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Sulphur Springs (Tampa) facts for kids

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Sulphur Springs
The Sulphur Springs Water Tower
The Sulphur Springs Water Tower
Sulphur Springs is located in Florida
Sulphur Springs
Sulphur Springs
Location in Florida
Country United States
State Florida
County Hillsborough
City Tampa
Elevation
16 ft (5 m)
Population
 (2010)
 • Total 5,727
Time zone UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST) UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes
33604
Area code(s) 813

Sulphur Springs is a neighborhood in Tampa, Florida. In 2010, about 5,700 people lived there. Long ago, in the late 1800s, people came to Sulphur Springs for its natural mineral springs. By the 1940s, it was a big tourist spot. It even had a 40-foot water slide and a farm with alligators!

Today, Sulphur Springs is close to many fun places. One of the most famous is Busch Gardens Tampa. This huge animal theme park and amusement park is only about three miles away. You can also visit the Sulphur Springs History and Heritage Museum to learn more about the area's past. Other nearby attractions include Adventure Island (water park), The Florida Aquarium, and the Museum of Science & Industry.

Exploring Sulphur Springs

Sulphur Springs is known for its unique landmarks and interesting history. It was once a popular place for families to visit and enjoy the natural springs.

The Sulphur Springs Water Tower

One of the most famous sights in the area is the Sulphur Springs Water Tower. It was built in 1927 and stands tall over the neighborhood. This tower is a symbol of Sulphur Springs. The community officially became part of Tampa in 1953.

Historic Buildings and Fun Spots

Sulphur Springs used to be a major tourist destination. Many people came to enjoy the natural mineral springs. It was especially popular with middle-class and working-class families looking for a fun getaway.

The Sulphur Springs Hotel and Arcade

A well-known building was the Sulphur Springs Hotel and Arcade. It was built between 1926 and 1927. This building was special because it was thought to be Florida's first indoor shopping center! It was located near the Hillsborough River. The hotel had a grand design with a fancy front area on its first two floors.

The Tower Theatre Drive-In

In 1951, a drive-in theater opened right next to the Sulphur Springs Water Tower. It was called the Tower Theatre. This was a popular place for people to watch movies from their cars for almost 40 years. The theater had bright neon signs. It became another famous Tampa landmark, facing the Hillsborough River.

Where is Sulphur Springs?

Sulphur Springs is located about five miles north of downtown Tampa. It sits about 16 feet above sea level. The neighborhood has clear boundaries. To the east is Rowlett Park. Florida Avenue is to the west. Busch Blvd. is to the north. The Hillsborough River forms its southern border.

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