Tampa Bay Things to Do at Night for Families

Want to take in all that downtown Tampa has to offer? Hit up the Tampa Riverwalk for a fun and festive style to explore it all. Whether your taste runs to a relaxed stroll or more than amped-upwardly action, yous'll find it on Tampa's riverfront promenade.

Stretching 2.six miles along the Hillsborough River, the Tampa Riverwalk has been named ane of the pinnacle fifteen riverwalks in the U.S. And it's no wonder! Head "downward by the river," and you'll observe a fantastic array of family unit-friendly parks, museums, water activities, festivals, dining options, and bars.

Ready to walk, bicycle, or jog your way along Tampa's downtown waterfront? Take hold of this guide on what to run across & practice and where to eat, drink & stay along the Tampa Riverwalk and striking the bricks!

Looking for more ideas for your trip? Check out our Florida Travel Guide for more recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to practice!

What to see & do along the Tampa Riverwalk

Water Works Park

Looking for a family unit-friendly wide-open green space? Caput for Water Works Park, one of Tampa'south favorite downtown riverfront parks. Set in the Tampa Heights neighborhood, this destination offers something for everyone—including the family unit pooch!

Cut loose at the splash pad in the fun children's water park or let Fido run complimentary in the canis familiaris park. Sit back and relax in the shade, unpacking a picnic as y'all accept in great views of the city skyline.

Afterward exploring Water Works Park, check out Ulele, a notable eatery that's a Tampa Bay favorite. Named after a 16th-century Florida Indian princess, this spot is a magnet for foodies.

Relax in the beer garden as you sample from a succulent menu that includes everything from garlicky oysters to seafood pot pie. Bon appétit!

Armature Works

Foodies will observe their elation in Armature Works, a century-old streetcar warehouse that has been reimagined as a community gathering identify. This exciting allure has breathed new life into the celebrated Tampa Heights neighborhood.

This spectacular 22,000 square-foot social space boasts an open floor program with communal seating. Information technology plays host to events ranging from cooking classes to art walks to wine tastings. Then in that location'southward the jaw-dropping assortment of delicious food!

Scan the Public Market food stalls for fresh local produce. Indulge yourself in a fantastic array of mouth-watering edibles—whether it'due south sushi, handcrafted ice cream, or the distinctly Southern flavor of the chophouse menu at Steelabach. (Bonus: as you lot chow downward, you'll exist enjoying a first-class view of the lovely Hillsborough River.)

Straz Middle for the Performing Arts

Got an appetite for entertainment? Indulge it at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. The hub of the Riverwalk'due south performing-arts scene, this spot is the American Southeast's largest performing arts center. Featuring five dissever theaters and a performing arts conservatory, the Straz Heart ranks every bit one of the best entertainment spots in the state.

Set along the east bank of the cute Hillsborough River, this picturesque nine-acre site is a culture vulture's dream. Feast on a menu of earth-class touring Broadway shows, opera, drama, dance, cabarets, concerts, and one-act.

Don't want the night to finish? Once you've fed your cultural palate, check out some other options—namely, 3 restaurants and a truly unique watering hole: a retrofitted Airstream Safari Land Yacht that serves up cocktails, arts and crafts beers, smoothies, and soft drinks. How's that for cool?

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Desire to cheque out Tampa's premier park? Head downwardly to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, a surefire hit for everyone in the family unit, from kids to adults to pooches. The largest park in downtown Tampa, Curtis Hixon Park offers something for everyone.

Spread beyond eight acres, this urban oasis attracts over one million people annually to its concerts and special events. Its unique eco-friendly urban pattern features sustainable construction, LED lighting, and reclaimed water for irrigation.

Hitting the playground with the kids, run through the park's interactive water fountains, or watch Fido run gratuitous in the dog park. Accept a suspension and have a bite in the pavilion. Kick back in the shade for a tranquil view of kayakers and paddleboarders gliding by.

Fourth dimension it correct, and you can make it on i of the park's many festival offerings. Riverfest, anyone?

Glazer Children's Museum

Looking for a kid-friendly experience that educates and entertains? You'll find it at the Glazer Children'southward Museum, where visitors are invited to "play with purpose." Just a decade former, this destination has become an integral part of the cultural hub known as the Riverwalk.

Spanning 53,000 square anxiety, the museum offers yr-round programming, exhibits, and special events designed to create a rich environment for imaginative play. There's a hefty action menu.  Kids tin "drive" a fire truck, care for stuffed animals at the Vet Clinic, shop for groceries, or dabble in robotics in the Gadget Garage.

The museum's Army camp Imagination offers a great way for individual youngsters and entire classes to notice and engage with the earth around them—either digitally or in person. Grownups will want to in on the fun also!

Tampa Museum of Art

Peckish a cultural shot in the arm? Get it at the Tampa Museum of Art, a century-old institution that's a piece of work of art in its own right. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, the museum is a magnet for art lovers of all tastes. Featuring breathtaking translucent ceilings and polished rock floors, it houses a wealth of both modernistic and classical fine art.

