Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park - a bench sits by a lake
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Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

4.7
·10k reviews·Tampa, United States

A vibrant downtown oasis on the Hillsborough River, offering stunning views, lively events, and family-friendly amenities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park - a bench sits by a lake

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant downtown oasis on the Hillsborough River, offering stunning views, lively events, and family-friendly amenities.

4.7
(10k reviews)

"Stunning views of the Hillsborough River and the skyline, it’s the perfect place to relax."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Riverwalk

Explore the scenic Tampa Riverwalk connecting to Curtis Hixon. Watch out for bikes & scooters!

📅 Check Event Schedule

Park hosts many events like festivals & concerts. Plan your visit around them!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tampa Riverwalk Stroll

Tampa Riverwalk Stroll

Along the Hillsborough River

Scenic path offering stunning river and skyline views, perfect for walking, biking, or scooting.

Nightly Fountain Spectacle

Nightly Fountain Spectacle

Central area of the park

Mesmerizing water and light show that illuminates the park after dark, creating a magical ambiance.

Winter Village Ice Skating

Winter Village Ice Skating

Seasonal setup in the park

Experience outdoor ice skating in Florida during the holiday season, a unique and festive activity.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk, which Curtis Hixon Park is a part of, can get busy with cyclists and scooters. Stay aware of your surroundings and stick to designated paths to avoid close calls. It's a popular route for both locals and visitors, so patience is key.

Event Hotspot: Check the Calendar

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a hub for events, from festivals and concerts to yoga and markets. Check the park's schedule before your visit to see what's happening and plan accordingly. This can mean great entertainment or larger crowds.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Yoga, markets, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During festivals
Why
Unique events & lively vibe
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#fyp #viral #memorial #tampa #tampabay
@jesusisthewaywb
5.9K likes • 44.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Riverwalk

Explore the scenic Tampa Riverwalk connecting to Curtis Hixon. Watch out for bikes & scooters! Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

Park hosts many events like festivals & concerts. Plan your visit around them! Instagram

Best parks in Tampa: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park 💕 This gem is home to major events such as @wintervillagetampa, Oktoberfest, River O Green, and of course Riverfest in May. Add to that @rocktheparktpa and the night glowing fountain display, and you have a slice of paradise. 📍600 N Ashley Dr #tampabay #tampaflorida #roamflorida #parks #tampa #tpa #floridavibes #southtampa #813 #travel #explo...
thatssotampa
886 likes • 48.8K views
outdoor ice skating in florida 📍Winter Village, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa #tampa #floridacheck #iceskating #thingstodo #tampathingstodo
nikkifrommiami
0 likes • 5.2M views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Features a fenced dog park with water bowls for your furry friends. Instagram

⛸️ Winter Village Magic

Enjoy outdoor ice skating during the holiday season at Winter Village. Instagram

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in TAMPA, Florida has everything from museums, to playgrounds, water parks, morning yoga, and of course…waterfront views! You can ride the @piratewatertaxi or stroll down @tampariverwalk. Make sure to check it out! 📍 600 N Ashley Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 As always, keep an eye out for more content coming your way for all things Florida, especially Tampa Bay! • • • • #v...
thedronetravelers
100 likes • 4.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Riverwalk

Explore the scenic Tampa Riverwalk connecting to Curtis Hixon. Watch out for bikes & scooters! Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

Park hosts many events like festivals & concerts. Plan your visit around them! Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Features a fenced dog park with water bowls for your furry friends. Instagram

⛸️ Winter Village Magic

Enjoy outdoor ice skating during the holiday season at Winter Village. Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Free Community Yoga

Join free yoga sessions in the park, often held on Sundays. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park's stunning river views, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse events. It's praised as a clean, well-maintained space perfect for relaxation, recreation, and enjoying sunsets. Some wish for more benches, and caution is advised on the busy Riverwalk due to cyclists and scooters.

"Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa is one of my favorite spots in the city. With stunning views of the Hillsborough River and the skyline, it’s the perfect place to relax, take a walk, or enjoy the sunset. The park is clean, well-maintained, and always buzzing with activity from yoga classes and food trucks to weekend markets and festivals. There’s a great playground for kids, a dog park, and plenty of open space for picnics or just lounging under the trees. It’s also a short walk to great spots like the Tampa Museum of Art and Armature Works. Whether you’re visiting or local, this park is a must-see and truly captures the heart of downtown Tampa."

