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Tampa Riverwalk Loop

Hiking trails & Routes

Tampa Riverwalk Loop

Moderate

3.2

(28)

hikers

Tampa Riverwalk Loop

Q: How long is the Tampa Riverwalk Loop and how difficult is it?

The Tampa Riverwalk Loop is approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) long. It's considered an easy route, suitable for all skill levels, including families with strollers and wheelchair users, thanks to its smooth, paved surfaces and minimal elevation gain.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the Riverwalk Loop?

The terrain is predominantly flat and paved, consisting of asphalt, brick, and concrete surfaces. This makes for a comfortable and accessible experience for walking, jogging, or cycling at a leisurely pace.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

Yes, the Tampa Riverwalk is dog-friendly. You'll find dog parks along the way, and many establishments with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

Q: What are the best times of year to visit the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

The best time to visit is typically during the cooler, drier months from late fall through spring (November to April). Summers can be very hot and humid. Early mornings or evenings are also great for avoiding the midday heat and enjoying the aesthetically lit Riverwalk at night.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the Riverwalk?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Tampa Riverwalk Loop. It is a public pathway open to everyone.

Q: Where can I park when visiting the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

Parking is available at various public garages and lots located throughout downtown Tampa, especially near major attractions along the Riverwalk. Some parks, like Water Works Park, also offer parking options.

Q: What interesting sights and landmarks will I see along the route?

You'll encounter numerous points of interest, including the View of University of Tampa , the USF Bull Statue at Tampa Riverwalk , and the Florida Aquarium . You'll also pass by the historic SS American Victory ship , Ulele Spring , and Water Works Park , with plenty of waterfront views like the View of Garrison Channel .

Q: Are there places to eat or drink along the Riverwalk?

Absolutely! The Riverwalk is lined with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, many offering waterfront dining. You'll also find the trendy Armature Works food hall nearby, providing a wide variety of culinary options.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I see on the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

While primarily an urban trail, you might spot various birds, especially near the water. The restored Ulele Spring at Water Works Park is known to attract crustaceans and occasionally even manatees.

Q: Does the Tampa Riverwalk Loop connect to other trails or pathways?

Yes, the route incorporates sections of the official Tampa Riverwalk, and also passes through parts of the Selmon Greenway and Green Spine, integrating into Tampa's broader network of pedestrian and bike-friendly paths.

02:18

9.08km

20m

Hiking

Embark on the Tampa Riverwalk Loop, a moderate 5.6-mile (9.1 km) hike that takes about 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete, with a gentle elevation gain of 54 feet (17 metres). You will experience Tampa's vibrant urban core from a unique perspective, following the Hillsborough River. The paved path offers continuous waterfront views, often framed by the city's skyline and impressive bridges. As you hike, you can observe the historic University of Tampa across the water, a prominent visual landmark. This route provides a refreshing blend of city life and natural riverine beauty.

Planning your visit to the Riverwalk is straightforward, as the trail features smooth, paved surfaces suitable for all, including those with strollers or in wheelchairs. You will find ample parking options in the various garages and lots scattered throughout downtown Tampa, conveniently located near Riverwalk access points. Because this trail is a popular community hub, you should expect company, especially during events or peak times. Consider an early morning or late afternoon start for a more relaxed experience.

This urban trail is notable for showcasing Tampa's dynamic landscape, seamlessly blending the city's architecture with its natural river environment. As you follow the route, you will pass through beautifully landscaped areas like Water Works Park, where you can see the restored Ulele Spring. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might even spot manatees in the river. The Riverwalk offers a unique opportunity to connect with the city's pulse while enjoying a pleasant outdoor activity.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

643 m

View of University of Tampa

Highlight • Viewpoint

Located on the Riverwalk with a beautiful view of the University of South Florida. Still on this side of the Hillsborough River are the Tampa Museum of Art and the Glazer Children's Museum.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

1.53 km

USF Bull Statue at Tampa Riverwalk

Highlight • Monument

Park, Trail and Overlook, Downtown Tampa.
The park is dedicated to the contributions that the University of South Florida makes to the Tampa Bay community.
Accessible to everyone, of course

Translated by Google •

Tip by

1.94 km

Tampa Riverwalk

Highlight • Trail

The Tampa Riverwalk serves as a focal point for downtown Tampa — a paved walkway that threads a line through some of the city's finest examples of culture, dining, shopping, and nature all in one.

