The park commemorates the 100th anniversary of the founding of Ybor City, established in 1885.
The site contains the 'Rough Riders' monument dedicated to Theodore Roosevelt and his volunteer cavalry who trained in the area.
The park grounds were once part of the industrial hub that made Ybor City the 'Cigar Capital of the World'.
It features a bronze bust of Jose Marti, a national hero of Cuba who famously rallied support in Ybor City for Cuban independence.
The park is officially designated as a centerpiece for the Ybor City National Historic Landmark District.
Centennial Park is a central urban green space located in the heart of Tampa's historic Ybor City district. It serves as the primary community hub for local cultural festivals, craft markets, and public gatherings. The park features a statue of Vicente Martinez-Ybor, the founder of the district, and monuments honoring the Cuban, Spanish, and Italian immigrants who built the local cigar industry. Mature oak trees provide significant canopy cover across the brick-paved grounds. It regularly hosts the Ybor City Saturday Market, showcasing local vendors and artists. The park layout incorporates paved walkways that integrate with the surrounding historic streetscape of 8th Avenue.
The Vicente Martinez-Ybor statue with the historic brick buildings of 8th Avenue in the background.
Visit during the Saturday market hours to experience local food and artisan goods.
Check the local event calendar before visiting, as the park is often booked for festivals and parades.
Combine your visit with a walk down the adjacent 7th Avenue to view preserved historic architecture.
Avoid visiting on extremely hot summer afternoons when the lack of direct breeze makes the heat index high.
The Ybor City Saturday Market typically operates weekly, though specific dates can be impacted by major community festivals.
Casual attire is appropriate; keep dogs on a leash and dispose of waste in provided bins.
