Tampa Riverwalk
A vibrant 2.6-mile urban trail along the Hillsborough River, connecting parks, museums, dining, and entertainment.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Tampa Riverwalk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant 2.6-mile urban trail along the Hillsborough River, connecting parks, museums, dining, and entertainment.
"Absolutely amazing at all times. Any events it's great, safe atmosphere, lots of restaurants, bars & perfect views."
🚶♀️ Watch for Scooters & Bikes
Pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters share the path. Stay aware and yield to faster traffic .
💧 Utilize Water Taxis
A fun and convenient way to travel between attractions and enjoy the waterfront views .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Curtis Hixon Park
Downtown Tampa
A vibrant urban park offering stunning skyline views and a great spot for people-watching.

Armature Works
North end of Riverwalk
Historic building housing Heights Public Market with diverse food vendors and lively atmosphere.

Sparkman Wharf
Channelside District
Unique dining and entertainment hub with shipping container eateries and waterfront seating.

Waterfront Dining
Various locations along Riverwalk
Enjoy diverse culinary experiences with beautiful views, from casual bites to upscale dining.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Riverwalk
Best Times to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Watch for Scooters & Bikes
Pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters share the path. Stay aware and yield to faster traffic.
💧 Utilize Water Taxis
A fun and convenient way to travel between attractions and enjoy the waterfront views.
🌃 Evening Ambiance
The Riverwalk is stunning at night with city lights reflecting on the water.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Path
Bring your furry friends along for a stroll; it's a great pet-friendly destination.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Watch for Scooters & Bikes
Pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters share the path. Stay aware and yield to faster traffic.
💧 Utilize Water Taxis
A fun and convenient way to travel between attractions and enjoy the waterfront views.
🌃 Evening Ambiance
The Riverwalk is stunning at night with city lights reflecting on the water.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Path
Bring your furry friends along for a stroll; it's a great pet-friendly destination.
🍽️ Sip & Stroll
Enjoy special cups for drinks while exploring the Riverwalk's dining and entertainment spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Tampa Riverwalk's vibrant atmosphere, diverse dining options, and stunning waterfront views, especially during the evening. It's praised as a pet-friendly and active destination, perfect for families and couples alike. Some minor concerns include navigating fast-moving bikes and scooters on the shared path.
"Great food and atmosphere. The whole vibe was a great experience."
John Lindsey
"Tampa River walk, it's absolutely amazing at all times. Any events it's great, safe atmosphere,lots of restaurants, bars & perfect views. 100 % recommend + pet friendly."
Rara Santana de Damas
"One of my favorite places to run with friends during the daytime or run alone at night. Magical nighttime views of the city skyline on the small bridge going into Channelside drive."
Kevin Oliva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tampa Riverwalk is easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options include buses and the TECO Streetcar. Water taxis are also a popular and scenic way to arrive at various points along the Riverwalk.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options available in downtown Tampa, close to the Riverwalk. Popular choices include the Fort Brooke Garage and the Tampa Convention Center Garage. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.
Absolutely! The Riverwalk is a fantastic route for biking and scootering. You can bring your own or use rental services available in the area. Just be mindful of pedestrian traffic and follow designated lanes.
For a comprehensive experience, consider renting a bike or scooter to cover the 2.6-mile stretch. Alternatively, the water taxis offer a unique perspective and allow you to hop on and off at different attractions.
Yes, the Tampa Riverwalk is generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, with paved paths and ramps throughout. It's designed to be an inclusive public space for everyone to enjoy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Tampa Riverwalk itself is a public park and is free to access. However, individual attractions, museums, and dining establishments along the Riverwalk will have their own admission fees or costs.
The Tampa Riverwalk is open 24/7, as it's a public outdoor space. However, individual businesses and attractions along the Riverwalk have their own operating hours, which vary.
You do not need to buy tickets to simply walk or bike along the Tampa Riverwalk. Tickets are only required for specific attractions like museums or boat tours that are located on or adjacent to the Riverwalk.
Yes, the Tampa Riverwalk hosts numerous events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, art festivals, and food events. It's best to check the official Tampa Riverwalk website or local event listings for current happenings.
Yes, the Tampa Riverwalk is a pet-friendly destination! Dogs are welcome on the Riverwalk as long as they are leashed. Many restaurants with outdoor seating also welcome well-behaved pets.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
The Riverwalk connects numerous attractions including Curtis Hixon Park, Armature Works, Sparkman Wharf, The Florida Aquarium, Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa Museum of Art, and the Tampa Bay History Center.
You'll find a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries at Armature Works and Sparkman Wharf to waterfront restaurants and cafes. Many offer outdoor seating with scenic views.
Yes, you can rent mini speedboats for an hour to explore the waters around the Riverwalk, offering a unique date idea.
Kayak rentals are also often available at various points.The small bridge leading into Channelside Drive offers magical nighttime views of the city skyline, making it a favorite spot for runners and visitors alike.
Absolutely! The Riverwalk features numerous benches, picnic areas, and open green spaces like Curtis Hixon Park, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the downtown skyline, especially at sunset or night from the bridge near Channelside.
The architectural beauty of Armature Works and the vibrant atmosphere of Sparkman Wharf also make for great photos.Yes, the Tampa Riverwalk offers beautiful sunset views over the water, with the city skyline providing a dramatic backdrop. The late afternoon light is particularly flattering for photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near public parks. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near the Tampa Riverwalk.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography. Evenings provide a magical ambiance with city lights.
Key landmarks include the Tampa Museum of Art, the Glazer Children's Museum, and the various sculptures and public art installations scattered along the path. The bridges also offer unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Owners
🏃♀️ Active Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Tampa Riverwalk by Water
For a more adventurous experience, consider renting a mini speedboat from the Riverwalk Boating Company. These rentals offer an hour of exploration, making for a fun and memorable date idea or a unique way to see the coastline. Kayak rentals are also often available, providing a more active way to enjoy the Hillsborough River and its scenic surroundings.
Dining and Entertainment Along the Riverwalk
Further down, Sparkman Wharf presents a unique concept with shipping containers transformed into trendy eateries and bars, all surrounding a vibrant outdoor space. Many restaurants along the Riverwalk offer waterfront dining, providing picturesque views to complement your meal. The ability to 'Sip and Stroll' with special cups adds to the relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere of the area.
Safety and Etiquette on the Riverwalk
Evenings on the Riverwalk are magical, with city lights creating a beautiful ambiance. However, as with any urban area, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when it's dark. The Riverwalk is well-lit, and many people enjoy running or walking alone at night, but common sense precautions are always recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit