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Tampa Riverwalk: A Waterfront Promenade

Explore Tampa's vibrant heart on the Riverwalk: a scenic waterfront promenade connecting parks, museums, and attractions, offering a blend of culture, history, and recreation.

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The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian trail that has revitalized Tampa's downtown waterfront. Once an area of aging warehouses, it has transformed into a vibrant space connecting parks, museums, and attractions. Stroll along the Riverwalk to experience the city's culture, history, and entertainment. Enjoy public art, dine at waterfront restaurants, and explore attractions like the Tampa Bay History Center, the Florida Aquarium, and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. With events and activities year-round, the Riverwalk offers something for everyone, from families to solo travelers. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll or a lively outing, the Tampa Riverwalk is a must-visit destination.

A brief summary to Tampa Riverwalk

  • 100 E Madison St, Tampa, Downtown, Florida, 33602, US

Local tips

  • Check the event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other activities happening at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Riverwalk's centerpiece.
  • Utilize the TECO Line Streetcar for free transportation between downtown, the Channel District, and Ybor City, with stops conveniently located near the Riverwalk.
  • Consider a ride on the Pirate Water Taxi for a unique perspective of the Riverwalk and surrounding areas, with hop-on/hop-off service to various attractions.
  • Take advantage of the Riverwalk's extended hours and enjoy a sunset stroll or evening entertainment at one of the waterfront restaurants or bars.
  • Look for the Historical Monument Trail along the Riverwalk to discover the stories of individuals and events that shaped Tampa Bay's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From most downtown hotels or attractions, the Tampa Riverwalk is easily accessible on foot. Look for marked entrances and follow the paved path along the Hillsborough River. Orientation is straightforward, as the Riverwalk runs parallel to the river. Key landmarks like the Tampa Convention Center, Amalie Arena, and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park serve as useful reference points. No costs are associated with accessing the Riverwalk on foot.

  • Public Transport

    The TECO Line Streetcar provides a convenient and *free* way to reach the Riverwalk. Several streetcar stops are located near Riverwalk attractions, including the Convention Center, Marriott Waterside, and Cotanchobee Park. Check the TECO Line Streetcar map for the closest stop to your desired Riverwalk destination. HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) buses also serve the downtown area, with several routes stopping within walking distance of the Riverwalk. A single bus fare is $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Tampa. Request a ride to a specific Riverwalk landmark, such as the Tampa Convention Center or Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Fares vary depending on distance and demand, but a short ride within downtown Tampa typically costs between $8 and $15.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking garages and lots are located near the Tampa Riverwalk. Popular options include the Poe Garage (near Curtis Hixon Park) and the Tampa Convention Center Garage. Parking rates vary, but typically range from $9 to $30 per day, depending on the garage and any special events. Valet parking is available at the Hotel Tampa Riverwalk for $44 per day (plus tax).

  • Water Taxi

    The Pirate Water Taxi offers a unique and scenic way to access the Riverwalk from various points along the waterfront. The water taxi has multiple stops along the Riverwalk, Channel District, and nearby islands. An all-day pass costs $20 for adults and $10 for children. This allows for hop-on/hop-off access to different Riverwalk attractions.

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Discover more about Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile (4.2 km) pedestrian trail, has become the centerpiece of Tampa's downtown revitalization. What was once a collection of aging warehouses and industrial facilities has been transformed into a vibrant and interconnected waterfront destination. The Riverwalk's origins trace back to the 1970s, when Mayor Bill Poe envisioned a park and walkway along the Hillsborough River. A short boardwalk was initially constructed, but progress stalled due to funding limitations and shifting priorities. However, in the mid-1980s, Tampa renewed its focus on downtown revitalization, leading to the construction of key waterfront landmarks like the Tampa Convention Center and Amalie Arena. In 2002, mayoral candidate Pam Iorio pledged to revitalize the Riverwalk project, and construction began on parks and pathways. The project gained momentum with the opening of Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Tampa Museum of Art, and the Glazer Children's Museum in 2010. Mayor Bob Buckhorn continued the expansion, and in 2014, a federal grant enabled the completion of a continuous path connecting all existing segments. Today, the Tampa Riverwalk stretches along the Hillsborough River, connecting a multitude of parks, attractions, public spaces, and hotels. Notable points of interest include: * **Tampa Bay History Center:** Explore 12,000 years of Florida's history with hands-on exhibits, including a pirate ship replica. * **Amalie Arena:** Home to the Tampa Bay Lightning and host to various events and concerts. * **Tampa Convention Center:** A major convention and meeting venue. * **Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park:** A central gathering place with a sloping lawn, splash zones, a playground, and event space. * **Water Works Park:** A park with splash pads and green spaces, located further north along the Riverwalk. * **The Straz Center for the Performing Arts:** The largest performing arts complex south of the Kennedy Center, hosting a wide variety of world-class events. * **Sparkman Wharf:** Featuring a unique mix of retail, dining, bowling and entertainment at the easternmost point of Riverwalk. * **The Florida Aquarium:** Home to more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals from all over the world. * **Glazer Children's Museum:** An interactive museum for children with exhibits focused on learning and play. * **Tampa Museum of Art:** Showcasing a diverse collection of art from various periods and cultures. The Riverwalk also features a Historical Monument Trail, with over 30 monuments honoring individuals and events that shaped Tampa Bay. These monuments provide insights into the area's diverse history and cultural influences. The Tampa Riverwalk hosts numerous community events, including festivals at Curtis Hixon Park and the annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival, during which the pirate ship Jose Gasparilla docks along the Riverwalk. Beyond the attractions, the Riverwalk offers a scenic and pedestrian-friendly environment for recreation and relaxation. Visitors can stroll, bike, or rent motorized scooters along the path. Cafés and restaurants line the Riverwalk, offering opportunities to enjoy waterfront dining and refreshments. The Riverwalk is easily accessible via various transportation options, including the TECO Line Streetcar, which connects downtown, the Channel District, and Ybor City. The Pirate Water Taxi provides service between the Riverwalk and nearby areas such as Hyde Park, Harbour Island, and Davis Islands. The Tampa Riverwalk has played a significant role in enhancing Tampa's image as a beautiful and unique destination. It has transformed the city's waterfront into a vibrant and engaging space for residents and tourists alike. Whether you're interested in history, culture, entertainment, or simply enjoying the outdoors, the Tampa Riverwalk offers a diverse range of experiences to discover and enjoy. As you explore the Riverwalk, take advantage of the various amenities and services available. Rent a bike to cover more ground, or hop on the Pirate Water Taxi for a unique perspective of the city from the water. Stop at one of the many restaurants or cafes for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. And be sure to check the event calendar to see if there are any festivals or activities taking place during your visit. The Tampa Riverwalk is more than just a walkway; it's a dynamic and evolving space that reflects the spirit of Tampa. It's a place where history, culture, and community come together to create a memorable experience for all who visit. Whether you're a local resident or a first-time tourist, the Tampa Riverwalk is a must-see destination that offers something for everyone.

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