Lowry Park: A Tampa Treasure

Discover Tampa's Lowry Park: A scenic trail, rich history, and gateway to natural beauty along the Hillsborough River.

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Lowry Park, named after Tampa City Commissioner Sumter de Leon Lowry Sr., has evolved from a planned cemetery in 1918 to a vibrant public space. It features the Lowry Park Trail along the Hillsborough River, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities.

A brief summary to Lowry Park

7525 N Blvd, Tampa, Lowry Park Central, Florida, 33604, US
+1813-274-8615
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Local tips

Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's many picnic tables and shelters.
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic Lowry Park Trail.
Visit nearby ZooTampa at Lowry Park for a fun-filled day with animals and attractions.

Getting There

Walking

From ZooTampa, exit the zoo and walk west along Sligh Avenue. Turn right onto North Boulevard. Continue north for a short distance to reach the park entrance. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
Public Transport

From downtown Tampa, take the HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) bus line 1 or 45. These routes stop near Lowry Park. Check the HART website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and stop locations. A single ride fare is $2.
Taxi/Ride-share

From Tampa International Airport, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Lowry Park will cost approximately $16 - $20 and take about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Lowry Park

Lowry Park, a cherished green space in Tampa, Florida, has a rich history dating back to 1918 when City Commissioner Dr. Sumter Lowry advocated for the land's purchase north of Sligh Avenue. Formally dedicated in 1925 and named in Lowry's honor, the park has grown into a multifaceted destination, offering a variety of attractions and activities for locals and tourists alike. The park features the Lowry Park Trail, a 0.9-mile asphalt path that meanders along the Hillsborough River, providing scenic views and a tranquil escape. The trail winds through beautiful oak woodland hammocks, offering a glimpse into Florida's natural landscape. Park amenities include picnic tables, shelters, restrooms, fishing docks, and a canoe and boat launch, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation. While the park is known for its trail and natural beauty, it was also once home to Fairyland and the Lowry Park Zoo. Fairyland opened in 1957, showcasing life-size portrayals of fables and fairy tales alongside a playground and a small zoo. The zoo eventually expanded and was renamed ZooTampa at Lowry Park. In the 1980s, the zoo underwent a significant renovation and reopened in 1988, earning recognition as a leading family-friendly zoo. Today, ZooTampa is a separate attraction adjacent to Lowry Park, featuring over 1,300 animals and a variety of interactive experiences. Lowry Park continues to be a popular destination for those seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty in the heart of Tampa.