The Retreat: Tampa's Enduring Dive Bar
Experience Tampa's oldest continuously running bar, The Retreat, a Hyde Park landmark since 1938, offering strong drinks, a nostalgic atmosphere, and a true taste of local history.
The Retreat, a Tampa institution since 1938, stands as the city's oldest continuously running bar at its original location. This beloved Hyde Park dive bar offers a nostalgic atmosphere, strong drinks, and a mix of classic bar fare and modern cocktails. Known for its unpretentious vibe and local patronage, The Retreat features an iconic mural dating back to 1946, uncovered in 2008, depicting a colorful scene of revelry. It's a favorite haunt for service industry members, regulars, and those seeking an authentic Tampa experience, especially during Gasparilla festivities. The Retreat has persevered through challenges, maintaining its permit and character, making it a true landmark in Tampa's vibrant bar scene. It is a place where the drinks are poured strong and camaraderie flows freely.
A brief summary to Retreat
- 123 S Hyde Park Ave, Tampa, Hyde Park, Florida, 33606, US
- +1813-254-2014
- Visit website
- Monday 3 pm-3 am
- Tuesday 3 pm-3 am
- Wednesday 3 pm-3 am
- Thursday 3 pm-3 am
- Friday 3 pm-3 am
- Saturday 3 pm-3 am
- Sunday 3 pm-3 am
Local tips
- Visit during happy hour for discounted drinks and a lively atmosphere filled with service industry professionals and local regulars.
- Check their social media for food truck schedules; bringing in food from local trucks is encouraged on those nights.
- Don't miss the iconic mural inside, a rediscovered piece of Tampa history that adds to the bar's unique charm.
- Arrive early during Gasparilla, Tampa's pirate festival, as The Retreat is a popular pre- and post-parade destination.
- Utilize street parking or nearby garage options, as parking in Hyde Park can be limited, especially during peak hours.
Getting There
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Walking
From Hyde Park Village, walk east along W Swann Ave towards S Hyde Park Ave. Turn right onto S Hyde Park Ave, and The Retreat will be on your left, a short walk down the street. The walk is generally flat and takes only a few minutes, offering a pleasant stroll through the neighborhood.
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Public Transport
From downtown Tampa, take the HART bus line 1, 5, 7, 19, or 30 to the Kennedy Blvd @ Hyde Park Av stop. From there, walk south on S Hyde Park Ave for a few minutes; The Retreat will be on your right. A single bus fare is $2. The TECO Line Streetcar is free and connects Ybor City and downtown, but requires a longer walk (approximately 20 minutes) from the nearest stop.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Tampa or Tampa International Airport, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. The ride to 123 S Hyde Park Ave typically takes 5-10 minutes from downtown and 15-20 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $8-$10 from downtown and $20-$25 from the airport. Be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours or events.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 123 S Hyde Park Ave, Tampa, FL 33606. Street parking is available in the Hyde Park area, metered at $2 per hour. Several paid parking lots are also nearby, including the First Church of Christ Scientist lot ($12 for 2 hours during certain hours) and the Fort Brooke Garage in downtown (hourly rates apply). Free weekend parking is available at the Magnolia lot (606 W. Kennedy Blvd) on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Be mindful of parking restrictions and time limits to avoid a $30 citation.
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