The centerpiece of the city’s urban revitalization project, Tampa Riverwalk is part walking trail, part outdoor art gallery and part convenient tour of some of Downtown’s best attractions. Though conceived of in the 1970s, the boardwalk opened in 2014 to much fanfare, allowing all the previously unconnected sections of walking path to become one continuous route. Feel the pride and joy of the city on a walk along the smooth cement path.
Explore the 2.6 miles (4.2 kilometers) that make up the path. Start in the south, near the Florida Aquarium, where a wall with 550 photographs by Bruce Marsh marks the start and sets the tone for the art later along the path. Pass the cruise ship terminal, watching for bike-kayaks being paddled along the water. Stop to examine the bronze busts dotted along the path, representing figures in Tampa history, such as Vicente Martinez-Ybor, the cigar magnate who gave his name to the city’s historical area.
Relax in Curtis Hixon Park or step into one of the museums that open out onto the park. Learn about the area’s history and environment from the digital panels along the way. Stop and take a seat on one of the many benches to watch reflections on the water as the sun goes down. At the end of the walk, reward yourself at Ulele, a famous Tampa-area restaurant that serves alligator.
Tampa Riverwalk follows the edge of Tampa as it abuts Hillsborough Bay, the Hillsborough River and the Ybor Channel south of Downtown Tampa. Drive to the start of the Riverwalk in 15 minutes from Tampa International Airport or in 5 minutes from Tampa’s Amtrak station, Union Station. Walk the whole length or rent bikes. A streetcar system parallels the length of the Riverwalk. There is also a bus network that provides connections to the rest of the city. Water taxis are available to ferry between locations on the Riverwalk and the rest of the area. The Riverwalk is open year-round and does not close. It is well lit at night.
