This guided walking tour through the vibrant Encore neighborhood uncovers the stories of Central Avenue and the surrounding area, once known as the “scrub,” the heart of Tampa’s Black community. From the 1890s through the 1960s, this district thrived with music, business and culture. Some of the world’s top entertainers (Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway and others) performed here. Ray Charles lived here and recorded his first song two blocks away from Central and the “chitlin’ circuit.” And the 1960s dance craze “the Twist” was born here. The district thrived with music, business and culture, and its legacy still echoes through the streets today.

Tours begin at 10 a.m. and last 90 minutes. Groups are limited to 25 guests for a more personal experience. The route covers seven blocks, weaving through sidewalks, brick streets, and Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Comfortable shoes and outdoor attire are recommended. Guests will learn about the importance of the longshoremen to Tampa’s economy and growth, “three for a quarter” hot dogs at  Moses White’s Cozy Corner Restaurant, the nightclub owner many said was the richest Black man in Tampa during segregation, the courage of Florida NAACP Field Director Bob Saunders and the Black woman who advised Thurgood Marshall in the 1940s on equalizing pay for all educators.

Meet your guide at Tampa’s Black History Museum, 1213 N. Central Avenue. Advance tickets required.

TOUR TICKETS