Top Tampa Bars Full of History

While a drink after work can be found about anywhere, there are certain bars around Tampa that offer something a bit more. A few bars around Tampa will make you feel like you’ve entered a historical museum but you get to enjoy that museum with a bar.

History is everywhere in Tampa between walking through old streets to exciting historical locations. When you want to enjoy an alcoholic beverage while taking in some of that local history, here are the bars where you can do just that.

Dunedin Brewery – 937 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin

Start your historic bar hopping at Dunedin Brewery, located over on Douglas Avenue. It’s actually the oldest microbrewery in the Bay, and in addition, it’s the oldest in Florida. You’ll not only get to visit the oldest microbrew in the state, but you’ll enjoy delicious beers while supporting good causes. The owner believes in good causes and helps out where he can with donations from the earnings of his brews. This one isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Sam’s Beach Bar – 6325 Clark Streets, Hudson

Over in the Hudson area, you’ll want to pay a visit to Sam’s Beach Bar, known for having a rich history revolving around pirates and their buried treasure. You’ll love the excitement of the thrilling pirate history, knowing that the bar was built on the water where pirate ships used to come in. it was built in the 80’s and has evolved many times ever since. It’s a local favorite for the good drinks, the history, and the family-owned and operated facility.

The Oxford Exchange – 420 West Kennedy Blvd, Tampa

Next, you’ll want to check out The Oxford Exchange dating back to 1891. It was built way back then, but it has evolved into various businesses over the years. At one time it was a photo studio, another time an insurance office, and once even a dentist office.

It was built to be a part of the Plant Hotel originally, but today it’s a unique bar and restaurant that enjoys the restored original brickwork, wood, and stained glass from its start. You’ll love the original design and the bookstore and library inside.

Palm Pavilion Inn – 10 Bay Esplanade, Clearwater Beach

For the experience of the oldest bar on Clearwater Beach, go to Palm Pavilion Inn. It opened back in the 1920’s and you’ll notice that by the prints sold inside showing the original building. It overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and offers live music on the weekends.

Four Green Fields – 205 West Platt Street, Tampa

Lastly, be sure to visit the authentic Irish pub called Four Green Fields in Tampa. You’ll notice the genuine thatched roof, the old photos from 100 years ago, and news clippings discussing the conflict between the UK and the IRA around the bar.  

When you want to grab a drink but feel like you’re also taking in a piece of local history all at the same time, go to these bars in your area to kill two birds with one stone.