Serge El-Khazen

"Great place to unwind after a long day of anything!!!! The atmosphere is great. You can walk, run, ride or scoot down the sidewalk path from the Convention Center all the way to Armature Works. Sipping is allowed, actually, I recommend it (only after dark tho, it's too hot otherwise). There's a little amphitheater area that's 420 friendly 🥴😉😶‍🌫️💨. They have a nice playground for the little guys. It's downtown, so there's direct access to food trucks, stores, etc."

CAN'TSTOP ARAb

"Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the scenery. The river view walkway was absolutely stunning, and the whole area had a peaceful, scenic vibe. I just wish there were more benches to sit and enjoy the view for longer. Overall, it’s a great place to visit and unwind!"

Olha B

What People Like

Beautiful river and skyline views
Vibrant event atmosphere
Clean and well-maintained

What People Dislike

Wish for more benches
Busy Riverwalk traffic

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is located at 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking garages. You can also reach it via the Pirate Water Taxi or by walking/biking along the Tampa Riverwalk. Instagram

Yes, there are several parking garages within walking distance, including the Fort Brooke Garage and the Tampa Convention Center Garage. Street parking may also be available. Instagram

The Pirate Water Taxi is a popular option for getting to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, offering scenic views along the way. Instagram

While the Riverwalk is great for cycling, be mindful of other users like pedestrians and scooter riders. Some users have noted that cyclists and scooter riders don't always yield, so stay alert. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy walking, biking, or scooting along the Riverwalk. The park itself is spacious and great for leisurely strolls. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a public park and generally free to enter. However, special events held within the park, like festivals or concerts, may have separate admission fees. Instagram

The park is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, hours can vary, especially during special events or for specific amenities like the playground. It's best to check the official city of Tampa parks website for the most up-to-date information.

Tickets are usually only required for specific ticketed events such as festivals (like the Asian Night Market Instagram) or concerts. Many community events, like yoga in the park, are free. Instagram

Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the park. Some reviews mention enjoying drinks after dark, but be mindful of park regulations. Reddit

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a family-friendly public space, and there are no age restrictions for general entry. Children are welcome, and there's a dedicated playground for them. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a variety of activities including walking the Riverwalk, relaxing on the grass, visiting the playground, letting your dog play in the dog park, and attending events like festivals, concerts, and yoga. Instagram

Yes, the park features a nice playground area for children, making it a great spot for families. Reddit

Absolutely! Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park has a fenced-in dog park with drinking bowls, making it a great amenity for pet owners. Instagram

The park offers stunning views of the Hillsborough River and the downtown Tampa skyline, especially beautiful during sunset. Reddit

While there are open grassy areas perfect for lounging, some visitors have noted a wish for more benches to sit and enjoy the river view for longer periods. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The park often hosts food trucks and is a venue for food festivals, offering a variety of cuisines. It's also close to Armature Works and other downtown eateries. InstagramReddit+1

Festivals at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park often feature diverse culinary offerings. For example, the Asian Night Market and Mid-Autumn Festival showcased a wide range of Asian foods. Instagram+1

Yes, the park's open grassy areas are perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food and enjoy a meal with a view of the river. Reddit

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is conveniently located near many downtown Tampa restaurants and Armature Works, offering plenty of dining choices. Reddit

Some reviews suggest that sipping is allowed after dark, particularly in the amphitheater area, which is noted as being 420 friendly. However, always check current park regulations regarding alcohol consumption. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers fantastic photo opportunities with its riverfront views, city skyline, the iconic fountain, and during vibrant events and festivals. Sunset shots are particularly popular. InstagramReddit

Golden hour, just before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photos of the river and skyline. The fountain also looks magical when lit up at night. Reddit

The Hillsborough River, the Tampa skyline, the park's fountain, and any event stages or decorations during festivals are great subjects for photos. Instagram

Drone usage in public parks is often restricted. It's advisable to check with the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation department for specific regulations regarding drone operation in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Instagram

