Welcome to Hillsborough County, a captivating gem nestled on Florida’s west coast. With its rich history, stunning natural wonders, and vibrant communities, Hillsborough County offers a diverse and exciting experience for residents and visitors alike. Ready for an adventure? Let’s explore the splendors of this sun-soaked Floridian treasure and discover what is Hillsborough County FL known for.
Hillsborough County, FL has a rich history of exploration and is renowned for its geographic beauty.
It boasts vibrant communities with varied attractions and activities to explore including Tampa’s cultural richness, Plant City & Temple Terrace’s suburban living, state parks & rivers’ recreational opportunities, as well as educational excellence through top-performing schools.
Residents can enjoy family friendly attractions such as museums & parks or festivals & live entertainment experiences all connected by public transit services and multiple airports/bridges.
Hillsborough County’s intriguing past is a tapestry woven with threads of exploration, struggle, and triumph. From the days of Spanish settlers to the rise of the cigar-making and agricultural industries, the county’s history has shaped its unique character.
Spanish explorers like Juan Ortiz and Ponce de León initiated the narrative of Hillsborough County when they arrived in the 16th century. Over time, the land changed hands between Spain, France, and Great Britain before finally becoming part of the United States in 1821. Hillsborough County was officially established on January 25th, 1834. It was named in honor of Wills Hill, the Earl of Hillsborough..
The county’s original borders were much larger than they are today, encompassing present-day counties such as:
Charlotte
DeSoto
Hardee
Manatee
Pasco
Pinellas
Polk
Sarasota
The last significant change to Hillsborough County’s borders occurred in 1911 when its western section was carved out to create Pinellas County.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the economy of Hillsborough County was significantly moulded by the cigar-making and agriculture industries. Ybor City, a historic district in Tampa, became a bustling hub for cigar manufacturing, with Spanish, Cuban, and Italian entrepreneurs building a thriving industry.
Emphasizing its deep agricultural roots, the county still stands as a significant contributor to Florida’s winter strawberry production.
Hillsborough County boasts a prime location on Florida’s west coast, offering a diverse landscape that ranges from pristine beaches to lush forests. The county’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico provides an array of recreational opportunities and breathtaking views, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Hillsborough County, a destination on the west coast, is blessed with a year-round warm climate and abundant sunshine, fostering varied ecosystems and vegetation growth. The Gulf of Mexico shapes the coastline, resulting in picturesque beaches and unique coastal features.
In addition to the natural beauty, the county’s location provides easy access to nearby cities and attractions, such as Miami and Orlando.
The commitment of Hillsborough County to preserve its natural environment is evident in its state parks, rivers, and reservoirs. Hillsborough River State Park, for instance, offers a serene escape for those seeking to connect with nature. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, fish, amphibians, mammals, and birds, making it a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Additionally, the county is known for its beautiful rivers, such as the Hillsborough River, Alafia River, and Little Manatee River. These waterways provide recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, creating cherished memories for residents and visitors alike.
Housing a diverse array of thriving communities, Hillsborough County offers unique attractions and amenities in each. From the bustling metropolis of Tampa to the charming cities of Plant City and Temple Terrace, the county provides a myriad of opportunities for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in its rich culture and history.
Tampa, the largest city in Hillsborough County, is a vibrant hub of culture and arts. Known for its rich history and diverse population, Tampa offers a wealth of attractions, such as the Tampa Museum of Art, Busch Gardens, and the historic district of Ybor City, all easily accessible from downtown Tampa.
The city’s thriving arts scene, a common feature among incorporated cities, includes numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, providing endless opportunities for cultural enrichment and entertainment.
Plant City and Temple Terrace are two smaller communities within Hillsborough County that offer a unique blend of suburban living and local attractions.
Plant City, established in 1884 and named after railroad magnate Henry B. Plant, has a rich history as the primary producer of Florida’s winter strawberries. Popular attractions in Plant City include:
Dinosaur World
Keel And Curley Winery
Edward Medard Regional Park
Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum
Temple Terrace, on the other hand, boasts picturesque views of the Hillsborough River and a strong sense of community cohesiveness. The city has been recognized as a Tree City USA every year since 2008, demonstrating its dedication to environmental sustainability. Attractions in Temple Terrace include Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, University of South Florida Riverfront Park, Terrace Hill Golf Club, and the Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club.
