Things To Do
in Plant City
Plant City is a small city in Hillsborough County, just east of Tampa, known for its agricultural heritage and welcoming downtown. It is especially famous for its strawberries, which define much of the local culture and economy. Throughout the year, the Florida Strawberry Festival brings color, music, and family fun to the streets.
Visitors will find a small-town atmosphere, friendly locals, and easy access to Tampa Bay's beaches and metro attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a fresh breakfast at a local café, savoring delicious homemade pastries and coffee. After that, stroll through the charming streets of the historic downtown area, admiring the well-preserved architecture and quaint shops. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the iconic Plant City murals that tell the story of this vibrant community.
Visit the Plant City Museum and Historical Society to learn about the rich history of the area, including its famous strawberry festival. Spend some time at the nearby train depot, where you can explore vintage train cars and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding gardens. Grab lunch at a local diner, where you can indulge in classic southern comfort food.
As the sun sets, head to a local park for a leisurely evening walk, taking in the serene views and vibrant colors of the sunset. Enjoy a meal at a beloved local restaurant, where you can taste some of the best seafood dishes in the region. Conclude your day by attending a live music event at a nearby venue, soaking in the local culture and talent.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to one of the local strawberry farms for a delightful picking experience. Wander through the rows of ripe strawberries, plucking the juiciest ones right from the vine and enjoying the sweet aroma. This hands-on activity is not only fun but also a great way to connect with the local farming community.
After filling your basket, take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch on the farm, using some of your freshly picked strawberries in your meal. Join a farm tour to learn about the cultivation process and the significance of strawberries in Plant City. Spend some time browsing the farm’s market for homemade jams and local produce to take home.
Head back to the city and unwind at a local ice cream shop where you can create your own strawberry-flavored treats. As the evening progresses, find a cozy spot to enjoy a sunset view, perhaps at a nearby park with picnic tables. Wrap up your adventure by sharing stories and memories from your day with friends or family.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥛Milk (1 gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $1,200-1,800 |
| 🚗Gasoline (1 gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🌐Internet (monthly) | $50-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strawberry-centered culture and farm-to-table experiences
- Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to Tampa Bay
- Reasonable driving distances to beaches and parks
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Very hot and humid summers require sun protection
- Traffic can build around I-4 and during festival periods
Places to Visit in Plant City
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture 1920s storefront architecture, colorful murals, and the small-town street life.
Bright seasonal colors, festival architecture, and vibrant crowds during festival season.
Scenic river views, woodlands, and open sky—great for landscape photography and wildlife shots.
Food in Plant City
Plant City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seasonal treat featuring ripe local strawberries layered over shortcake or sponge cake with whipped cream.
Must-Try!
A pressed sandwich with roasted pork, ham, pickles, cheese, and mustard—widely available at local cafes and diners.
Florida’s tart, creamy pie often served with whipped cream or meringue topping.
Cold-pressed or freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit juice, common at markets and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls featuring strawberries, citrus, honey, baked goods, and other local produce.
Seasonal market with strawberry-themed treats, snacks, and souvenirs during festival periods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress comfortably for the climate; greet with a simple hello and a smile; be polite and patient in crowds.
Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance from river areas where alligators may be present; follow park guidelines and leash pets when required.
Safety
Tipping in Plant City
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the bill before tax; tip bartenders and service staff accordingly for quality service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash remains useful at farmers markets and small venues; mobile payment apps are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild temperatures suitable for outdoor exploration. Cool fronts can arrive; bring light layers.
Pleasant weather and blooming landscapes; peak strawberry season in some years, making fields vibrant for photography.
Warm but comfortable days; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and small-town events.
Plant City at Night
Hiking in Plant City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking through pine flatwoods with river views near Lithia; suitable for various skill levels.
Riverside trails with scenic canyons and opportunities for wildlife viewing near Thonotosassa.
Airports
How to reach Plant City by plane.
Major international hub about 25-30 miles west; broad flight options and convenient highway access into the Tampa Bay area.
Smaller regional airport about 40-60 miles west; useful for certain routes and closer to some Gulf locales.
Major hub about 70-90 miles northeast; wide range of domestic and international connections.
Smaller airport about 60-70 miles northeast; secondary option for some flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial share of residents are families living in suburban neighborhoods.
A growing community reflecting the broader multicultural Tampa Bay region.
A significant portion of residents, with increasing cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is popular in the Tampa Bay region with spring training nearby and local youth leagues.
NFL teams and collegiate games draw regional interest; game-day culture is strong in the metro area.
Professional and amateur basketball scenes reflect the broader Florida sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plant City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most markets and restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for salads, vegetable plates, and dishes made with local produce. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-forward specials or sides without meat stock.