Stroll through one of the largest Greek and Roman antiquities collections in the Southeastern The states. Browse the site'south earth-class modern and gimmicky traveling exhibits of painting, sculpture, photography, and new media.

Subsequently you've taken in an eyeful, have a break. Savour some delicious food or grab a gelato at the museum's cafe, then browse a unique souvenir collection at the Museum Store.  At sunset, curiosity at the ultimate piece of work of fine art, when the museum's facade is lit up by thousands of shimmering LED lights.

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts

Photography fans will definitely want to put the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts on their Riverwalk itinerary. A part of Tampa's lively Waterfront Arts District, FMoPA is housed in "the Cube"—a renowned atrium building that was selected by the American Institute of Architects every bit one of the Top 100 buildings in Florida.

Scan the museum's eclectic array of celebrated and contemporary works by emerging and internationally known artists. You'll discover everything from works past the inventor of the strobe light to amazing glimpses of Woodstock to fascinating documentation of the construction of the Panama Canal and early Tampa history.

Youngsters and adults akin can hone their easily-on skills in workshops covering everything from artistic layout to smartphone and social media photography.

MacDill Park

Looking for a tranquil spot that'll let you stop and but watch the earth become by? Stroll over to MacDill Park to discover it. Named after the MacDill Air strength base vi miles away, the park'southward monuments honor the history of the base of operations. Pay your respects at the Gilt Star Families Memorial Monument, a tribute to those whose lives were lost in military service.

Want to get an early start? Stroll the Riverwalk and scout the sunday ascension over beautiful downtown Tampa. Stop off at MacDill Park for a gourmet breakfast courtesy of Yolk, White, & Associates, a favorite local food truck. Have your pick from a mouth-watering menu that includes everything from cheese omelets to spicy frittatas. Notice a bench on the river bank, boot back, and relish the meal and the view!

Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park

Set to journey back in fourth dimension, say, 10,000 years? Take a trip to Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, a waterfront park on the shores of the Hillsborough River. The name "Cotanchobee" means "where the big water meets the state." It'due south all that—and more!

The site of Tampa's earliest settlement and showtime military installation, this 4.v-acre green space pays quiet tribute to the region's history. Information technology was the centre of U.S. Army ability in the 1820s during the Seminole Wars. This was the years-long conflict between the indigenous population that had inhabited the region for over x,000 years, and the American military forces sent to remove them from the territory.

The fort became a Amalgamated hub during the Civil War but was decommissioned by the U.South. war machine in 1885. While nothing remains of the fort, you tin view a memorial to the "Commencement Floridians." History buff or not, prepare for a thought-provoking experience.

Tampa Bay History Heart

If you actually want to get the inside scoop on the history of Tampa Bay, plan a visit to—what else?—the Tampa Bay History Centre. A Smithsonian Affiliate Museum, this superlative-notch establishment features three floors of exhibits representing 12,000 years of Florida history. One of Tampa's premier cultural attractions, the History Middle's cutting-edge, interactive exhibits provide a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Runway Tampa Bay's rich history from its indigenous first peoples to Spanish invasion to cattle ranching to Cuban cigar fame. Voyage the high seas with pirates and Spanish conquistadors. Take a stroll downward Ybor City's brick streets during its Cuban cigar heyday. Climb into the saddle to feel a cattle drive with Florida pioneers.

Ready to refuel? Munch on a classic Cuban sandwich al fresco at the Columbia Restaurant, a co-operative of the Sunshine State'south oldest and almost renowned restaurant in Ybor Urban center. And enjoy the view!

Amalie Loonshit

Peckish a crowd scene? Take it in at Amalie Loonshit, a spectacular multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex in downtown Tampa. Abode to the Tampa Bay Lightning—the back-to-dorsum Stanley Cup Champions in 2020 and 2021—this twenty,000 seat facility hosts over 150 major amusement events each year.

Whether y'all're a sports buff or concert lover, y'all'll find plenty to choose from—and so check out the arena'south year-round lineup. While y'all're there, cheque out their generous assortment of concession stands for some tasty food and beverage options.

For a truly "elevated" experience, head up to the Diamond Crown Cigar Lounge on the fifth level. Bask a fully stocked liquor bar, flat panel T.V.'south, and—of course—a well-stocked humidor. Sit back and savor a panoramic view of the entire arena through custom windows.

Sparkman Wharf

Want to be where the action is? Get yourself downwardly to Sparkman Wharf, considered by visitors and locals akin to exist the Tampa Bay customs hotspot. Set on the Hillsborough River'due south Garrison Channel, the Wharf celebrates everything that makes this part of boondocks a magnet: beautiful waterfront views, live music, hip restaurants, and craft beers.