Events like the Asian Night Market, Riverfest, or even the holiday Winter Village offer dynamic and colorful scenes perfect for photography. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a fantastic choice for families. The dedicated playground offers hours of fun for children, and the ample open green space is perfect for running around or having a picnic.Reddit You can easily spend an afternoon here, combining playtime with a stroll along the scenic Riverwalk. Consider packing snacks and drinks, or check out the food trucks that often frequent the park during events.Instagram+1

🐶 Pet Owners

Bring your four-legged friends! Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park features a fenced-in dog park with convenient drinking bowls, ensuring your pet has a safe and fun place to play.Instagram It's a great spot to let your dog stretch their legs while you enjoy the waterfront views. Remember to keep your dog leashed when outside the designated dog park area.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Runners

The Tampa Riverwalk adjacent to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is an ideal route for walkers and runners. You can enjoy miles of scenic path with beautiful river and city views. Be aware of cyclists and scooter users, and stick to your pace while being mindful of others on the path.Reddit It's a refreshing way to get some exercise with a great backdrop.

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park offers stunning waterfront vistas and city skyline views, especially during golden hour before sunset.Reddit The park's fountain also provides a beautiful subject, particularly when illuminated at night. Keep an eye out for vibrant events and festivals, which offer dynamic and colorful scenes to capture.Instagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Events and Festivals: A Dynamic Hub

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is renowned for being a vibrant event space. Throughout the year, it hosts a diverse array of happenings, from major festivals like Oktoberfest, Riverfest, and the Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival,Instagram to seasonal attractions like the Winter Village with its outdoor ice skating rink.Instagram The park also serves as a venue for community gatherings, including free yoga sessions Instagram and concerts.Instagram These events draw significant crowds and offer unique experiences, making it essential to check the park's calendar before your visit to catch any special happenings or to plan around potential congestion.

Social media content frequently highlights these events, showcasing the lively atmosphere and diverse offerings. For instance, videos capture the excitement of night markets Instagram and the festive spirit of holiday markets.Instagram The park's adaptability allows it to transform for various occasions, from solemn vigils TikTok to joyous celebrations, underscoring its role as a central gathering point for the Tampa community. The sheer variety means there's often something new and exciting to discover at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, regardless of when you visit.

When planning your visit, consider the impact of these events on accessibility and crowd levels. While they add to the park's appeal, they can also mean higher visitor numbers and potential disruptions to normal park access. Checking event schedules in advance will help you make the most of your trip, whether you're aiming to participate in a specific festival or simply enjoy the park's usual amenities with fewer people around.

The Tampa Riverwalk Experience

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a key component of the expansive Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.4-mile urban trail that winds along the Hillsborough River. This scenic pathway connects numerous downtown attractions, including museums, restaurants, and other parks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, a brisk jog, or a bike ride along the Riverwalk, taking in panoramic views of the water and the city skyline. The presence of the Pirate Water Taxi Instagram offers a unique perspective and a convenient way to hop between different points along the Riverwalk.

However, the Riverwalk's popularity means it can get crowded, especially with a mix of pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter users. Some travelers have noted that navigating the path requires awareness, as not all users strictly adhere to traffic etiquette, leading to potential near-misses. It's advisable to stay alert and be mindful of others sharing the path to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Despite these considerations, the Riverwalk is widely praised for its beauty and its role in enhancing the downtown Tampa experience. Reddit

Beyond its recreational appeal, the Riverwalk serves as a vibrant artery for community life. It's a place where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the outdoors, access cultural institutions, and experience the dynamic energy of downtown Tampa. The connection between Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and the broader Riverwalk system makes it an essential destination for anyone looking to explore the heart of the city on foot or by bike.

Family and Pet-Friendly Amenities

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a welcoming destination for families and pet owners alike. The park features a well-maintained playground that provides a fun space for children to play and burn off energy.Reddit This makes it an ideal spot for families looking for a relaxed outing where kids can be entertained. The open grassy areas also offer plenty of room for children to run around and play games.

For those with furry companions, the park boasts a dedicated, fenced-in dog park complete with drinking bowls.Instagram This amenity ensures that dogs have a safe and enjoyable space to exercise and socialize. The presence of these specific facilities highlights the park's commitment to catering to a diverse range of visitors, making it a versatile destination for a variety of needs and preferences. The combination of a playground and a dog park makes it a convenient stop for families traveling with both children and pets.

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