Craft beer at center of Visit Tampa Bay marketing campaign

The Tampa Bay area has the highest concentration of craft breweries in Florida, and with unique local ingredients like citrus fruits and Cuban coffee, Visit Tampa Bay plans to make the craft beer scene a focal point for tourism in the city. region.

Ybor City opened Florida’s first commercial brewery, Florida Brewing, in 1896. In addition to the region’s signature craft brewing, thanks to Prohibition-era rum production and the region’s cultural diversity, Tampa also has a unique cocktail scene.

READ ALSO : Why Tampa Bay is becoming a craft beer hub

The update Made in bay aims to bring beer and liquor lovers to Hillsborough County for weekend overnight trips, generate additional revenue for local businesses and welcome multicultural travelers.

“Tampa Bay has the highest concentration of craft breweries in the state of Florida and it’s one of the many reasons Tampa Bay is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in the country,” said Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa. Bay, said in a press release.

Bay Crafted tells the story of Tampa Bay’s authentic craft beer scene to vacationers looking for a unique destination that offers adventurous activities with a laid-back vibe.

In a video posted on the website, local brewers discuss the growth of the Tampa-area craft beer industry from two local breweries to 46 in 20 years.

“And bars started to take over, and then restaurants,” said Kent Bailey, of Coppertail Brewing Co. “Now we see gas stations, grocery stores. All kinds of places are starting to realize that people want better beer.”

Rachel Wood, of The Mermaid Tavern, added: “I think there’s a real need for quality here, and people got excited.”

Bay Crafted will share messages about Tampa Bay breweries via social media and influencer campaigns, as well as visitors’ brewery adventures.

Tourists also have the opportunity to take advantage of the new digital Bay Craft Pass.

Attendees can save the pass on their phone’s home screen and check in at 21 potential locations, including local breweries and distilleries. They can then win prizes at the Unlock Tampa Bay Visitor Center after visiting four, eight and 12 sites.