Ulele Spring - Image 1
1 / 3

Ulele Spring

4.8
·9 reviews·Tampa, United States

A charming urban spring in Tampa, offering natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and a unique steam spectacle on cool days.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Cooler mornings/evenings

Steam spectacle, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Ulele Spring - Image 1

Ulele Spring

Best Time

Cooler mornings/evenings

Steam spectacle, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming urban spring in Tampa, offering natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and a unique steam spectacle on cool days.

4.8
(9 reviews)

"Small spring with a storied past, a quick visit while walking through the park or having dinner at Ulele's."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Steam

Visit on a cool day to see steam rising from the spring – a truly unique sight!

🐠 Feed the Fish

You can feed the fish in the spring; it's free and fun for all ages!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Steaming Spring

The Steaming Spring

Ulele Spring

Witness the magical sight of steam rising from the spring on cooler days, a unique natural spectacle.

Manatee Sightings

Manatee Sightings

Ulele Spring

Keep an eye out for gentle manatees that sometimes frequent the spring's waters.

Riverwalk Access

Riverwalk Access

Adjacent to Ulele Spring

Easily connect to Tampa's scenic Riverwalk for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While Ulele Spring is a year-round attraction, visiting during cooler months offers a unique spectacle: steam rising from the warm water into the crisp air. This natural phenomenon is a photographer's dream and a memorable experience. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

Beyond the Spring

Ulele Spring is part of Water Works Park and adjacent to the popular Ulele restaurant. Plan your visit to include a stroll along the Riverwalk, a meal at the highly-rated restaurant (reservations recommended!), or even kayaking. It's a multi-faceted experience, not just a quick stop.

Best Times

When
Cooler mornings/evenings
Why
Steam spectacle, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (lunch/dinner)
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎤 “We can’t keep sleeping on this… @Ase_Brown just turned Ulele into pure magic 😫🤌🏼. Somebody needs to get this voice in the spotlight ASAP!” #NewMusic #fyp #MusicTok #FreshTalent #HiddenGem @Ase_Brown
@toosoon.tv
37.8K likes • 457.6K views

📸 Capture the Steam

Visit on a cool day to see steam rising from the spring – a truly unique sight! Instagram

🐠 Feed the Fish

You can feed the fish in the spring; it's free and fun for all ages! Reddit

Manatees in the spring at Ulele’s.
rjlemery18
29 likes • 300 views
Visited the small Ulele spring neat downtown a Tampa. It’s part of the Water Works Park. First time seeing it and was surprised when all these fish came right up tot the edge staring at me lol. Took many photos of the area with some expired Fuji Xperia 400. Photos came out great for expired film. The Nikon F5 is a joy to use, the AF on it is very fast. 📷 Nikon F5 🔭 Nikon Nikkor AF-S 50mm f/1.8G 🎞...
dbucknerphotography
29 likes • 1.4K views

🍽️ Dine at Ulele

Reservations are highly recommended for the popular Ulele restaurant next door. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Riverwalk

The spring is a great starting point for exploring the scenic Tampa Riverwalk. Instagram

Ulele Spring is steaming because of the cold.
gregdeeweather
178 likes • 5.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Steam

Visit on a cool day to see steam rising from the spring – a truly unique sight! Instagram

🐠 Feed the Fish

You can feed the fish in the spring; it's free and fun for all ages! Reddit

🍽️ Dine at Ulele

Reservations are highly recommended for the popular Ulele restaurant next door. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Riverwalk

The spring is a great starting point for exploring the scenic Tampa Riverwalk. Instagram

🎥 Music Magic

Catch live music performances that sometimes happen near the spring. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(9 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Ulele Spring's natural beauty and the unique spectacle of steam on cooler days. The adjacent Ulele restaurant receives high praise for its food and ambiance, though reservations are essential. While some find the spring itself small, its integration with the Riverwalk and Water Works Park makes it a delightful and accessible destination.

"This place is amazing. The view and the atmosphere are beautiful. I recommend the Ulele restaurant that's there. We made reservations, otherwise we would not have gotten a seat. The riverwalk is easily accessible too."

Kimberly Daly

"Small spring with a storied past. Not much to look at but a quick visit while walking through the park along the river or having dinner at Ulele's next door."

Dan Brown

"Excellent! Superb service, attentive Chef prepared locally sourced meals, unbelievable Flavor, Quality, Ambience, & Service! Grab your RSVP, not a bad seat to be found! #SeafoodRisotto #PorkShank #GrilledOysters #SamplerFlight"

Christina Gallegos

What People Like

Beautiful views and atmosphere
Unique steam phenomenon
Great Riverwalk access

What People Dislike

Spring is small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ulele Spring is located in Water Works Park, near downtown Tampa. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available in the park. You can also reach it via the Tampa Riverwalk, making it a great stop if you're exploring the area on foot or by bike. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available within Water Works Park, which is adjacent to Ulele Spring. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up. Instagram

While there isn't a direct bus stop right at the spring, several bus routes serve the downtown Tampa area, and you can walk or bike from there to Water Works Park. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient options.

Water Works Park and the surrounding Riverwalk are generally accessible. The viewing areas around Ulele Spring should also be navigable for wheelchairs, offering a pleasant experience. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to Ulele Spring with a walk along the Riverwalk, a meal at Ulele restaurant, or simply relaxing in Water Works Park. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting Ulele Spring itself is free! You don't need to buy tickets in advance to see the spring and feed the fish. Reddit

Ulele Spring is located within Water Works Park, which generally has park hours. The adjacent Ulele restaurant has specific operating hours, typically open for lunch and dinner daily. Instagram

Water Works Park, where Ulele Spring is located, is a public park and does not have an admission fee. You can enjoy the park and the spring at no cost. Reddit

Swimming is generally not permitted in Ulele Spring to protect its natural state and the wildlife. However, you can dip your feet in some areas. Reddit

While free to visit, it's important to be respectful of the natural environment. Avoid littering and refrain from disturbing the wildlife. Feeding the fish is allowed and encouraged. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For unique shots, visit on a cool morning or evening when steam rises from the water, creating a mystical atmosphere. Instagram Golden hour light also enhances the beauty of the park and spring. Instagram

You can capture the natural beauty of the spring, the surrounding vegetation, fish, and potentially manatees. Instagram The nearby Riverwalk also offers scenic photo opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks and near public attractions. It's best to check with the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation department for specific regulations regarding drones in Water Works Park. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for general shots. If you're hoping to photograph wildlife, a telephoto lens might be useful. Even a smartphone can capture the beauty, especially with good lighting. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos of the exterior of the Ulele restaurant. For interior photos, it's polite to ask permission, especially if it's busy. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there are no food vendors directly at Ulele Spring, the highly acclaimed Ulele restaurant is located right next door, offering delicious locally sourced cuisine. Instagram

Reservations are strongly recommended for Ulele restaurant, especially for dinner and on weekends, as it is a very popular dining spot. InstagramReddit

Ulele specializes in locally sourced ingredients, with a menu featuring seafood, meats, and vegetarian options. Their seafood risotto and pork shank are particularly praised. Reddit

Yes, Ulele also features its own brewery, Ulele Spring Brewery, offering a selection of craft beers. Instagram

Being located on the Riverwalk, there are other restaurants and cafes within walking distance, offering a variety of cuisines and price points. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2
Ulele Spring (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide