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Tampa Riverwalk: A Waterfront Promenade

Explore Tampa's vibrant heart on the Riverwalk: a scenic waterfront promenade connecting parks, attractions, and cultural venues, offering recreation and stunning city views.

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The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian trail that has revitalized Tampa's downtown waterfront. Stretching along the Hillsborough River, it connects numerous parks, attractions, and cultural venues, creating a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike. Once an area of aging warehouses, the Riverwalk has transformed into a scenic path offering stunning views, recreational activities, and access to key points of interest such as the Tampa Bay History Center, Amalie Arena, and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Whether you're strolling, biking, or enjoying a waterfront meal, the Riverwalk provides a dynamic experience that showcases Tampa's beauty and community spirit. The Riverwalk hosts many community events, most notably the numerous festivals held at Curtis Hixon Park and the arrival of the 'pirate ship' Jose Gasparilla, which moors at the Riverwalk behind the Convention Center during the Gasparilla Pirate Festival.

A brief summary to Tampa Riverwalk

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Take advantage of the Pirate Water Taxi for a unique perspective of the Riverwalk and easy access to attractions along the waterfront.
  • Visit during a festival or event at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park for a lively and engaging experience.
  • Rent a bike or scooter to explore the entire length of the Riverwalk and discover hidden gems along the way.
  • Check out the Historical Monument Trail to learn about the key figures and events that shaped Tampa's history.
  • Enjoy a meal or drinks at one of the many waterfront restaurants and bars for stunning views of the Hillsborough River.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're already in downtown Tampa, the Riverwalk is easily accessible on foot. From the Tampa Convention Center, simply head north along the waterfront. From Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, you can access the Riverwalk from various points within the park. Look for clear signage directing you to the paved path. The Riverwalk is well-lit and pedestrian-friendly.

  • Public Transport

    The TECO Line Streetcar provides a convenient and free way to reach the Riverwalk. Several stops are located along the Riverwalk, including the Convention Center, Marriott Waterside, and Cotanchobee Park. Check the TECO Line Streetcar schedule for arrival times. Several HART bus lines also service the downtown area, with stops within walking distance of the Riverwalk. Check the HART website for routes and schedules. The streetcar is fare-free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Tampa. Simply request a ride to the Tampa Riverwalk or a specific landmark along the Riverwalk, such as Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park or the Tampa Convention Center. A short ride from most downtown locations will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking garages are located near the Riverwalk, including the Poe Garage and the Tampa Convention Center Garage. Rates typically range from $2 to $4 per hour, with daily maximums between $9 and $20. Street parking is also available in some areas, but it may be limited, and rates vary. From I-275, take the Ashley/Tampa Street exit and follow the signs to downtown. Note that parking during events may be more expensive.

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Discover more about Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile (4.2 km) pedestrian trail, stands as a testament to Tampa's urban revitalization, transforming the city's downtown waterfront into a vibrant and accessible public space. This scenic promenade stretches along the Hillsborough River, seamlessly connecting a diverse array of parks, attractions, cultural venues, and hotels, offering a dynamic experience for both locals and tourists. Originally conceived in the 1970s by Mayor Bill Poe, the Riverwalk project aimed to rejuvenate a neglected waterfront characterized by aging warehouses and industrial facilities. The initial phase involved constructing a short boardwalk behind Curtis Hixon Hall, but progress stalled due to funding constraints and shifting priorities. However, in the mid-1980s, a renewed focus on downtown revitalization led to the construction of key waterfront landmarks such as the Tampa Convention Center and Amalie Arena. The Riverwalk project gained significant momentum in 2002 when Pam Iorio pledged to prioritize its completion during her mayoral campaign. Construction commenced on pathways and parks, and a $20 million fundraising campaign was launched to support further development. A major milestone was reached in 2010 with the opening of the redeveloped Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the Glazer Children's Museum, creating a central hub for Riverwalk activities. Under the leadership of Mayor Bob Buckhorn, the Riverwalk continued to expand, culminating in the completion of a crucial segment under the Kennedy Boulevard bridge in 2014. This $9.2 million project connected all existing segments into a continuous path, solidifying the Riverwalk as a cohesive and accessible waterfront destination. Further extensions, including the connection to Tampa Heights and Water Works Park, were completed in 2016, lengthening the Riverwalk to over two and a half miles. Today, the Tampa Riverwalk is a bustling hub of activity, offering a wide range of attractions and experiences. Notable points of interest include: * **Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park:** A central gathering place with a sloping lawn, splash zones, a playground, and public boat docks. * **Tampa Bay History Center:** An engaging museum showcasing the region's rich history, including a pirate-themed exhibit. * **Amalie Arena:** Home to the Tampa Bay Lightning and a venue for concerts and events. * **Tampa Convention Center:** A modern facility hosting conventions, trade shows, and meetings. * **Water Works Park:** A family-friendly park with a splash pad, playground, and open green spaces. * **The Straz Center for the Performing Arts:** A premier performing arts venue hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and theatrical performances. * **Sparkman Wharf:** An outdoor waterfront space with restaurants, a beer garden, and recreational activities. * **Armature Works:** A renovated streetcar warehouse housing a public market, restaurants, and event spaces. The Riverwalk also features a Historical Monument Trail, with over 30 monuments honoring individuals and events that shaped Tampa Bay. These monuments provide insights into the region's diverse cultural heritage and historical significance. Beyond its attractions, the Riverwalk offers various recreational opportunities. Visitors can rent bicycles or motorized scooters to explore the path, or take a water taxi to nearby areas such as Hyde Park and Harbour Island. The TECO Line Streetcar provides a convenient connection to downtown and Ybor City, enhancing accessibility to the Riverwalk. The Tampa Riverwalk has become a focal point for community events and festivals, most notably the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, during which the pirate ship Jose Gasparilla docks along the Riverwalk. The Riverwalk has truly enhanced Tampa's image as a beautiful and unique destination, highlighting the city's waterfront and fostering a stronger sense of community.

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