José Martí Friends Park

A Slice of Cuba in Tampa

Located in Tampa's vibrant Ybor City neighborhood, José Martí Friends Park might be small (just 0.14 acres), but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in fascinating history and cultural significance. This little urban space is a tribute to Cuban heritage right in Florida.

The park honors José Martí, a brilliant Cuban poet, writer, and revolutionary who became the face of Cuba's independence movement in the late 19th century. Often called Cuba's "Apostle", Martí spent time in Tampa rallying support among Cuban cigar factory workers who had settled in the area. His passionate speeches in this very neighborhood helped fuel the fight for Cuba's freedom from Spanish rule.

Wait, Are You Actually in Cuba Right Now?

Here's where things get really interesting. In 1956, this plot of land was donated to the Cuban government, making it *officially* Cuban territory within the United States. Yes, you read that right - when you step into this park, you're technically standing on Cuban soil! This all happened three years before the Cuban Revolution, and despite the complicated history between the US and Cuba since then, the park has remained under Cuban ownership.

Many visitors get a kick out of straddling the invisible boundary - one foot in Cuba, one in the USA. It's quite the unusual international boundary experience.

What You'll Find There

The park's centerpiece is a statue of José Martí, overlooking this small piece of Cuba in Florida. There's also a colorful mural depicting scenes from Cuban history that helps tell the story of the island nation's past.

One particularly meaningful feature is that the park contains soil from each of Cuba's provinces - a symbolic gesture bringing the essence of the entire island to Tampa. Across the park, you'll discover plaques in both English and Spanish that explain who Martí was and why this small space matters so much.

The Experience

While you won't need hours to explore José Martí Friends Park, it offers a peaceful retreat from Ybor City's lively streets. There are several benches where you can sit and soak in the atmosphere or reflect on the historical connections between Tampa and Cuba.

An unexpected delight? The free-roaming chickens and roosters that strut around the grounds. These feathered residents are protected locals in Ybor City, and watching the hens with their chicks adds a charming touch to your visit.

Getting There

Reaching the park is a breeze - the TECO streetcar stops right across from it, making it an easy addition to your Ybor City explorations. Just note that there are no restroom facilities in the park, and only service dogs are permitted.

No matter if you're a history buff, interested in Cuban-American relations, or simply collecting unique experiences, this little patch of Cuba in Tampa offers something genuinely different from your typical city park.