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Photo from the Hillsborough River
Photo from the Hillsborough River

Exploring the Tampa FL Riverwalk. A Complete Guide

Welcome to the vibrant and diverse Tampa FL Riverwalk! This 2.4-mile pedestrian and bike path along the Hillsborough River offers a plethora of attractions and activities, from beautiful parks and world-class museums to exciting entertainment venues and delicious food hotspots. Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey along the Tampa FL Riverwalk? Let's explore!

Tampa FL

Short Summary

  • Explore Tampa's vibrant culture, outdoor activities and waterfront views on the Riverwalk!

  • Experience exciting events & festivals like Fourth Friday Tampa, Margarita Fest & Riverfest.

  • Enjoy luxurious accommodations with discounts and complimentary shuttle services.

Discovering the Parks

A view of the Tampa Riverwalk with the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in the background

Imagine strolling along the Tampa Riverwalk and uncovering four amazing parks that offer a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From the splash pad and dog park at Water Works Park to the sustainable design of Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the military monuments at MacDill Park, and the historical tribute at Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Each park offers a unique experience, from the interactive water features at Water Works Park to the stunning views of the Hillsborough River at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. MacDill Park is home to monuments honoring the military.

Water Works Park

As you reach the northern end of the Tampa Riverwalk, you'll discover Water Works Park, an exciting outdoor space offering waterfront views of the Hillsborough River and the city skyline. This park features a fun children's splash pad, a dog park for your furry friends, and a playground for the little ones to enjoy.

Tampa Bay

While you're there, don't miss the notable restaurant Ulele, a Tampa Bay favorite that serves delectable cuisine inspired by the area's rich history and culture.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Venture further along the Riverwalk to the largest park in downtown Tampa, the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. This stunning waterfront park offers a plethora of activities for everyone to enjoy. Have fun with the kids at the playground. Get wet in the interactive water fountains of the park or take Fido to the dog park to run around freely.

The park also hosts special events and festivals, such as Riverfest, Mayor's Mac n Cheese Throwdown, and the dazzling Christmas light shows during the Winter Village.

MacDill Park

A view of MacDill Park located in Tampa, FL along the beautiful Riverwalk" tampa fl riverwalk

Next on your journey along the Tampa Riverwalk is MacDill Park, a serene spot that honors the history of the MacDill Air Force base with monuments dedicated to veterans and those who served in the military. Stroll through the park and relish the gorgeous sunrise over downtown Tampa while enjoying a delicious breakfast from a local food truck.

Remember to pay your respects at the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument. It is a symbolic reminder of all those who have made the ultimate sacrifices in military service.

Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park

Last but not least, explore Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, a 4.5-acre waterfront park located on the shores of the Hillsborough River. This park pays tribute to the region's history with a replica of the original fort used during the Seminole Wars in the 1820s.

The park's name, "Cotanchobee," means "where the big water meets the land," which is fitting for this beautiful park that offers waterfront views and a memorial to the "First Floridians."

Tampa's Museums and Art Centers

As you continue your journey along the Tampa Riverwalk, you'll stumble upon a treasure trove of museums and art centers, such as the Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa Museum of Art, and Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. These cultural gems are a testament to the diverse and rich history of Tampa Bay, offering a wide range of exhibits and experiences for visitors to enjoy.

From interactive exhibits to educational programs, these museums and art centers provide something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family or a chance to explore the city's history and culture, the Tampa Riverwalk has something for everyone.

Glazer Children's Museum

Nestled in the heart of the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Glazer Children's Museum offers an exciting variety of interactive exhibits and activities for children up to the age of 10. Watch your little ones learn and play in themed areas such as Art Smart, Engineers' Workshop, Farm, and Firehouse.

With well-maintained and clean facilities, this museum is especially suited for toddlers and young children, providing a fun and educational experience.

Tampa Museum of Art

Just a short walk from the Glazer Children's Museum, you'll find the Tampa Museum of Art, an incredible modern and contemporary art museum showcasing a vast collection of both local and international works. With a century-old legacy, this museum offers a wealth of art, including a steady stream of exciting traveling exhibits.

Stop by the museum's cafe for a tasty treat. Indulge in some delicious food or grab a gelato. Afterwards, browse the unique gift collection at the Museum Store.

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

A view of the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts with a wave shaped building in the background

Housed in "the Cube," the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts is a must-see attraction on the Tampa Riverwalk. This museum features a diverse collection of historic and contemporary works by emerging and internationally known artists, including glimpses of Woodstock, documentation of the construction of the Panama Canal, and early Tampa history.