With numerous high-performing schools in its public school system, Hillsborough County is dedicated to delivering high-quality education. The county is home to the eighth-largest school district in the United States, serving Hillsborough’s population of over 200,000 students across 250 schools.
The Hillsborough County Public Schools district is dedicated to fostering an educational and support system that enables all students to reach their maximum potential and become productive members of society. The district has a long history dating back to 2003 when documents were found in the cornerstone of the building it occupied in 1911.
Offering a variety of academic, career and technical education, magnet, and choice programs, the district caters to the diverse needs and interests of its students. Its commitment to educational excellence is evident as the district has been rated as the 15th best in the entire state of Florida by niche.com.
Some of the county’s top-performing schools, such as Plant High School and Newsome High School, are recognized for their academic achievements and innovative programs. Plant High School, for example, is well-known for its long-standing tradition of excellence, boasting a strong academic reputation and producing National Merit Finalists.
Newsome High School, ranked 49th within Florida, offers Advanced Placement® coursework and exams, and has been lauded for its academic achievements, including being deemed the best public school in Hillsborough County for college preparation by Newsweek. These top-performing schools showcase the county’s dedication to providing quality education for its residents.
With a variety of transportation options, Hillsborough County guarantees easy mobility and connectivity for its residents and visitors. From public transit systems to airports and bridges, the county’s infrastructure caters to the diverse needs of its citizens.
The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides bus services throughout the county, ensuring residents have access to reliable public transportation. HART buses serve 34 routes in the Tampa-St. Petersburg area, offering convenient and flexible options for commuters and travelers alike.
The fare structure for HART buses caters to different needs, with discounts available for eligible passengers.
Hillsborough County is served by several airports, including:
Tampa International Airport
Tampa Executive Airport
Peter O. Knight Airport
Plant City Airport
These airports offer a range of services catering to both commercial and private aviation needs.
The iconic Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge:
Connects Hillsborough County to neighboring counties, such as Pinellas and Manatee
Serves as a vital transportation link
Stands as a testament to the county’s commitment to connectivity and infrastructure development.
With numerous family-friendly attractions and events, Hillsborough County has something to offer for everyone. Some of the highlights include:
Museums
Parks
Festivals
Live entertainment
These options provide countless opportunities for families to create lasting memories together.
Explore the Tampa Museum of Art, Busch Gardens, and other popular attractions that offer fun and educational experiences for the whole family. The Tampa Museum of Art provides a range of educational programs suitable for all ages, while Busch Gardens offers unique experiences such as virtual adventures, animal exhibits, and up-close encounters with wildlife.
Hillsborough County’s parks, such as Lettuce Lake Park, Eureka Springs Park, and Riverview Park & Civic Center, are perfect for family outings. Offering playgrounds, scenic views, and various recreational activities, these parks provide a great way to enjoy quality time with loved ones.
Discover the exciting events and festivals that take place in Hillsborough County, such as the Tampa-Hillsborough County Storytelling Festival and the Gasparilla Pirate Festival. These events offer unique experiences for families, showcasing the county’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
Live performances at local theaters and venues, such as the New Tampa Performing Arts Center, provide a range of entertainment options for families to enjoy. From concerts by renowned musicians to family fun festivals with free entertainment, Hillsborough County has something to offer everyone.
In conclusion, Hillsborough County is a diverse and captivating destination that offers a rich history, stunning natural wonders, vibrant communities, excellent educational opportunities, and numerous family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the county’s unique charm and endless possibilities make it a place you’ll want to explore time and time again.
Popular attractions in Plant City include Dinosaur World, Keel And Curley Winery, Edward Medard Regional Park, and the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum.
Plant High School and Newsome High School are the top-performing schools in Hillsborough County.
Hillsborough County provides a range of transportation options, including public transit, airports, and bridges.
Hillsborough County hosts the Tampa-Hillsborough County Storytelling Festival, Gasparilla Pirate Festival, and the Festival of Lights annually.
Hillsborough County offers a variety of family-friendly attractions such as the Tampa Museum of Art, Busch Gardens, Lettuce Lake Park, Eureka Springs Park and Riverview Park & Civic Center.
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