Plant City: Fun Facts About The Winter Strawberry Capital Of The World

Plant City is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Plant City has its own special traditions and history that make it so unxique.

A few things to know:

• Did you know that Plant City was named after Henry B. Plant, a railroad developer who played a significant role in developing Florida's rail system? You can visit the Henry B. Plant Museum in nearby Tampa to learn more about his contributions.
• Plant City is known as the winter strawberry capital of the world, producing over three-quarters of the nation’s midwinter strawberries each year! Visitors can take a tour of the fields, pick their own strawberries and sample some of the delicious local strawberry products.
• The iconic Plant City water tower is a beloved landmark in the city, and it even has its own nickname — the "Strawberry Water Tower." It was built in the 1920s and is now a symbol of the city's agricultural heritage.
• The historic downtown area of Plant City is home to several unique shops, restaurants and cafes. Take a stroll down the brick-lined streets and explore the antique shops and art galleries.
• For a fun family activity, head to Dinosaur World, where you can step back in time and walk among life-sized dinosaur replicas. With over 200 dinosaur exhibits, a fossil dig and a museum, it's a great way to spend the day with kids or anyone who loves prehistoric creatures.
• Plant City is home to the annual Florida Strawberry Festival, which attracts over 500,000 visitors each year. The festival features carnival rides, live entertainment and plenty of delicious strawberry-themed treats.
• The East Hillsborough Historical Society Museum is another great spot to learn about Plant City's past. It features exhibits on local history, including the city's founding and its role in the Civil War.
• If you're a fan of classic cars, you won't want to miss the Plant City Strawberry Classic Cruise-In. Held on the third Saturday of every month, the show features a wide variety of vintage and custom vehicles.
• The Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in trains. It houses an impressive collection of railroad artifacts and memorabilia, including a working model train display.
• The Hillsborough County Fair is an annual event that takes place in Dover, just a short drive away from Plant City. It features carnival rides, live entertainment and agricultural exhibits. It's a great way to experience the local culture.
• Plant City is home to several beautiful parks, including the Edward Medard Park. This park offers hiking trails, fishing and camping, as well as a stunning 700-acre reservoir.
• The H.B. Plant Railroad Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad in Florida. The organization offers educational programs and events throughout the year.
• For a unique shopping experience, head to the Plant City Farm & Flea Market. This open-air market features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
• If you're looking for a fun outdoor activity, check out the Hillsborough River State Park. Located just a short drive from Plant City, this park offers canoeing, hiking and camping, as well as beautiful views of the river.
• The Plant City Airport is a popular spot for aviation enthusiasts, with a variety of planes and helicopters taking off and landing throughout the day. Those who wish to become certified pilots can even take flying lessons at the airport.
• The Bing Rooming House Museum is a historic site that was once a popular stopover for African American musicians, including Duke Ellington and James Brown. Today, it houses exhibits about the local African American community and their contributions to the city's history.
• For a fun day out with the family, check out the Keel & Curley Winery. This local winery produces a variety of fruit wines, including blueberry and strawberry, and offers tastings and tours.

What's your favorite thing about Plant City? Let us know below in the comments!

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