Cracker Country

A charming historic haven set in modern-day Tampa, this living history museum, located on the Florida State Fairgrounds, recreates life in a rural 1890s Floridian town. Named after the Florida "Crackers" who were 19th century, cow-herding pioneers, the museum features 13 authentic buildings dating from 1870 to 1912. The buildings were moved from their original locations and restored on-site. As visitors explore, interpreters demonstrate trades such as blacksmithing, spinning, storytelling and soap making. On select Saturdays, the "Discover the Past" program offers seasonal hands-on activities like butter churning, rope making and crop planting, so come prepared to party, 19th-century style.