The Tampa Bay Hotel was completed in 1891 when Tampa had few residents, and was set amidst saw palmetto and palm trees. It was one of the first hotels to have electricity (which the hotel maintains at its original wattage), and with 511 rooms it cost $3 billion to build. Typified by Moorish and Victorian architecture the old hotel is an iconic landmark in Tampa Bay.

On Aug. 2, 1933, the University of Tampa officially opened its door within the hotel. The city of Tampa still owns the hotel, leasing it to UT for $1 a year. The hotel also houses the incredible Henry B. Plant Museum. The architecture and grounds that surround the original building are amazing, with old oaks dripping in Spanish moss and the Hillsborough River running along side. Take a look …