dental offices in Tampa and we'll get you in right away. At Advanced Dental Care, we're committed to keeping your smile healthy. Book an appointment with us today!