Columbus Drive is a major road in Tampa, Florida, from State Road 589 on its west side east through West Tampa. It was originally known as Michigan Avenue[1] and was renamed Columbus Drive in 1933.[2] On its west end, International Plaza, an upscale mall, and several upscale restaurants are located off Columbus Drive on Jim Walter Boulevard, named in 2003 for Jim Walter.[3] East on Columbus there are several Latin markets and eateries including La Teresita and Arco Iris. Columbus Drive crosses the Hillsborough River via the Columbus Drive Bridge.[1]
East Columbus Drive travels through a historic area of Tampa, Tampa Heights. Latin food restaurants on East Columbus Drive include Arco-Iris and Brocato's Sandwich Shop. The area is a center of Latin culture in Tampa.[4] The Michigan Avenue grammar school opened in 1907 and became Robert E. Lee Elementary School in 1933.[2][5] and is located at 305 East Columbus Drive between Jefferson Street and Morgan Street. It is Hillsborough County, Florida's oldest brick school building.[2][6] The Villa Madonna School was established at 315 West Columbus Drive.[7][8]
A historic marker commemorating "Buffalo Soldiers" is located at Central Avenue and Columbus Drive. The all-black regiment settled in Tampa Heights during the Spanish–American War.[8]