Vibrant and dynamic, it's a perfect spot for the whole gang—even Fido. Soak up some sun and hang out in the broad-open dark-green spaces. Jump into family unit-friendly activities similar game and flick nights, or work upwards a sweat in a fitness form.

Cheque out the truly unique nutrient hall. Housed in repurposed shipping containers, the Wharf's restaurants feature an incredible assortment of culinary offerings, ranging from BBQ to seafood to vegan goodies. Half the fun is in the names. Cartel you to dine at the Naked Farmer!

Florida Aquarium

Want to indulge your nature-loving side? Put the Florida Aquarium on your Tampa Riverwalk must-encounter listing. Rated as ane of the best aquariums in the U.S., the Florida Aquarium is one of the near popular tourist attractions in Tampa.

This eye-catching, wave-shaped building looks every bit if it's about to flow out over the waterfront. Inside, you'll discover over 20,000 aquatic plants and animals from effectually the world living in harmony below the aquarium'southward iconic eighty-foot drinking glass dome.

Step inside to experience an environment that looks and feels tropical and lush. Explore the Wetlands Trail to view sea turtles, otters, and alligators. Check out the coral reef exhibit, a popular hangout for sand tiger sharks. Take a close encounter of the penguin kind. Spotter exotic birds soar overhead.

Strap on some snorkeling gear for bright views of the Aquarium'south thousands of underwater residents in the Swim With the Fishes program. Swoop in!

Where to eat & drinkable

Tampa Bay's Riverwalk gives you plenty of means to work upward an appetite—and plenty of means to satisfy it!

Ready your compass for The Sail, a 360-degree waterfront bar, located directly behind the Tampa Convention Centre. This inviting outdoor spot is perfect if you're craving refreshment midway through your Tampa Riverwalk stroll. Cull from a pick of craft cocktails, frozen drinks, beer, and wine.

Caput next door to Ray's Fish Camp, where you tin can dig into a oral fissure-watering seafood meal while you groove to live music. Serving upward everything from conch fritters to deviled crab, Ray's promises to deliver the all-time and freshest seafood in Tampa—"from our bay to your belly." Dig in, and relish gorgeous views of the aqueduct as the sun sets.

Venture into Ybor City, Tampa's celebrated Latin Quarter. Once known as the "Cigar Upper-case letter of the World," it's now home to a lively after-hours scene and plenty of places to eat. For some Latin-flavored zest, check out the renowned Columbia Eating place – said to be the oldest restaurant in Florida. Chow downwardly on an Original Cuban sandwich as you bask in a waterfront view.

Want to feel the heart of the Riverwalk? Take a seat at Remedy, smack-dab at the center of it all. This trendy open-air eating house offers a neat selection of wines and craft cocktails. Hungry? Choose from a mouth-watering menu that includes everything from steaks to seafood.

Craving some classic Mexican street food? Check out Gallito for a quick shot. They offer churros, burritos, superbly seasoned tacos in gluten-free corn tortillas, and spicy street corn.

Getting around

Need a quick way to see the riverfront? Rent a bike past the hour or day from Coast Bike Share. Just pick information technology up and drop information technology off at ane of the kiosks along the Riverwalk.

Climb aboard the Pirate Water Taxi to enjoy scenic views of the Tampa Bay shoreline. Hop on and off at the stops y'all desire to explore forth the Riverwalk.

For an after-hours adventure, take a pedal on the Kraken Cycleboat. This floating bar lets yous cruise along the Riverwalk as you savor a cocktail.

Want a great workout while taking in fantastic skyline views? Rent a waterbike or biyak from the Tampa Bay Waterbike Co.

Or cruise in style with Cruisin' Tikis Tampa Bay. Make your own party on a floating tiki bar that lazes down the Hillsborough River.

Where to stay

Aloft Tampa Downtown

Assail the Hillsborough River, Aloft Tampa Downtown is centrally-located and merely minutes away from Tampa Bay's major attractions. The hotel offers apartment-screen cable TV, costless Wi-Fi, a private balcony, and a river view.  Hitting the fitness centre for a conditioning, then grab a bite at Refuel snack bar, or relax in the hotel's w xyz bar over dinner.

Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel

For a spacious room with a view, book into the Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel. This waterfront destination offers apartment-screen cablevision Television set and costless Wi-Fi. Relish gourmet American cuisine at the Rivers Edge Restaurant overlooking Hillsborough River and the celebrated University of Tampa and Henry B. Constitute Museum. After dinner, burn off those carbs with some laps in the pool or a workout in the gym.

Tampa Marriott Water Street

Gear up in Tampa's vibrant Water Street neighborhood, the Tampa Marriot Water Street offers spacious rooms, private balconies with skyline views, and apartment-screen TVs. Stroll by the river, have a dip in the rooftop pool, or hit the state-of-the-fine art fitness center to work upwardly an appetite. Then relax over a meal in one of the hotel'due south restaurants.

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