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William F. Poe Plaza: A Downtown Oasis

A peaceful downtown Tampa plaza honoring former Mayor William F. Poe, hosting events and offering a green escape.

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William F. Poe Plaza is a refreshing green space in the heart of downtown Tampa, offering a tranquil escape amidst the city's hustle. Named after former Tampa Mayor William F. Poe, the plaza hosts events and provides a peaceful area for relaxation.

A brief summary to William F. Poe Plaza

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

Local tips

  • Check the event calendar for festivals, fairs, and live music, especially during lunchtime hours.
  • Enjoy a quiet moment by the fountain or find a secluded spot for reading or contemplation.
  • Take a stroll through the plaza to appreciate the landscaping and architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Tampa Convention Center, walk north on Franklin Street for approximately 0.2 miles. The plaza will be on your left, between Jackson Street and Whiting Street.

  • Public Transport

    Take the HART bus to the corner of N Franklin St and E Jackson St. The plaza is located at the corner of Jackson and Franklin Street. A single ride on the HART bus costs approximately $2.

  • Ride Share

    Request a ride to 200 N Franklin Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are readily available in downtown Tampa, with a short trip costing around $6-$10, depending on demand and distance.

  • Parking

    If driving, several parking garages are nearby, including the William F. Poe Garage at 800 N Ashley Drive. Hourly parking rates typically range from $1 to $3. The Poe Garage has converted to a ticketless ParkMobile system and guests can pay using onsite pay stations or the ParkMobile app on your phone.

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Discover more about William F. Poe Plaza

William F. Poe Plaza, located 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 2005, the plaza embodies the ideals of Bill Poe and his family, known for their generosity towards educational and charitable projects. The plaza itself offers a serene environment with trees, a fountain, and landscaping, providing a pleasant place for a break. It's a popular spot for lunch breaks and casual strolls, offering semi-secluded nooks connected by stairs. 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. Historically, the location has connections to significant events in Tampa's past. It was the starting point for the 1909 auto race from Tampa to Jacksonville. Additionally, during the construction of an adjacent building in 1980, a forgotten Seminole-War-era cemetery was discovered. Today, William F. Poe Plaza serves as a reminder of Tampa's history and a green oasis in the urban landscape.

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