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Perry Harvey Sr. Park: A Historical and Cultural Oasis

Discover Tampa's vibrant African American history at Perry Harvey Sr. Park, a downtown oasis featuring public art, recreation, and community events, honoring the legacy of Central Avenue.

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Perry Harvey Sr. Park, located in downtown Tampa, is more than just a green space; it's a vibrant tribute to the city's African American heritage. Once the heart of the thriving Central Avenue business district known as "The Scrub," the park now features captivating public art, historical monuments, and recreational facilities. Visitors can explore the Leaders' Row, honoring influential figures, and the History Walk, which chronicles the area's rich past. With its interactive fountain, skate park (Bro Bowl 2.0), basketball courts, and festival lawn, the park offers something for everyone. It's a place to play, gather, and reflect on the legacy of Central Avenue, a community that fostered entrepreneurship, leadership, and cultural innovation. The park serves as a reminder of Tampa's diverse history and a celebration of its African American roots, making it a unique and enriching destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Perry Harvey Sr. Park

  • Monday 7 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-10 pm
  • Friday 7 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and community gatherings that showcase Tampa's diverse culture.
  • Explore the History Walk to learn about the rich history of Central Avenue and the African American community that thrived there.
  • Visit Leaders' Row to discover the stories of influential figures who shaped Tampa's history.
  • Bring your skateboard and check out the Bro Bowl 2.0 skate park, a modern take on a Tampa skateboarding landmark.
  • Cool off at the interactive fountain, a fun and refreshing way to beat the Florida heat.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the nearby Encore buildings or the intersection of E Scott St and N Tampa St, Perry Harvey Sr. Park is easily accessible on foot. Head east on E Harrison St, and you'll find the park entrance a short walk away. Look for the Gateway Sculptures, which mark the park's entrance. The park is directly across the street from the Encore buildings.

  • Public Transport

    The TECO Line Streetcar has several stops near Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Disembark at the Dick Greco Plaza Station or the HSBC Station and walk a few blocks east to the park. The streetcar is free to ride. Several HART bus routes also serve the area. Check the HART website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide convenient access to Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Simply provide the address (1000 E Harrison St, Tampa, FL 33602) as your destination. A short ride from downtown Tampa typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, take I-275 and exit at either Exit 44 (Ashley St) or Exit 45A (Scott St). Follow the signs to downtown Tampa and Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Limited street parking is available around the park, and several parking garages are located nearby, including the Twiggs Garage (901 East Twiggs Street) and the Fort Brooke Garage (107 North Franklin Street). Parking rates typically range from $2 to $3 per hour, with daily maximums ranging from $10 to $15. The Zack Street Lot (812 East Zack Street) and Scott Street Lot (1301 N. Morgan St.) are also options.

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Discover more about Perry Harvey Sr. Park

Perry Harvey Sr. Park, situated in the heart of downtown Tampa, stands as a powerful testament to the city's vibrant African American history and culture. This 11-acre park, located at 1000 E Harrison St, Tampa, FL 33602, is not merely a recreational space but a living memorial to the once-thriving Central Avenue business district, also known as "The Scrub." This area, settled by freed slaves after the Civil War, blossomed into a hub of African American entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community life, only to be diminished by urban renewal projects and the construction of Interstate 4. The park's design thoughtfully integrates art, history, and recreation, creating a space that encourages visitors to engage with the past while enjoying modern amenities. As you enter the park, you're greeted by James Simon's Gateway Sculptures, depicting musicians, dancers, and a jukebox, immediately setting the tone for the park's celebration of Central Avenue's musical legacy. These sculptures serve as a welcoming invitation to explore the rich history that lies within. The History Walk, a curving path lined with public art, tells the chronological story of The Scrub and Central Avenue. Rufus Seder's "Lifetiles" use historic photographs to bring the past to life, showcasing the faces of early Black leaders and residents and depicting scenes from daily life. These interactive artworks change and morph as you pass by, creating a dynamic and engaging experience. However, it's worth noting that some of these artworks have been subject to vandalism in the past, highlighting the ongoing need for preservation and respect for this important cultural heritage. Leaders' Row honors local and national historical figures who left their mark on the city and inspired generations. Michael Parker's work demonstrates leadership in all its forms, reminding visitors of the importance of community leadership and civic engagement. The park also features a bronze statue of Perry Harvey Sr., a civil rights leader and long-time head of the International Longshoremen's Association Local 1402, who played a pivotal role in improving the lives of Tampa's Black dockworkers. For those seeking recreation, Perry Harvey Sr. Park offers a variety of options. The Bro Bowl 2.0 skate park pays homage to the original Bro Bowl, a popular skateboarding spot built in the 1970s. The new skate park features ramps, stairs, and ledges for skaters of all skill levels. Three full-sized basketball courts provide a space for friendly competition, surrounded by shaded benches and picnic tables. An interactive fountain with colorful lights and music offers a refreshing escape, while the NEOS 360 Play System provides fun and engaging games for children. The park's Festival Lawn is a large, grassy open space that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and community gatherings. The Tampa Bay Empanada Festival and Tampa Bay Veg Fest are just a few examples of the many events that bring people together at Perry Harvey Sr. Park. This space serves as a reminder of Central Avenue's role as a gathering place for the community. Perry Harvey Sr. Park is more than just a collection of amenities; it's a place of remembrance, celebration, and community. It's a place where visitors can learn about the history of Tampa's African American community, honor the leaders who paved the way, and enjoy the simple pleasures of recreation and community engagement. The park's location in the heart of downtown Tampa makes it easily accessible to both locals and tourists, and its diverse offerings ensure that there's something for everyone to enjoy. Despite its many positive attributes, Perry Harvey Sr. Park has faced challenges in recent years. Concerns have been raised about maintenance, security, and the level of events compared to other downtown parks. Vandalism of public art has also been a concern, highlighting the need for increased security and community involvement in preserving the park's cultural heritage. However, city officials have responded to these concerns, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring that Perry Harvey Sr. Park remains a vibrant and welcoming space for all. Visiting Perry Harvey Sr. Park is an opportunity to connect with Tampa's past, celebrate its present, and build a better future. Whether you're interested in history, art, recreation, or simply spending time with friends and family, this park offers a unique and enriching experience. It's a place where the stories of the past come to life, where community thrives, and where everyone is welcome. As you stroll through the park, take a moment to reflect on the words of Dorothy Harvey Keel, one of Perry Harvey Sr.'s daughters, who said at the park's groundbreaking event, "I wish that he were here to experience it so that he would know people were appreciative." Her words serve as a reminder of the importance of honoring the legacies of those who came before us and of creating spaces where future generations can learn, grow, and thrive. Perry Harvey Sr. Park stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and spirit of Tampa's African American community. It's a place where history is not just remembered but celebrated, where art inspires, and where community comes together to create a brighter future.

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