Tip by

2.77 km

View of Garrison Channel

Highlight • Viewpoint

This bridge offers stunning views over Garrison Channel.

Tip by

3.60 km

Florida Aquarium

Highlight • Structure

The Florida Aquarium displays a variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals, and has been named among the best in the nation. Get full details and ticket pricing at the aquarium website: flaquarium.org

Tip by

3.87 km

SS American Victory ship

Highlight • Historical Site

SS American Victory is a Victory ship built in 1945 which saw brief service in the Pacific Theater of Operations during the final months of World War II, Korean War from 1951-1954 and Vietnam War from 1966-1969.

Tip by

8.12 km

Ulele Spring

Highlight • Natural

Once the victim of industrial use and waste, Ulele Spring is now a flourishing habitat for fish and wildlife, and a beacon of hope for waterways restoration. Its location near the north end of the Tampa Riverwalk makes it an excellent place to end — or start — your stroll along the water's edge.

Tip by

8.21 km

Water Works Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Water Works Park is a free "public water playground," with a kid-friendly playground and splash pad, plenty of open green space, a dog park, and covered picnic areas... and of course the riverwalk running straight through it. More information here: tampa.gov/parks-and-recreation/featured-parks/waterworks

Tip by

9.08 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.63 km

2.56 km

1.75 km

1.07 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

6.13 km

1.93 km

992 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Monday 6 July

32°C

26°C

77 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Tampa Riverwalk Loop and how difficult is it?

The Tampa Riverwalk Loop is approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) long. It's considered an easy route, suitable for all skill levels, including families with strollers and wheelchair users, thanks to its smooth, paved surfaces and minimal elevation gain.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the Riverwalk Loop?

The terrain is predominantly flat and paved, consisting of asphalt, brick, and concrete surfaces. This makes for a comfortable and accessible experience for walking, jogging, or cycling at a leisurely pace.

Are dogs allowed on the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

Yes, the Tampa Riverwalk is dog-friendly. You'll find dog parks along the way, and many establishments with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

What are the best times of year to visit the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

The best time to visit is typically during the cooler, drier months from late fall through spring (November to April). Summers can be very hot and humid. Early mornings or evenings are also great for avoiding the midday heat and enjoying the aesthetically lit Riverwalk at night.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the Riverwalk?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Tampa Riverwalk Loop. It is a public pathway open to everyone.

Where can I park when visiting the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

Parking is available at various public garages and lots located throughout downtown Tampa, especially near major attractions along the Riverwalk. Some parks, like Water Works Park, also offer parking options.

What interesting sights and landmarks will I see along the route?

You'll encounter numerous points of interest, including the View of University of Tampa, the USF Bull Statue at Tampa Riverwalk, and the Florida Aquarium. You'll also pass by the historic SS American Victory ship, Ulele Spring, and Water Works Park, with plenty of waterfront views like the View of Garrison Channel.

Are there places to eat or drink along the Riverwalk?

Absolutely! The Riverwalk is lined with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, many offering waterfront dining. You'll also find the trendy Armature Works food hall nearby, providing a wide variety of culinary options.

What kind of wildlife might I see on the Tampa Riverwalk Loop?

While primarily an urban trail, you might spot various birds, especially near the water. The restored Ulele Spring at Water Works Park is known to attract crustaceans and occasionally even manatees.

Does the Tampa Riverwalk Loop connect to other trails or pathways?

Yes, the route incorporates sections of the official Tampa Riverwalk, and also passes through parts of the Selmon Greenway and Green Spine, integrating into Tampa's broader network of pedestrian and bike-friendly paths.

Is the Tampa Riverwalk Loop suitable for families with young children?

Yes, it's very family-friendly. The paved, flat surface is ideal for strollers, and there are several parks along the way, including Water Works Park with its splash area and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park with interactive fountains, perfect for kids.