One of the gems of the Riverwalk rejuvenation project is this park, whose fountains, art and dog run have quickly made it Tampa’s new “town square.”
No matter the time of year, lounging on the soft grass of Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and lazily watching people go by is a lovely way to spend a few hours in sunny Tampa. Surrounded by museums and theaters, the park is the perfect place to refresh between exhibits, possibly while eating a Cubano sandwich. Let kids run around on the gently sloping terraces and in the playground or watch furry friends frolic and leap in the dog run.
Head to the park for one of the events that seems to happen every weekend, ranging from markets to concerts and music festivals in the on-site amphitheater. Yoga classes are offered on weekend evenings. In winter, skate on the ice rink and pretend that the air temperature is a lot colder than Tampa ever experiences. With 8 acres (3 hectares) to work with in this park, you’ll find plenty of amenities to entertain the whole family.
At nighttime, marvel at the elaborate light display that turns the fountains into works of art. Once the sun sets, Curtis Hixon Park bustles with activity as people view the new-and-improved Downtown Tampa. Enjoy an evening stroll past the sculptures dotting the grass or just walk to the boat dock and ride a water taxi to the next activity, the best way to make sure you’re arriving in style.
Find the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in the middle of the action facing the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa. Drive here in 12 minutes from Tampa International Airport or take public transportation in 50 minutes. Tampa Union Station is a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive away. Walk from the Florida Aquarium in 26 minutes or arrive in 8 minutes via bus. Tampa’s substantial network of streetcars and buses makes it easy to reach the park from anywhere in the city, including by water taxi on the bay. Park in one of the metered parking garages dedicated to the nearby museums or in metered spots along the street.
The park is open for visitors daily year round. The site is lit well at night in addition to the light shows in the fountains.
