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William F. Poe Plaza: A Downtown Oasis

A peaceful downtown Tampa plaza honoring former Mayor William F. Poe, offering a green space for relaxation and community events.

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William F. Poe Plaza, located in the heart of downtown Tampa, is a public space dedicated to former Tampa Mayor William F. Poe Sr. The plaza offers a tranquil escape with its shaded areas, trees, fountain, and unique architecture, providing a place for relaxation and reflection amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

A brief summary to William F. Poe Plaza

  • E Jackson St, Tampa, Downtown, Florida, 33602, US

Local tips

  • Enjoy a quiet lunch break in the plaza's shaded areas.
  • Check out the plaza's architecture and fountain.
  • Visit during the annual Clean Air Fair for environmental exhibits and activities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    William F. Poe Plaza is located in downtown Tampa, easily accessible on foot from nearby attractions and hotels. From the Tampa Riverwalk, head east on E Jackson Street. The plaza is situated between N Tampa Street and S Florida Avenue. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the area, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) provides bus services to downtown Tampa. Several bus routes, including the 1, 2, and 7, have stops near E Jackson Street. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the plaza. A typical one-way bus fare is approximately $2.00. The TECO Line Streetcar also provides free transport around downtown Tampa, with a stop at Whiting Station, a short walk from the plaza.

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, are readily available in Tampa. A short ride from the Tampa Convention Center or the Channelside District to William F. Poe Plaza typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before starting your trip. Drop-off is convenient on E Jackson Street, directly adjacent to the plaza.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking garages are located near William F. Poe Plaza. The William F. Poe Garage is located at 800 N Ashley Dr, a short walk from the plaza. Other nearby options include the Ashley Plaza Garage and Fort Brooke Parking Garage. Hourly parking rates typically range from $1.20. Be aware of event parking rates, which may be higher. The Poe Garage is now using a new payment system to facilitate guest entry and exit. Instead of pulling a ticket, guests must use one of the garage pay stations to enter their license plate number and pay the parking fee prior to attending their event.

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Discover more about William F. Poe Plaza

William F. Poe Plaza, situated in downtown Tampa, is a tribute to William F. Poe Sr., who served as the city's mayor from 1974 to 1979. During his tenure, Poe initiated significant improvements to the downtown area, and the plaza stands as a testament to his contributions. Dedicated in May 2005, the plaza embodies the ideals of Bill Poe and his family, who were known for their generosity towards educational and charitable projects. The plaza provides a serene environment with shaded areas, trees, a fountain, and interesting architectural elements. It features semi-secluded nooks at different levels, connected by stairs, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. The plaza has also been a site for various events, including the annual Clean Air Fair hosted by the Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County. This event promotes environmental awareness and sustainability with vendors, exhibits, and activities. Historically, the location has connections to significant events, including serving as the starting point for the 1909 auto race from Tampa to Jacksonville. In 1980, a Seminole-War-era cemetery was discovered during the construction of an adjacent building, adding to the site's historical significance. Today, William F. Poe Plaza continues to be a valuable public space in downtown Tampa, offering a blend of history, tranquility, and community engagement.

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