The Tampa Bay History Center has been honored as one of the 10 best history museums in the United States, according to USA TODAY’s 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This prestigious accolade recognizes the museum’s outstanding contributions to preserving and showcasing Florida history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
Nominated by a panel of expert historians and selected through a public voting process, this recognition places the History Center among the most celebrated cultural institutions in the country. The center’s interactive exhibits, educational programs, and commitment to community engagement continue to captivate visitors of all ages.
A Testament to Passion and Dedication
“This honor is a testament to the passion and dedication of our team, as well as the continued support from our visitors and community,” said C.J. Roberts, president and CEO of the Tampa Bay History Center. “We take great pride in preserving and sharing Florida history, and this national recognition affirms our commitment to providing an engaging and educational experience for all.”
For decades, the museum has been a pillar of cultural education, offering immersive exhibits that span 12,000 years of Florida’s history. This achievement underscores the museum’s efforts in preserving the region’s rich and diverse heritage while making history accessible to all.
A Groundbreaking New Exhibition: Invisible Immigrants
This recognition arrives just in time for the unveiling of the History Center’s newest major exhibition, “Invisible Immigrants: Spaniards in the U.S. (1868–1945).” Opening on March 1, 2025, in the Wayne Thomas Gallery, the exhibit will run through August 3, 2025, and highlights the lesser-known history of Spanish immigrants in the United States.
“This is a remarkable opportunity for our community to engage with a pivotal chapter of immigration history,” Roberts explained. “We’re honored to be the first museum in the country to host this exhibition, which brings to light the stories of individuals whose experiences still resonate with families here in the Tampa Bay area.”
Curated by New York University Professor James D. Fernández and journalist-filmmaker Luis Argeo, this exhibition features more than 300 photographs, objects, documents, and audiovisual materials that chronicle the journey of Spanish immigrants in the U.S. The bilingual exhibit is structured into six chapters, providing a comprehensive historical narrative of migration, labor, and cultural impact.
Tampa’s Deep-Rooted Immigrant Legacy
The exhibition also highlights Tampa’s immigrant history, particularly its connections to the cigar industry and the establishment of Ybor City as a multicultural hub.
“Modern Tampa owes a great deal of its history, culture, and success to the immigrants who began arriving in the 1880s,” said Rodney Kite-Powell, director of the Touchton Map Library at the Tampa Bay History Center. “Following the cigar industry from Havana to Key West to Tampa’s Ybor City, the Spaniards, Cubans, and Sicilians who came to Tampa and West Tampa helped to create not only an important industry but a vibrant multicultural city.”
This exhibit offers an intimate look at the hardships and triumphs of Spanish immigrants who contributed significantly to American society. By preserving their stories, the Tampa Bay History Center continues to ensure that generations to come understand the historical forces that shaped today’s diverse communities.
An Immersive Experience at the Tampa Bay History Center
Located on Tampa’s Water Street, the Tampa Bay History Center features three floors of exhibits that bring Florida’s storied past to life. As an accredited Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum is home to:
- The Touchton Map Library and Florida Center for Cartographic Education
- The Witt Research Center, offering in-depth historical resources
- Interactive exhibits and theaters designed for visitors of all ages
- The Columbia Cafe, a culinary tribute to Tampa’s Spanish heritage
With its engaging approach to historical storytelling, the Tampa Bay History Center continues to be a top cultural attraction in Florida, drawing visitors from across the country.
About USA TODAY 10Best Awards
Since its inception in 1999, 10Best has been a trusted source for travel recommendations and cultural insights. The platform empowers readers to make informed choices about destinations, attractions, and experiences. USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards celebrate excellence in museums, restaurants, hotels, and destinations, based on expert nominations and public voting.
By earning a place among the nation’s best history museums, the Tampa Bay History Center has solidified its reputation as a must-visit landmark, offering an unparalleled educational experience for visitors of all backgrounds.
Join the Celebration and Explore Tampa’s Rich History!
This recognition is not just an accolade—it’s an invitation to explore the captivating stories that have shaped Tampa and beyond. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor, there’s never been a better time to experience the Tampa Bay History Center.
Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the legacy of Florida’s past, the journeys of its immigrants, and the culture that continues to thrive. Check out the latest updates on Twin Peaks’ Brandon location here.
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