University Area

To learn something new every day is not just an adage, it's a way of life in downtown.  Graceful architecture of the Victorian area has been transformed to halls of higher education. The University area is the city's educational hub where a lush park and cutting-edge technologies call each other neighbors.  Small corner pubs, trendy restaurants, and art galleries mix in to make this district of downtown a true gem.

General Boundaries

Cass Street, North Boulevard, Grand Central, Hillsborough River

District Gems

Henry B. Plant Museum:  This unique museum features the original opulent furnishings of the magnificent Victorian railroad resort, the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. It depicts the lifestyle of the early Florida tourist and the early years of Tampa. Educational events, antique evaluations and various other activities throughout the year, such as the popular Victorian Christmas Stroll, make the Henry B. Plant Museum a favorite of many in Tampa Bay.

Plant Park:  Take a stroll through beautiful Plant Park separating Plant Hall at the University of Tampa from the Hillsborough River. At the park’s entrance is a fountain dedicated to transportation tycoon, Henry B. Plant, and his contributions to the city. A modern sculpture, entitled “Sticks of Fire” marks the center of the park. And throughout, benches and sculptures accentuate the natural oasis in an urban backdrop.

University of Tampa (UT):  Considered one of the best private colleges in the south, the University of Tampa boasts a growing student population of nearly 6,000 students. UT offers higher education courses of both undergraduate and master’s degree programs. UT is a leader in athletics with several sports teams winning NCAA Division II championships.

District Fun Facts

• Snow Park is located at the intersection of Kennedy Boulevard and Grand Central Avenue. The postage-stamp sized park has been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the smallest urban park in the United States.
• Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders used the Tampa Bay Hotel (now Plant Hall at the University of Tampa) as their launching point for the Spanish American War.
• Babe Ruth’s 587-Foot Homerun: During an exhibition game that took place in Plant Field between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Giants, Babe Ruth hit a 587-foot homerun on April 4, 1919.