Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour

Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour: An Authentic Journey through Ybor’s Cigar Scene

If you’re curious about Tampa’s famous cigar culture, the Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour offers a well-rounded peek into the city’s storied tobacco roots. Spanning around three hours, this guided tour takes you through some of the most iconic cigar lounges, factories, and bars in Ybor City, all in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus. From classic cigar factories to lively live-music venues, it’s a blend of tradition, flavor, and local vibe packed into one experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances learning with fun. You’ll get insider insights from knowledgeable guides, combined with the chance to enjoy some great cigars and drinks. Plus, the variety of stops, from historic factories to rooftop lounges, keeps the experience fresh and engaging.

One potential consideration is that some stops are only available on weekends, so if you’re visiting during the week, your options might be a bit more limited. Still, the tour offers a solid snapshot of Tampa’s cigar scene, making it ideal for cigar enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a taste of local flavor in a relaxed setting.

If you’re after an authentic, guided experience that combines culture, history, and a bit of indulgence, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good cigar, enjoy learning about local traditions, or just want a fun afternoon exploring Tampa’s lively Ybor City.

Key Points

• Authentic Cigar Culture: Designed to showcase Tampa’s rich cigar tradition, blending factory visits with lounge experiences.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Jamal enhance the experience with personal stories and insights.
• Variety of Venues: From historic factories to rooftop lounges, each stop offers a different vibe and perspective.
• Weekend Advantage: The tour includes visits to some exclusive spots like Cigars International and personal cigar roller demonstrations, mostly on weekends.
• Relaxed Pace: About 30 minutes at each stop allows for tasting, exploring, and soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
• Good Value: At $64.99, the tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience, especially considering the included guide, water, transport, and parking fees.

An In-Depth Look at Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at the J.C. Newman Cigar Company at 3:30 pm, with the group comfortably seated in a small, air-conditioned minibus that holds no more than 12 travelers. This intimate group size is perfect for engaging with your guide, Jamal, who’s frequently praised for his friendliness, knowledge, and personal touch. The journey lasts roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, giving ample time to explore multiple spots without feeling overwhelmed.

The First Stop: J.C. Newman Cigar Company

Your journey begins at one of Tampa’s most iconic cigar factories, the J.C. Newman Cigar Company. On weekdays, you get to walk through the factory itself, gaining insight into the cigar-making process from start to finish. Reviewers mention that Jamal’s commentary makes the visit more meaningful, sharing tidbits about Tampa’s cigar history and the factory’s significance. The factory tour lasts about 25 minutes and is free, giving you a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind the cigars.

The Grand Cathedral Cigars

Next, you’ll visit Grand Cathedral Cigars, Tampa’s largest cigar lounge and full-bar venue set inside a converted cathedral. This spot is a visual treat, with its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. It’s not just a place to relax; it’s also a hub for live music and a wide selection of cigars. Reviewers highlight the unique vibe of this spot, with one noting the “awesome Afro-Cuban music” playing during their visit. It’s a great place to unwind, enjoy a cigar, and soak in the ambiance.

Cigars International Superstore

For cigar lovers, the 6,000 sq ft Cigars International Superstore is a highlight. This massive shop carries over 1,300 cigar brands, making it a paradise for aficionados. You can browse an extensive selection and enjoy the full-service bar. It’s a lively spot perfect for sampling new cigars or just relaxing with a good smoke. While this stop is only on weekends, reviewers say the variety and atmosphere make it worth planning around.

Ybor Cigars Plus

Another weekend-only stop, Ybor Cigars Plus, offers a more intimate experience. Known for their handmade cigars and delicious Mojitos, this lounge also provides the unique opportunity to see cigar rollers at work, creating cigars right in front of you. One reviewer called the Mojitos “some of the best in Ybor City,” and many appreciated the firsthand cigar rolling experience. It’s a chance to see the craftsmanship behind each cigar and understand the traditional technique.

Sterling Cigar Lounge & Bar

Up on the rooftop, the Sterling Cigar Lounge & Bar adds a touch of class. With an upscale vibe and panoramic views of Ybor City, it’s a perfect spot for a more refined cigar experience. On certain nights, live bands add to the ambiance, giving you a taste of Tampa’s nightlife scene. Reviewers loved the “upscale vibe” and described it as the ideal place to relax and enjoy a cigar with a view.

La Faraona Cigars

Your final stop is La Faraona Cigars, a family-owned lounge where you can savor hand-rolled cigars made on-site. The owners’ personal touch ensures high-quality cigars, and many reviewers say it’s the best spot to sit down with a café con leche and unwind. It’s a fitting end to the tour, combining authentic craftsmanship with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Jamal receives consistent praise for his friendly, engaging style and ability to weave history with fun facts. His personal anecdotes bring each location alive, making the experience more memorable. One reviewer said Jamal “took us to four great cigar locations, gave us historical views, and had Afro-Cuban music playing,” which added flavor to the tour.

Variety and Atmosphere: The stops aren’t just about cigars—they’re about the vibe and story behind each place. The mix of historic factories, lively lounges, and rooftop bars ensures you experience Tampa’s cigar scene from multiple angles. Many reviewers appreciated the chance to see different atmospheres, from the grand cathedral to intimate cigar rollers.

Authentic Experiences: Watching cigar rollers at Ybor Cigars Plus, enjoying Mojitos, and sitting in a family-run lounge at La Faraona add genuine local flavor not often found in generic tours. These personal touches make the experience special.

Value for Money: At $64.99, including guide, bottled water, parking, and transport, the tour offers a lot for the price. Considering the variety of stops and insider access, it’s an accessible way to explore Ybor City with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

Practicalities and Considerations

Timing and Booking: The tour departs at 3:30 pm, so it fits well into an afternoon schedule. It’s recommended to book about 15 days in advance, as it’s a popular choice. The tour is conducted with a max of 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

Weather and Cancellations: The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, which adds flexibility.

Accessibility and Public Transport: The meeting point is accessible by public transportation, and service animals are allowed, making it relatively convenient for most travelers.

Who It’s Best For: This experience is ideal for cigar enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone curious about Tampa’s cultural scene. It appeals especially to those who enjoy guided, small-group outings, and those wanting a mix of education, entertainment, and authentic local flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour offers a well-rounded look at Tampa’s iconic cigar culture in a relaxed, friendly setting. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, showcasing both the craftsmanship and lively social scene of Ybor City. The guide’s expertise and personable style make each location engaging and informative.

For those who appreciate cigars, enjoy discovering local traditions, or simply want a fun, social experience in Tampa, this tour provides excellent value. It’s a chance to see the city’s historic roots while enjoying some of the best cigar lounges and bars in the area.

Overall, Tampa’s Cigar City Bus Tour is a fun, educational, and authentic way to learn about one of Tampa’s most famous cultural traditions. It’s best suited for curious travelers, cigar lovers, and anyone wanting a lively yet laid-back afternoon exploring Tampa’s vibrant Ybor City.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, giving plenty of time to explore the cigar spots without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the J.C. Newman Cigar Company at 3:30 pm and ends back at the same location.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the guide, bottled water, parking fees, and air-conditioned transportation.

Are the stops only on weekends?
Most stops, including Cigars International Superstore and Ybor Cigars Plus, are weekend-only, so check the schedule if you plan to visit midweek.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 12 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is it accessible for all travelers?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transport, and service animals are allowed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 15 days ahead, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

In sum, if you’re looking for an engaging, authentic way to explore Tampa’s cigar scene, this tour offers a compelling mix of culture, craftsmanship, and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar aficionado or just curious about the tradition, it promises a memorable afternoon in Ybor City.