As in a fine cigar, where several kinds of tobacco are combined to create just the right blend, Ybor City's unique character was molded by thousands of immigrant workers from Spain, Cuba, Italy, Romania and Germany. Their customs, pride and craftsmanship are deeply woven into fabric of the area. Their heritage lives on in their social clubs, newspapers, stores, mutual-aid societies and restaurants, all of which still can be seen today.

Ybor City, known as Tampa's number-one evening entertainment destination because of its sizzling nightlife, boasts more than two dozen dining and dancing establishments, each with its own theme. It now lays claim to some of the best daytime activities, shopping, tours and galleries, thanks to Centro Ybor -- an exciting venue of restaurants and retailers, including MUVICO Theaters, Sega Gameworks and The Improv Comedy Theater, just to name a few.

One Ybor City strength is that everything is within walking distance. Park your car in one of the many parking lots or garages for a nominal fee or take advantage of the Ybor City trolley, which runs from downtown Tampa to the historic district from 10:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. daily at a cost of 25 cents per rider. Once there, you will relish your stroll down La Setima (7th Avenue) in the heart of Ybor City with its abundant galleries, restaurants and retail shops. Located on 9th Avenue is the Ybor City Museum with its new exhibition of photographs and artifacts illustrating the origins of the immigrants who settled here. Take advantage of the museum's scheduled walking tours or its cigar-rolling demonstrations. For more information and times, call 813-247-1434.

Experience a tour of a working brewery at the Ybor City Brewing Company with its handcrafted "Ybor Gold" label. And, a visit to Ybor City would not be complete without a stop at the oldest Spanish restaurant in the USA -- The Columbia Restaurant at 21st Street and 7th Avenue.

From the exciting nightlife at the Green Iguana Bar & Grill to the eclectic art available at the Hoffman/Porges Gallery, there's something for everyone, day or night, in Ybor City.

Ybor City is located just a short drive from the Gulf beaches. For more information, contact the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce at 813-248-3712.