Our Story
In the 1880s, Henry Bradley Plant envisioned a grand palace to complement his empire of railroads, steamships, and hotels. The result was the magnificent Tampa Bay Hotel, built at a staggering cost of $2.5 million, with an additional $500,000 spent on furnishings. Spanning six acres and stretching a quarter-mile long, this architectural marvel featured 511 rooms, all equipped with the latest electric amenities. The hotel boasted luxurious facilities, including a billiard room, beauty shop, and telephones in every guest room, making it a beacon of opulence in Florida.