It also offers workshops covering everything from creative layout to smartphone and social media photography, ensuring an engaging experience for photography enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Entertainment and Sports Venues

As you make your way further along the Tampa Riverwalk, you'll encounter incredible entertainment and sports venues such as the Straz Center for the Performing Arts and Amalie Arena. These venues host a wide array of events, from world-class Broadway shows to thrilling hockey games, ensuring that there's always something exciting happening along the Riverwalk.

From the Riverwalk, you can also take in the sights of downtown Tampa, including the iconic Tampa Bay History Center and the Tampa Museum of Art. With so much to see and do, the Tampa Riverwalk is the perfect place to explore and experience the city.

Straz Center for the Performing Arts

A view of the Straz Center for the Performing Arts with a city skyline in the background

Located in downtown Tampa along the Riverwalk, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts is the largest theater complex in the Southeast. This impressive venue hosts a variety of shows and performances, including Broadway shows, opera, drama, dance, cabarets, concerts, and comedy.

While you're there, be sure to check out the three incredible restaurants and the retrofitted Airstream Safari Land Yacht, which serves up delicious cocktails, craft beers, smoothies, and soft drinks.

Amalie Arena

A view of the Amalie Arena with the Tampa Bay Lightning logo in the foreground

Another exciting destination along the Tampa Riverwalk is Amalie Arena, a state-of-the-art multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex with a capacity of 20,000 seats. This arena hosts a variety of events, including concerts, hockey games, and other live performances.

Some upcoming events include Duran Duran, Tampa R&B Music Experience, and Bryan Adams. Don't forget to explore the amazing Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge, located on the fifth level of Amalie Arena, offering a panoramic view of the entire arena, a fully stocked liquor bar, flat-panel TVs, and a well-stocked humidor.

Food and Beverage Hotspots

A view of the waterfront dining options along the Tampa Riverwalk

One of the most enticing aspects of the Tampa Riverwalk is its incredible food and beverage hotspots. From the bustling Armature Works food hall to the lively Sparkman Wharf waterfront dining destination, you'll find an array of culinary delights to tantalize your taste buds.

Additionally, we'll share some of our top dining recommendations for local restaurants along the Riverwalk.

Armature Works

 A view of Armature Works with outdoor tables and a splash pad in the foreground

Situated on the Tampa Riverwalk, Armature Works is an amazing food hall and event space that offers a first-class view of the Hillsborough River. This bustling hotspot houses a variety of local restaurants, serving up fresh produce and exciting food options for every palate.

Armature Works also hosts a range of events, from cooking classes to art walks to wine tastings, adding to the excitement of this food lover's paradise.

Sparkman Wharf

A view of Sparkman Wharf with a notable restaurant in the foreground

Another must-visit destination on the Tampa Riverwalk is Sparkman Wharf, an outdoor waterfront space featuring culinary creations by Tampa Bay's top chefs. With its wide open green spaces, family-friendly activities like game and movie nights, and fitness classes, this lively destination offers an unparalleled waterfront dining and entertainment experience.

Don't miss the unique Tex-Mex cuisine served at JOTORO, one of the many hip restaurants at Sparkman Wharf.

Dining Recommendations

To make the most of your culinary adventure along the Tampa Riverwalk, we recommend trying some of the best restaurants in the area. These establishments offer a variety of cuisines, including American, Italian, Spanish, and Mediterranean dishes.

Some of our top picks include Ulele, On Swann, Oak & Ola, Rooster & The Till, Bern's Steak House, The Deviled Pig, The Columbia Restaurant, and IL Ritorno. Be sure to check out their locations along the Riverwalk and indulge in their delicious offerings.

Activities and Transportation Options

The Tampa Riverwalk offers a wealth of activities and transportation options for those looking to explore this vibrant destination. Whether you prefer water adventures, land activities, or public transportation, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

From kayaking and paddle boarding to biking and walking, the Riverwalk has plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, there are plenty of restaurants.

Water Adventures

A view of the Water Adventures along the Hillsborough River with a pirate water taxi in the foreground

For those who love to make a splash, the Tampa Riverwalk offers a variety of exciting water-based activities. Rent boats, kayaks, paddleboards, or water bikes to cruise down the river and take in the stunning views.

