Things to Do in Tampa Today along the
Tampa Riverwalk

Chances are, today is a beautiful day in Tampa Bay. Even with the afternoon rainstorms in the summer, the city is always bustling with activity. If you’re looking for something fun to do in Tampa today and want to explore the Tampa Riverwalk, consider adding these adventures to your itinerary. Before you leave, don’t forget to grab your Hop On Hop Off pass—with 15 Downtown Tampa stops we’ll be your transportation (and walking break) throughout the day.

Bring the Family to Curtis Hixon Waterfront

The Curtis Hixon Waterfront is an eight-acre park along the Hillsborough River—often home to local concerts, festivals and family picnics. Nestled in between the Tampa Art Museum and the landmark Sykes building, Curtis Hixon has interactive water fountains, a playground, a dog park, a food stand and a pavilion for shaded activity. Pack a lunch or grab some local fare nearby!

Exercise on Bayshore Blvd

Spanning 4.5 miles along the water, Bayshore Blvd is the longest continuous sidewalk in the nation. Adorned with white balusters and filled with exercise stations, bikers, joggers and rollerbladers, think of Bayshore as your free gym. (But not many gyms have as beautiful a view as this.) The sidewalk is extra wide—suitable for the more wobbly, active bikers in your group.

It might sound weird that a sidewalk is on this list, but Bayshore is a Tampa treasure. Explore Stop 9 and you’ll understand.

Explore Tampa Museums

Downtown Tampa is home to an eclectic mix of museums geared toward visitors of all ages. For a family-friendly activity, stop by the Glazer Children’s Museum for a day of innovative discovery. History buffs can relish local and national treasures at the Tampa History Center, the American Victory Ship Mariners Museum, the Henry B. Plant Museum, the Tampa Firefighters Museum and the Tampa Police Museum. Lastly, for the art lover in all of us, make sure to visit the Tampa Museum of Art and the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, both of which welcome world-class traveling exhibitions.

Paddleboard on the Bay

Pack your swimsuit (and waterproof camera) for an adventure on the bay. Urban Kai Paddle Boarding, located behind the Marriott Waterside, offers a variety of activities for families with older children, including paddleboard yoga and guided excursions. No need to be a water pro, the Urban Kai team will provide both the equipment and the instruction.

Grab Drinks at The Sail

Parents: take a load off at the end of a busy day with a drink by the water. Kids: you are welcomed, too! The Sail Pavilion is a Riverwalk classic, boasting waterfront views, live music, and a wide selection of food and drink (be sure to grab a Tampa Bay Orange Crush). Both family and pet-friendly, the Sail is conveniently located at our home dock and ticket both, Stop 7.

Dine by the Water

One benefit of living by the water is the myriad of options for waterfront dining. Hop off at Stop 3 for some authentic Cuban fare at The Columbia Restaurant and venture to Stop 14 for a taste of local seafood at Ulele. Check out our Pirate Perks page for restaurant and bar discounts, including 20% off food and drink at Splitsville, a luxury bowling alley.

End With a Spectacular Show

Close out your adventure at Stop 13, the Straz Center for Performing Arts. As the second largest performing arts complex in Florida, the Straz Center provides a variety of entertainment, including operas, musicals, speakers, and comedians. Previous shows include Wicked, Jersey Boys, and Finding Neverland.

We’re happy to be your transportation between all of the day’s activities. Learn more about our Tampa Riverwalk stops and book your ride today!