Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk is a giant step in the transformation of a once sleepy, business-driven downtown to a modern mix of business, residences, culture and entertainment that will drive the future of Tampa’s growth for decades to come! The Riverwalk winds along the bank of the Hillsborough River for more than two miles from Waterworks Park, past Curtis Hixon Park, the Tampa Convention Center, and Amalie Arena. It ends at Channelside Drive near Tampa’s cruise terminals and the luxurious Water Street district where it joins the Meridian Greenway Trail that connects historic Ybor City.

There is no shortage of things to see or do along the Riverwalk. It’s not only for walking or jogging, but friendly for bikes, roller blades and scooters. Electric bikes and scooters are available for rent throughout downtown Tampa. They’re a great way to see Tampa history while you stroll or roll along the shore. And pets are welcome, so bring the entire family! The four-legged family members will have a great time in well-designed pet play area near Curtis Hixon Park.

The Lafayette Street Bridge and University of Tampa

One of the most iconic sights you’ll see along the Tampa Riverwalk is the Lafayette Street Railroad Bridge. The bridge dates back to 1889 and coincides with H.B Plant’s construction of the Tampa Bay Hotel, now the University of Tampa. The University campus sits on the Hillsborough River on the opposite bank just to the south of the bridge. From the Riverwalk, you’ll have spectacular views of the famous minarets, particularly at sunset. You might even catch sight of the UT rowing team in action as they glide down the river in perfect unison!

Curtis Hixon Park

Curtis Hixon Park is the center of outdoor entertainment in downtown Tampa. From festivals to concerts, something is usually going on at Curtis Hixon Park. Rock the Park is a free local concert series that takes place on the first Thursday evening of each month. Riverfest is an annual event with entertainment, food trucks, and crafts at both Waterworks Park and Curtis Hixon Park simultaneously. Other festivals and markets take place in Curtis Hixon Park throughout the year, sometimes capping the night with spectacular fireworks displays.

Festival Images from the Tampa Riverwalk

Riverwalk Attractions

The Tampa Riverwalk provides access to some of downtown Tampa’s most iconic attractions including The Straz Center for the Performing Arts, The Tampa Convention Center, The Marriott Waterside, The Glazer Children’s Museum, The Tampa Museum of Art, The Tampa Bay History Center , The StarShip Dinner Cruise,  Amalie Arena, The American Victory WWII Battleship and Memorial, The Florida Aquarium. and the world-famous Jose Gaspar pirate ship.

The cruise terminals are only a short walk from Tampa’s Convention Center near the aquarium. One of the most popular hangouts that you’ll find just off the Riverwalk near the cruise terminals is Sparkman Wharf. Here you can grab a bite to eat, and lounge on the lawn while you enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine. On certain days, you can waive to the cruise passengers when the ships sound their horns to signal their departure at precisely 4 PM as they head for the Caribbean. The popular Starship Dinner Cruise also launches from the docks near Sparkman Warf.

Fort Brooke

You’ll find numerous monuments to some of Tampa’s founders and historic figures along the length of Riverwalk along with plaques that quite literally walk you through Tampa’s history. Memorials for our military heroes and markers to identify historic points like Fort Brooke, a historic military post at the mouth of the Hillsborough River dating back to the late 1800s, also line the walk. Fort Brooke saw action during the Civil War, though minor compared to other historic battles. Today, a memorial and a play area for children commemorate the grounds of the old for.

Dining Along the Riverwalk

Hungry? Grab a hot dog at a snack stand while the kids play in one of the playgrounds or splash zones on a hot Florida day. Waterwork park even has its own water playground. Armature Works near Waterworks Park contains a variety of authentic dining experiences from eclectic ice cream to traditional Mexican, Asian and Italian cuisine. You can eat at one of the many dining rooms or chill outside while watching the boats glide up and down the river. You may even want to rent your own floating tiki bar!

Ulele, named after a native American princess, has become one of the hottest restaurants along the riverwalk. Their menu pays homage to native dishes unique to the state of Florida. Many feature the three sisters of the vegetable world, squash, corn and beans in addition native meats like venison, wild boar, alligator and of course, seafood.

The Sail Plaza near the Convention Center offers a full bar for adult playtime and relaxation. Big Ray’s Fish Camp is located in the plaza where you can find another Florida favorite, their signature Grouper sandwich. From The Sail, catch amazing views of Harbour Island across the bay, or just enjoy people watching from this high traffic location. Rent a water bike, a kayak, or even your own boat to explore the Riverwalk from water. Visitors can take a Dolphin-sighting cruise, a sunset cruise on Tampa Bay, or even get married on the water!

The Future of the Tampa Riverwalk

Quickly becoming the center of Downtown Tampa’s social scene, the future of the Riverwalk is brighter than ever. A planned expansion on the north side will extend the Tampa Riverwalk for another 6 miles connecting neighborhoods to the north and West. There are plans in the work to extend Tampa streetcars. Water taxis are growing in popularity. They may expand one day as well making forming a virtual bridge from downtown Tampa to downtown St. Petersburg’s famous arts district. The possibilities are endless for all lovers of the outdoors, food and just plain fun.

Every city has a point in its history that historians label a turning point. It took eleven years to complete the entire Riverwalk project under the supervision of two mayors. It revitalized Tampa’s downtown in just over a decade, and lured developers to turn rundown buildings and long vacant lots into some of the most glorious living spaces, delectable restaurants, and modern outdoor venues in U.S. The Tampa Riverwalk is by far one of Tampa’s most popular hangouts!

Tampa Riverwalk Map