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Tampa's Downtown Oasis

Experience Tampa's vibrant heart at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park: a scenic riverfront oasis offering year-round events, attractions, and stunning views in the heart of downtown.

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Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, an eight-acre haven in the heart of downtown Tampa, offers a refreshing escape with its stunning riverfront views and diverse attractions. Transformed from the site of the former Curtis Hixon Hall, the park boasts a sprawling great lawn perfect for picnics and events, interactive fountains that delight children, a dedicated dog park, and the scenic Tampa Riverwalk. Flanked by cultural landmarks like the Tampa Museum of Art and the Glazer Children's Museum, it's a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike, hosting concerts, festivals, fitness classes, and seasonal events like Winter Village. Whether you're seeking relaxation, recreation, or a taste of Tampa's lively atmosphere, Curtis Hixon Park provides a welcoming and picturesque experience.

A brief summary to Curtis Hixon Waterfront 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 concerts, festivals, and fitness classes.
  • Enjoy a stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, which connects the park to other downtown attractions.
  • Visit the nearby Tampa Museum of Art and Glazer Children's Museum for a cultural experience.
  • Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the great lawn.
  • Take advantage of the Pirate Water Taxi service for a unique way to explore the waterfront.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Tampa Riverwalk, simply follow the path towards the center of downtown. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is directly adjacent to the Riverwalk, easily accessible via multiple entry points. Look for the large grassy lawn and the distinctive fountains.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the areas near Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. The closest bus stops are Tampa St @ Cass St and Cass St + Tampa St, each about a 5-minute walk to the park. Check the HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ride fare is typically around $2.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in downtown Tampa. Simply request a ride to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park at 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602. A short ride from nearby downtown locations will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602. Note that Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park does not have on-site parking. However, there are several parking garages and metered parking spaces nearby. The William F. Poe Parking Garage (800 N Ashley Dr) is a convenient option, with hourly rates around $1.20 and a daily maximum of $7.00. Other nearby garages include the Tampa Lot L25 (127 N Tampa St) and the Courtyard Tampa Downtown Valet (102 E Cass St). Metered street parking is also available, but be sure to check the time limits and rates.

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Discover more about Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, an eight-acre jewel nestled in the core of downtown Tampa, provides a refreshing blend of natural beauty and urban vibrancy. Situated along the Hillsborough River, the park has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists seeking respite and recreation. The park's history is intertwined with that of Curtis Hixon Hall, Tampa's first convention center and indoor arena, which stood on the site from 1965 until its demolition in 1993. The original Curtis Hixon Park was established in its place, named in honor of Curtis Hixon, a respected Tampa mayor who served from 1943 until his death in office in 1956. In the early 2000s, as part of Tampa's ambitious Riverwalk project, the park underwent a significant transformation, expanding southward and incorporating modern design elements. The revamped Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park opened in its current configuration in 2010. The park's design emphasizes open space and accessibility, with a large grassy lawn that gently slopes toward the river in a series of wide terraces. This great lawn serves as a versatile venue for various events, from concerts and festivals to community gatherings and casual picnics. Perimeter seating provides ample space for relaxation and socializing, while the surrounding landscape offers a variety of attractions. Interactive fountains provide a playful escape for children, while a dedicated dog park allows furry friends to frolic and socialize. Shaded pavilions offer respite from the Florida sun, and an amphitheater hosts live performances and events throughout the year. Public art installations add a touch of culture and visual interest to the park's landscape. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is also strategically located near several of Tampa's premier cultural attractions. The Tampa Museum of Art and the Glazer Children's Museum flank the park on the north side, while the Rivergate Tower and a parking garage border it to the south. The park's western edge is defined by the Hillsborough River and the Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.4-mile pedestrian path that connects Curtis Hixon Park to other downtown attractions, hotels, restaurants, and parks. The park's commitment to sustainability is evident in its design and operations. Irrigation is provided using reclaimed water, and a hydrodynamic treatment system cleans stormwater before it enters the Hillsborough River. These features help to minimize the park's environmental impact and promote responsible resource management. Throughout the year, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park hosts a diverse array of events and activities. Concerts and music festivals draw crowds of music lovers, while food festivals showcase the region's culinary scene. Arts and crafts shows provide opportunities to browse and purchase unique creations, and evening yoga classes offer a relaxing way to unwind. Seasonal events, such as the Winter Village, transform the park into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a fun-filled family outing, or a vibrant social experience, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park offers something for everyone. Its central location, diverse amenities, and commitment to sustainability make it a valuable asset to the Tampa community and a must-visit destination for tourists.

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