Living in Plant City, Florida

SMALL-TOWN FLORIDA WITH TAMPA BAY WITHIN REACH

Plant City feels different from much of rapidly growing Tampa Bay.

 

Located in eastern Hillsborough County along I-4, it combines a genuine small-town identity with historic neighborhoods, agriculture, local businesses and more open space, while keeping Tampa, Brandon and Lakeland within reach.

 

This isn’t simply another collection of subdivisions. Plant City was a town long before Tampa Bay’s recent growth, and it still feels like one.

 

A REAL DOWNTOWN

Historic Downtown Plant City gives the community a center.

 

Brick streets, older buildings, locally owned restaurants and shops surround McCall Park, while community events regularly bring people downtown.

 

Last Friday events feature food, vendors, music and activities, while other events throughout the year reinforce something increasingly uncommon in growing Florida communities: a recognizable hometown gathering place. 

 

Even Plant City’s railroad history remains visible downtown at the historic depot and Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum.

 

THIS IS STRAWBERRY COUNTRY

 

You can’t talk about Plant City without talking about strawberries.

 

Known as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, Plant City’s agricultural roots remain a major part of its identity. 

 

Each year, the Florida Strawberry Festival brings concerts, rides, food, agricultural exhibits and huge crowds to town. It’s one of Florida’s longstanding annual traditions and turns Plant City into a regional destination. 

 

And strawberry season isn’t limited to the festival.

 

Parkesdale Farm Market has become a Plant City institution, particularly famous for strawberries, shortcake and milkshakes.

 

LOCAL FLAVOR

Plant City still has the kinds of places that become part of a town’s identity.

 

You’ll find longtime local restaurants alongside newer additions downtown, barbecue, Southern cooking, coffee shops and casual hometown spots.

 

Just outside downtown, Keel Farms combines a working farm with dining, wine, craft drinks, live music and seasonal events.

 

It’s a different experience from the endless chain-restaurant corridors found in many newer suburbs.

 

A LITTLE MORE ROOM

Move away from downtown and Plant City begins to open up.

 

You’ll find established neighborhoods, newer communities, larger lots, rural properties, farmland and homes where having some space around you is still possible.

That’s a major part of Plant City’s appeal. You can choose a neighborhood setting without necessarily giving up the possibility of land, privacy or a more country-oriented lifestyle.

 

OUTSIDE IS PART OF THE LIFESTYLE

The surrounding area gives residents plenty of opportunities to get outside.

 

Edward Medard Conservation Park offers a large reservoir and outdoor recreation, while Plant City’s parks provide space for walking, sports and communit