Take a walk down the historic streets of Ybor City, and you just might stumble upon a factory that's been spitting out stogies since the turn of the century. It's the J.C. Newman Cigar Factory (2701 N. 16th St., Tampa) — where the smoke is thick, and the history is richer than a double Maduro.

Established in 1895, this factory:

has been crafting premium cigars for over a century
is the last cigar factory operating in the El Reloj district (named after the factory's giant clock tower)
is the oldest family-owned cigar maker in the US, according to the Cigar Journal

But wait, you might be thinking, I'm not a smoker. Why would I want to visit a cigar factory? Well, my friend, there's so much more to J.C. Newman than just cigars. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and engaging tours, it's a must-see destination for anyone interested in Tampa's roots.

While many changes have occurred J.C. still hand rolls some cigars. | Photo via Wikimedia commons

J.C. Newman has seen it all — it survived the Great Depression, crafted cigars for soldiers in World War II, and continues to win awards for its blends.

And let's not forget the famous lips who have enjoyed their cigars, including Babe Ruth and Winston Churchill.

Tours

Witness skilled rollers crafting cigars with precision, try your hand at rolling your own cigar, sample some of their fine blends, and even plan your next event.

Factory tour | $10
Hand-rolling class | $37.50

Instagram-worthy shots

Use the bricks as a backdrop for a TBAY headshot
Sit at a cigar table and pose like a pro
Make your way to the roof (with permission, of course) for one of the best views Ybor has to offer.

Fun fact: J.C.'s hand rollers bunch and roll about 100 cigars a day, as noted by its IG.