For a truly unique experience, hop aboard a Kraken Cycleboat or a floating tiki boat with Cruisin' Tikis Tampa Bay for a fun-filled booze cruise. Don't forget to ride the Pirate Water Taxi for a scenic tour of Channelside, Harbor Island, and Davis Island's restaurant row.

Land Adventures

A view of the Accommodations Along the Riverwalk with a Yacht Starship in the foreground

If you prefer to stay on solid ground, there are plenty of land-based activities to enjoy along the Tampa Riverwalk. Take a leisurely stroll, bike, or jog along the paved walkway, or visit one of the many parks for some outdoor fun.

For a more structured experience, join a bike tour or rent bikes and electric scooters from multiple kiosks throughout the Riverwalk and downtown Tampa.

Public Transport

For those who prefer to leave the navigating to someone else, Tampa offers a variety of public transportation options. Hop on and off the Pirate Water Taxi at various stops along the Riverwalk, or take advantage of the bus services, in-town trolleys, and streetcars provided by HART.

Some hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the Riverwalk, making it easy to explore this amazing destination.

Tampa Bay History Center

A view of the Tampa Bay History Center with a Spanish conquistadors statue in the foreground

Dive into Tampa's rich history at the Tampa Bay History Center, a fascinating museum that houses 12,000 years of local history. The journey of Tampa Bay starts with its indigenous first peoples. Then came the Spanish invasion, followed by cattle ranching and finally Cuban cigar fame.

Voyage the high seas with pirates and Spanish conquistadors, stroll down Ybor City's brick streets during its Cuban cigar heyday, or climb into the saddle to experience a cattle drive with Florida pioneers. Don't miss the "Treasure Seekers" exhibit, which celebrates Florida's history of pirates, conquistadors, and shipwrecks.

Accommodations Along the Riverwalk

After a long day of exploring the Tampa Riverwalk, you'll need a comfortable place to rest your head. You'll find a variety of accommodations along the Riverwalk, from luxurious hotels like the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street and The Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk to cozy Airbnbs such as the Riverwalk Retreat and The Riverwalk Suite.

Many accommodations offer exciting discounts and packages for visitors, as well as complimentary shuttle services to and from the Riverwalk, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay.

Special Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, the Tampa Riverwalk hosts a variety of special events and festivals, bringing even more excitement to this already vibrant destination. Fourth Friday Tampa, food truck rallies, the Margarita Festival and free concerts in the park offer exciting experiences. All these events occur on different dates - the Fourth Friday Tamapa event is a regular one, while the Margarita Festival happens annually and the concerts take place every first Thursday of the month.

One of the most notable annual events is the thrilling Riverfest, which brings live music, food, and entertainment to the Riverwalk, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.

Summary

In conclusion, the Tampa Riverwalk offers an incredible array of attractions, activities, and experiences for visitors to enjoy. From its beautiful parks and world-class museums to its exciting entertainment venues and delicious food hotspots, the Riverwalk has something for everyone. Whether you're exploring by water, land, or public transportation, you'll find the Tampa Riverwalk to be a vibrant and unforgettable destination. So, what are you waiting for? Embark on your adventure along the Tampa Riverwalk and discover all the amazing treasures it has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tampa Riverwalk worth visiting?

Experience downtown Tampa like never before with a visit to the beautiful and exciting Tampa Riverwalk! From waterfront dining options, fun festivals, and recreational activities on the water, there's something for everyone to enjoy here.

Whether you're looking for a romantic date night, an outing with friends, or some quality family time, the Tampa Riverwalk is absolutely worth visiting!

Does Tampa have a riverwalk?

Yes, Tampa does have a riverwalk! It's an amazing 2.6 miles in length from Armature Works to Sparkman Wharf, and it connects various attractions, eateries, museums and more.

So come down to the Tampa Riverwalk and take advantage of all the fun and exciting activities it has to offer.

How long is the River Walk in Tampa?

Experience the fun and beauty of Tampa by exploring the 2.6 mile-long Riverwalk! From restaurants to museums, parks to water sports, this extraordinary journey along the Hillsborough River will provide an unforgettable experience.

So come on down and explore all that the Tampa Riverwalk has to offer!

Why is Tampa Riverwalk permanently closed?

We regret to inform Tampa residents that the beloved Riverwalk will be closed permanently on Wednesday, October 13 due to construction of a new building in the area ( now open again). It's an exciting time for the city, but we understand that it's a difficult change to process. Enjoy the Riverwalk while you can!




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