Background

Sulphur Springs Water Tower: A Tampa Landmark

Discover Tampa's iconic Sulphur Springs Water Tower, a historic landmark offering a glimpse into the city's past within the tranquil River Tower Park, a free and accessible green space.

4.2

The Sulphur Springs Water Tower, a towering landmark in Tampa, Florida, stands as a testament to the city's vibrant history and enduring spirit. Built in 1927, this 214-foot-tall Gothic Revival structure was originally designed to supply water to the Sulphur Springs Hotel and Apartments, as well as Mave's Arcade, Florida's first indoor shopping venue. Over the years, it has transformed from a functional water source into a beloved symbol of the Sulphur Springs community. Today, the tower resides within River Tower Park, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and a tranquil green space along the Hillsborough River. While the interior is closed for safety, the tower's exterior and surrounding park provide a unique historical and recreational experience, easily accessible and free to enjoy.

A brief summary to Sulphur Springs Water Tower

  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tower's architecture and explore River Tower Park.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby ZooTampa at Lowry Park or Busch Gardens for a full day of Tampa adventures.
  • Take a walk along the River Walkway that connects River Tower Park to Sulphur Springs Park under Interstate 275.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 455-479 E Bird St, Tampa, FL 33604. There is a small parking lot available at River Tower Park. Parking is free. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially on weekends or during special events.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Sulphur Springs Water Tower via public transportation, take HART bus route 31 and ride it until you reach the stop at N Florida Ave & E Bird St. From the bus stop, walk east on E Bird St. The Sulphur Springs Water Tower is located in River Tower Park. A one-way fare is $2.00. Exact change is required.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Sulphur Springs neighborhood, the Water Tower is easily accessible by foot. From Nebraska Avenue and Sitka Street, walk east on E Bird Street for a few blocks. The tower will be visible on your left within River Tower Park.

Unlock the Best of Sulphur Springs Water Tower

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sulphur Springs Water Tower

The Sulphur Springs Water Tower, a prominent landmark in Tampa, Florida, stands as a captivating reminder of a bygone era. Constructed in 1927, this towering structure was initially built to provide essential water pressure to the Sulphur Springs Hotel and Apartments, along with Mave's Arcade, which was the first indoor shopping venue in Florida. The tower's history is intertwined with the ambitious vision of developer Josiah Richardson, who sought to transform Sulphur Springs into a thriving resort destination, capitalizing on the area's natural mineral springs. Richardson's grand plans included a luxurious spa retreat, an alligator farm, and various other tourist attractions. The water tower was a crucial component of this vision, ensuring a reliable water supply for his expanding enterprises. The tower's location was strategically chosen to support the growth of the Sulphur Springs Resort spa and other ventures that would draw visitors to the area. The Sulphur Springs Hotel and Apartments, with Mave's Arcade on its ground floor, became a popular destination, attracting people from far and wide. The tower itself is an architectural marvel, showcasing a unique Gothic Revival design. Its intricate adornments, crenelated parapet walls, lancet windows, and gracefully scrolled footings blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. Standing at 214 feet tall, the tower is one of only two such structures remaining in Florida, the other being the Singing Tower in Lake Wales. Civil engineer Grover Poole oversaw the tower's construction, deviating from the original design to create a medieval-inspired tower with battlements crowning the holding tank. The tower's walls are eight inches thick, constructed of poured concrete, and it sits on a 45-foot-deep foundation blasted into solid bedrock, with a buttressed base over an artesian spring. However, Richardson's ambitious dreams were shattered by a catastrophic flood in September 1933. The Tampa Electric Company's dam collapsed, unleashing a torrent of water that devastated Mave's Arcade and the Sulphur Springs Hotel and Apartments. The damage was extensive, and Richardson's heavily mortgaged investment was destroyed, leading to his bankruptcy. Despite this setback, the water tower continued to serve the community, pumping artesian well water to local customers until 1971. In the 1950s, the grounds surrounding the tower briefly hosted a drive-in movie theater, adding a unique cultural dimension to the site. However, the city of Tampa eventually forced the tower to cease water piping to maintain a monopoly over water supply for its residents. Over the years, the tower faced periods of neglect and disrepair. In 1990, it gained unwanted attention when two teenagers climbed to the top and had to be rescued by helicopter, highlighting its deteriorating condition. Recognizing the tower's historical and cultural significance, preservation efforts began to take shape. In 2005, the city of Tampa purchased the site and designated the surrounding area as River Tower Park. This marked a renewed focus on preserving the tower and its legacy. Today, River Tower Park offers a tranquil green space where visitors can admire the tower's architecture and learn about its history. The park features paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, making it accessible to all. While the interior of the tower is closed to the public due to safety concerns, the exterior remains a captivating sight. The Sulphur Springs Water Tower stands as a symbol of integrity and fortitude for the Sulphur Springs community. It has witnessed the rise and fall of fortunes, the evolution of entertainment, and the changing landscape of Tampa. Its presence serves as a constant reminder of the past and a source of pride for the present. The tower is illuminated at night as part of the city-wide “Lights on Tampa” public art campaign. Visiting the Sulphur Springs Water Tower and River Tower Park is free of charge. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, providing ample time for visitors to explore the area and take in the historical significance of the tower. The park is located along the Hillsborough River, offering scenic views and a connection to nature. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. While visiting the Sulphur Springs Water Tower, consider exploring other nearby attractions. ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a family-friendly destination with a variety of animal exhibits and interactive experiences. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers thrill rides, live shows, and animal encounters. These attractions provide additional opportunities for entertainment and adventure during your visit to Tampa. The Sulphur Springs Water Tower is more than just a historical landmark; it is a symbol of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of Tampa. Its story is a testament to the city's rich past and a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture admirer, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the Sulphur Springs Water Tower is a must-see destination in Tampa.

Popular Experiences near Sulphur Springs Water Tower

Popular Hotels near Sulphur Springs Water Tower

Select Currency