O will be in Tampa Sept 23-26/27th. Trying to stay in Ybor City. I have never been and thought I'd ask around here. Is it a safe area? What about hotels? I prefer Hilton or Marriot chains and preferably the lower end of the chains since it is a company funded trip. Anyone going to be around?
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During the day great place. At night, can be dangerous, stay on main strip. There is one big hotel, can't remember name. Channel side is a few miles away and has plenty of hotels.

I might be able to make it down for a herf
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I'll keep that in mind and let you know what my plan is
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Channel side is downtown tampa
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I recommend staying in a good area of Tampa or Orlando and driving to Ybor City daytime. As was said, can be dangerous in some areas at night. Definitely best to stay on the main street areas. If you go, try to hit Cigar city brewing co. Killer Maduro Stout Ale!!!
RR
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The Channel District is only about 2 miles from Ybor. That's close enough to Ybor City that you'll be able to spend a good amount of time checking it out, but once it gets late you can be in a little safer area.
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Yeah that's what the guy I'm working with mentioned. He is making reservations. Cigar City Brewing is for sure on the list.
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The Columbia restaurant has some damned good food. It's on 7th Ave.
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Don't let us completely scare you on Ybor at night. Still a fun place and some things to do. Just stay on main strip in lighted areas and take a cab in and out or park in the main garages. Do Not park in the lawn lots off the main strip. As soon as those lots are full the attendants leave. But Ybor at night is interesting.
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I travel to Ybor City often, both day and night and have not had any problems. If you enjoy staying in historic places, let me recommend the Don Vincente. It's a block or two north of 7th Avenue which is the "main street" in Ybor. Also a great cigar bar is King Corona, located on 7th. They serve food as well. Be sure to get a Cafe Corona and check out their locally rolled cigars. A Nicaraguan Suenos is a must try.

Let me add that there is great and safe paid parking off of 8th (one block North) of 7th. You pay at a pay station and put your ticket on the dash of your vehicle.
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This! :-)
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Sounds like my kinda place :-)
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